View Full Version : 3-day pack needed
mike-munich
09-08-2014, 05:55
Gentlemen,
I have searched the "Rucksacks", "Rucks" and "small pack" threads but couldn't find quite what I'm looking for.
I need some help finding a suitable pack for me.
So far I've been through 2 "cheap" packs from amazon, both in the $40 range. They lasted me about a year each, but they were made cheap and eventually tore apart. The zippers gave up on one of them too.
The pack goes with me on weekend trips on the motorcycle, 35 liters is the ideal size. If possible it should have some velco/hook&loop backing so I can stick my blood type ID and some med information on there.
Color wise OD or FDE would be nice.
Any ideas or suggestions? I know $40 is aweful cheap for a piece of gear that gets used quite alot, but I don't want to spend a fortune on a backpack.
Thank you very much in advance!
I've heard good things about these guys - no experience though.
http://www.maxpedition.com/
mike-munich
09-08-2014, 06:06
I've heard good things about these guys - no experience though.
http://www.maxpedition.com/
Range friend of mine has one of their gun bags. Not bad at all, but a little pricey. Maybe somebody has some input on their 3-day packs?
Thanks MR2!
How much money are you willing to spend for the pack? That's going to inform your decision more than anything else.
mike-munich
09-08-2014, 08:50
How much money are you willing to spend for the pack? That's going to inform your decision more than anything else.
Well, since the products in the $40-$50 range are not holding up very well I was thinking about maybe $150 if that gets me something more durable and sturdy.
The Reaper
09-08-2014, 10:05
I have used a Camelbak BFM for almost ten years without any issues.
It is a bit big, but you can close it up easily with the built in compression straps, and let it back out when you need to.
Lots of handy pockets as well.
MSRP is a little high, but you can get them on sale or used occasionally.
TR
EatLiftRepeat
09-08-2014, 10:25
If you're willing to pony up another $50, You'll be in range for a Kifaru Urban Zippy. Kifaru makes durable kit and has great customer service. I doubt you'd ever need to buy another bag unless your needs changed. Good luck!
http://store.kifaru.net/mobile/urban-zippy-1500-ci2458-liters-p150.aspx
TOMAHAWK9521
09-08-2014, 10:26
Looking at the link Doc provided, I'm reminded of the large selection of equally priced packs down at the Denver Gun Show. Some real fancy looking packs, in a wide range of colors. As a guy who has designed his own gear, at first glance, I'm impressed with all the pockets, zippers, flashing lights, etc. Then I see the price and all I can imagine is a seam, panel or zipper blowout.
Now either someone has a line on a massive stockpile of packs and they can afford to sell them at ridiculously low prices or else they are being made by a member or friend of the family who has no understanding of the cost of materials, processes, nor the value of their labor. Or they are made by someone with no interest for quality control-like Blackhawk. Then again, Blackhawk packs are built with materials that make them unnecessarily heavy and priced way higher than they are worth, IMO.
Now you can get around the issues of cheap packs simply by purchasing multiples of them so you can replace one when it fails. Carrying a decent sewing repair kit might also be in order. (As is the case with all Blackhawk bags/packs). Or else you can look at a better quality pack from outfits like Gregory, Maxpedition, Kelty, Kifau, REI, etc. One of their packs will likely cost more but would have a much greater lifespan, provided you take care of it like you would any other piece of equipment.
I've had a TAD (Triple Aught Design) pack for 8 years. The pack has held up for 4 deployments an since my retirement from AD it's my go to pack for everything. Hope this helps.
(1VB)compforce
09-08-2014, 15:17
I've had the Haversack Depradador from Comandos De Selva http://www.comandosdeselva.com.co/ for about 6 or 7 years now and it's as good or better than anything I've found made here in the states. I paid about US$75 for it plus shipping of about $25. Great quality. I've never busted a seam, buckle or zipper and the ability to unzip the outer pack and turn the bottom half into a three day pack (that actually holds as much as an Alice Large) has been invaluable. Oh, and did I mention that one of the outer sections has a velcro holster and magazine straps at the top where you can get to it quickly if needed?
