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Tactical Backpacks: Purpose, Types and Choosing Tips
The military and outdoor enthusiasts are faced with the challenge of collecting the necessary equipment and clothing to carry them at various distances. It is necessary to collect the necessary things for various purposes and properties in luggage, convenient when moving. An indispensable assistant in this is a tactical backpack.
What is a tactical backpack
It is a comfortable, durable and multifunctional duffel bag that is worn on the back. The term “tactical” is used to refer to relatively small backpacks designed for 1-2 day raids and hikes. It consists of several compartments, which allows you to simultaneously put in it: groceries, a first-aid kit, necessary equipment, a change of linen, warm clothes, hygiene items and other things. It has several straps to help keep it on the back without clinging to branches.
The main requirement for such backpacks is a thoughtful design and durable materials. It was developed for the military, but today it is in demand by extreme tourists, hunters, fishermen, airsoft players and survivalists.
It is designed like a nesting doll and has many separate pouches inside. On the outside, there are many pockets, compartments and fasteners for essentials. It is appreciated for its practicality, spaciousness, waterproofness. The organization of the internal space allows you to place diverse things that do not deteriorate when they touch each other, and when they fall and run, they do not turn over and do not break.
The material is treated with waterproof impregnations both inside and outside. It is suitable for long periods in the rain. Staying wet for a long time, the polyester used in the product does not rot and does not have an unpleasant odor. Such a backpack has wide straps that do not squeeze the armpit area and moderately press on the shoulders. Cushioning inserts save you in the event of a fall. The bag does not hit the body and does not slip, being fastened with straps on the belt. For emergency removal, a quick release system is provided.
Varieties of tactical backpacks
There are different types of tactical backpacks. Visually, they are not very different, but there are still some differences.
Assault tactical backpacks has a small volume. It has a hydraulic compartment and several separate spaces. They are durable and can carry significant loads. They are used in short hikes and mountain climbing by fans of extreme sports: skiing, snowboarding, cycling, as well as by the military in raids.
The army tactical backpacks is designed to be used for a long time and more assault. It is equipped with straps that are attached to the body armor. Like the Assault, it has a waist support and a belt.
A medical tactical backpack is designed to provide first aid to several victims in a large detachment at once. He has nearly 80 investments to diagnose and eliminate the primary symptoms of the disease. It is suitable for both hiking and hospital use. Its frame does not have rigid edges and ribs, and a volume adjustment system is built-in. MOLLE mounts. allow you to hang additional equipment, pouches or pockets around the entire outer perimeter. There is a container for a hydrator. Splash valves and rain cover keep moisture and dirt out.
Urban tactical backpacks has a compact size. Some models have thermal inserts for wearing in hot weather. There are pockets for gadgets of different sizes and secret pockets for valuables. You can go with him to work, workouts or walks and shopping. It is convenient when riding a motorcycle or bicycle.
The single strap tactical backpack is a compromise between shoulder bag and backpack as it is carried on one shoulder. He easily moves from back to chest, even on the run. When in transport or in a crowd, it can be worn on the chest and closed with one hand. The waterproof and sturdy backpack is very popular with athletes, photographers and the military.
Сapacity
Tactical backpacks vary in size. They are as follows:
- low-volume – 20-30 liters;
- medium volume – 30-50 liters;
- large-volume – over 50 liters.
The small 20-25 liter model is ideal for everyday use. It fits a laptop and a bunch of small things, and if necessary, you can put food. It can be classic with two straps and one.
The smallest in volume and often flat have many pockets and pockets for household items. They are used by children and women, so they are usually presented in bright colors.
- The urban type includes backpacks with a volume of 30–35 liters. The same displacement is used in three-day assault models, based on the load of everything needed for 1-3 days. They are worn by fans of paramilitary tactical games, hunters, fishermen and roller skaters. Workhorses for 3-5 days, 40-60 liters, are great for business trips, fishing and barbecuing, which are usually designed for 1-2 days. They weigh a little, but you can hang additional equipment from above.
- Trekking ones for 35-70 liters have an adjustable rigid back that can be adjusted to fit your height for comfort. When overloaded, the straps become loose, and it becomes uncomfortable. For the convenience of tourists, it is equipped with an upper flap, side pockets, straps for warm rugs and loops for trekking poles. The interior space is divided into several parts.
Tourist options for 50 liters are indispensable for a trip of 2-3 days. They are suitable for both women and men. There are separate pockets for small items inside and outside. The backpack is securely fixed to the case with high-density straps. - Expeditionary ones for 50-80 liters are designed for multi-day trips. The weight is evenly distributed over the body. They are used by water tourists to carry the elements of floating craft through the forests.
Modern tactical backpacks are sewn from materials of various densities, but always with polyurethane impregnation, which has a moisture-protective effect. Let’s consider the most popular materials.
Cordura is a thick polyamide web made of cut and twisted fibers, which makes the material resistant to tearing and abrasion. It is impregnated with a water-repellent composition. It has different strengths, a pleasant appearance, does not crumble or creep, repels water well, but dubs in the cold.
Products made from it are not suitable for extreme environmental conditions.
Modern tactical backpacks are sewn from materials of various densities, but always with polyurethane impregnation, which has a moisture-protective effect. Let’s consider the most popular materials.
