Great review. Full featured bags like this are nice, but one major drawback is not only the bulk but the weight. The bag alone must be hefty with all those compartments, zippers, and straps. And for someone that travels frequently by air, we quickly find out we can't pack much in these packs without going over the weight restrictions. It looks like this bag is at least 2kg and with a 7kg airline limit, that leaves only 5kg of packable weight. Not a good ratio. I have a similar full feature bag (Evergoods CTB40 ) and run into this issue all the time. So the question is, what bag has the greatest balance between features, size and weight? Tough design problem to solve.
Nitpicking...some (minor) negatives, non are deal breaker 1. The accompanied shoulder strap is kinda pathetic...not an issue for me since I intend to switch to my trusty Op/Tech SOS straps anyway 2. the zip pulls are too long and can be a little messy especially if you orientate it all in the same direction. Will replace some of these with Goruck style zip pull 3. The backpack straps looks a little cheap. Could be improved here. *That said I have just received the bag today so I have zero actual usage hour todate. Did a test load and it is passable. Will know after my first trip with this bag sometime in early March. 4. The velcro to hide the backpack straps should have been done with magnets ala Peak Design. I think they missed the opportunity to make this bag even more desirable 5. If you expand the bag for the extra 10L, and don't fully load the bag, you will lose a bit of structure since the expansion part are made with thinner material. This is where the compression straps comes in. Unlike many bags that I have, this is the first bag where I feel the compression straps are absolutely essential. 6. The handle are made with thin material and are not padded. You will need to purchase an optional padded handle to fix this. 7. I felt that overtime the hypalon material will crack, especially as I lived in a tropical climate where humidity is above 65% on a normal day. *Need advice on how to maintain the Hypalon material over a longer period* 8. the use of thin velcro and soft mesh material somehow spoilt the feeling of quality for me. Lots could be improved here. That said this bag ticked a lot of boxes for me too... 9. lots of good organization compartment/pockets that's both useful and well design, albeit pretty simple design. Could use a higher quality mesh all over here 10. Water resistant YKK AquaSeal zippers throughout, but non are lockable 😭 11. 20L is perfect for day-to-day usage while 30L is perfect for my one-bag short travel needs 12. Glad I got the all black ones and not the desired MCB...this bag is perfect for use in any office setting, as well as for lightly loaded one-bag travel. I could packed enough for a week of travel here, and since I no longer need to have formal business attire even for my business trip, this one will do nicely. 13. Suspended 15" laptop compartment 14. simple but useful anti-theft zipper garage 15. Bag can stand up by itself yay 16. I like the material used for back padding 17. there is a zipper pull storage loop for the expansion zipper for both zipped (compressed) & unzipped (expanded). Nice touch 18. IF only there is a way to add a build-in water bottle pocket, and maybe another (simple) side handle, plus improve the quality of mesh material used inside the bag, this would make this bag nearer to perfection for me. As it is, this is definitely a keeper for me. I read many who have not yet received the bag are already thinking about flipping it...I'll say give it a try first before deciding for yourself if you wanna keep this. Can't wait to load them out and head to town tomorrow.
Thanks for your thoughts. I’m still waiting for mine. I hope that with packing cubes to provide some structure the bag isn’t going to be too much of an issue. How water resistant do you find the expansion gusset? You should be able to run a wire style TSA lock though the metal zipper pulls- I do with with my TAD meridian transport case. If the Velcro on the back panel is really bothering you, magnetic Velcro silencers can be purchased from fighter design. I would been keen to see if magnets would make the back panel noticeably less stable than Velcro. I can’t speak for their lamination process, but I wouldn’t worry about hypalon cracking. Having spent a long time in the military, I am very familiar with the material, it is tough and commonly used on RHIBs. If it’s good enough for boats, I think it’s sufficient for a bag.
Strong feedback. I've received my forge, as well. I certainly agree regarding the backpack shoulder straps. They are the bare minimum regarding the shoulder strap padding/quality to be functional. Anything less than the thin/cheap padding and I wouldn't even think of using the backpack straps. I expected much higher quality in the backpack strap padding. The rest of the bag is done so well! I also agree that utilizing magnets instead of Velcro on the back panel seems more appropriate for this bag - it would have been much nicer. However, I can certainly live with the Velcro. I also have a nice shoulder strap that I use for all my bags. I discarded the cheap shoulder strap that seemed to be made from the same material as the backpack straps. Everything else regarding the bag seems great so far and it's definitely a winner. The Achilles heel might just be those backpack straps.
@@Nunyabizn3ss Do you know anyone else that has magentic velcro silencers for sale? It seems like fighter design is out of business or isn't selling them anymore.
Hey guys, not a backer myself but I pre-ordered 2 of the Forge Max. After comparing pictures from reviews and from the website/Kickstarter, I found one (huge?) discrepancy between what's advertised in BE's video/website and the actual product here. I noticed that the multiple pocket compartments are in the different placement compare to what's shown in the video and Kickstarter pictures. In the video on BE's website and photos on Kickstarter, it shows that the multiple pocket compartment is placed next to the laptop pocket. However, in actual product photos/videos, it's only one large zipper pocket which is pretty useless to me personally or not as functional as the multiple pocket compartment. This pocket was also not shown/declared in the photos on BE's website photos of the product which I had assumed both are multiple pocket compartment. In other words, I couldn't find any photos how does the compartment next to the laptop pocket look like. Is there anything I'm missing here? Did they declare that they're changing the compartment placement? I think Black Ember DELIBERATELY trying to mislead their customer here as they chose not to show a single photo (or attempt to hide) of that large zippered pocket. I know I sound fussy and whine for such trivial things. Beside ruining the functionality of the bag for me, I also find their business practice really shady here. Just wanna send the message out so the other guys are aware.
