Number of Pockets: Alot The first (and most glaring) disadvantage is the shoddy construction of the plastic frame. For me I normally put my foot powder, blister kit, 550 cord, and weapons cleaning kit in the top flap. The packframe also makes a quite comfortable backrest to lean against. i took my old large ALICE and put molle ribbing all over it. I might get myself one. but not so large as to lose things in it. Size: 3500 + 1000 + x Need to pack it so that weight stays forward, but design accommodates that need. It used to be said that a well-designed pack would transfer no more than 20% of weight to the hips and that minimal packs concentrated almost all the weight on the shoulders or torso. They also tend to balance oddly. These are items I want to access without the need to stop and take off my pack. I've been debating reviewing this one for a while. Dummy Cord It: How to Tie Down Gear You Dont Want to Lose! Click the link above to download it. Subscribe to get special offers, free giveaways, and once-in-a-lifetime deals. There are too many straps and not enough organization. Copyright Soldier Systems Daily 2008-2021. When packing your ruck sack lay it on the frame (back side down) as you place items in the ruck. +373 It was about 5 lbs heavier than the packs I was used to. This is great. It has a great deal of modularity allowing more added components using the PALS attachment system. The sewn portions are a nice touch, looking like the old ALICE but up to date. If I'm fortunate enough to harvest an elk this fall, I'll use this as my daypack and switch to my freighter frame to quarter it out. Add your own review This system is the current Field Pack Set issued to the US Army. There are newer and better frames that are stronger polymers than the original. 3. An MRE in one of the sustainment pouches is also a good idea. Does NOT include load lifter straps or other accessories. I still prefer lighter civilian packs like Osprey, which only weighs slightly over 4 lbs and has an AG suspension harness. The new MOLLE Rucksack for Airborne and General Purpose Forces [ emphasis added] is a Government-owned design. Design: RUCKSACK May 2, 2005, The U.S. Military Molle Pack is an okay rucksack. 1st SFAB Trains and Certifies Military Advisors for Worldwide Employment, MDM 19 Blue Force Gear Stackable Ten-Speed Pouch. Price Paid: ISSUED, Morgan All Rights Reserved. The plastic frame breaks under pressure too often. The best gear, extra fast, at the best prices. Then I add them to my wet weather bag. everything old is new again.
February 16, 2004. April 22, 2011 Lastly, nothing says "newbie" more than 8 straps dangling off your ruck. As the belt can then wrap around any size waist with out distortion to the foam. See below for my summer packing list, modify it for winter by adding intermediate sleeping bag, and some snivel gear. Marine mortarman such as myself would testify that this pack cannot handle the weight of a crew served weapon. We have a standard marking system with 100mph tape and red sharpie with two letter abbreviations or symbols for what is in the external Zipper pocket of Assault pack. Ultimately you want to avoid greater weight all on one side or the other, which will put extra stress on one side of your body. For the $45 that I paid, it was a good value. Packing an extra set of boots is OVERKILL. We offer the most innovative new tactical gear, bomb proof military equipment, and affordable used surplus to cover all your mission requirements. debatable. I got so tired of disassembling the pack to install a new frame, that I used gorilla tape to repair the last one and that lasted to the end of training. No pack maker other then uncle sam uses such an undesirable corrugated surface for the inside of their belts, no idea why they tried it in the first place and even more dumbfounding that it has persisted so long. I was under the impression, from early descriptions, that the air items were a removable module and units could purchase the ruck without them. The basic 4600 cu inch configuration, without the side sustainment pouches but somewhat overfilled at the top, is shown in the two photos at top right. The previous reviewer must have worn this pack to the tent in his backyard. pics would be very helpful as it would show exact locations not just the generic term frame. Things like heavy radios, entire cans of ammo, a big mass of explosives, ride best high and directly behind the shoulder blades. Also, the belts being corrugated allows a one size fits most approach. I agree with 1P above that they need to ditch the built in air items. Your E-Tool will also get muddy when you get to your final destination and have to dig fighting positions. The side sustainment pouches also provide easy access to gear. The shoulder straps also have a new 4-point connection arrangement above the envelope pad. Keeping it outside the ruck will help keep other gear clean. I bought two for my two sons and they have not failed yet. More comfortable