I wanted a bag big enough to carry all my things in one bag- I had been using a regular size purse and a separate canvas tote bag. This is large enough to hold my wallet, checkbook, umbrella, iPhone , iPad, and even my MacBook Air comfortably and I can also fit my bag lunch in it for my workday. It holds all that without being too heavy. I like having one shoulder strap instead of 2, it doesn't slip down my shoulder like other bags have done. The leather is also really nice and thick and obviously good quality, which I love. I know this bag was expensive but I wanted top quality and I am not disappointed. I don't carry a concealed weapon and I did not buy the bag for that, however, I do use that pouch sometimes to carry my iPad or MacBook.