It all began just before I started back to school. I knew I needed some type of bag to carry my books, computer and all my other techno-gadgets in… I often find myself liking the unusual, something different…. and that was no different in my search for the perfect bag.
I often say I would rather have a “few” nice things, than a lot of “just ok” things… I knew I wanted a leather bag, one that was durable and looked good. I scoured the local stores and didn’t find anything. I then took to the internet. I visited dozens of sites and read review after review.
I finally came upon a review that lead me to a site called saddlebackleather.com. There was something different about this company and about their site. I really enjoyed reading the history of the company and the owner, Dave Munson’s, blog. However, more than anything I was intrigued and impressed by the look of their bags.
Saddleback Leather only sells on the internet. They have some pretty good reasons for doing that and you should check out their site to find out more. Not only do they sell briefcases, like I own, but the also sell wallets, messenger bags, backpacks, laptop bags, overnight bags, pouches, satchels and luggage.
Their briefcase style bag was exactly what I wanted. Now to decide on a color. I wanted something that could get scratched up, worn down and still look good. After reading a number of reviews, I settled on the Dark Coffee Brown. I placed my order and the bag arrived at my doorstep in about a week.
The first thing I noticed when opening the box was the rich, deep smell of leather. I took the bag out. It was a little heavier than I expected. However, I soon noticed it was because of the heavy leather they used on the bag. Now this is the leather you might find when they make saddles and other things that require a heavy, thick leather. I had read a little about their leather and how it is tanned all the way through. Well, needless to say I was very impressed with the quality of the leather.
Next thing I noticed was the heavy, heavy, heavy-duty stitching they use. This stuff isn’t going to come loose. The hardware on the bags is also pretty amazing. This is some hardware that can be abused to the max, but isn’t going to break.
The inside of the bad was perfect for my Macbook and provided several compartments to store my gear.
The bag has a large carrying strap that can be converted in a matter of seconds to make the bag a backpack. This has worked very well for me in airports.
I have had they bag for about six months now. It looks just like it did the day I received it, with the exception of scratches and scuffs. However, I prefer the scratches and scuffs as it makes the bag have more character.
Granted, their bags aren’t cheap, but you won’t find another bag like it. I love their motto, “They’ll fight over it when you’re dead”. I think their is probably some truth in that…
If you are looking for the ultimate leather bag, or the ultimate gift for someone, visit saddlebackleather.com. You will be glad you did!
Bradd Brown
Have you ever eaten somewhere so good you wanted to tell the world about it? How about someplace so bad you wanted to do the same? Well now you can! There is a new way of marketing and advertising arising in this internet age. It is called “word of mouth” and is the way of the future, and the past!
