I ordered this bag and, once it was delivered and I had it in my hand.... just speechless. It’s beautiful. The bag is truly the “holy grail”. The materials, workmanship, and overall aesthetic is second to none. I bought it for myself as a gift in celebration of new job. I don’t see myself as ever needing another bag again.
Ordered a custom bag from these guys years ago. Top quality, durable, beautiful design, functional.... one of the highest quality bags I've owned to date.
Dude, my wife bought me the Tecovas briefcase, and it is phenomenal! It looks really sharp, the leather is incredible. I've had it for about 6 months taking it to work everyday, and the leather is becoming really soft and supple. Can't recommend it enough.
Very true. I do think there is something to be said about the softness and water resistance of chrome tan leather. But you'll never have the depth and color of a veg tan.
That brass piece wrapping over the joint of the shoulder strap really is just fantastic, it prevents over-stretching and any other potential failure. Failure on the joint of the shoulder strap is what prevents me from purchasing a lot of bags. This bag is really making almost all other bags look like they didn’t put any deeper thoughts when designing the bags.
I agree with the brilliance of the design of the expedition. I have never had a bag that so easily converts to a backpack and then back to a hard briefcase. Plus you can go in easy access mode to get into the back quickly, or put it in lock down security mode. Super versatile
Originally bought the bag as arm Candy, but it’s so functional! I’ve had dozens of work bags and this is the only one I will ever carry, and will proudly pass it to my son…
@@CarlMurawski it's amazing how much depth in color comes out with conditioning light leathers like the chestnut, light tans, or natural. Much more than your typical brown.
Is this the finish that they advertise on their website or is it something custom? I'm ordering mine soon and would like to know which option to opt for.
I have watched this now multiple times. You have changed me. I now want this bag. I wanted a different briefcase before now but I now just want this. One question. Could we get them to out 2 more d-rings in the bottom of the back so that it could have backpack straps attached? I have been using a backpack for so long now that I really prefer it. I have a leather briefcase like this which has backpack straps attached and I love using it. However, nothing I have ever seen is made to this quality standard. I love having the versatility of going into the meeting with a briefcase but travelling back with it as a backpack on my way home. What do you think? Too much ...??
I just acquired an expedition bag from moose leather !! OMG !! It is insanely made; gorgeous and bombproof. No other leather company compares. Great review !! Did you get to keep the bag after review ?
I've been eyeing that same piece! How do you like it so far? I thought it was so unique that it can be used in so many different ways and turned into a backpack. I have been transitioning all of my new purchases to be very versatile and multifunctional since I don't want to have one of everything. Would you compare the expedition bag more so to a backpack, a messenger bag/satchel, or a duffle bag?
@@kylejayalami It is an amazing bag. I carry all my camera gear in it. Works amazing. Everywhere you go you'll get compliments, because of how unique it is. I really recommend it. It transitions to a backpack so easily. You can also strap a tripod to it as well as it has a water bottle holder. Perfect carry on size for plane or train, which is a huge plus. Also the top stays open so you can access your stuff. The bag is easily a one size option.
@@acehanson7231 that sounds amazing! I think I’ll take the leap and get it as my main travel bag and start breaking it in for the bigger trips I want to take since their site says it will take years to fully break it in. How is the weight to you? I’ve heard some people say that these good quality leather pieces are too heavy to carry around all the time like for traveling?
@@kylejayalami The weight is manageable But it depends what you load in the bag. Camera equipment does add a significant amount of weight but the great thing about the bag is that it is so well built it maintains its structure. I traveled all around with the bag and it was not an issue for the weight.
Everyone of your video is a must watch. Have you had the chance to get your hands on any allen edmonds boots like the Higgins Mill? Also Merry Christmas.
Thank you so much! I have quite a few Allen Edmonds shoes and boots: the Long Branch, the Patton, Park Ave, Strand, and two colors of Neumok 2.0's. The Higgins Mill is a fantastic boot but I haven't actually bought one yet.
