Why I Ditched the Vanquest Carbide 8 Sling

vanquestedcslingbackpackreview

If you’re hunting for an in-between EDC bag to bridge a daily sling and a full backpack, the Vanquest Carbide 8 looks tempting. After a real trip test, it wasn’t the right fit for my tech-first loadout.

What you’ll get:

  • Clear pros/cons of the Carbide 8
  • Fit notes for iPad sizes
  • Packing tips and a better-size recommendation

Where the Carbide 8 Works

Build quality feels solid: tough fabric, smooth front/back zips, multiple grab handles, and modular Velcro panels. The split main compartment lets you open one half without dumping the other, which is genuinely useful for quick access. The straps clip on/off easily and worked fine for me.

The Dealbreaker: iPad Pro 12.9-In Fit

Vanquest says the 12.9-in iPad Pro fits, and technically it does—naked. In practice, it’s tight enough to require careful, two-hand insertion and removal. Add a case and you’re forcing it. Add the Apple Pencil on the charge rail and it won’t ride there; you’ll need to stow it separately. If your main use is shuttling a 12.9-in iPad Pro with other tech, this slows you down at every stop.

Capacity Reality Check (8L vs real carry)

As an all-in-one overnight/road-trip tech caddy—think iPad Pro 12.9, iPad mini, Kindle Paperwhite, AirPods Max, tools, and cables—8L fills up fast. The tight tablet sleeve compounds the problem because you often have to unstack gear to get the iPad in or out. If your largest device is an 11-in iPad or iPad Air, the Carbide 8 makes more sense.

Zippers, Layout, and Access

Front and back zips are smooth; the center zip runs thicker and felt a bit sticky when new. The front admin panel’s Velcro backing plays well with add-on pouches and pen/flashlight slots. The rear Velcro field is flexible for panels or cubes. The center divided pocket is the smartest part of the design.

What I Carried (and What I’d Change)

For tools, a compact kit fits up top cleanly. The tiny pliers were less useful for larger hands; a slightly bigger set would be more practical for real-world fixes. If you build a similar tech/tool hybrid, bias toward compact but truly usable tools.

Tools & Materials

If You’re Set on Vanquest

For a 12.9-in workflow, step up in size—the Carbide 12 is the safer bet. If you’re light-carry or on smaller tablets, the Carbide 8 can work, but treat the iPad sleeve as snug, not quick-access.

Bottom line: Great concept and build, but 8L is too tight for a 12.9-in-centered loadout. Go bigger if that tablet is your anchor device.

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