"Maxpedition Fatboy
One of the most popular items in the extensive Maxpedition catalog is the Fatboy Versipak
This standard size sling bag certainly has a lot going for it, and for many it has proven to be the ideal EDC bag.
One of the coolest things about the Fatboy is that it is designed for people who like to carry a lot of gear. If you're the kind of person who usually hauls around one or two flashlights, spare cells, a
notebook and a multi-tool - in addition to "regular" items like a wallet, cellphone and iPod - then the Fatboy is for you.
The bag comprises six main sections. The main section isn't huge, but it can comfortably take a fair load, if properly organized. This section has a drawstring storm proof closure that is secured with a
cord-lock. This in turn is covered by a flap secured by a good quality snap-lock.
The tension of this flap can be adjusted with the aid of a strap that ends in a delrin ring. One assumes you can also attach something to this ring if in a pinch.
There's another smaller section directly on the front of the main compartment, which closes with a zip. This is good place to stash items that you want to access quickly as the storm proof drawstring does
tend to slow things down a bit.
On one side of the compartment is a sheath that is secured with a velcro flap. This is wide enough to comfortably house a multi-tool like the SOG Powerplier or LM Wave, as well as a flashlight like the Inova X5. I suspect it was designed for this purpose.
On the opposite side is a zippered compartment that is the ideal size for items like a digital camera, iPod or PDA. Again, purpose-made.
The fifth "compartment" is a narrow slot across the width of the bag down the back of the main section which you gain access to via a zippered opening (secured by one of Maxpedition's extra beefy zippers). I have found this an ideal place to store my over-sized wallet but it is also possible to stash a medium size pistol in there, using one of Maxpedition's universal holsters,
There are a couple of other extra compartments sprinkled throughout the bag, but the one you will probably find yourself using most frequently is the cellphone pouch sewn to the base of the strap, just about where your right hand normally is.
This little pouch is secured with a snap-lock, making it much quicker to access your phone, another example of Maxpedition's thoughtful design. Provision has been made on either side of the pouch for pens. I find the short Fisher Space "bullet" pens work best.
It is apparent that a lot of thought has gone into the Fatboy. It is designed in such a way that you don't have to shove all your gear into one main compartment, causing an irritating jumble that is a major
hindrance to finding what you need in a hurry.
True to their "tactical" mindset, Maxpedition have allocated space for the items you need most urgently - no more, no less. The advantage of this is that you're not lugging around an overloaded pack all day long. I prefer to travel light myself.
To keep the bag extra snug against your body, Maxpedition have incorporated a snap-secured loop that can be threaded through your belt. The sling is made more comfortable with a padded section that is velcro'ed in place. More thoughtful touches.
My overall impressions of the Fatboy is that it is an extremely well-made, rugged sling bag that will serve you well for many years. Once you have adjusted the strap for your height, it is very
comfortable and allows you quick and easy access to your gear. What is more important than that?
The Fatboy comes in the three standard Maxpedition flavors: black, OD and khaki."
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