Fig Bags Hanborough camera bag review

Fig Bags Hanborugh at a glance:

All-leather construction with brass fittings
Interior dimensions 12cm x 24.5cm x 30cm
Holds a DSLR, 3-5 lenses and a 10in tablet
Available in tan, navy, brown or black
Price: £305
Website: www.figbags.co.uk

While there’s a lot to be said for the protective properties of generic nylon bags, many photographers find themselves looking for something more individual and stylish. Fig Bags is a small English company that aims to satisfy this demand with its range of hand-crafted, all-leather, satchel-style bags. I tested the larger Hanborough, but a smaller Lincoln model is also available for £230 that would be nicely suited to a CSC system.

Beautifully crafted from thick leather with chunky brass fittings, the Hanborough is a good-looking bag that has been widely admired around the AP office (unusual for a camera bag). It’s practical too, with a padded, soft-lined interior and two repositionable dividers. It’s big enough to hold an enthusiast DSLR with three to five lenses, including a large telezoom such as a 70-200mm f/2.8.

A slimline internal pocket will accommodate a 10in-tablet, and there’s a smaller external rear-zipped document pocket that will also take a 7in-tablet or e-reader. However, one disadvantage is that there are no other accessories pockets for such things as batteries, memory cards or filters.

Fig Bags Hanborough – Key features

Detachable strap

The leather shoulder strap attaches via chunky brass clips. There’s also a grab handle riveted to the leather cover for carrying briefcase-style.

Roomy compartments

With a padded, soft-lined interior and two repositionable dividers, there’s space for 3-5 lenses and a filter.

Tablet space

A slimline internal pocket holds a 10in-tablet, while an e-reader or 7in-tablet will fit into a smaller external pocket.

Quick opening

The sturdy top flap is released by two push-button release. All the fastenings are made of quality brass.

Fig Bags Hanborough – Verdict

The Hanborough looks fantastic and is capable of transporting a surprising amount of kit. Even with a lot of weight onboard, it’s quite comfortable to carry, with a thick leather shoulder pad that moulds around your body. The thick leather exterior and internal padding should also keep your kit safely protected. It’s expensive, but it should last a lifetime.