Americana Messenger Bag

PERFECTLY IMPERFECT!

I got this as a birthday present and it is a wonderful present! I’m an attorney and also an strong 2A supporter. I have experimented with and owned several so I’m very particular when it comes to briefcases. My legal length files and documents fit perfectly. It’s just the right size, not an inch of excess and doesn’t not feel too small.

There is not much detail about the bag on this website but there is a lockable concealed carry pocket on the rear, lined with Velcro strips. The bag comes with an adjustable, elastic holster that mates to the Velcro inside. The holster holds most pistols, from micro to full size, (I haven’t tried revolvers) snugly and protects the trigger guard.

The leather is soft and THICK! I have it in Chestnut and the richness of the colors and character of the hide is impeccable and timeless. I know it will only look better as it ages and patinas. The smell and hand can’t be explained and must be experienced first hand. I own several Schott products, including their 530 Cafe Racer jacket and belt strap key rings and all the materials and craftsmanship from Schott are unparalleled—from the stitching to the hardware. Also it’s made here in the USA!

The bag is soft yet stands freely on its own. There is enough suppleness that I can overstuff the bag on occasion.

The handle is long and sturdy, reinforced at the base (steel, I think) so the top of the bag does not sag, even when loaded. It feels very overbuilt and could probably carry my body weight. Handles are usually a failure point in inferior briefcases. Not doubts that this handle can take any abuse I can muster.

The interior is a heavy cotton that is thick yet soft. It does not feel like it will pill, tear, or wear with regular use. The buttons are spring loaded and close and open positively. The zippers are heavy duty and roll smoothly without any grit or binding.

The strap is also very well built but I don’t intend to use it so I’ve stored it away.

All of the stress points seem to be reinforced or doubled up with additional leather.

There are no metal feet to grind and ruin furniture or automobile paint.

My only suggestions (not at all complaints) would be: have more buttons at the main compartment closure points or allow for cinching/loosening; put more Velcro inside the CCW pocket; and add more utility pockets inside (e.g. pen pockets, etc.). However, the beauty of this bag is it’s simplicity. So my suggestions may ruin it.

Overall: I really do think it’s absolutely perfect and if it were not a present, I would definitely buy it! Unfortunately, Schott products are heirloom quality so if I buy another it would only be out of sheer greed and not necessity. This bag feels like I can hand it down generations! The Cordovan color is pretty...

Response from Schott NYC: Note: As of 2024 this item no longer includes the adjustable elastic holder.