Small-ish custom briefcase: need some ideas.

[Mr. Moo]

I am going to be commissioning a small, custom-made (not sure if bespoke is the right word) briefcase from a MCBM (Mystery Custom Briefcase Maker) in a few days, and I thinking about what would be the correct size and what options I may be overlooking.

I was thinking:

• 16"x12"x4"
  
• Two pen slots
  
• Newspaper pocket on the back of the case

This is very simple, but it's all I can think for my needs. What I am having some trouble with is should I go with one compartment or two. If two, then should they be equal size (2" and 2"). Or just stick with one 4" compartment? Also, any other options I am over-looking?

 

[Harold falcon]

What will you be carrying in your case? That should determine size and number of pockets.

 

[Mr. Moo]

Originally Posted by harvey_birdman

What will you be carrying in your case? That should determine size and number of pockets.

Legal files, iPad, contracts. Usually not too much paperwork at the same time.

 

[Harold falcon]

Originally Posted by Mr. Moo

Legal files, iPad, contracts. Usually not too much paperwork at the same time.
For legal files go with two compartments. I find it easier to organize with two compartments. If you're taking a laptop consider a padded compartment as well. An extra spot for business cards and a spot for mouthwash is also helpful. Edit - Also, if I were building my perfect case I'd have snaps to hold an umbrella as well.

 

[Mr. Moo]

Originally Posted by harvey_birdman

For legal files go with two compartments. I find it easier to organize with two compartments. If you're taking a laptop consider a padded compartment as well. An extra spot for business cards and a spot for mouthwash is also helpful.

Edit - Also, if I were building my perfect case I'd have snaps to hold an umbrella as well.

Thanks. I think you may be right about the two compartments. What do you think about the size of the compartments?

Mouthwash compartment is interesting.

 

[Harold falcon]

Originally Posted by Mr. Moo

Thanks. I think you may be right about the two compartments. What do you think about the size of the compartments?

Mouthwash compartment is interesting.

2", equal size is good, that way you can easily carry two files separately.

I always make sure to have a small bottle of mouthwash in my briefcase, one of those travel sized bottles.

 

[sinnedk]

i'd skip the mouthwash, if it ever spills your case is going to be ruined

 

[Harold falcon]

Originally Posted by sinnedk

i'd skip the mouthwash, if it ever spills your case is going to be ruined

Put that cap on tight!

 

[imatlas]

Originally Posted by sinnedk

i'd skip the mouthwash, if it ever spills your case is going to be ruined

Have the mouthwash pocket made waterproof. I always carry Altoids and hand sanitizer, so I understand this requirement.

 

[pebblegrain]

Originally Posted by harvey_birdman

Edit - Also, if I were building my perfect case I'd have snaps to hold an umbrella as well.

what do umbrella snaps look like?

 

[kolecho]

If you are getting a flapover briefcase, I would have the pocket at the rear fitted with loops for pens, PDA etc.

 

[Harold falcon]

Originally Posted by pebblegrain

what do umbrella snaps look like?
You can see them on this case -

Just a couple of straps with button snaps to keep an umbrella attached to the exterior of the bag. The Col. demonstrates here -
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[UnFacconable]

I would strongly advise against having 2 equal size compartments. It may be preferable to have a smaller one to keep your iPad snug, but even without any specific requirements, I can envision you having to carry a 2"+ file that would fit in the bag were it not for the fact that you've split it in 2. I'd suggest 1.5/2.5 or 1/3. Either that or one big one and use a redweld accordion to subdivide, which is basically what I do. Redwelds also serve as great crumbcatchers if you shove food in your bag.

At some point Moo I expect to see a massive Moo's Manbags thread (setting someone up for a good punchline here). Seems like you may be a collector.

 

[Mr. Moo]

Originally Posted by UnFacconable

I would strongly advise against having 2 equal size compartments. It may be preferable to have a smaller one to keep your iPad snug, but even without any specific requirements, I can envision you having to carry a 2"+ file that would fit in the bag were it not for the fact that you've split it in 2. I'd suggest 1.5/2.5 or 1/3. Either that or one big one and use a redweld accordion to subdivide, which is basically what I do. Redwelds also serve as great crumbcatchers if you shove food in your bag.

At some point Moo I expect to see a massive Moo's Manbags thread (setting someone up for a good punchline here). Seems like you may be a collector.

Thanks.. I may go 1/3. Should the 1 be in the front or the back of the case?

 

[kolecho]

I would do with equally sized compartments. Your bag, if it is of good quality, will far outlast the form of current consumer electronics.