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    Jansport Firewall vs Optimizer

    Discussion in 'Accessories' started by javyn, Jul 12, 2004.

  1. javyn

    javyn Notebook Enthusiast

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    I have an Acer TM 291 (14.5-15" screen). I've been carrying it around in a cheap little tote bag I got from Walmart, but today after trying to stuff schoolbooks into it along with my laptop, it snapped.

    I am shopping for a new pack and and am trying to decide between these two. The Firewall has 2000 cu capacity, and Optimizer has little less, 1850, but seems to have more features for notebooks.

    Which bag would you guys recommend? Fitting my laptop isn't going to be the issue here, the issues are going to be fitting all these heavy textbooks and weight!
     
  2. Big Calhoun

    Big Calhoun Notebook Evangelist

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    To me, they look like the same bag except the Firewire/Firewall has an extra 200 cu in. I did a review for the Optimizer and found that it had plenty of space for extras. There was one day that in addition to my normal gear (which includes rain jacket and pants), I also had some papers and manuals from work which I'd say equated to 1 1/2 college sized text books. It was alot to carry but everything fit. The shoulder straps and padding on the back made the load much easier to carry for distances. If you'll be carrying a few books here and there (2 or 3), the Optimizer should work for you (as long as you're not carrying 2 or 3 unabridged dictionaries). If you'll be carrying more books (or those dictionaries), you could probably benefit from the extra space in the Firewire.
     
  3. javyn

    javyn Notebook Enthusiast

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    Thanks for the reply. I went ahead and opted for the Samsonite Rifter last night.

    http://www.ebags.com/samsonite/backpacks_collection_rafter/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=16063

    2,300 cubic inches for 39.99! Can't beat that! Being an economics major (well any major or class in college), means that my textbook sizes are comparable with unabridged dictionaries. And some unlucky semesters when I have more than 2 classes in a day, means that I need to carry more than 2 of these heavy books. Most classes actually require 2 or more of these text monsters.

    Like I might have said before, I got one of the leather laptop briefcase-like totebags with 1 shoulder strap. Not only did that thing kill my back and shoulder with that 1 strap, but it literally snapped from the weight from only one 6 lb notebook and my Financial Management text. I needed something industrial strength. Hopefully this Samsonite will fit the bill. I always heard they are a good name in luggage, I think (hope) I made the right choice :)