Long overdue, the Duke is finally back. It’s so great seeing my vision come together with the Highland Camo. Now that’s it’s been so long I’ve had a number of chances to use the Duke in day to day life. My wife and I both took one on a recent trip and seeing them side by side packed out really makes all the effort worthwhile. It’s a versatile piece that stands out in a crowd but blends in just as easily.
As before, 18oz twill and 10oz cotton make up the main body of the bag. In the same Highland and Tan combination seen in prior releases. It’s material that will age gracefully and patina beautifully. Paired with Wicket and Craig leather and heavy black PVD hardware no detail is left overlooked. Lastly, as always, the bag features a ballistic nylon bottom panel. This provides a modern touch, helps tie the accents together and gives a sense of security in regular usage. You can feel confident this bag will take anything you can throw at it.
Organization is key. With some heritage style bags, they can be lacking in this area and it makes for a weak user experience in real life. The Duke’s two zippered end pockets are fully lined and run over nearly the entire end panel the bag. Allowing you to safely tuck away items like a passport or phone cord that you need quickly but also can’t afford to lose. Inside the bag you get two more pockets on opposing sides. One is a split slip pocket, a good spot to tuck some headphones or maybe a medication bottle so you know they’re in a reliable but accessible spot. And lastly an internal zip pocket. For your most critical small items. Any smaller item you want to be certain you can find quickly can be stowed safely here.
The Duke is set up to work with a number of ROV accessories (and some future unreleased ones) like the Hilts. Coming in dozens of colors or material combinations you can add your own flare or grab a heavyweight black, which are usually in stock, to complete the look blacked accents. It adds a great way to personalize your carry. In addition, there are beautiful bridle leather luggage and patch tags. Both with a section of velcro loop to affix patches. The former features a clear window for a business card or there identifying information to be safely kept.
I’m proud to add that the Duke is still made in the US. It matters to me that my products are made in the states and support US labor/manufacturing. The Duke will make a beautiful addition to your carry choices and be a bag that has staying power in your rotation. I’m confident that you’ll be blown away when you get the bag in hand. Lots more great stuff coming from ROV soon!