The leather is a true black and it seems very sturdy but it feels a little more like a patent leather because it is so stiff. I have to be a little careful not to let the CD scrape on the zipper while putting it in the sleeve. The zipper is not very smooth moving and actually jams up in certain areas. The carrying handle is a generous size.

I always buy Fellowes cd cases becase I find the felt that the burned side of the cd\dvd rests against to be much nicer then other cases. It is unfortumate that this model has changed from the Horozontal Net pocket on the inside front to a vertical pocket not wide enough to actually store anything in. However, the design of the cd pockets and overall material used makes up for this. I generally don't go above 224 due to the weight when filled. Cost is comparitive to other cd cases but in my opinion you get better bang for your buck quality wise. Fast Shipment (unfortuneately by Fedex who can never find me) and great value.