First rounds in with my Rebel. Some initial thoughts. I'll probably ramble. Keep in mind, this is my first real backpack bag. My previous two attempts were DIY ones that failed miserably. You guys will probably be able to point some things out that I'm doing wrong.
To me, the Rebel is a serious disc carrier, but will not be a bag for someone wanting to carry lots of other items. The side pockets do not really expand, so it you're looking to stow a jacket or extra clothes, you're going to have a tough time. Of course,one could use the dividers and simply carry fewer discs, but I did not buy this bag to carry fewer. Disc carrying? Fantastic. I decide to stack my most used discs in the verticals. This made getting and stowing discs much easier than my previous DIY bags. I even learned how to return my putter to the middle slot over my head/back. This is a bit touchy and I would feel like I was going to lose it, but no disc ever fell out.
Comfort, comfort, comfort. Man does the weight just disappear when both straps are engaged. Coming from a deluxe with 20 or so discs, this is really cool. Not sure anything could be more comfortable than this thing. OTOH, getting the bottle in and out while carrying was tough. I could not do it at all right handed. Finally figured out this was due to my seriously degenerated shoulder. Switched to left, and while I can do it, it is not really easy(I'm 48 yoa).
I don't really get the flap situation with most bags. I never use them, and never see anyone using them on other bags. So with the Rebel, you have a very large piece of material that either has to go in that tight lower pocket, or fold under the discs making the dividers unusable and raising the lower discs slightly. This should be totally removable IMHO, especially considering the supplied rain fly.
I love the mini area, but sure wish it was a true putter pocket. So, with that,
Pros:
Comfort
Disc carrying capacity
Disc lay out
Looks
Rain fly(I did not use it, but was impressed with it's use by my playing partner during the rain yesterday)
Small item storage like phones, pens, sharpies, cards ets
Double drink storage-I've only ever had a single before, and play in La.
Cons(These are pretty minor overall)
No true putter pocket
Side storage is pretty tight
Drink holders are tough to get at by old shoulders
Flap cannot be removed