The bag is plenty big for papers and a laptop, if you carry one. I like the multitude of storage options on the inside. The concealed pocket on the back is larger than I first thought. A compact will EASILY fit, my full size 1911 even fits. The two "mag" pockets that Blackhawk has on either side of the concealed area are rather useless. True, you can use it to carry mags, just don't be in a rush to access them. They are narrow and deep, plan ahead if you need something out of there.