I had dismissed this bag when I saw it. But this is back in my purview 🤔 I’ll likely get rid of all those extra-long zipper pulls, looks like way too much overlap. Excellent video, Bo!
According to black ember, you can tuck the zipper pull into it’s channel. I’m still waiting for my pack, I’ll update this comment when I receive it with regard to how well the zipper pull tucks away.
Yet another wonderful video, Bo. This is a bag i want, but i simply have no use case for a bag of such capacity/features in my lifestyle at the moment. I will definitely get this if i ever foresee i have such a use case for this Forge!
Your bag reviews are hands down the most practical I have ever come across. Thank you kindly. If you get a chance would you review the sling bags from back safe? Also Do you have any advice on a high quality edc bag that doubles as a camera bag? I am looking for something that is small, low profile ( something that does not yell to the world "Look I have 10k$ of camera equipment on my back!!! So not a box") but also stylish with high build quality. And I appreciate you as a fellow film maker, thank you.
@@Youknowthebo Bo Ismono I looked at your suggestion, I love the things the bag offers but I really dislike roll tops. That being said, the design concepts of wandrd are fantastic and they just came out with a new hybrid every day backpack and camera bag. The Duo Daypack. I just picked it up :) thank you.
Thanks, mate. That's the insta360 one r. It's a cool tool. But it does have the image Quality that we are used to with all action cams. It's a bit compressed
I'm impressed, they slightly improved on Peak Design's garbage security system, at least you can run a lock through their loops. You would have thought with all those engineers and designers Peak Design could have figured out even something like this for their V2 bags. 🤔
Nice review. In most of these kind of bags there is a 15" laptop compartment. In my current assignment I am stuck with a big 17" laptop. Would be nice to know the exact dimensions for the laptop compartment? Or is it possible to fit a 17" laptop somewhere else in this bag?
Nice review Bo ! I was vert curious about this bag and it seems awesome. I unfortunately won’t be able to come to Hamburg this time to the Carryology Event. Hope you’ll have great time guys
I wish when bags had clamshell or suitcase opening they were more even on either side. Rather than have one side flimsy. With that said I've always liked black embers style and quality
with a bag like gr1 or any clamshell - organization with pouches makes sense, but if you try to add pouches in a bag with a lot of organization compartments it will get bulky. I made the same mistake moving from GR1 and CPL24 to the ForgePack which just arrived last week. But yes I agree it is confusing at first to remember where i put stuff. This is one of my fav as I really love messenger style bags for organizing stuff but wanted a backpack to avoid shoulder pain.
How do you like the shoulder straps? I tried the citidel and thought the the straps were too thick, almost rounded like a tube and I didn’t like the way they were attached with Velcro. It wasn’t a look I wanted. Are these the same? There was a lot to like about the citidel and this looks interesting too if they have improved the straps. Thanks as always for the great video.
really looking forward to visiting hamburg next weekend and be at the meetup :). great review. I can imagine that the pockets in the quick access compartment could be slanted to one side a little bit, so that in backpack mode the items in teh pockets are not horizontal but hold in the respective compartments by gravity at least a little bit more, so they are not shifting around as much, but as you didnt experience any problems with this design feature, I guess its okay to leave it this way.
Good point. The pockets have a stretchy band at the opening. They hold the items pretty well. But I like your idea nevertheless. See you next week 😉 ✌️
Excellent review. This looks to be the best Black Ember bag so far, IMO. I am curious about the smaller, forthcoming (?) Forge 20 -- if it's different in any practical way from this one, un-expanded.
@Jordan Green Thanks, Jordan... so basically you save a bit of weight and maybe a tiny bit of dimension, vs just having it's big brother "un-expanded", it seems
As always a great little video, Bo. I am more a "purpose-built bag" type of guy, so this one was never for me; usually, they tend to look funny due to the "all in one" approach. Clamshell bags are nice for the organisation, but I find they tend to get saggy over time. Although very well thought thru, this one has the same potential.
So I appreciate the review and have been a Black Ember backer since their very first Kickstarter. However, I'm TRYING to like this bag. When not uncompressed into 30L mode, even in the 20L mode I find that you really don't get that much space inside of the bag due to the central bulk. It allows for a few very flat items with one or two bulkier, tube like items towards the edges of the bag. This is the main reason to take the central panel out of the Citadel series, which I have seen pretty much everyone I know who has one do. I also find the layout of the pockets to be difficult at best and not so much designed for storing things effectively. E.g. in the center section, the main, medium sized pockets one might use for stashing chargers and cables don't have closures on the top of them to keep things in place when accessing from the long side. The zippers are on the edges, meaning the bag has to be opened farther. There are no small pockets in the back section for storage of these same things but right where the laptop sleeve is. Therefore, the bag requires the back section to be opened and the middle section to be opened all the way just to get a laptop or tablet out and operate for any length of time. And to me the big flaw: the side that opens. Most folks I know and everyone I am observing at this coffee shop right now, when carrying a backpack on one shoulder, carry it on his/her left shoulder. If one tries to go for a quick access, this puts the entire bag upside down from the left shoulder, though right shoulder carriers should have no issue. It also puts the overall opening/access to the bag behind an individual, rather than towards the front, making it less secure from an awareness and theft standpoint, in my opinion. Likely I'll use this bag for one bag travel over a weekend or short business trip, but I am struggling with liking it for day to day carry. It does look good and the build is definitely up to their very high standards, but it feels like the prototyping period they normally go through to check functionality was skipped. It's definitely better for access than their first generation bag, though.