Carl Murawski FYI. There is a small company out of the pacific NW, called Trayvax. They have an admirable business model, and I believe merit more attention. They produce items that are right in your wheel house.
It wont stay that way long! It takes some time, but eventually it will darken and soften. You could condition it and leave it in the sun for a bit, the UV light tends to accelerate the process.
@@CarlMurawski I haven't really seen any reviews on it. I'd like to see how it fits. I bought a vest to see how the wool is before committing to something more expensive, like that shirt jac.
The only thing that I am not a huge fan of is the latches. It seems like they may become unlatched on their own from time to time if they get caught on something, it wouldn't be a huge problem even they did, but still, it would be a minor annoyance to me, but not a deal breaker. I do actually like the traditional belt buckle style that a lot of bags have and would prefer that on this one as well, and I don't care that they are harder and less convenient to get into, that also makes them harder and less convenient for pickpockets and thieves to get into, and there is no way it will accidentally come undone.
@@dBsdecibels How are you liking yours and what size did you get? I am struggling. Even though I only have a14in macbook pro a small should be enough it's always a question of if it will always be enough.
@@dougquesnel5613 Love it! Still use it any time I go out with stuff. I have the same size laptop and I went with the largest size. I'm glad I did because when I fly, I'm able to fill it with quite a bit: laptop, noise cancelling headphones, Switch, snacks, iPad, and still have some room to spare. It gets heavy, but it's never a problem.
@@dougquesnel5613 Seems like a standard sized satchel. Think briefcase, but slightly thicker. When I put the 14" MBP in the laptop sleeve, it fits juuust to the top of the laptop sleeve. The overall bag is 16" wide, 11.5" tall, and 6.5" deep across the widest part at the bottom (at resting, not stretched).
Great ass looking bag. Only thing is, it does look like Purse to me. Not really my style. Plus, with how nice it does look, I’d be afraid to rough it up.
I have bought this bag from The Leather shop. The key leach did not come with the bag and I ask them by email many times. Never get a response from them. They were good at communication before close sales. After-sales? They never response anything at all.
Moose Leather bags are fantastic but the original Heirloom Messenger I had bled color and oil like crazy. Even after I sent it back for sealing, the color still came off on my clothes. N
The comparison wouldn't really be all that fair, this is quite a different beast with much better components. Of course some will argue that chrome tanned leather is actually superior in a briefcase due to its water resistance but I've never had an issue with vegetable tanned bags. Of course I'm never really caught in the rain with them! The Saddleback is definitely a style choice which I appreciate, and it has plenty of places to strap things if that's your thing. Still, they use inexpensive leather all around and a combination of rapid-set rivets with some solid rivets throughout. The Moosebrand uses solid brass rivets exclusively, which may actually be overkill but they certainly don't hurt the usability or weight of the bag either. SBL is made in Mexico, Moose brand is made in USA- there are excellent craftsmen and women in both countries but I like knowing that they are at least treated well and paid a fair wage. There is so much ground to cover, but ultimately you have to be happy with your purchase no matter what anyone else says.
@@CarlMurawski will have to check out in person! My saddleback bag is the only bag that has outlasted severe travel abuse and I am in the market for a new messenger bag, thanks for the info! Sounds like saddleback has lost some quality in the years
Dare I say, for all the features and obvious quality of materials and construction this is quite the bargain. Spread the cost over the lifespan of the bag which is easily going to be at least thirty years and it’s actually cheap!
Any 40-60usd bag will last 5 to 6 years with heavy use ( cf my cheap school backpack used everyday for carrying 6-10kg of books). Not worth it unless if you want to use it as a social status symbol
Super Pagt very true, imagine if you accidentally scratched against something sharp or rough in the front of the bag, you don’t really want to use it again
@@theterriblepuddle1830 it cost so much to repair leather goods over here, since they are making so much more with preparing ladies hermes bags, easily can charge us 200- 300 USD to repair....
