I got the manbag blues

Joined
Sep 7, 2006
Messages
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Cant seem to find a decent manbag... been around the block and have a cupboard full of bags... still without nailing down that one perfect bag. Does it even exist???

Currently running a Spec-Ops THE messenger bag with two Maxped pouches on the front. Its a cool rig, extremely well made and does very well in the rain, but downsides are its size, bulk and weight. Also I load up the pouches which weighs down the front flap and makes it difficult to access the main compartment. It would have worked a lot better if they'd put the MOLLE on the front of the main compartment, instead of on the front flap.

Pretty much discounted backpacks altogether so really looking at sling bags now...

Recently came across the Becker Field Bag, which looks like an interesting option, but after blowing so much dough already, I'm a bit leery to just jump in without looking around first.

Interestingly, I recently acquired a canvas style field bag that had good internal organisation plus two external pockets and seemed to fit the bill. Unfortunately it turned out to be not so well made... if I could find someone to sew a version of it for me out of decent material.... that is one possible solution. Most messenger style bags are too large and dont feature enough organisation. I'd prefer not to add pouches if possible as they add a lot of weight. One or two at the most.

Anyone know of anything else that may fit the bill? Looking for a smallish rectangular shaped design, around 13 inches wide by 10 inches by 3 inches deep. Front pockets and internal pockets ideal. Kind of a classic field bag. Preferably in a hardy nylon or waxed cotton to withstand the elements. Good sturdy adjustable strap if possible.

Anybody know of anything, apart from the Becker version, that might fit that bill?
 
Mark are you looking to carry a laptop or iPad? If not I have been edc'ing a Maxpedition Neatfreak for a number of years now. It is smaller than you are looking for but the clamshell design is brilliant. check it out.
I wish that Maxpedetion would make a bigger version of it which would take an iPad or an iPad mini.
 
I use and like the Voodoo tactical extra large deployment bag. It's about the size you're looking for. There is also a smaller large version. Check em out!
 
Maxpedition bags are top quality.
I own the Sitka, Jumbo gear slinger, and a fw backpacks.
The Sitka works like a messenger bag but is carried on your back. You swing the bag to the front and can get access to everything without taking the bag off.
The Mongo gearslinger and their Larkspur messenger bags may be what you are looking for.

I also have a HawkePaks recon bag that is the classic messenger style bag.
I use it as a range bag since the front pouches are designed for rifle magazines.
 
Hey Steve, nope, I carry my laptop only very occasionally. I believe the Neatfreak is long discontinued but I did find this item which looks very intriguing and might work well for that:

http://hazard4.com/products/bags/messenger-bags/kato

Mark are you looking to carry a laptop or iPad? If not I have been edc'ing a Maxpedition Neatfreak for a number of years now. It is smaller than you are looking for but the clamshell design is brilliant. check it out.
I wish that Maxpedetion would make a bigger version of it which would take an iPad or an iPad mini.
 
You could also look at the bags made by filson. Real classics and are built to last.
 
I'm a bag nerd. The Becker field bag is actually very well made and a nice size for someone on the move. The concealed carry pouch is kind of anything but though. There is no velcro for pistol retention. So if you are into that sort of thing expect to do some modifications.
 
Hey Buffalohump, remember me??!! Good to see you on here buddy. Have you looked at the Frost River Field Satchel (size large)? Excellent quality! good organization and waxed canvas! Classy. Let me know if you need any further help.
 
Bags. I am a Bag fanatic. I recently bought a Condor bag, and it is just about perfect. It appears to be extremely tough and well constructed. Might be a little big for you at 18X10X5, but for me it is the perfect range bag, overnight bag, fishing/hunting bag, flight bag, ect....I think I paid around $40 for it. Got it at the big store by the river....

Condor Bag
 
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I've got about 7 years or more? On my Mongo maxpedition. It has enough room for a 14 inch laptop and other gear, or files. Side pouches with webbing. Great bag.

I am looking at their larger messenger now, because I went up in laptop size.
 
Hey Wendell, you bet...how ya doing? :thumbup: I was just checking out the Frost River stuff as a matter of fact. I really like that style, with the waxed canvas and leather. Old school and very Jack London... that satchel looks money, but true to form, I was instantly wishing they had something between that size and their messenger bags. Man, I just wish I had the tools and wherewithal to make my own gear, I am that picky!

Hey Buffalohump, remember me??!! Good to see you on here buddy. Have you looked at the Frost River Field Satchel (size large)? Excellent quality! good organization and waxed canvas! Classy. Let me know if you need any further help.
 
Man, I just wish I had the tools and wherewithal to make my own gear, I am that picky!

Me too brother!!! We have shared this burdened for awhile now. Always looking for the best bag!
 
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