The Lockman NASB 1995 Side-Column Reference Bible

It is a great joy to many Bible lovers to see the NASB 95 gaining new editions. Between the NASB 95, the NASB 2020, and the LSB, the NASB seems to have an identity crisis. I would say, however, that the 1995 is still the most popular by far and to see it gaining new—and very nice—editions is something many of us are celebrating.

I’m reviewing the new Lockman Prime edition of the Side Column Reference Bible in brown goatskin. This Bible is printed in Korea—and while that’s not the Royal Jongbloed—this is still a beautiful Bible! Out of the box, this Bible has a smooth, chocolate goatskin. It has a nice grain to it and the leather feels great to the touch. The cover has a semi yapp that I think will look great when trained.

The spine has five raised hubs. In gold are the words, “HOLY BIBLE”, “NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE 1995”, and “NASB LOCKMAN FOUNDATION.” The type on the spine is big and bold and it really pops. I like it a lot.

The page edges are red under gold. There are two double-sided satin ribbons in brown and black. I feel like this Bible would have been better with three ribbons personally. This Bible is Smyth-sewn and edge-lined for durability.

The inside liner is a smooth brown calf that feels like butter! It’s really so soft. I love rubbing it with my hands. There’s a gold perimeter gilt line. As you continue to turn you’ll see a presentation page and extensive family records pages.

The paper in this Bible feels great. It’s a true white and is 32 gsm! There is something amazing about paper thicker than 28 gsm. We need a return to thicker paper even if it makes a Bible thicker. It feels better, it’s easier to turn, and it looks fantastic! The type size is a 10.5 and is designed and set by 2K Denmark.

The layout of this Bible is amazing! This is a Single Column Reference so you have one column with each verse starting on a new line. The verses are set out from the text. Bold verse numbers indicate a new paragraph. Section headings also separate the text. In their own column on the outside part of each page are the cross references at the top of the page and translation notes on the bottom of the page.

I love this layout! Typically I prefer the references on the inside gutter of the page, but this Bible opens flat and the text doesn’t run too far into the gutter. This is a beautiful layout in a beautiful Bible.

In the back you’ll find a Concordance, book introductions, and full color maps.

This Bible truly is beautiful. Lockman did so well with this one and it immediately jumps to the top to become my favorite Prime edition. I love the NASB 1995 and this would be the Bible I would choose to be my main for this translation. It’s absolutely beautiful.

You can pick up your copy on Amazon (genuine leather) (affiliate) or from Lockman.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this Bible in exchange for a fair and honest review.