Rickshaw Bagworks is now offering the classic NockCo Brasstown pen roll and zip case (starting at $60). This was one of the earliest designs created by NockCo way back in the day and a case I’ve had and abused for over 11 years. I have had a pen leak in mine, thrown it in the wash, ironed on custom decals and stained it repeatedly. My original Brasstown has had some miles on it so getting a chance to test drive a new Brasstown in signature pink was a true treat.
If you missed the original iteration of the Brasstown, the Rickshaw Bagworks version keeps all the elements that made the Brasstown popular while adding a few new details:
- They rounded the corners of the interior pen roll to allow it to fit better inside the case.
- The pen slots on the roll are now fully lined making the roll sturdier.
- Rickshaw added paracord zipper pulls to make opening and closing the bag a snap.
My older Brasstown looks wider but I think its just more worn. I was able to fit the same amount of stuff into both the Rickshaw and original NockCo Brasstown despite the pink looking a little slimmer.
I’ve always liked the Brasstown for the ability to store fountain pens or “good pens” in the roll and tuck miscellaneous items like a ruler, glue stick, stamp pads, washi, etc around the roll.
The new Brasstown feels a little more sturdy but my original version has been used and abused and run through the washer so its a little worn out. I do think the extra lining of the pen roll provides a bit more stability making it feel sturdier and structured. If you want it squishier, I think a couple trips through the washer will soften it considerably.
In the above (and below) photo, you can see the rounded corners on the pen roll which looks a little cleaner and fits neater into the case.
If you missed the original Brasstown, grab one of the new Rickshaw Brasstown cases. It’s both as good and a little better than the original. (We can also hope that Rickshaw will start offering custom prints soon and I’ll be sure to add the Inky Dreams version in the shop soon!)
DISCLAIMER: The items included in this review were provided free of charge by Rickshaw Bagworks for the purpose of review. Please see the About page for more details.