The Terrible Puddle lol, I prefer to leave it to the professional, I would condition my boots, shoes, jacket...etc but when it comes to repairing, I m just not confidence enough, it’s amazing to see some people who would strip original colours off the dye their expensive shoes on TH-cam channels. Total respect
I ordered one and it was awful, The leather along the fold is strained and cracked looking. It was dyed in such a way that it was splotchy, and cartoonish... Rather like LARP fantasy leather that arbitrarily goes from red to black and back in a low quality way... This is an unmitigated disaster that I'm going to have to pay a local leather shop to try to fix - since you can't return what they call 'custom' work, which is like EVERY order they sell. Really... It's heartbreakingly bad. BEWARE.
I ordered this bag and, once it was delivered and I had it in my hand.... just speechless.
It’s beautiful. The bag is truly the “holy grail”. The materials, workmanship, and overall aesthetic is second to none. I bought it for myself as a gift in celebration of new job.
I don’t see myself as ever needing another bag again.
Even when I know everything you’re talking about in the video or own said item, I still love watching because all your content is such high quality.
Thank you so much!!!
Ordered a custom bag from these guys years ago. Top quality, durable, beautiful design, functional.... one of the highest quality bags I've owned to date.
Dude, my wife bought me the Tecovas briefcase, and it is phenomenal! It looks really sharp, the leather is incredible. I've had it for about 6 months taking it to work everyday, and the leather is becoming really soft and supple. Can't recommend it enough.
Saddleback: We make the highest quality bag out there!!
Moose leather enters chat:
*Saddleback exits chat room*
LOL! 100%
Very true. I do think there is something to be said about the softness and water resistance of chrome tan leather. But you'll never have the depth and color of a veg tan.
Carl, your videos are so informative and interesting. Class and integrity are evident. Thank you.
Glad to see manufacturers reaching out to you. Good review.
Ready to see the one year follow up on this bag and the patina that comes along with it!
I just ordered a small messenger 2. Can't wait!
You're going to love it!
Excellent review; professional, informative, thorough, and concise, as usual. Your last comments are on point, I agree.
That brass piece wrapping over the joint of the shoulder strap really is just fantastic, it prevents over-stretching and any other potential failure. Failure on the joint of the shoulder strap is what prevents me from purchasing a lot of bags. This bag is really making almost all other bags look like they didn’t put any deeper thoughts when designing the bags.
I agree with the brilliance of the design of the expedition. I have never had a bag that so easily converts to a backpack and then back to a hard briefcase. Plus you can go in easy access mode to get into the back quickly, or put it in lock down security mode. Super versatile
Gorgeous bag. I checked out this video to see why it was so pricey. Now I know it’s worth it. Thanks!!
Originally bought the bag as arm Candy, but it’s so functional! I’ve had dozens of work bags and this is the only one I will ever carry, and will proudly pass it to my son…
Well shoot....I own and love the original. Now I'm just gonna have to get the new one as well. Thanks for all your great content. Love the channel!
I would be afraid to carry a bag that was that nice.
Great review and keep up the excellent videos!!
Looks like well done stitching that will not come loose
Excellent Craftsmanship and Excellent take on it!! Keep it up!
Thank you! Cheers!
I can’t afford one, but still it looks like the best briefcase I’ve ever seen. Thanks for the video…
Very nice bag , I love veg tanned leather and this is the best bag I have seen , great review
I try to not watch reviews for stuff I can’t afford. Beautiful bag. Nice review.
Reminds me of my Stock and Barrel messenger back in chestnut. Love it.
A very similar aesthetic! One that I really dig a lot.
@@CarlMurawski it's amazing how much depth in color comes out with conditioning light leathers like the chestnut, light tans, or natural. Much more than your typical brown.
I agree, it's a much richer look. It really makes overly dyed leather look cheap and one-dimensional by comparison.
This bag looks so good 😭
If only I could afford it...
It’s better than it looks, totally worth the money!
Looks KILLER, man! Great video as always!
Great quality video as always. Great products and great reviews. Couldn't ask for more
Is this the finish that they advertise on their website or is it something custom? I'm ordering mine soon and would like to know which option to opt for.
Thanks for another great video, Carl.
