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@jnns
Regarding the holder:
I contacted Mission Workshop because I do think that this is a major drawback when considering the bagback for messenger use, but mainly because I wanted to hear their thoghts about it. They seem to agree and also suggested to use tube bits as a workaround.
I since have made plans to sew my own holder which makes use of the horizontal velco that secures optional Arkiv accessories on the rails. I'm going to put up some pictures and instructions once it works out.
In the meantime, I managed to get my current holder on the Vandal but it's a bit sloppy and I fear of poking out my eye with the antenna :)
Regarding the Vandal for messenger use:
First and foremost, I cannot emphasize how much I'm satisfied with replacing my trusty Bagaboo Workhorse with the Vandal.
Two straps is a great improvement, but the downside is that it takes me longer to get stuff in and out of the bag. This is due to having to put the backpack on the ground everytime you have to put something inside or to retrieve it and because it has four pockets that are nearly identical in size.
Having many pockets is something which takes getting used to because I tend to forget what I put where exactly. But it also helps to not mix up different deliveries (I ride a lot for dentists which often have no labels on their packages) because you can sort each customer's items in one pocket.
The biggest advantage over my messenger bag is that I don't worry about big cargo or having to carry too many packages at once anymore. The backpack takes 4-5 DIN A5 boxes with ease and I can also safely put a huge 70x50cm envelope in the extendable compartement closing it without having to use extra straps (given there's enough room in the backpack and I don't close the zippers). Huge mailing tubes can also be put in the bag sticking out of the top as long as you loosen the shoulder straps a bit so you can still put your head up while wearing a helmet.
The backpack sits very comfortable on your back and has very appealing dimensions. Shoulder checking is no problem. I have yet to test how much sweat the padding will soak in during summer.