Squared Leather Backpack a.k.a. The Tank

5.31 lb

18.00

16.00

8.00

$659.00
(110 reviews) Write a Review
100 Year Warranty

Details

  • 100 Year Warranty
  • Fits 17" laptops
  • Interior Laptop & Tablet Pockets

Dimensions (W x H x D) 

  • 12" X 17.5" X 6"

MATERIALS

  • Full Grain Leather
  • Pigskin Lining
  • Custom Stainless Steel Hardware
  • Industrial Marine-Grade Polyester Thread
Videos

Saddleback Leather Review: A Carnie's story and leather backpack

(110)
5 Stars Write a Review
  • 5
    6 months down, ~ 1194 to go!

    When I received and opened up this backpack just before starting my final semester of undergrad studies, I instantly knew this pack and I were going to be in for some awesome adventures for a long damn time to come. 6 months, one tumble off of the motorcycle, an attempted escape down a talus slope, at least one full thermos of coffee and countless minor encounters with trees, rocks and the labrador puppy later, this bag and I are just getting warmed up. I've never had a bag of this quality before, and I admittedly own too many backpacks. While I do own packs that are either slimmer, lighter or larger, none occupy the niche that the square backpack has carved out for itself. As best as I can put it, it's the labrador retriever of backpacks -while others species may have it outstripped at certain attributes by default, you will not find a more well rounded specimen the world over. Nor will you find one that is ready to be at your side (well, in this case on your back) through absolutely anything. After using it daily, I've found this pack aptly handles an academic loadout: a notebook, my iPad (in a thick foam case), engineer's pad, pencils, pens, map markers, sharpies, rulers, compass, calculator, planner, structural geology textbook, research papers, tracing paper (for stereonets) and other miscellaneous school stuff with no problem. It also has no problem holding my day-trip field gear: rock hammers (sledge and pick), field books, sample bags, Brunton, at least two water bottles, the rain shell, binoculars, markers, and a couple of samples that I've whacked off of an outcrop. The durability of the backpack astounds, as I made the mistake of lashing it to the back of my motorcycle to accommodate a lovely lady and it took a leap at about 35 mph, fully loaded. NOTHING inside was hurt and the bag has some cosmetic scratches from the unavoidable road rash. Some stitching was rubbed off in addition to the blemishes on the leather, so after some superglue delivered via hypodermic needle, melting with a lighter, and a leather linament rubdown this tank is still running like a champ - but now with character. In summary, Saddleback has created a gem of a backpack in a world increasingly contaminated with absolute crap. Some people gripe about this bag's weight. I say get tougher. Some people jab "Was that made in World War I?" I reply "If it were, it would still be under warranty." Others shiver when they see the cost. I tell them that it's the last backpack I'll ever own and I'll ask them how much they've spent 30 years from now. This backpack was a huge purchase for a college senior but it is one that I have made without a minute of regret. If anyone wants pictures of the bag post-crash, or has any questions, email me at [email protected] and I'll be more than happy to add to this review.

  • 5
    A Backpack for Life

    I've had the Dark Tobacco backpack for about a year now. I can honestly say that for backpacks, it's the best investment that you could ever make. I was originally worried about what my wife would say, but I was going through a backpack a year anyway and she's now happy that we don't have to spend money on them anymore! There's an old saying...you get what you pay for. In this case it's true. I will have to buy my son one however because in our case he doesn't want to wait until I'm dead to have it! Thanks! Jay

  • 4
    A show stopper

    I have a lot of saddleback stuff, but this gets the most attention. Every day someone asks me about or want to check it out. It's a beautiful piece, and my wife even lets me leave it out, which is saying something. It's built like a tank, has plenty of compartments and d rings. That said, it's *very* heavy for a backpack. It's also not as spacious as it appears. It's best for things like laptops or other things that can stack. -- books, iPads, notebooks, etc. would not be good for things like clothing as the bag is fairly stubborn about keeping its box shape and doesn't really "break in" like other saddleback bags, and it's not the most comfortable thing in the world. As such, it's not a very versatile bag, but man is it an eye catcher and all your friends will want one. As a fashion accessory, it's a 10. Judging it just as a backpack, it gets a 10 for build quality and durability, a 5 for utility and a 3 for comfort. If you're only carting around a laptop and notepad from point A to B, there's no more stylish way to do it. If you're out sightseeing or carrying all day, your back will thank you if you pick a lighter pack.

  • 5
    Great Backpack, Great Company

    I purchased this backpack for trips where my classic briefcase just isn't big enough, and this bag fits my needs perfectly...well, actually, it exceeds them. This has proven perfect for carrying computers, cameras, and clothes and is my go-to travel partner for business trips with a couple of overnights. It fits great as a carry-on and gets compliments everywhere I go. I love the backpack and can't recommend it highly enough...but what I love even more is being part of the SBL family. They're great people who do great things and, after this bag, I'm looking for excuses to buy more from them!

  • 5
    Amazing "Do It All" Bag!

    I must say that I am very impressed with my Squared Backpack! I have had my bag for 4 months now and I am loving it more and more as time goes by. I love the two "hidden pockets" behind the two side pockets. It makes it so much easier when taking things that require quick access (You don't want to be the guy holding up the line opening up your bag). I use those hidden pockets everyday! This should go without saying, but I love this backpack because it is a backpack! I have had other Saddleback Bags before and this backpack seems to be able to live a double life of work and play! I have the Chestnut color and it seems to fit in regardless of it being taking to a suit & tie meeting, hiking and taking a trip to the mall. I also like that as a backpack all the weight is distributed across my whole back and not just one shoulder. I have used this bag daily for back and forth to work. I have also taken it on mission trips through the church. I can load it up or rock it light; either way I look forward to using this amazing "Do It ALL" Bag. thanks, Be Encouraged :-)