I have watched this now multiple times. You have changed me. I now want this bag. I wanted a different briefcase before now but I now just want this. One question. Could we get them to out 2 more d-rings in the bottom of the back so that it could have backpack straps attached? I have been using a backpack for so long now that I really prefer it. I have a leather briefcase like this which has backpack straps attached and I love using it. However, nothing I have ever seen is made to this quality standard. I love having the versatility of going into the meeting with a briefcase but travelling back with it as a backpack on my way home. What do you think? Too much ...??
Great review, Carl. Happy Holidays!
Thank you sir, and happy holidays to you!!
I just acquired an expedition bag from moose leather !! OMG !! It is insanely made; gorgeous and bombproof. No other leather company compares. Great review !! Did you get to keep the bag after review ?
I've been eyeing that same piece! How do you like it so far? I thought it was so unique that it can be used in so many different ways and turned into a backpack. I have been transitioning all of my new purchases to be very versatile and multifunctional since I don't want to have one of everything. Would you compare the expedition bag more so to a backpack, a messenger bag/satchel, or a duffle bag?
@@kylejayalami It is an amazing bag. I carry all my camera gear in it. Works amazing. Everywhere you go you'll get compliments, because of how unique it is. I really recommend it. It transitions to a backpack so easily. You can also strap a tripod to it as well as it has a water bottle holder. Perfect carry on size for plane or train, which is a huge plus. Also the top stays open so you can access your stuff. The bag is easily a one size option.
@@acehanson7231 that sounds amazing! I think I’ll take the leap and get it as my main travel bag and start breaking it in for the bigger trips I want to take since their site says it will take years to fully break it in. How is the weight to you? I’ve heard some people say that these good quality leather pieces are too heavy to carry around all the time like for traveling?
@@kylejayalami The weight is manageable But it depends what you load in the bag. Camera equipment does add a significant amount of weight but the great thing about the bag is that it is so well built it maintains its structure. I traveled all around with the bag and it was not an issue for the weight.
Everyone of your video is a must watch.
Have you had the chance to get your hands on any allen edmonds boots like the Higgins Mill?
Also Merry Christmas.
Thank you so much! I have quite a few Allen Edmonds shoes and boots: the Long Branch, the Patton, Park Ave, Strand, and two colors of Neumok 2.0's. The Higgins Mill is a fantastic boot but I haven't actually bought one yet.
Dude, I love these product reviews!
Much appreciated! A lot of time and effort goes into these and hearing that someone enjoys them means a lot. Thank you!
Carl Murawski FYI. There is a small company out of the pacific NW, called Trayvax. They have an admirable business model, and I believe merit more attention. They produce items that are right in your wheel house.
dude watched your previous video "why i will never buy a saddleback", got a Marlondo!!! Now I need a Moose!!! your killing me dude :-)
I'm sorry!!! lol
Sick vid Carl!
Thanks man!
Nice bag, but I will have to wait for it to go on sale to purchase it
The Terrible Puddle oh no, may be look for second hand in the future, surely someone will purchase it and dislike it someday
Carl I’m starting to save today lol thanks for the video!!
Totally worth saving for! This is truly an heirloom piece, the name is very fitting!
Hi Carl, I just loved that bag. How do you picture a bag like that in a woman? Thank you for your videos, I’m your fan.
Great video.
Great Product.
Overpriced.
I just got this bag because of this review! I wish the color wasn’t so creamy though (I ordered the natural)
It wont stay that way long! It takes some time, but eventually it will darken and soften. You could condition it and leave it in the sun for a bit, the UV light tends to accelerate the process.
@@CarlMurawski thanks for the reply! What do you use to condition yours?
@@danielduron6131 I like Smiths Leather Balm, but any decently pure conditioner will work.
I need to get my hand on them latch locks!
I follow you and bought a Marlondo bag based on your review... how does Moose compare? I am interested to get this one as well... thanks
Hey Carl, could you do a review on filson shirt jac? I believe I saw you post/comment on your 2018 gift idea video.