than the old ALICE pack and the system for attaching accessories to the pack is great. This rucksack is now issued in the new OCP pattern. Rucking is a small part of ROTC fitness. I will cover some tips for how to pack an Army rucksack, proper wear of the rucksack, a few comfort items you can purchase to make your ruck more comfortable, a common sense packing list, and the most current air assault school packing list. 2001-2022 Trailspace. The particular components that for the basis of the above review are listed below. Design: Rucksack I have a theory that the old parapack nylon ALICE rucks held up better than many 500D products because the parapack material was smoother and less prone to snagging/abrasion. Check them out on Amazon by clicking this link. The MOLLE also avoids low weight. If we assume that the minimal pack weighs 2 lbs, the well-designed conventional pack weighs 5 lbs, and with this pack at 10 lbs, the following loads would apply if one filled the pack with 30 lbs of gear, food and water and makes the assumptions below re weight transfer. On my bathroom scale, it clocks in somewhere between 8 and 9 pounds. unisex External Frame Backpacks. I put all other items that I want to keep dry in my wet weather bag. The carrying handle on top works well. If at all, only back-up ammo is placed in the bag and then low for weight distribution. Max. Beyond the weight issue, it performed admirably. A large amount of these packs are on the market for a fair price, so it got me thinking about my experience with them. If you dont overfill the MOLLE above its natural top level, all of the pack is below neck level. The waist-belt/shoulder straps are well designed and let you carry a large load easily. Poncho or snivel goes in sustainment pouches, as you suggest, Other one is field stripped MREs. I particularly liked the ability to increase days in the backcountry between resupplies. It took a bit of accustoming my hips to the added pressure of the belt, but once I did, I estimate that with a 45 lb load inside (55 lbs total) my back and torso is actually carrying less weight than with my old pack, though of course my legs are carrying 5 lbs more. Both bad ideas in a fight. The polymer frame is designed to flex and move with your body. It does not absorb water like Nylon (which is what kills plastic parts in below freezing environments). Pack an extra pair of laces and save the weight. Take 30 minutes, and read TM 10-8465-236-10 (MOLLE II) and learn the tools of your trade. Over the next few minutes, I am going to share with you some wisdom that I have learned over the course of 19 years in the Army. Load Carried: 87 lbs I prefer to keep some items within easy reach. (See the same picture). If you change boots mid march the 2nd pair will be just as wet in 5 minutes. Are you able to engage the hip belt enough to transfer the load to your hips? Source: Military issued, and personally own one. I think rucking is a great body conditioner, but can be hard on the knees and back over time if bad habits are formed (running, etc). The various buckles and zippers are sized so that they can be opened and closed with gloved hands. Even though I also had a Medium Ruck, I still preferred this for ruck runs/marches. After I managed to get it on my back, I'd have to walk for some distance with the pack hanging from my shoulders at a 45-degree angle because the straps were too long. The ultimate backpack for all your needs, CIF Turn-In, field operations, camping, hiking, hunting, and all other outdoor activity. Load Carried: 103 lbs He likes it and woodland camouflage works well here so it's a fine pack for him. Price Paid: $50, Blackbeard Ben 12. I havent had issues with the bottom zipper myself, alternative would be put it on top, but then you have two buckles and a drawstring. Also, you can probably let your grandchildren inherit it someday. The MOLLE is too big for one. But it was only that once, and the Grand Canyon trails involve more narrow passages than trails in the Sierra. Then another row above for rations. Sulfur powder? Please share your experience. Note that the current MOLLE large ruck is slightly different than the version reviewed (the 3000 cu inch main pack and the 1600 cu inch sleep system carrier have been downsized and combined into a single divided 3730 cu inch bag). 6. I do not put it in the wet weather bag, as this has usually kept it dry (I once "parked" my ruck in low ground at the ORP and came back to it filled with water, that is the only time it got wet). Everyone says it's not durable enough for military use, but for civvies it's plenty as far as I can tell. Frames will fail under heavy load. September 3, 2005. THE PACK CONSISTS OF A LOAD BEARING VEST, FRAME, SHOULDER STRAPS, MAIN RUCKSACK, WAIST BELT, M-16 AMMO BADOLIER,RADIO POCKET, 2 SUSTAINMENT POUCHES, SLEEP SYSTEM CARRIER, AND A PATROL PACK. It was a lot larger than the medium-sized Alice and I thought it was pretty comfortable for me to put on and carry a load.
