Lockby Field Sling Bag Review: A Field Kit Carrier Built to Last

Introduction

Lockby’s new Field Sling is designed to carry everything you need for sketching outdoors, and from the looks of it, a little more. It follows the brand’s familiar formula: heavy-duty waxed canvas, reinforced stitching at every stress point, and a solid metal clasp. After a thorough hands-on look, it holds up well both in build quality and in how much gear it swallows.

Build Quality and Materials

The bag measures roughly 10 inches wide by 8 inches high, a couple of inches deep at the bottom, narrowing slightly toward the top where the cover folds over. Lockby’s signature heavy-duty aircraft aluminum clasp sits at the top, and it feels genuinely solid. Double and triple stitching reinforces every strap and connection point, so pulling on the strap does not raise any concern about it separating from the bag.

The fabric is heavy-duty water-resistant waxed canvas that beads moisture off the surface. Over years of washing and break-in, some of that repellency fades, but every Lockby bag is also lined with a waterproof liner. Field use in snow and rain has never let anything inside get wet. The front flap adds another layer of protection for the contents.

Organization and Interior Layout

Inside, there are several convenient pouches along the front, a zippered pocket that runs about half the depth of the bag for items you want extra protection for, and a deep, wide main compartment.

The zippered pocket is a smart touch for anything moisture-sensitive, though the waxed canvas and liner already do most of the work unless the bag is truly soaked.

What Fits Inside

In practice, the Field Sling holds a medium sketchbook, a standard 24-pan watercolor kit with a water brush, and Lockby’s canvas tool roll with slots for pencils, pens, an eraser, and a sharpener. The sketchbook slides in smoothly, and the tool roll tucks in perfectly with room to spare. Even with all that loaded, the strap still cinches the cover down snugly, and the bag remains light and comfortable to carry over the shoulder.

Practical Fit and Extra Storage

The strap connectors use a clever quick-release clip. Push the clip forward and it pops open, letting you remove the strap entirely; reattaching is just the reverse. The clip is made of thick, rigid ABS and holds firmly once hooked.

On the back, a loose strap gap leaves room to slide in extras such as a small Lockby pouch. The company also claims an iPad fits inside, and a field journal cover test confirmed that larger items slide in without issue while still letting the strap close.

Things to Consider Before Buying

The quick-release clips are ABS rather than metal, though they feel thick and rigid and should hold up over the bag’s life. And like any waxed canvas product, the water repellency softens as the fabric breaks in, which is worth knowing if you expect constant heavy rain.

Conclusion

The Lockby Field Sling is a thoughtfully designed, well-built carrier for sketch gear and everyday essentials. With strong stitching, a waterproof liner, a solid metal clasp, and flexible storage, it earns its “field” name. Lockby designs everything in-house and manufactures in Vietnam, and the company is veteran-owned. It is highly recommended for anyone who wants a durable, organized sling for creative work outdoors.