It seems like luggage topic has been dealt multiple times here but not specific to the question I have regarding Briggs and Riley.

I saw an American airline pilot has upgraded his smartlink to J hook but didn't get a chance to stop him and ask. Has anyone tried connecting J-hook metal part to smart link? If so which J hook have you used?

Also, anyone upgraded wheel to rollerblade type? I noticed a bit of noise when dragging it in hotel lobby (tile surface) while Captain's LW was very quiet. Thanks in advance!

You could sew on a j-hook. I've done that in the past. Requires a fairly robust thread and needle to get through the heavier material though.

Will look into it. I am okay with straps when I keep strap on my flight bag and clip in and out, but I hate when strap is off-centered and I look like idot who don't know how to carry one's bag...

where do you keep your “strap on?”

Why not just buy the J-Hook from Briggs and Riley? It's not perfect, but with a few modifications i got it there.

Are briggs and Riley worth the investment? I’ve had luggage works and strong bags and mines still going good, but don’t mind spending on something I use often if it’s worth it

the biggest thing I like about my BR is that it’s like half the weight of a LW. Makes a huge difference.

I use the Briggs Riley branded J-hook. Couldn’t find it any longer on their site though. It’s removable and uses the t-bar and to clip in there. You could always call to see if they still have them, but unlisted. It was something like $15. I did have to cut the strap a little to make it shorter. Here’s a pic from Amazon:

https://a.co/d/iWTmtB3

I’ve had mine for 8 years and it still looks brand new. It’s lighter, expandable, and the quality is top notch. The one drawback which is being discussed in this thread is the loop for carrying the brain bag. I’m usually still attaching my bag while the other pilot is long gone.

Strap on my flight bag and just leave it there. Unclip them from luggage and clip them on when I roll it.