First this is an authentic FUL bag, the one I received today, 2-20-18, has the metal hardware.....I almost didn't buy it because of another review claiming it was fake, or a knock off.....this is the original FUL bag, I have one just like it, had it for three or four years.....my original bag finally developed a tear in the fabric......Ive been pretty hard on it.  So Im very pleased to be able to replace my bag.....that I really like for its functionally, the right size, and its tough.......