I use this as my primary luggage now. If you can go up to $100 you wouldn't be sorry. It's gone through everything in the civilian world plus two deployments with me and is still going strong.
mark46th
09-08-2014, 17:05
Maxpedition's address is here in Southern California so I called them. They do not have their own retail outlet. The woman I talked to said that a retailer called Recon1 carries most of their gear. It is in the San Fernando Valley. Unfortunately, I live about 5 minutes from Disneyland so these guys are about 80 miles away from me. I did order a .pdf catalogue from them...
mike-munich
09-09-2014, 01:37
Thank you very much Gentlemen. Lots of input to work with now.
I'll have a look at every single one of your suggestions. Unfortunately some are out of my price range ($250+), but many of them would fit my budget.
I saw a Maxpedition Vulture II on Amazon for around $144, with free shipping to my stateside address. There is also a 5.11 3-day rush backpack in the same price range, but I don't know what the quality is. I have some 5.11 clothing and it's pretty decent.
Buying multiple cheap ones and just throw them away as they fade isn't something I really want to do.
The Camelback that TR suggested looks good too, plus it would give me the opportunity to hydrate while being on the motorcycle. I do have a Camelback, but it's the 3L hydration system only.
The Kifaru X-Ray would be the right size, but $376 is way out of my range.
LA Police gear has the kind of packs that I've used so far.
I have also found this: http://www.amazon.com/Operators-Military-Compatible-Tactical-Backpack/dp/B00CICGI54/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8
The price seems good, has the velco panel and small pouches that can be taken off or added if needed. Ever heard of VVV?
There is a Condor backpack as well that I haven't heard of (I have a rifle sling from them, didn't know they made packs):
http://www.amazon.com/Condor-Assault-Pack-3038-Cubic-Inch/dp/B0037LVA1W/ref=lh_ni_t?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
Thank you again for taking the time and looking at this. I appreciate it.
miclo18d
09-09-2014, 05:20
I have used a Camelbak BFM for almost ten years without any issues.
It is a bit big, but you can close it up easily with the built in compression straps, and let it back out when you need to.
Lots of handy pockets as well.
MSRP is a little high, but you can get them on sale or used occasionally.
TR
I've got two of these and they are excellent packs. I was looking at the website and I think they have even streamlined it a bit. Served me well in A-Stan, and now at home for Bugout Bags/camping/dog walk bags/travel.
43L, Great quality, semirigid frame (sort of), lots of storage, hydration pocket, compressible, antenna ports (hey, you never know), lots of places to add attachables, and good solid padded shoulder straps.
Eagle Industries makes a really good product. I have had two of them for 15 and 16 years. And they are made in the USA. I used them for my radios and all the goodies that go along with them. They have made it through multiple deployments. Still no signs of popped threads just some scuff marks. Now they get used for fishing, hiking or the occasional trip to NTC or JRTC as a contractor . The Camelbak BFM that I had issued to me is also a very good bag (as mentioned a few times already). I use it as my range bag now, to carry my tools, PPE, magazines and other things. I have used a few other brands but they all have either popped threads at the point where the strap is connected to the bag or the zippers have blown out. My .02
I have an Eagle Industries load out bag that has traveled in and out of the back of my pick up truck around the country for approx. 5+ years with nothing wrong but some dirt and scuffs. The first link below is to the 3-day pack (which I do not have) and the second link is to the load out bag that is made by Eagle that I have beat for 5 years.
I have nothing but good things to say about my Eagle bag - 'cept it can get heavy. But, it is near bomb proof. I suspect that the 3-day pack would be as well built.
http://www.eagleindustries.com/products/detail.aspx?id=5
http://www.eagleindustries.com/products/detail.aspx?id=11
I have the large 3 day and the Becker Patrol pack. The BP is what I used for my radio bag. It could get real heavy, depending on which JOC boss I was working for at the time. If I had a good reason or an excellent excuse I would buy another one in a heart beat. I remember wishing for a way to attach my hatch mount antenna to it. You can laugh, I was young. Antenna theory be damned.
Dean Jarvis
09-10-2014, 13:23
T-Bags are made specifically to use on a motorcycle. Got one for my Harley.
http://www.jafrum.com/Motorcycle-Luggage?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Luggage-Non-Branded&ne_ppc_id=1757&ne_key_id=38147911&ne_sadid=5187609074
mike-munich
09-11-2014, 01:01
Thank you very much Gents. Looking into all those suggestions now. Eagle seems nice, although they are in the $200+ region again.
