Looking for reviews of WPG's repro Mk VII bag

[Baggers]

I'm interested in what folks here think of What Price Glory's current run of the reproduction Mk VII Indy Bag. I recall reading that the strap isn't really up to snuff when compared to, say, TAG's offering, but how does the bag itself match up to the real thing in regards to construction, quality of the metal fittings (snap fasteners, vents), etc?

Thanks in advance.

[Mulceber]

I don't own one personally, but from what I hear, the WPG bag is almost as good as if not the equal of an original MK VII. :junior: -IJ

[Feraud]

I never owned an original and cannot compare the two. I use my WPG bag every day and it is a great bag. My only complaint is that it is not wearing in quick enough!

[Tristan]

I've had three WPG bags. They're fairly good bags but will shrink significantly if washed in a washing machine (even with cold water), so be careful. For a more screen-accurate look, you also may want to leather dress or replace the strap that comes with this bag.

[Swindiana]

I can confirm the shrinkage when washing, at least with the older version bag and hightwise;



Maybe the new ones don't have this issue? It seems you can get it pretty wet when following the distressing tutorial with the size still being the same afterwards?

Regards,
Swindiana

[Mojave Jack]

I've only had my WPG bag for about 9 months now, but so far it has been an excellent bag. I had the stitching pull out on the folded seam at the front of the bag, but I re-sewed it easily with my sewing awl. Just adds a little character!

The strap I've found to be extremely stiff. I've been trying to knead it to relax it a bit, but so far that hasn't helped. I don't know much about leather quality, though, so I'm not sure if that means it will last longer or not as long. It seems like good quality leather is a bit more supple, generally.

What are the straps like from TAG and others? Are they more supple or do they start out stiff, too?

[Baggers]

What are the straps like from TAG and others? Are they more supple or do they start out stiff, too?

I don't know. But having bought WPG's merchandise for many years, I'm making a very unscientific assumption that, while they're made from real leather, they're probably not made from a particularly good grade of leather. And at the same time making another assumption that TAG and the others, being made in the U.S., are made of better stuff. I can see that they're finished out much nicer just by comparing the photgraphs of their products. If they start out as stiff as the foreign made version, perhaps they'll supple up with use and some Pecards.

DISCLAIMER: I'm not knocking WPG's products. It's just the nature of the beast that when you deal with overseas manufacturers, over who's QC you have no control, once in a while you receive merchandise that leaves something to be desired. It can be a hit or miss business.

[VancouverVic]

I've owned a WPG for about 4 months now, and I gotta say it's a pretty good bag. Stitching holds up very well. The leather strap's a little stiff but I think it'll soften with time.

[Indiana]

Ive owned mine for about three years now. I have used it ALOT and have never had any issue with it. MY only complaint is the strap, get a TAG strap or a Lee Keppler strap.

[Baggers]

Well, based on the comments made here and photos I've been able to look at, such as the ones in the bag distressing tutorial, I ordered one from WPG yesterday morning. I'm also going to order a replacement strap from TAG as well. Keppler's look equally nice, but I have to toss some business to a fellow Texan, don't ya know!

Thanks for all the input,
Cheers!

[Pyroxene]

I have purchased two. They are great. Good sturdy bag... The strap, however, leaves something to be desired. You will be looking for a replacement shortly after you receive it.

[Baggers]

...The strap, however, leaves something to be desired. You will be looking for a replacement shortly after you receive it.

I've already sent an email to Texas Action Gear and am waiting for a reply.