Empire Builder/Zephyr Questions.

[ex machina]

I have been researching some great threads here in the forum on the EB/Z choice. While this answered most of my questions, I have two that I am still trying to resolve.

1) Since the small back pockets have been removed to make a wider larger space for sliding over luggage handles, is there any open access small pocket for a cell phone? Was one added to the inside of the big back pocket?

2) In my research I found claims that the Zephyr has a tendency to tip over (falling forward) but did not read such about the Empire Builder. Has this issue been addressed? If anyone has experience with this in either the EB or the Z I would like to read how you dealt with it. If the design was augmented to respond to this issue, I would like to read that too.

Thanks for all the help! :)

[jehingr]

I have 2 of the older style EBs. They do have a tendency to tip over. I don't find it to be a problem, I know which way to set them down and let them lean against something.

YMMV

[ex machina]

Thanks jehingr for the inside track on bag tipping with the EB. After reading your report on that, bag tipping cancels itself out as a factor in choosing between the Zephyr and the Empire Builder.

[ex machina]

Empire Builder / Zephyr Materials

Is the black in the Empire Builder or Zephyr Ballistic or Cordura?

[ex machina]

Is the Steel on the outside panel of the Empire Builder and the Zephyr ballistic?

[maverick]

Is the Steel on the outside panel of the Empire Builder and the Zephyr ballistic?

the outside of the flap of both the empire builder and zephyr briefcases is indeed made using 1050d ballistic nylon.

[bagman]

I know that some bags have undergone redesigns since their first release. Does anyone know what changes has the EB undergone, other than the change on the front pouch (tipping problem). After much delibration, I am thinkings of getting an EB... in addition to its features, I like the prospect of buying a bag tested by time.

[AVService]

I know the Zippers are the newer ones now and the back pocket is different as mentioned in this thread but I like my older one just the same.
It ca be a little "Tippy" but that just adds character.

Ed

[bagman]

Does anyone know which exterior part of the EB is made from Cordura? If I am not mistaken, I believe pet hairs and dust may cling to it easily?!

[Nana8]

We have 2 Jack Russell terriers who shed constantly and 2 cats. My husband's EB never seems to need a sticky roller to remove pet hair. It hasn't been an issue!

[Rister]

I am the Zephyr owner.

It falls over if i put too many stuff into front pocket (computer cables and etc) and too few stuff into main space. if i keep things balanced it stands.

About the pet - i have german sheppard ( http://www.flickr.com/photos/[email protected]/4042492171/ ) and to be honest - bag gets hairy sometimes, but not as much as i was afraid of.

Also i want to say - i was really-really afraid that cold weather may hurt the bag ( its winter in here and it means -15....-35 C ), as our weather has ruined a lot of my bags (i must spend my workdays outside), but Zephyr wasnt affected at all.