I sure can! I got it last year and have worn it a TON, so I have a lot of thoughts on it for sure.
@@CarlMurawski I haven't really seen any reviews on it. I'd like to see how it fits. I bought a vest to see how the wool is before committing to something more expensive, like that shirt jac.
Too bad there is no payment plan for this. It's gorgeous but out of my price range.
I have one that I use in summer. comfortable to touch and it catches eyes.
May I ask if your bag is a Medium or Large one?
Now that I think about it...I wish the brass piece is wrapped around the handle where it connects with the flap too.
What's the pair of boots you're wearing in this please ?
Very cool
Hey @Carl Murawski, just wondering what size you got? I have a Lenovo x1 (12.7x8.5 inches) do u think it will fit ?? Thank you!
It'll fit a 15 inch laptop
Best bags out there.
The only thing that I am not a huge fan of is the latches. It seems like they may become unlatched on their own from time to time if they get caught on something, it wouldn't be a huge problem even they did, but still, it would be a minor annoyance to me, but not a deal breaker. I do actually like the traditional belt buckle style that a lot of bags have and would prefer that on this one as well, and I don't care that they are harder and less convenient to get into, that also makes them harder and less convenient for pickpockets and thieves to get into, and there is no way it will accidentally come undone.
Owned mine for a bit over a year, and it's never happened once. Quite secure!
@@dBsdecibels How are you liking yours and what size did you get? I am struggling. Even though I only have a14in macbook pro a small should be enough it's always a question of if it will always be enough.
@@dougquesnel5613 Love it! Still use it any time I go out with stuff. I have the same size laptop and I went with the largest size. I'm glad I did because when I fly, I'm able to fill it with quite a bit: laptop, noise cancelling headphones, Switch, snacks, iPad, and still have some room to spare. It gets heavy, but it's never a problem.
@@dBsdecibels Does it look big or is it a modest sized bag?
@@dougquesnel5613 Seems like a standard sized satchel. Think briefcase, but slightly thicker. When I put the 14" MBP in the laptop sleeve, it fits juuust to the top of the laptop sleeve. The overall bag is 16" wide, 11.5" tall, and 6.5" deep across the widest part at the bottom (at resting, not stretched).
Great ass looking bag. Only thing is, it does look like Purse to me. Not really my style. Plus, with how nice it does look, I’d be afraid to rough it up.
I have bought this bag from The Leather shop.
The key leach did not come with the bag and I ask them by email many times.
Never get a response from them.
They were good at communication before close sales. After-sales? They never response anything at all.
Will macbook pro 16 fit?
Nice review. Is that an Oris Aquis on your wrist?
It sure is! Good eye!
@@CarlMurawski I'm a watch nerd.
Dang it. Bought the bag now googling the watch!
@@dylanplays1980 it's a good one for the price. Take it from a watch nerd. Just don't buy a huge one unless you're a big guy. Enjoy that awesome bag.
Are the side gussets tapered toward the top of the bag or are they straight
I don't think anyone, myself included could build a better bag.
Well they definitely set the high water mark for me!
Cheaper than the crap Saddleback usually puts out, I'd pick one up
Would you say this is the Pagani Huayra of messenger bags?
Carl - Do you recommend the small or the medium for a 5'7 guy, 14' laptop?
I think the larger is a more versatile bag, since the leather is so thick it tends to feel a bit heavy in the smaller sizes
@@CarlMurawski thanks!!
Can I fit a laptop in there that is 15.75" x 10.5"?
How does morlondo compare to this messenger bag, all i know is that both of these brands use veg tan leather.
Looks incredible bu also it looks like it is around 5kg empty
Moose Leather bags are fantastic but the original Heirloom Messenger I had bled color and oil like crazy. Even after I sent it back for sealing, the color still came off on my clothes. N
Wow really? Well then these less dyed versions may be the one to have!
Man… was excited about this thing… then looked it up. $1k+… yeesh. $500, definitely. $600, ok… if I had that much to spend, I would. One day.
How heavy is it? And thanks for posting; I’d not heard of Moose Brand before but it looks gorgeous!