Cordura is a thick polyamide web made of cut and twisted fibers, which makes the material resistant to tearing and abrasion. It is impregnated with a water-repellent composition. It has different strengths, a pleasant appearance, does not crumble or creep, repels water well, but dubs in the cold.
Products made from it are not suitable for extreme environmental conditions.
Oxford backpacks are suitable for everyday use and on rough terrain.
Polyester is treated with PVC for extra strength and moisture resistance. Cotton is sometimes added for softness. This material is cheap and lightweight, frost-resistant, dries quickly, does not fade in the sun, does not deform, does not stretch or crumble. Backpacks can tear, do not protect against moisture and cannot withstand heavy loads.
The color of such items should be faded. Traditionally, they are presented in a khaki color. For winter conditions, there are options for patterns in white and gray. Camouflage is encouraged, allowing the wearer to be less visible. On the domestic market, there are tactical models of original colors – from black to acid tones.
On the domestic market, there are tactical models of original colors – from black to acid tones.
Top 10 Tactical Backpacks
Consider the top of the best tactical backpacks from world brands.
#1 Falcon-II Backpack
This model is made of 1050 denier nylon and is treated with DuPont Teflon technology. It is wear-resistant and dirt-resistant. Triple polyurethane coating provides water resistance. Places of increased load are reinforced with inserts and stitched twice. It has two cargo compartments and two front organizer pockets. The large rear compartment opens completely for easy packing. At the rear there is a 3 liter hydrator. The main colors are black, olive and coyote.
#2 5.11 Tactical Rush Backpack
The numbers in the title indicate the most difficult level in rock climbing. This model is available in three versions: RUSH 12, 24 and 72, which indicates the time of its use in hours and differ in volume. The more spacious models have more side pockets, redesigned compartments and an unloading belt, and a plastic frame on the back is complemented by an aluminum plate. Manufacturing material – moisture resistant 1050 denier nylon. It has double stitching. There is a special seal and ventilation system in the back of the backpack.
This model is ideal for the city, short-term field operations, hiking and hunting. It is available in black, olive, coyote, less often in gray.
#3 Tactical Expedition Combat
Tactical Expedition Combat is the most popular 3-day model. It is made of 1000 denier Cordura and consists of seven compartments. The two main compartments have increased carrying capacity. Side pouches and front pockets provide quick access to content. The rear compartment is equipped with a three-liter hydrator.
#4 Baselard 15
Baselard 15 is a lightweight and sturdy backpack. Lots of hinged pockets are perfect for small items. It has an internal protective compartment for the camera. Thanks to four drawstrings, upper and lower, it is convenient to adjust the capacity, pack things tightly and fix them.
#5 Seed M1
Seed M1 with a volume of 20 liters – convenient for the city. The compact standard two-day backpack is made of polyester. Loaded places are stitched with rivets and a zigzag seam. The back is multi-layered and rigid. The main straps are anatomical and non-removable, and a detachable cable tie is included. The main compartment has a hydrator pocket. It is convenient to take it off from the back over one shoulder. It comes in khaki and coyote colors.
#6 Raptor
Raptor 60 and 80 liters – a raid backpack for long journeys, a classic tourist model.
#7 Cascade 60M
The Cascade 60M has a volume of 53 liters and is made of 600D polyester. From the outside, it is sheathed with MOLLE slings. It has many interior pockets and zip ties on the top and sides to reduce bulk.
#8 Bionic
Bionic with a volume of 70 liters – a lightweight trekking version with maximum ventilation and the ability to install a hydrator.
#9 Mr. Martin International 5025
Hong Kong brand Mr. Martin International LTD is represented on the Russian market by a wide range of models. Backpacks Mr. Martin 5025, 5016 Black, 9328 Desert, 5009 Khaki, 5009 Night, 5035 Black have a volume of 30-40 liters. They are waterproof, roomy, sturdy and comfortable, and come in multicam, olive and black colors. They are equipped with the MOLLE system, which allows you to hang additional equipment on them. The models have two compartments, four inner pockets and two outer ones.
How to choose a tactical backpack
It is necessary to decide what the backpack is for and where it will be used, namely:
- for fishing or hiking, you can buy a bright color option; having lost it in nature, it will be easier to find;
- for tactical and role-playing war games, you should choose camouflage;
- for a city or a one-day hike, a model with a volume of 20-30 liters is quite suitable;
- for hiking for several nights, the choice is made in favor of a bag of 40 liters;
- backpacks with one shoulder strap are more often for men, they are convenient to use when hunting or during photo shoots in nature.
Optional accessories
All offered pouches are equipped with MOLLE – modular unloading system for lightweight equipment. The body kits are positioned, moved and changed depending on individual preferences. To carry the flashlight, a cover is provided that protects against aggressive environmental influences. Often it is located on the thigh, belt, belt or body armor.
Some models of tactical backpacks have a hydration compartment. In some models, you need to buy a case with this drinking system separately. It is placed on the body of the backpack and consists of a water tank, a threaded lid for filling the liquid, a mouthpiece on a flexible hose.
The greatest strength of tactical backpacks is their modularity. You can separate pockets from the large version or leave an unnecessary flap at home. This is a really universal thing.