Dean, the bags would look nice on my HD, but that scoot is back in Texas, I ride a BMW here and I wanted some sort of 3-day backpack again that I can also use as bug-out bag, or trunk bag for a casual weekend getaway with the HH6. ;)
So many choices out there, found some more packs from mfgrs. like TAG, Tactical Tailor and so on. I really like the look of that Condor pack, price would be right, yet I need to find somebody who has tried one.
Thanks again!
Peregrino
09-11-2014, 08:41
Natchez Shooter's Supply (www.natchezss.com) usually has the Eagle rucks for a very good price. Check out http://www.natchezss.com/brand.cfm?contentID=productDetail&brand=EY&prodID=EYAAFCCPMS5&prodTitle=Eagle Molle Crossover Pack Black, and http://www.natchezss.com/brand.cfm?contentID=productDetail&brand=EY&prodID=EYAAFCCPMS5S&prodTitle=Eagle Molle Crossover Pack Camo. It's worth checking back regularly because their inventory changes without warning.
mike-munich
09-11-2014, 08:54
Thank you Peregrino. I remember buying ammo from them years ago... I'll check out what they have, the backpacks are at a great price!
The Reaper
09-11-2014, 09:24
Most of the Eagle packs are slick and do not have a lot of external pockets, if that is important to you.
I have a couple of their assault packs (Alpha IIIs) and they are excellent, but current Eagle quality under ATK is not what it used to be.
TR
mike-munich
09-12-2014, 00:52
Thank you TR. External pockets are not an issue.
trunkmonkey
09-13-2014, 12:28
If you are not looking for anything that is too tactical I have used my Jansport 39L for about 8 years now. I use it on my motorcycle and for school as well. It is an also good as a civilian hiking pack that does not draw attention yet can fit my M4 when broken down. I have worn out several components over the years and send it back for free repairs or replacement.
I recently picked up a Go Ruck GR2 for my field science pack as I cannot afford to rip a pack open and dump thousands of dollars in data collection equipment in the middle of nowhere.
miclo18d
09-13-2014, 14:15
Was in a local gun store today and saw a brand called Drago. Looked very similar to a Camelbak I don't know how quality is, but they were well priced!
Drago Packs (http://www.dragogear.com)
The Reaper
09-13-2014, 15:12
Was in a local gun store today and saw a brand called Drago. Looked very similar to a Camelbak I don't know how quality is, but they were well priced!
Drago Packs (http://www.dragogear.com)
Is there a tag in them telling where they are made?
TR
miclo18d
09-13-2014, 16:52
Is there a tag in them telling where they are made?
TR
TR,
I didn't do a detailed look. I did a quick look after thinking about this post, with just a look at the function/pockets vs price ($57 @ shooters world in Tampa) looked fairly quality but without throwing it around for a month I couldn't endorse it.
They are out of Hialeah, FL
Drago Gear
7815 west 4th avenue
Hialeah, Florida 33014
info@dragogear.com
I sent an email asking where their gear is actually made.
ETA: I work close to the place I saw it, I could get back over and look at it with more detail if interested?
The Reaper
09-13-2014, 17:32
No, just curious.
Most of the better gear is sewn in the US.
I have seen some decent stuff out of Latin America, but Asia is usually the worst.
Oops. Looks like it is made in China, and uses lower grade materials as well.
TR
Javadrinker
09-13-2014, 17:44
The Drago I've seen has been sewn in China according to the tags inside.
miclo18d
09-14-2014, 05:30
No, just curious.
Most of the better gear is sewn in the US.
I have seen some decent stuff out of Latin America, but Asia is usually the worst.
Oops. Looks like it is made in China, and uses lower grade materials as well.
TR
Probably why "Made in USA" wasn't proudly plastered all over their website.
I have had stuff made in Ecuador that was good quality. I don't remember the name now and I don't think I have the bag or the chest rig I bought from them. Yes, they were good quality.
mike-munich
09-15-2014, 00:32
Saw the Drago on Amazon. Some reviews complain about the poor stiching, but it seems to be an OK backpack overall.
I will look at some more options. Thanks again!
I recently picked up this pack. It's not bad, I'd rate it 6.5/7 out of 10.
I like the molle system, and the fact that the three external pockets can be detached and reattached as needed. Also the large outer pocket has different carrying options.
http://nationalparksdepot.us/products/large-military-style-hiking-backpack?ref=yotpo_94
I was able to find a deal with the company where they included a 3L camelback bladder and their 9-in-1 tool. The tool is fairly cheap and I don't think it would hold up that long, but having something is better than having nothing.
