BaronFig’s Guardian notebook cover recently received a makeover in the form of some new colors. They’ve also launched a Guardian for their pocket size Vanguard notebooks, which is a welcome addition to their product line. Baron Fig was kind enough to send me a unit for review, so lets take a look at the pocket book for thinkers.
The Basics
The leather Guardian Vanguard is priced at $45 and is available in Blue Slate, Charcoal, FigWine, and Yellowgold. The Guardian features two larger pockets on the inside covers, as well as two small card pockets on the left interior. This piece will hold up to two pocket size Vanguard notebooks or any soft cover 3.5 x 5 inch notebook. The leather is thick and durable, but will pick up scuffs and scratches if you’re not overly careful. The Guardian Vanguard is something of a second generation product, following in the footsteps of Baron Fig’s original full size Guardian Confidant.
Hands-On Time
A lot of you out there are probably aware of the standard “Field Notes” style book; a 3.5 by 5.5 inch soft cover notebook that is right at home in your pocket. I’ve tried using them in the past, but I couldn’t get the hang of trying to write on a malleable stack of paper while on the go. Love the idea, but I couldn’t make it work for me. Having a leather cover for a fountain pen friendly pocket book has completely turned that around for me.
In terms of pocket impact, the Guardian is about on par with an oversize bi-fold wallet. Measuring 5.5 by 3.8 inches when closed, it may be a little bulky for some, but it fits into a back pocket pretty well. If you do carry it in your back pocket, I would be prepared for some bending to occur. If you don’t mind a couple extra bends in your notebook, the Guardian is durable enough to ride along in your pocket, but I personally keep it safe and sound in my laptop bag.
The Guardian also works very well as a travel companion. Since they have the same dimensions, you can easily swap between a pocket Vanguard and your Passport, or carry both with one secured in either side of the cover. The two smaller pockets are great for your ID and some travel cash or a boarding pass.
In Conclusion
I’ve been carrying the Guardian around for a few weeks now; going to and from work, out and about on weekends, and even to Hawaii for my family’s Thanksgiving gathering. It’s been a great little companion all around. I don’t often get my hands on leather notebook covers, but I really enjoy the character it’s developed as I’ve used this one. What started as a crisp new piece of leather has taken on a unique look as I break it in. Like a comfortable pair of old shoes there are many like it, but this one is mine. The $45 price tag is a pretty fair price for what you’re getting. The dual-purpose of a notebook holder and passport wallet really sell this one for me. Similar products range in price from around $30 to $80 from various retailers, but if you’re a fan of Baron Fig’s style and you enjoy supporting smaller businesses, check out the Guardian Vanguard.
The Guardian Vanguard is available here.
Disclaimer: Baron Fig provided this product to The Poor Penman blog free of charge for the purpose of review. All opinions stated are those of the author.
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The Poor Penman 