Hello. What do you think about the thin black lining at the back of the bag, easily to be torn off or scratched over time? Also, you think the shoulder strap is too long? Thanks....
Bo Ismono: Thanks for the reply! Question: Have you seen the “Forge -20”, link below, which is non-expandable? It would be interesting to see your opinion on this smaller/non-expandable version. Link: www.mukama.com/en/black-ember-forge-20
Thanks Bo for the review. Interesting bag. Great versatility but I prefer to always use backpack mode so the transforming function is not so useful. The bulk is probably due to all the features. For one bag travel the greatest factor is weight as most airlines have a 7kg limit. So for me a bag must be around 1kg preferably less. 800 gm is my ideal.
Thanks, Jose. Mine is still going strong. To be fair: since the start of the pandemic I only work from home, so I haven't used it much. But the Forge is still one of my favorites
Thanks. That's a bike light. I used this bag a lot while riding my motorcycle. And the deep black does not offer much reflectivity to make me more visible on the road. That is why I attached this small light. It's something I bought from. Amazon
Good question. I haven't tested the bigger CPL yet. Tough question now that I think of it. Both have a lot going for them. If you value simplicity (ie the bag adapts better to your packing style) then go for the CPL. It might also be a little lighter. But if you want lots of compartments and more flexibility to adapt the bag for day use, then the Forge might be your choice.
@@Youknowthebo Hey Bo, great review as usual. I looked at their site and see there's no difference IN SIZE between max forge and ordinary one: both have Dimensional millimeters: 460 x 305 x 150 Liters: 20 expands to 30 So what's the difference? :) And another question - about side handles. I hate when they stick out when I carry the bag in backpack mode. Is it possible to fix them more closer to the backpack body? For example using these extra-long zipper pulls ?
Black ember... shipping mid December.... shipping early Jan.... shipping early Feb... now end of February they finally “shipped” not gonna believe it until it’s here! Very poor ran company!
I just bought a new Forge since I was happy with an older backpack of this brand, but ibstead if the model shown in pictures, which was in a gummy fabric finish like the other one I use, it came completely different. I asked to exchange it since it is not compliant to the sales page images, and they said they changed the fabric and that’s it. But if you buy on line you trust the pics and its not fair to send a different product. I loved my old one I gave my boyfriend and now I am just disappointed. Its not right to be sent a different product and be ignored, like it was my fault for their mistakes. I am not happy, feels like a scam. If you change the product, just SHOOT NEW PICS. Is it that difficult? Don’t blame a client that trusts your pics, please. Its bad.
Hello. What is the round orange/red item on front of your Forge? When checking out the stitching, it seems like traditional stitching. Does it has the same waterproof capabilities like the BlackEmber modular which can withstand jet spray? Have you tested the waterproof capabilities? Thank you.
That's a bike light. I used this bag a lot while riding my motorcycle. And the deep black does not offer much reflectivity to make me more visible on the road. That is why I attached this small light. And on the bike I was riding a couple of times in rain. The bag kept everything dry
@@Youknowthebo I see... glad to hear that. When I backed the Forge in Kickstarter, I did ask BE about the waterproof capabilities. BE said they don't use traditional stitching at all. But when I received the bag and check the stitches between the expansion layer and zippers, stitches between each compartments, and the stitches on the zippers, they seems like traditional stitching. Because I had bad experience with AER backpack which got my books awfully wet twice, even when the materials are Codura and YKK zippers. And it was just less than 10 mins walk in the rain. So, I was quite worried. Thank you! Really appreciate your replied. Didn't had high hope actually. Hehe
It looks like a nice backpack -suitcase combo, personally I don't think I would like the extra bulk. I can see this for someone who commutes and parks their car away from the office like in a Car Park/Parking Structure or for a Train-Bus Commuter going from backpack to briefcase mode. Looks like a nice Travel Bag as well. Lastly I know your struggle with those motorcycle pants, I have a two pairs of what are called over pants, and having to deal with them, I just lock mine to the bike, I would really like to have a trunk, one of my relatives got a MT07 and he fitted the bracket and trunk, I think he paid around $450.00 Im sure the Euro amount is similar.
No really sure how i ended here but, i recently purchased THE best and only backpack i will ever need, Goruck makes over engineered and over built packs that are amazing. Cant beat the lifetime warranty and the amount of storage they have.... i purchased the gr3 and im able to fit 1 week worth of clothes,weapon and tech gear plus 40lb plate in it...
@@Youknowthebo i honestly never thought a backpack could be over engineered and over built till i got the gr3. Im definitely ordering the Rucker for events
I used it a lot for work with a lot of gear. For that it works really well. But I have not carried any books yet. However, I think it work quite well depending on the size of the books
Personally, I don't like when brands come up with these versatile/wannabeeverything bags that are not great at either being backpacks, messenger bags, duffle bags or anything similar to that, but that's me. The bag looks well built and I really dig the look of it, but man those side handles make me gag everytime I see them 🤢 😂 I would really consider getting it if it was a pure backpack. Great video again Bo ✌️
Thanks for commenting, Alberto. I usually totally agree with you on the "hybrid bag" part. With all hybrids (this holds true to all items that want to be multiple things eg. Multitool vs knife) there are always drawbacks, because that item needs to cater to multiple needs. However, I think this bags does its job pretty well. Furthermore, I get a lot of comments on the high price tag with most bags, and therefore I can see that having a pricey bag that can be used for multiple scenarios is beneficial for those cost concerns.
