The
Emissary is essentially the culmination of dozens of custom bags that Zulu has built over the past couple years. The design incorporates many of the most common customer requested features and presents them in an ideal form factor.
What I have found in carrying various evolutions of this design since 2007 when I built the first one is that size is critical with a messenger style bag. It's big enough to carry all the gear you need for EDC or an overnight, but not so much that the bag becomes inefficient and uncomfortable to carry for long periods of time.
Another factor I have identified in designing this bag is accessibility. Each zippered pocket on this bag is designed to be accessible without lifting the flap, simply swing it out front and grab what you need. Not only that, but each pocket has a purpose. From the top zippered pocket for sunglasses and small tools to the mesh water bottle pocket, this bag was designed to mix the both of best worlds: Purpose built hard sewn pockets and customizable MOLLE webbing.
Very First Prototype
The shoulder strap is another example of how this bag has evolved. The SRB is intended to stand off from the body of the bag. This places the quick release closer to the center of your chest, making it much more natural to manipulate. When properly adjusted, you can quickly tighten the strap to bring the bag close to your body in "carry mode" or yank the buckle down and away in order to access the bag or lift the strap over your head.
Not only is it designed to be highly functional, the bag is made to look cool. No other bag features a slanted pocket/loop field like the Emissary which gives it a very unique and, well, just plain badass look.
