Dean, that is a great question. The reason a "real" speed bag has a hinged lid is so it can be turned all the way back behind the bag and carried open. The gathered ends prevent spilling of shells when bending over to pick up game. That is why a speed bag has gathered ends and a shell pouch does not. You can't bend over if you carry shells in a shell bag. The speed bag strap is not buckled when in use, only when travelling from place to place. Some more intelligent speed bags have a stud and hole instead of the strap and buckle. Dean and I would probably prefer that system. Never buy a speed bag whose lid cannot be folded completely behind the bag. The maker obviously doesn't know how a speed bag is used. Some high quality bags do not have a hinge, but have a flap lid that is supple enough to fold behind the bag and stay in place. Please don't suggest velcro on a classic speed bag. I have a way too big collection of speed bags, but my favorite is a large Hulme bag that Hulme guru Chris donated to my gun club for a silent auction. Kevin McCormack double beaded the opening for me to make it the perfect bag. Chris is now considering the "double beaded" feature for production Hulme bags.
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