Thanks for the review. Been waiting for this one. I agree it looks too bulky as an work EDC briefcase, there’s no way I’m going on a work trip with this either, how do you keep your suit and suits tidy?! Buuuttt... I still want it as it’s the closely tied briefcase and useable back pack for a commute. Any chance you can share examples of its size and bulky ness vs other EDC bags so we can get an idea of how bulky? Thanks!
ENB90 thanks, I’m aware of the Forge-20 but the details on website is cryptically the same as the main forge. Ie. Dimensions the same size. Compared to other well known business bag brands, eg Tumi etc, the 18-19” length is bulky vs what is usually 16” briefcases.
@@jkspepper05 The Forge-20 is the same bag without the expandable bit -- and presumably no compression straps. It is about 3lbs according to BE. Still pretty heavy but I preordered.
@@Youknowthebo it contains changes concerning shoulder straps, materials, zipper-garages and overall look - but most importantly, it would be great to know your impression of its new *_"Verschlimmbesserungen"._* To be honest: i bet Black Ember would send you the R2 minimal and R2 modular versions of the new citadel *_FOR FREE,_* considering they even mentioned you at the beginning of its all-new product video - A "Verschlimmbesserung" would be that especially the new shoulder straps traded their uniquely well-designed aesthetic for a generic style with largely useless "Null-Acht-Fünfzehn" MOLLE-attatchment-points
Please be aware that the bag reviewed here has a different material compared with the one listed in their website. I’m waiting for the response from Blackember for replacement.
Bo please do a review on the Forge 20, the thinner version of this
The main drawback is the price!
Excellent review man ;-)
Bo: it's too bulky
Me: that's why I'm here
Great review. Full featured bags like this are nice, but one major drawback is not only the bulk but the weight. The bag alone must be hefty with all those compartments, zippers, and straps. And for someone that travels frequently by air, we quickly find out we can't pack much in these packs without going over the weight restrictions. It looks like this bag is at least 2kg and with a 7kg airline limit, that leaves only 5kg of packable weight. Not a good ratio. I have a similar full feature bag (Evergoods CTB40 ) and run into this issue all the time. So the question is, what bag has the greatest balance between features, size and weight? Tough design problem to solve.
Nitpicking...some (minor) negatives, non are deal breaker
1. The accompanied shoulder strap is kinda pathetic...not an issue for me since I intend to switch to my trusty Op/Tech SOS straps anyway
2. the zip pulls are too long and can be a little messy especially if you orientate it all in the same direction. Will replace some of these with Goruck style zip pull
3. The backpack straps looks a little cheap. Could be improved here.
*That said I have just received the bag today so I have zero actual usage hour todate. Did a test load and it is passable. Will know after my first trip with this bag sometime in early March.
4. The velcro to hide the backpack straps should have been done with magnets ala Peak Design. I think they missed the opportunity to make this bag even more desirable
5. If you expand the bag for the extra 10L, and don't fully load the bag, you will lose a bit of structure since the expansion part are made with thinner material. This is where the compression straps comes in. Unlike many bags that I have, this is the first bag where I feel the compression straps are absolutely essential.
6. The handle are made with thin material and are not padded. You will need to purchase an optional padded handle to fix this.
7. I felt that overtime the hypalon material will crack, especially as I lived in a tropical climate where humidity is above 65% on a normal day.
*Need advice on how to maintain the Hypalon material over a longer period*
8. the use of thin velcro and soft mesh material somehow spoilt the feeling of quality for me. Lots could be improved here.
That said this bag ticked a lot of boxes for me too...
9. lots of good organization compartment/pockets that's both useful and well design, albeit pretty simple design. Could use a higher quality mesh all over here
10. Water resistant YKK AquaSeal zippers throughout, but non are lockable 😭
11. 20L is perfect for day-to-day usage while 30L is perfect for my one-bag short travel needs
12. Glad I got the all black ones and not the desired MCB...this bag is perfect for use in any office setting, as well as for lightly loaded one-bag travel. I could packed enough for a week of travel here, and since I no longer need to have formal business attire even for my business trip, this one will do nicely.
13. Suspended 15" laptop compartment
14. simple but useful anti-theft zipper garage
15. Bag can stand up by itself yay
16. I like the material used for back padding
17. there is a zipper pull storage loop for the expansion zipper for both zipped (compressed) & unzipped (expanded). Nice touch
18. IF only there is a way to add a build-in water bottle pocket, and maybe another (simple) side handle, plus improve the quality of mesh material used inside the bag, this would make this bag nearer to perfection for me.
As it is, this is definitely a keeper for me. I read many who have not yet received the bag are already thinking about flipping it...I'll say give it a try first before deciding for yourself if you wanna keep this. Can't wait to load them out and head to town tomorrow.
Thanks for this thorough feedback. Lots of good points. Cheers, mate 😉 ✌️
Thanks for your thoughts. I’m still waiting for mine. I hope that with packing cubes to provide some structure the bag isn’t going to be too much of an issue. How water resistant do you find the expansion gusset?
You should be able to run a wire style TSA lock though the metal zipper pulls- I do with with my TAD meridian transport case.
If the Velcro on the back panel is really bothering you, magnetic Velcro silencers can be purchased from fighter design. I would been keen to see if magnets would make the back panel noticeably less stable than Velcro.
I can’t speak for their lamination process, but I wouldn’t worry about hypalon cracking. Having spent a long time in the military, I am very familiar with the material, it is tough and commonly used on RHIBs. If it’s good enough for boats, I think it’s sufficient for a bag.