Click on the "Home" button at the top of the page to check out some of the other items they have to offer.
ETA .... Here is the link to the "Survival Bundle" I picked up.
http://nationalparksdepot.us/products/60l-backpack-and-tool-bundle
Like I posted above, the tool is cheap, but it is better than nothing in a pinch.
PhyrricVictory
09-18-2014, 10:47
I've had one of these for going on 4 years.
http://www.dsgear.com/collections/gearbags/products/bpm#&panel1-2
In the first year, I had a seam rip, and Chris from Datsusara sent me a new bag, sight unseen, and told me to keep the old one.
It is a little small for what your stated needs are, but they have larger sizes.
The pros I found are
1) Great customer service
2) It's made out of hemp, which if you follow their marketing is superior. Personally I've used it for many years in the rain, with stinky BJJ gi's, camping, commuting. It never got that "funk" you associate with textiles and gym bags.
Cons
1) It is a bit pricey
2) NOT made in the US. (I can forgive this a bit since it is Hemp)
The Reaper
09-18-2014, 10:54
I've had one of these for going on 4 years.
http://www.dsgear.com/collections/gearbags/products/bpm#&panel1-2
In the first year, I had a seam rip, and Chris from Datsusara sent me a new bag, sight unseen, and told me to keep the old one.
It is a little small for what your stated needs are, but they have larger sizes.
The pros I found are
1) Great customer service
2) It's made out of hemp, which if you follow their marketing is superior. Personally I've used it for many years in the rain, with stinky BJJ gi's, camping, commuting. It never got that "funk" you associate with textiles and gym bags.
Cons
1) It is a bit pricey
2) NOT made in the US. (I can forgive this a bit since it is Hemp)
Why do they compare it to cotton, and not Cordura / ballistic nylon, which is what almost all of the other bags are made of?
TR
PhyrricVictory
09-18-2014, 11:09
Why do they compare it to cotton, and not Cordura / ballistic nylon, which is what almost all of the other bags are made of?
TR
Sir, I do not know why they chose to compare it to cotton. I provided the info separate from the link as a cliff note to highlight one of the main differences from most bags. I endorse it through several years of personal use, rather than following the advertisement.
mike-munich
09-19-2014, 00:24
I've had one of these for going on 4 years.
http://www.dsgear.com/collections/gearbags/products/bpm#&panel1-2
Thanks! Looked at it, doesn't look like hemp at all (well, maybe because if I think "hemp" I think those beige bags they startet in the 70's...).
The Battlepack Core would be the size I want, but it's sold out. I still have some other options to look at.
Sdiver, thank you for the link to nationalparksdepot too.
The feedback here has been great, thanks again gentlemen!
x SF med
09-19-2014, 04:30
Thanks! Looked at it, doesn't look like hemp at all (well, maybe because if I think "hemp" I think those beige bags they startet in the 70's...).
The Battlepack Core would be the size I want, but it's sold out. I still have some other options to look at.
Sdiver, thank you for the link to nationalparksdepot too.
The feedback here has been great, thanks again gentlemen!
Mike -
Have you looked at AWS? They have a good 3 day pack for about US$70, and if you buy 50 of them they'll give you a 15% discount... only $2,998.50 for 50 CONUS ground shipping included ... but you need a mil id or leo id to get the sale price. They only have coyote (tan) in stock.
BTW, made in the USA and I have a multicam 3day, it's friggin bulletproof.
mike-munich
09-19-2014, 04:49
Mike -
Have you looked at AWS? They have a good 3 day pack for about US$70, and if you buy 50 of them they'll give you a 15% discount... only $2,998.50 for 50 CONUS ground shipping included ... but you need a mil id or leo id to get the sale price. They only have coyote (tan) in stock.
BTW, made in the USA and I have a multicam 3day, it's friggin bulletproof.
SFmed, thanks for the lead! Just seen it on Amazon.com, for 55.65 plus 10.65. Looks like my current pack, although the one I have seems to be the cheap China knockoff of the AWS model. I like that this is 1000D nylon and Made in the USA.
CONUS shipping wouldn't be an issue since I have a TX. address. The problem is reselling 49 packs and coming up with almost 3 grand. :cool:
This might be just what I'm looking for... Thanks!!