I have a single latch large size for 6.4 lbs.
The burgandy one is money
Yey people go gaga for LV.
would love to compare this to saddleback
The comparison wouldn't really be all that fair, this is quite a different beast with much better components. Of course some will argue that chrome tanned leather is actually superior in a briefcase due to its water resistance but I've never had an issue with vegetable tanned bags. Of course I'm never really caught in the rain with them!
The Saddleback is definitely a style choice which I appreciate, and it has plenty of places to strap things if that's your thing. Still, they use inexpensive leather all around and a combination of rapid-set rivets with some solid rivets throughout. The Moosebrand uses solid brass rivets exclusively, which may actually be overkill but they certainly don't hurt the usability or weight of the bag either. SBL is made in Mexico, Moose brand is made in USA- there are excellent craftsmen and women in both countries but I like knowing that they are at least treated well and paid a fair wage. There is so much ground to cover, but ultimately you have to be happy with your purchase no matter what anyone else says.
@@CarlMurawski will have to check out in person! My saddleback bag is the only bag that has outlasted severe travel abuse and I am in the market for a new messenger bag, thanks for the info! Sounds like saddleback has lost some quality in the years
Where would someone go to buy those brass latches for making leather goods at home?
Did you ever find out.
@@frankserrano9156 no :(
I just saw it. Its called a Collar Fastener. Im going to get mine in antique brass look!
@@soggybottomboys2792 $3-7 too
@@frankserrano9156 sweet
Dare I say, for all the features and obvious quality of materials and construction this is quite the bargain. Spread the cost over the lifespan of the bag which is easily going to be at least thirty years and it’s actually cheap!
Any 40-60usd bag will last 5 to 6 years with heavy use ( cf my cheap school backpack used everyday for carrying 6-10kg of books). Not worth it unless if you want to use it as a social status symbol
I agree my last $200 bag lasted 8 months. I just ordered the heirloom 2. I have 2 sons I’m sure they will love it some day
Super Pagt very true, imagine if you accidentally scratched against something sharp or rough in the front of the bag, you don’t really want to use it again
@@theterriblepuddle1830 it cost so much to repair leather goods over here, since they are making so much more with preparing ladies hermes bags, easily can charge us 200- 300 USD to repair....
The Terrible Puddle lol, I prefer to leave it to the professional, I would condition my boots, shoes, jacket...etc but when it comes to repairing, I m just not confidence enough, it’s amazing to see some people who would strip original colours off the dye their expensive shoes on TH-cam channels. Total respect
🔥🔥🔥
It is well made, but looks very heavy.
Joe Rez seems everyone reviewing it try to avoid this topic , lol
17 inch laptop?
My work laptop is a 17” HP and won’t fit.
@@CarlMurawski Thanks
6:45 okay Gun Show, we get it. ;)
😂
I feel the male equivalent of women wowing over a handbag!
Hahaha! I l know exactly what you mean!
Ugh, here I go again...I have to find a way to make Carl's recommendations a tax write off...
Don’t worry-it will eventually get over to be made in China. It always does. Little thing called market forces.
I ordered one and it was awful, The leather along the fold is strained and cracked looking. It was dyed in such a way that it was splotchy, and cartoonish... Rather like LARP fantasy leather that arbitrarily goes from red to black and back in a low quality way... This is an unmitigated disaster that I'm going to have to pay a local leather shop to try to fix - since you can't return what they call 'custom' work, which is like EVERY order they sell. Really... It's heartbreakingly bad. BEWARE.
Do you have pictures or did you talk to them?
I ordered it. Next time more product footage. Less you
Bald man. Loves leather. Dyes his beard two tone. I think we all know whats goin on here.
Yeah. You got me. 🙄
The beard isn’t dyed btw.
Carl Murawski got what? yea. That beard isnt dyed, and im white and 170lbs.
I mean... are you? I kinda fade my beard from really short to longer by my chin, but no dye. Who has time for that?
The stitching on the bag is sloppy. Hand sewn stitching shouldn't look sloppy.