Also, bear in mind your sleep system is usually the first thing to go when other mission essential gear is required, or if you have a long distance to march. I carried max loads in the military with it and about a 40-lb load with an added 15 to 20 lbs of firewood and it carried that load well. You can also do the same with many items on common packing lists. Do you have any pictures of your pack you could show others in your review? Inside the main pack is an optional internal radio pouch, which can be firmly attached centered high and tight to your back, and where you can insert your bearcan filled with your heaviest items (usually food). Height of Owner: 6'2" Need more? Mine is Desert tan. It actually comes with a video for instructions. It makes heavy loads follow your body's natural motion. Altogether it seemed that the MOLLE was ill-suited for what has been called some of the most rugged terrain on the planet. It weighs a ton. Find the best backpack for your next outdoor adventure using our independent reviews and ratings. The volume distribution of the pack is quite unusual. Thank you for a useful SOP shell, I like it a lot. I wish theyd incorporated more of the medium MOLLE belt DNA into the larger packs. Some of it is learned the hard way, or if you are fortunate a senior NCO will share some of his experience with you. The mountainous terrain especially exacerbates the weight. I bought my other son the newer Multicam (OCP) camo version. I put together my own packing list and you can download a copy by clicking the picture on the right. However, due to these items being used by actual military personnel the conditions of each item may vary. And a full zipper pouch on the top where I kept my hoochie, small OP Cam net and more radip log books spare socks. Ive used a modified, large ALICE ruck with this frame and molle waist belt for a few years now and absolutely love it over the current issued ruck. The straw is also only so long and won't reach well from the bottom of the ruck. The extremely well-padded shoulder harness keeps weight off the top of the shoulders and concentrates it on a broad area of the upper back and on the pectoral area. You can see the newer modification of the pack at the link below (though the prices quoted at this site are way higher than you can find elsewhere for the earlier version reviewed in the attachment), http://www.armyproperty.com/Resources/NSN-Listings/MOLLE-Rucksack.htm, http://loadbearingequipment.info/MOLLE2.html, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pouch_Attachment_Ladder_System. Right strap tag means NOT Ammo, like water, medical, MREs, Batteries, etc. What is interesting is the description. 20-years in Combat Arms, 7 in the Infantry and 13-years in Special Forces. No choice option is available. I started exploring higher volume packs and experimenting with what they allowed me to do. I have a theory that the old parapack nylon ALICE rucks held up better than many 500D products because the parapack material was smoother and less prone to snagging/abrasion. I realized that some stuff wasnt all that heavy, but added volume beyond what a smaller pack would accommodate. The fact that the pack stays below neck level (see the same picture) meant that overhangs were less problematic than with a more typically configured high-volume pack, which often rises above head level. They are quite sturdy. I also found that once I had a higher volume pack, I was less likely to leave home things I like: a piece of pumice, foot powder and other things that werent heavy but were bulky. Fighting stuff goes in ASSAULT PACK, which straps to the Large ruck for approach march.
frame, shoulder straps & hipbelt, 8 lbs 9.5 oz. Overall, it's probably not horrible for a weekend warrior to camp or bushcraft with, but the generic old Alice was hands down more durable and in my opinion superior to these for overall use. Its organization is great. +616 I plan to add some video in this article later (it's currently too dark outside and I don't have any lights suitable for video). The MOLLE Pack is great. The pack is also very large. 1. The ruck is water resistant, but I always waterproof my gear, as I explain in my tips section below. Newer frames are very strong (civilian use), Can act as a very good platform for prone shooting (if you hunt). The ALICE pack is much more practical. Way to bulky for day hikes. It's not designed for a standard internal Camelbak water bladder, but I was able to get mine to work okay (and there are ones designed for it as well). All in-stock items are on hand and ready to ship out. Some items may have stains, writing, color fading, small repairs, and or surface rust on them, but no holes or tears. Design: External frame military ruck This system consists of a single 3,840cu inch Main Rucksack that can be divided internally into two compartments to better organize the user's load, MOLLE Frame, Enhanced Shoulder Strap Assembly, Waist Belt andtwo (2x) 408 cu inch Sustainment Pouches. The Army probably has not tested for cold climates with these rucks yet. I have discussed at length with some of my peers and subordinates for the best tips on how to pack a rucksack and the following is what we have come up with: This lists out everything you need to pack for the exercise or trip. You want the weight to pull down not back on the shoulder straps. Then stop leak powder! Ensure your ruck is balanced on the left and right once packed. With that said, I have reservations recommending this for serious long-term outdoor use. As it says in the article going to infantry BCTs only. ITEMS YOU MAY NEED DURING THE APPROACH MARCH GO IN THE TOP FLAP. This a good enough backpack for civilian use. The frame is the weakest link in this system. However, the pack is too heavy (not that the weight bothers me, it's just I would rather save it for ammo, food, and water) and does not have enough internal capacity. in The frame is made to be lightweight, flexible, durable and adjustable that has proven to take real abuse by soldiers in the field. If you use the two side sustainment pouches, your pack will be somewhat wider (left to right) than your shoulders. Max. Price Paid: Issue, Nathan G. The old-fashione humble plastic green 1 qt canteen with Vietnaam stlyle no NBC cap bottle cap is the best and wont break or leak ever! The general design of the bag is well thought out. add internal radio pouch to main pack.