Strong feedback. I've received my forge, as well. I certainly agree regarding the backpack shoulder straps. They are the bare minimum regarding the shoulder strap padding/quality to be functional. Anything less than the thin/cheap padding and I wouldn't even think of using the backpack straps. I expected much higher quality in the backpack strap padding. The rest of the bag is done so well! I also agree that utilizing magnets instead of Velcro on the back panel seems more appropriate for this bag - it would have been much nicer. However, I can certainly live with the Velcro. I also have a nice shoulder strap that I use for all my bags. I discarded the cheap shoulder strap that seemed to be made from the same material as the backpack straps. Everything else regarding the bag seems great so far and it's definitely a winner. The Achilles heel might just be those backpack straps.
This is the best comment on this video. Super underrated. Thank you for sharing!
@@Nunyabizn3ss Do you know anyone else that has magentic velcro silencers for sale? It seems like fighter design is out of business or isn't selling them anymore.
Definitely going to get the Forge 20 for daily carry.
did you end up buying it? how is it?
Finally! Been really looking forward to your review on this bag! Great job as always.Keep on pushing bro!
did you get the bag?
hhhhnnnnnggggggg saw the iG story immediately left youtube open to keep checking notifications haha
😂 That's awesome. Thanks, mate
Hey guys, not a backer myself but I pre-ordered 2 of the Forge Max.
After comparing pictures from reviews and from the website/Kickstarter, I found one (huge?) discrepancy between what's advertised in BE's video/website and the actual product here.
I noticed that the multiple pocket compartments are in the different placement compare to what's shown in the video and Kickstarter pictures.
In the video on BE's website and photos on Kickstarter, it shows that the multiple pocket compartment is placed next to the laptop pocket. However, in actual product photos/videos, it's only one large zipper pocket which is pretty useless to me personally or not as functional as the multiple pocket compartment.
This pocket was also not shown/declared in the photos on BE's website photos of the product which I had assumed both are multiple pocket compartment.
In other words, I couldn't find any photos how does the compartment next to the laptop pocket look like.
Is there anything I'm missing here? Did they declare that they're changing the compartment placement? I think Black Ember DELIBERATELY trying to mislead their customer here as they chose not to show a single photo (or attempt to hide) of that large zippered pocket.
I know I sound fussy and whine for such trivial things. Beside ruining the functionality of the bag for me, I also find their business practice really shady here.
Just wanna send the message out so the other guys are aware.
Always make me drool when i see your new edc bag or your stuff bo haha 🤣
Thanks, Malvin 😉✌️
I had dismissed this bag when I saw it. But this is back in my purview 🤔
I’ll likely get rid of all those extra-long zipper pulls, looks like way too much overlap.
Excellent video, Bo!
Thank you very much, mate 😉 ✌️
According to black ember, you can tuck the zipper pull into it’s channel. I’m still waiting for my pack, I’ll update this comment when I receive it with regard to how well the zipper pull tucks away.
@@Nunyabizn3ss how is the bag?
@@Nunyabizn3ss same question here lol. how do you like it?
@@Nunyabizn3ss Does it work?
What light are you using on the bag?
Was wondering the same thing
Great review, can’t wait to get my bag! Where did you get that jacket?
Thank you very much, James. It's a bomber jacket from Schott NY
BLACK EMBER IS ONE OF THE BRANDED HEAVYWEIGHTS IN THE MARKET!!!
WELL DONE BRO!!
KEEP UP!!
Really digging this soundtrack 😂
Thanks. 😉✌️
To neglect bulk you can simply use a forge which is not expandable - 18 liters one.
Yet another wonderful video, Bo. This is a bag i want, but i simply have no use case for a bag of such capacity/features in my lifestyle at the moment. I will definitely get this if i ever foresee i have such a use case for this Forge!
Your bag reviews are hands down the most practical I have ever come across. Thank you kindly. If you get a chance would you review the sling bags from back safe? Also Do you have any advice on a high quality edc bag that doubles as a camera bag? I am looking for something that is small, low profile ( something that does not yell to the world "Look I have 10k$ of camera equipment on my back!!! So not a box") but also stylish with high build quality. And I appreciate you as a fellow film maker, thank you.
Thank you very much. Have you taken a look at the Wandrd Prvke? I have tested the big 31l version, but the 21l version might be fitting for your needs
@@Youknowthebo Bo Ismono I looked at your suggestion, I love the things the bag offers but I really dislike roll tops. That being said, the design concepts of wandrd are fantastic and they just came out with a new hybrid every day backpack and camera bag. The Duo Daypack. I just picked it up :) thank you.
Awesome video! The bag looks great and I really love that new camera that lets you get video of you walking around with the bag!
Thanks, mate. That's the insta360 one r. It's a cool tool. But it does have the image Quality that we are used to with all action cams. It's a bit compressed
I'm impressed, they slightly improved on Peak Design's garbage security system, at least you can run a lock through their loops. You would have thought with all those engineers and designers Peak Design could have figured out even something like this for their V2 bags. 🤔
anxiously waiting for mine to be delivered...
Cool. Hope you get it soon
This actually looks really good, might get it for myself.
Nice review. In most of these kind of bags there is a 15" laptop compartment. In my current assignment I am stuck with a big 17" laptop. Would be nice to know the exact dimensions for the laptop compartment? Or is it possible to fit a 17" laptop somewhere else in this bag?
Hey man, awesome video! I have watched it several times 😅. Btw, what jacket are you wearing? Looks good!
