I agree. It is a great, quality bag and I work around the issues. Also, I put my small items in the pouch.I think several factors: the weight of the bandit, which is nothing for me, since I'm used to substantial bags. Then the double handles can get in the way when opening/looking for things. Furthermore, the removable leather pouch is a great idea, but smaller items can slide around underneath-making the search for small things a pain. Any of these can be deal breakers to people, but I love the shape, style and color (got it in peony), so I'll just work around them.