Hoof Hearted

Hi all,

I'm in the market for a new roll aboard. I have all but ruled out the 4 wheel style bags and during my search came across "Strong Bags" and "Luggage Works" brand. As a corporate pilot I've seen them but didn't know where to buy them..
I do have a couple of questions for those that have these types of bags and would appreciate your help.
No question about quality and durability, however I do have a question about the handle on the LW bag. Does it extend and lock in any positions or is it a free falling design? I mean, if I extend the handle while the bag is straight up, will it fall back or stay in a locked position?
Next question, with it's use of metal, is it a pain in the @ss to go through security? I travel exclusively on International routes so the TSA isn't an issue. I also dead head a lot as a passenger so I can't use CREW lines for security checks.
Your comments are appreciated and any additional feedback you have will also be helpful.
Thanks

viper548

I've had both bags. The handle on both will stay up. The LW bag is much heavier and much stronger. The wheels and where the wheels attach to the frame is all metal. On the Strongbags bag the wheel attachment is plastic and I was replacing parts every few months. The zipper pulls on the Strong bags were always coming off. LW, no problem with zipper pulls but the design and location of the main zipper has made it get a lot of wear in the corners and now the zipper needs to be replaced. It appears LW changed the design and that should no longer be a problem. No problems going through security with either bag.
Overall I think the LW bag is better, especially if your bag goes in the cargo compartment frequently.

captain822

I have two 22in luggage works bags that I'm trying to sell for $50 each plus shipping. They're both used, but if you're willing to replace a couple zippers, it'll save you $$$. PM me if interested.

carolinaflyer

LW all the way. Had mine since '98 and I've done one makeover. Bulletproof.

Smooth at FL450

Had my luggage works for about 6 years now and it still runs like new. I'm always amazed and how much I can stuff in there and it takes it like a champ!

As for getting thru security, my experience is the LW makes it easier as TSA recognizes it as a crew bag even when I'm not in uniform. Cabin crew also see it and treat me just a little better. If you go with LW, get the nylon wrap for the handle. The foam won't last long if you don't wrap it. $10 I think...

Fr8doggie

Why rule out 4 wheelers? I find them more versatile and convenient. I have a LW but it's stays at home -- too heavy.

pilotgolfer

I've had my PurdyNeatStuff bag...which is now LuggageWorks...for 17 years. I've sent it back once for overhaul about 5-6 years ago and it came back nearly good as new. I could use a replacement on the zippers the next time I send it back.

The metal frame makes the bag very heavy. This has been an issue when deadheading on foreign carriers if you are sitting in coach. They will look the other way if you are in biz or first.

jamesrhatcher

In almost 26 years in the airline business I've found LW to be the best in the luggage business. While their bags are expensive, they're built like a brick privy and they take a beating and keep on ticking. If you're cheap like I am fork over the extra money now and never buy another bag the rest of your career.

Sluggo_63

In the long run, if you're cheap, buy a Briggs and Riley and never have to pay for refurbishment of a LW bag again.

$270 for a LW bag, plus a refurb for $180-$200... you might as well have gotten the B&R with the lifetime guarantee. Plus, the quality of the LW has gone down lately, IMO. I had mine refurbed a couple of years ago, and the nylon is fraying, and there is only two zipper pulls left.

I also bought a StrongBag, bug I was so frustrated with it, I've ditched it in favor of the B&R.

Again, this is my $0.02... YMMV...

jamesrhatcher

How much is B & R and what materials go into it?