Nice review Bo ! I was vert curious about this bag and it seems awesome. I unfortunately won’t be able to come to Hamburg this time to the Carryology Event. Hope you’ll have great time guys
heii man, what would you suggest from black ember...the citadel or the forge? i would REALLY be interested in a comparison. awesome video by the way
I wish when bags had clamshell or suitcase opening they were more even on either side. Rather than have one side flimsy. With that said I've always liked black embers style and quality
Nice bag Bo. Cheers from Portugal! 🇵🇹
If only they'd make a version with a simple, hide-away external water-bottle pocket...
heya cool vid. whats that red blinkity light thing? much curious
Good video man, but definitely time for some cable management on your pc setup!
Great video, Bo, thanks so much! Would love to know the brand/model of that awesome jacket you had on....thanks!
Part of me wants to hate the idea of the bulk. That said I'm intrigued by the 3 ways one can carry this bag.
Thanks, very nice review.
One question - what is that screensaver on the PC at the very beginning of the video?
As usual, great review of the back pack
Thank you very much
Nice review. How durable is the backpack and did you manage to take it on vacation? And do you even still use the backpack?
What is the weight?
Great review bro. Beautiful backpack
with a bag like gr1 or any clamshell - organization with pouches makes sense, but if you try to add pouches in a bag with a lot of organization compartments it will get bulky. I made the same mistake moving from GR1 and CPL24 to the ForgePack which just arrived last week. But yes I agree it is confusing at first to remember where i put stuff. This is one of my fav as I really love messenger style bags for organizing stuff but wanted a backpack to avoid shoulder pain.
Finally！I received mine two days ago and totally agreed with your opinion. The bag really match its name, been forged thoroughly
Cool. Did you get the black or multicam version?
@@Youknowthebo Same as yours, black.
Nice review.
I like your jacket. Where can I get one?
Great review as always, love this bag. I actually thought it was leather at first from a distance.
How do you like the shoulder straps? I tried the citidel and thought the the straps were too thick, almost rounded like a tube and I didn’t like the way they were attached with Velcro. It wasn’t a look I wanted. Are these the same? There was a lot to like about the citidel and this looks interesting too if they have improved the straps. Thanks as always for the great video.
Hi Bo, always enjoy your reviews. What’s the hook/carabiner you have on the top of the bag?
Thanks, Gayle. That's a hero clip. It's great if you want to hang the bag when no hooks are available
Awesome vid, Bo!
Thanks, mate 😉 ✌️
Awesome review Bo! Would love for you to do a review of the Brown Buffalo Conceal v3 19L!
Thanks, Christopher. Brown Buffalo is definitely on my wishlist
really looking forward to visiting hamburg next weekend and be at the meetup :). great review. I can imagine that the pockets in the quick access compartment could be slanted to one side a little bit, so that in backpack mode the items in teh pockets are not horizontal but hold in the respective compartments by gravity at least a little bit more, so they are not shifting around as much, but as you didnt experience any problems with this design feature, I guess its okay to leave it this way.
Good point. The pockets have a stretchy band at the opening. They hold the items pretty well. But I like your idea nevertheless. See you next week 😉 ✌️
Excellent review. This looks to be the best Black Ember bag so far, IMO. I am curious about the smaller, forthcoming (?) Forge 20 -- if it's different in any practical way from this one, un-expanded.
@Jordan Green Thanks, Jordan... so basically you save a bit of weight and maybe a tiny bit of dimension, vs just having it's big brother "un-expanded", it seems
Great job on the review Bo! I wish I could attend your meet up, but sadly I’m currently in Africa. Maybe next time!
Thanks, Lupe. That sounds pretty far away. But maybe we might meet at a different Carryology meetup
How do you get the look of your videos? Are color grading them? Using a Fujifilm? Love it 👍
Thanks. I filmed this with the Sony a6300 back then. But I switched to the bmpcc4k
As always a great little video, Bo. I am more a "purpose-built bag" type of guy, so this one was never for me; usually, they tend to look funny due to the "all in one" approach. Clamshell bags are nice for the organisation, but I find they tend to get saggy over time. Although very well thought thru, this one has the same potential.
So I appreciate the review and have been a Black Ember backer since their very first Kickstarter. However, I'm TRYING to like this bag. When not uncompressed into 30L mode, even in the 20L mode I find that you really don't get that much space inside of the bag due to the central bulk. It allows for a few very flat items with one or two bulkier, tube like items towards the edges of the bag. This is the main reason to take the central panel out of the Citadel series, which I have seen pretty much everyone I know who has one do. I also find the layout of the pockets to be difficult at best and not so much designed for storing things effectively. E.g. in the center section, the main, medium sized pockets one might use for stashing chargers and cables don't have closures on the top of them to keep things in place when accessing from the long side. The zippers are on the edges, meaning the bag has to be opened farther. There are no small pockets in the back section for storage of these same things but right where the laptop sleeve is. Therefore, the bag requires the back section to be opened and the middle section to be opened all the way just to get a laptop or tablet out and operate for any length of time.
And to me the big flaw: the side that opens. Most folks I know and everyone I am observing at this coffee shop right now, when carrying a backpack on one shoulder, carry it on his/her left shoulder. If one tries to go for a quick access, this puts the entire bag upside down from the left shoulder, though right shoulder carriers should have no issue. It also puts the overall opening/access to the bag behind an individual, rather than towards the front, making it less secure from an awareness and theft standpoint, in my opinion.
Likely I'll use this bag for one bag travel over a weekend or short business trip, but I am struggling with liking it for day to day carry. It does look good and the build is definitely up to their very high standards, but it feels like the prototyping period they normally go through to check functionality was skipped. It's definitely better for access than their first generation bag, though.