Both comments and pings are currently closed. Ensure your poncho is handy, so at the ORP you can pull it out and cover your rucksack if it is raining (make sure to tuck it all the way around your ruck). Total cargo volume of this set is over 4,650cu inches.The pack allows for access through the top and bottom of the main ruck, and has webbing across the front and sides for attachment of MOLLE compatible pockets. anonymous June 1, 2017. You want that mass near the bodies center of mass and for men that is near the center of the chest, not the waist or hips. We love the modular ability that allows you to replace any of the parts as needed. If you have to spend your own money on this, look elsewhere! The pack is quite waterproof.
19. And fleece requires volume. There's also one zippered top pocket for all the small stuff. After you get the meal broken down, including taking the cardboard box off the main meals, pack everything tight into the original heavy plastic brown/tan vinyl bag, then use a narrow wrap of duct tape with a quick release tab to keep it all tight. You only need about 75% of your team with etools, 25% of your team must be providing security. The US Army MOLLE II Rucksack is a great option for an all around outdoor, bushcraft or survival backpack that will serve you serve you for the long haul. Weight distribution is key. i should have just watied for this to come out. How many times have I seen a young trooper soaked with his busted camelback and leaky water hose. If you are prone to overpack this pack can trap you into doing so. The frame is not strong enough to stand up to the abuse of field operations. Especially since the baseplate of the mortar must be strapped to the back of the pack for long distance movements. Terry Baldwin sent me a link the other day with this note: I admit, this particular item of kit has really captured my interest. Design: rucksack Top 50 Fort Campbell Air Assault School Packing List, Why you Need a Camp Stove: Tips, Reviews, Recipes. Cool to see the Army is going in the direction that some of us were making ourselves since 2014 lol! enable_page_level_ads: true Price Paid: issued, anonymous Height of Owner: 5'4'' A couple dry athletic shoe inserts for the bottom of your soggy boots are golden on a late night watch after rucking all day. The remainder of the volume of the main pack than can be filled with lighter weight items. The pack assembles relatively well and can hold a lot of gear. I found no efficient way to combat this phenomenon. Height of Owner: 6 ' 0 " This entry was posted I think if you are conditioning for ROTC running (not with a ruck) and doing other events to prepare for your services fitness test would give you more bang for your buck. Overall a fantastic ruck; it is very comfortable and honestly the perfect size for most airborne ops/field problems. Camelbacks are convenient but always break, leak, and are fiddly. I'm going to purchase another one in digital camo. The bottom of the rucksack has a separate [Air Items] storage compartment and above that a zippered access into the lower part of the main compartment.. Tiny A-Packs for the biggest military campaigns of all time. It's large enough to hold a lot of snacks, gear, etc. Have a problem? The design of the main compartment is not conducive to the inclusion of most comm gear. August 7, 2005. I was issued the MOLLE pack the first time I went to Afghanistan in 2002. Load Carried: 80 lbs. The ACU rucksack main bag is large enough to hold your gear with a total of 5000 Cubic inches divided into a main and lower compartment each having easy access to get what you need. CBRNE (NBC ) is coming back, that eats up a lot of large ruck.
There you have it 19 of the best tips I can come up with for packing a ruck sack. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. The MOLLE pretty much eliminates that problem. Orders placed by 1 PM eastern time ship out same day in most cases! I carried some ridiculous loads with this pack over the course of 6 months that no normal person should/would probably carry. Max. While this is more than you are likely to need for maps, it provides added water protection to the contents of the main pack and is a convenient place to put your rain jacket for prompt access and so that it doesnt get all balled up (repeated folding adversely affects raingears DWR coating). Pack your Ranger rolls (underwear, socks, and t-shirts) in Ziploc bags, then sit on them to help squeeze the air out and zip up while sitting on them.
Smartwool Hike Light Cushion Crew Socks Review, Load stays below neck level, so good for trails with impaired headspace. Up to now, it has only been intended for airborne troops. Entries (RSS) April 13, 2013.