By FieldLine Tactical (Made in China) purchased at Wal-mart
Price: $26.95
Alright, I know, you’ve already read a couple things I know
that have turned you off. Made in China and Wal=mart. I’m a prepper on a
budget, so I don’t always get the pack I want. 5.11 hasn’t come out with a pack
in my price range so until they do, its time to get creative. This pack is
basically a clone of the 5.11 RUSH 12. But is it worth the $27?
Lets start with the construction of the bag. It’s your
standard backpack material. Its heavy and double stitched. It’s clearly not
intended to be a survival pack but as a daily bag, its fantastic so far with a
few exceptions. It has 3 different compartments no including the bladder
compartment. The exterior is covered in molle strapping. Then there are all
kinds of straps and basic garbage. The plastics are junk and should be replaced
immediately. On my first adventure out with it, I threw it over my shoulder and
it went straight to the ground. I was confused thinking maybe I forgot to
connect the quick release buckle. Quick check showed me that it was good, but
the strap had come undone and come out. Quick fix! HOWEVER, that is a mark
against it.
I’ve taken it out on several occasions on errand runs and
runs with the dog. Its held up. Its been efficient. Nothing is visibly falling
apart or coming undone, and its held everything I needed it to, sometimes its
been tight as the width of the largest compartment is kind of small. I’m also
happy with the look. Utility and efficiency is most important.
3 out of 5 – Its cheap, but its not garbage. If you’re
looking for a new pack for your daily running or maybe for your trunk bag this
is worthy of your $27. If you’re looking for a long term bug out bag, save
another $130 and get yourself something nice.
Now, I’ve never done this before because I’ve not had the
opportunity until now. If you’re on the fence about it, buy it. Then go about
the store and pick up some thread and needles, a higher quality carabineer,
some adhesive-backed hook and loop, and if they are available some different
quick release buckles. With some creativity and some time a couple extra
dollars and you’ve upgraded the bag.
My only continued gripe are the zippers, NOT that I’ve had a
problem with them, I just feel like they’re going to break.
4 out of 5 - With the necessary upgrades and some personal touches you have yourself a real solid bag for $35.