Hi! great video! Have a question. Is the bag resistant to rain when riding?
Hello. What do you think about the thin black lining at the back of the bag, easily to be torn off or scratched over time? Also, you think the shoulder strap is too long? Thanks....
Great bag! I tried to order but it was sold out! Great video!
Thank you very much. Let's hope that they have more in stock soon
Bo Ismono: Thanks for the reply! Question: Have you seen the “Forge -20”, link below, which is non-expandable? It would be interesting to see your opinion on this smaller/non-expandable version.
Link: www.mukama.com/en/black-ember-forge-20
excited for the new ael012
Could you please add the link to the bag to description.
would you suggest to go for the forge max with all the straps or do you think that they are not very useful ?
If u compare this backpack to Taskin One v2, which one is better?
Which bag do you like better. Shadow 26l or Forge?
What bike light do you use on your bags?
yes I'd like to know what light as well thanks
Thanks Bo for the review. Interesting bag. Great versatility but I prefer to always use backpack mode so the transforming function is not so useful. The bulk is probably due to all the features. For one bag travel the greatest factor is weight as most airlines have a 7kg limit. So for me a bag must be around 1kg preferably less. 800 gm is my ideal.
Hi there. What’s the brand of the bike light please ? Do u have any link please ? Does it just hook to the bag ? Thanks mate
will you do a review on th peak design everyday totepack
Very informative, you went over pretty much everything. Did yo make the music?
Temple of Runha - ELFL :)
If I could like your review twice, I would!
😂 Thanks, Kris.
Hi Bo! How is it holding after all this time? I saw some bags on this material not doing so well.
Great review !
Thanks, Jose. Mine is still going strong. To be fair: since the start of the pandemic I only work from home, so I haven't used it much. But the Forge is still one of my favorites
How did the bag do while riding your motorcycle? I'm thinking about getting this bag for my daily motorcycle commute and it rains a lot where I'm at.
Great vid 👍🏽, but what is the red circular thing on the bag, is it part of the features?
Thanks. That's a bike light. I used this bag a lot while riding my motorcycle. And the deep black does not offer much reflectivity to make me more visible on the road. That is why I attached this small light. It's something I bought from. Amazon
Great video! Do you like this more than the AER duffel bag?
Thanks, David. Yeah, I prefer this over the aer duffelpack. But I still like the duffelpack a lot
What is that red thing you have on the outside of the bag?
That's a bicycle light that I got from Amazon. The bag looks amazing in all black, but it makes you hard to see when you are riding a bike.
so the product reviewed is the regular forge and not the smaller forge 20?
Bo, this bag vs Evergoods CPL28 V2? Appreciate your reviews. Previously purchased Evergoods CPL24 based on your review.
Good question. I haven't tested the bigger CPL yet. Tough question now that I think of it. Both have a lot going for them. If you value simplicity (ie the bag adapts better to your packing style) then go for the CPL. It might also be a little lighter. But if you want lots of compartments and more flexibility to adapt the bag for day use, then the Forge might be your choice.
How about the weight? As one travel bag could do it?
Cool backpack, Bo. But it looks puffier with all the gear on one side. Thanks for sharing.
Yeah, it is pretty bulky. Probably that's the reason why they also made the 20L version. Thanks for watching, mate 😉 ✌️
@@Youknowthebo Are you planning on reviewing the 20L as well??
@@Youknowthebo Hey Bo, great review as usual. I looked at their site and see there's no difference IN SIZE between max forge and ordinary one: both have
Dimensional millimeters: 460 x 305 x 150
Liters: 20 expands to 30
So what's the difference? :)
And another question - about side handles. I hate when they stick out when I carry the bag in backpack mode. Is it possible to fix them more closer to the backpack body? For example using these extra-long zipper pulls ?
Black ember... shipping mid December.... shipping early Jan.... shipping early Feb... now end of February they finally “shipped” not gonna believe it until it’s here! Very poor ran company!
Eric Jacobs Holien Bartholomew I’m sure it’s a small company with very high demand, but I understand your frustration.
I just bought a new Forge since I was happy with an older backpack of this brand, but ibstead if the model shown in pictures, which was in a gummy fabric finish like the other one I use, it came completely different. I asked to exchange it since it is not compliant to the sales page images, and they said they changed the fabric and that’s it. But if you buy on line you trust the pics and its not fair to send a different product. I loved my old one I gave my boyfriend and now I am just disappointed. Its not right to be sent a different product and be ignored, like it was my fault for their mistakes.
I am not happy, feels like a scam.
If you change the product, just SHOOT NEW PICS. Is it that difficult? Don’t blame a client that trusts your pics, please. Its bad.
Could you tell me what name of reflector putting the forge back on?
Struggle for long time to buy this bag or not (highest price with top handle), great compartments and materials, however too expensive
Hello. What is the round orange/red item on front of your Forge?
When checking out the stitching, it seems like traditional stitching. Does it has the same waterproof capabilities like the BlackEmber modular which can withstand jet spray?
Have you tested the waterproof capabilities?
Thank you.
That's a bike light. I used this bag a lot while riding my motorcycle. And the deep black does not offer much reflectivity to make me more visible on the road. That is why I attached this small light. And on the bike I was riding a couple of times in rain. The bag kept everything dry
@@Youknowthebo I see... glad to hear that.
When I backed the Forge in Kickstarter, I did ask BE about the waterproof capabilities. BE said they don't use traditional stitching at all.
But when I received the bag and check the stitches between the expansion layer and zippers, stitches between each compartments, and the stitches on the zippers, they seems like traditional stitching.
