Apprentice

Got on Black Friday - insane deal. Took a while to arrive but company was upfront about that in a separate email as they got tons of orders. Bag fit and finish is great - sleek and sharp. I added a sternum strap. Would really really benefit from: side handle, ability to stow backpack straps with a false back, attachments for side shoulder strap, at least one more zippered compartment inside or on the outside/side. That being said I know I got great price on it. Says Made in Vietnam right on the inside - that was surprising to me for the way Eberlestock brands themselves. No one else mentioning that? Was it just this product they outsourced or is none of their gear made in US. Doesn’t prevent me from buying it but thought it worth bringing up.

I love the zippers!

I really wanted them to like this bag. It is made really well. It does not appear to have YKK zippers, but they move really well and appear to be sized right for the bag. My issues with the bag ultimately were that it was too narrow for my needs. The laptop department only opens about 10 inches wide. Additionally, the water bottle pockets were very small. It was because of this that I decided to return it.

I travel for work on a weekly basis and have used 5.11 bags for almost a decade. I got tired of the paramilitary look and wanted something more “civilian” since I retired from LE work a decade ago. I tried this bag and it fit the bill. It’s easy to pack a two day trip with the large mouth opening and easy access. It would benefit from additional accessory pockets as there are only two inside the bag and one on top. It’s also a much thinner material than my 5.11 bags so we shall see how long term weekly travel use holds up. So far, two trips down and it’s holding up great. Comfortable carry straps, no frills, plenty of storage…fits my use perfectly.

Not sturdy

I placed an order for the Apprentice as a Christmas gift. Sadly I ordered the wrong color. I began the exchange process which was extremely easy and free. I had to contact customer service once again when I noticed the new color hadn’t shipped and was concerned about it arriving in time, they were quick to respond and took care of getting it out the door and to my house with plenty of time. I appreciate their attention to detail and working with their customers to ensure a good experience.

Backpack looks like it will fully fit all my needs!!!!!