Because I had bad experience with AER backpack which got my books awfully wet twice, even when the materials are Codura and YKK zippers. And it was just less than 10 mins walk in the rain.
So, I was quite worried.
Thank you! Really appreciate your replied.
Didn't had high hope actually. Hehe
@@YouknowtheboDo you mind sharing what light you use? many thanks!
Hey Bo what bike light are you using on the bag?
It looks like a nice backpack -suitcase combo, personally I don't think I would like the extra bulk. I can see this for someone who commutes and parks their car away from the office like in a Car Park/Parking Structure or for a Train-Bus Commuter going from backpack to briefcase mode.
Looks like a nice Travel Bag as well.
Lastly I know your struggle with those motorcycle pants, I have a two pairs of what are called over pants, and having to deal with them, I just lock mine to the bike, I would really like to have a trunk, one of my relatives got a MT07 and he fitted the bracket and trunk, I think he paid around $450.00 Im sure the Euro amount is similar.
Yeah, those motorcycle pants are pretty annoying in a regular day scenario. But safety first 😉
Does the 16 inch Macbook Pro fit into the backpack?
No really sure how i ended here but, i recently purchased THE best and only backpack i will ever need, Goruck makes over engineered and over built packs that are amazing. Cant beat the lifetime warranty and the amount of storage they have.... i purchased the gr3 and im able to fit 1 week worth of clothes,weapon and tech gear plus 40lb plate in it...
Thanks for watching. I have the gr1 21l. It's a great bag. It's the bag that started this channel 😉
@@Youknowthebo i honestly never thought a backpack could be over engineered and over built till i got the gr3. Im definitely ordering the Rucker for events
Would you say its good for school or its more a travel bag? i mean for many books and something.
I used it a lot for work with a lot of gear. For that it works really well. But I have not carried any books yet. However, I think it work quite well depending on the size of the books
What about the Forge20?
Great review but they took a lot of ideas or it even seems like a copy of the mandarina duck Nomad which they stopped making a log time ago now
The weight is paramount when considering a backpack, yet this review overlooks it, rendering it ineffective.
Great video. What is the the brand of your jacket?
Thanks Kenny. That's a bomber jacket from Schott NY
Personally, I don't like when brands come up with these versatile/wannabeeverything bags that are not great at either being backpacks, messenger bags, duffle bags or anything similar to that, but that's me.
The bag looks well built and I really dig the look of it, but man those side handles make me gag everytime I see them 🤢 😂
I would really consider getting it if it was a pure backpack.
Great video again Bo ✌️
Just take the handles off? It's modular.
@@ENB90 I did not see that 👍, but still...
@@albertoreinoso4351 I plan on getting the Forge 20. It seems to be a slimmer version of this bag which, I'll probably use in backpack mode only
Thanks for commenting, Alberto. I usually totally agree with you on the "hybrid bag" part. With all hybrids (this holds true to all items that want to be multiple things eg. Multitool vs knife) there are always drawbacks, because that item needs to cater to multiple needs.
However, I think this bags does its job pretty well. Furthermore, I get a lot of comments on the high price tag with most bags, and therefore I can see that having a pricey bag that can be used for multiple scenarios is beneficial for those cost concerns.
I’m curious what’s the little red circle on the front of the bag?
Do you mean the bike light?
Thanks for the review. Been waiting for this one. I agree it looks too bulky as an work EDC briefcase, there’s no way I’m going on a work trip with this either, how do you keep your suit and suits tidy?! Buuuttt... I still want it as it’s the closely tied briefcase and useable back pack for a commute.
Any chance you can share examples of its size and bulky ness vs other EDC bags so we can get an idea of how bulky? Thanks!
jkspepper They have a smaller version which is better for EDC
ENB90 thanks, I’m aware of the Forge-20 but the details on website is cryptically the same as the main forge. Ie. Dimensions the same size.
Compared to other well known business bag brands, eg Tumi etc, the 18-19” length is bulky vs what is usually 16” briefcases.
@@jkspepper05 The Forge-20 is the same bag without the expandable bit -- and presumably no compression straps. It is about 3lbs according to BE. Still pretty heavy but I preordered.
Could you review the *_R2_* version of the *_citadel_* by *_black ember?_*
I already reviewed the version one of the citadel. Not sure if the changes or improvements are worth another video. Does it have that many changes?
@@Youknowthebo it contains changes concerning shoulder straps, materials, zipper-garages and overall look - but most importantly, it would be great to know your impression of its new *_"Verschlimmbesserungen"._* To be honest: i bet Black Ember would send you the R2 minimal and R2 modular versions of the new citadel *_FOR FREE,_* considering they even mentioned you at the beginning of its all-new product video
- A "Verschlimmbesserung" would be that especially the new shoulder straps traded their uniquely well-designed aesthetic for a generic style with largely useless "Null-Acht-Fünfzehn" MOLLE-attatchment-points
Does this bag have weight lifters at the top of the straps?
What is the red roller on the front side
It's a small bike light that I got from Amazon
Does anyone know what light that is?
Any word on whether you'll make it to to the London Carryology meet next month, Bo?
Can't make it to London unfortunately 😢
Hey Bo what pouches are you using for the front compartment?
It's my extended EDC inside a Trakke pouch. See the video here ruclips.net/video/l29KJ1HDhL0/видео.html
@@Youknowthebo Thanks so much! Love your videos
Thank you very much for your support 😊
I think you are the only guy that has more bags than the wife.
😂 Can't argue this
Please be aware that the bag reviewed here has a different material compared with the one listed in their website. I’m waiting for the response from Blackember for replacement.