In the realm of preparedness, whether for outdoor adventures, urban commutes, or military operations, having the right gear can make all the difference. Among the most crucial pieces of equipment is the tactical backpack – a versatile and reliable companion designed to carry everything you need, wherever your journey takes you.
With a plethora of options available in the market, navigating the landscape of tactical backpacks can be daunting. Fear not, as in this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of selecting the best tactical backpacks, from reviewing top picks to exploring key features, and addressing common questions to ensure you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a tactical professional, or simply seeking a durable and functional everyday carry solution, this guide will equip you with the knowledge needed to find the perfect tactical backpack to suit your needs. So, gear up, and let’s embark on this exploration into the world of tactical backpacks!
Best Tactical Backpacks Review
1. The Best Overall Tactical Backpack: GORUCK GR2
Let’s dive into why the GORUCK GR2 earns its reputation as the best tactical backpack (overall) on the market.
Specifications:
- Capacity: 40 liters
- Material: 1000D Cordura nylon
- Weight: 4.75 pounds (empty)
- Dimensions: 22″ x 14″ x 9″
- Laptop Compartment: Fits up to a 17″ laptop
Key Features
Versatile Capacity: With a spacious 40-liter capacity, the GORUCK GR2 offers ample room for all your gear, making it suitable for various activities, from outdoor adventures to urban commutes.
Rugged Durability: Crafted from durable 1000D Cordura nylon, this pack is built to withstand the harshest conditions, ensuring longevity even under heavy use.
Comfortable Carry: The GR2 features a padded shoulder strap and a padded back panel, providing comfort during extended wear, whether you’re on a day hike or a multi-day excursion.
Organizational Efficiency: Multiple compartments and internal pockets offer efficient organization for your gear, including a dedicated laptop sleeve for secure storage.
Travel-Friendly Design: The GR2’s dimensions meet airline carry-on requirements, making it an ideal companion for both domestic and international travel.
Pros
Durable Construction: Crafted from high-quality 1000D Cordura nylon, the GR2 guarantees long-lasting durability, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of any adventure.
Spacious Capacity: With its 40-liter capacity, this pack provides ample room for all your essentials, whether you’re embarking on a weekend trip or a long-term deployment.
Comfortable Carry: Padded shoulder strap and a padded back panel ensure a comfortable carry, even when the pack is fully loaded with gear.
Versatile Use: The GR2’s versatile design and durable construction make it suitable for a wide range of activities, from outdoor adventures to urban commutes.
Cons
Price: While the GR2’s quality justifies its cost, it may be on the higher end of the price spectrum for some of you that are on a tight budget.
Limited Color Options: The GR2 is available in a few different colors, but the options may be somewhat limited compared to other packs on the market.
Final Verdict
From my personal experience, the GORUCK GR2 stands out as the best tactical backpack. Its combination of spacious capacity, rugged durability, and comfortable carry make it the perfect companion for any adventure, whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or navigating city streets.
If you’re in the market for a versatile and reliable pack that can handle anything you throw at it, look no further than the GORUCK GR2.
2. Budget Tactical Pack: Kelty Redwing 44L
Let’s explore why the Kelty Redwing earns its place as the top choice for budget-conscious tactical backpack seekers.
Specifications
- Capacity: 44 liters
- Material: 420D Polyester Ballistic
- Weight: 3.3 pounds (empty)
- Dimensions: 25″ x 15″ x 12″
- Laptop Compartment: Fits up to a 17″ laptop
Key Features
Affordable Price: The Kelty Redwing offers exceptional value for its price, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Spacious Capacity: With a generous 44-liter capacity, the Redwing provides ample space for all your gear, including a padded laptop sleeve for secure storage of your electronic essentials.
Durable Construction: Crafted from rugged 420D Polyester Ballistic material, this pack is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.
Comfortable Carry: Padded shoulder strap, a padded waist belt, and a ventilated back panel ensure a comfortable carry, even during extended wear.
Versatile Use: The Redwing’s versatile design and organizational features, including specialized compartments and attachment points for external gear, make it suitable for a variety of activities, from everyday carry to hiking to travel.
Pros
Affordable Price: The Redwing offers excellent value for its cost, making it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
Spacious Capacity: With 44 liters of storage space and specialized compartments, this pack provides ample room for all your gear without breaking the bank.
Durable Construction: Made from rugged 420D Polyester Ballistic material, the Redwing is built to last through years of use.
Comfortable Carry: Padded shoulder strap, a padded waist belt, and a ventilated back panel ensure a comfortable carry, even on long hikes or trips.
Cons
Limited Features: While the Redwing offers solid performance, it may lack some of the advanced features found in higher-priced packs, such as sternum straps and top lid pockets.
Less Organizational Options: Compared to more expensive packs, the Redwing may have fewer organizational pockets and compartments.
Final Verdict:
In my experience, the Kelty Redwing stands out as the best tactical backpack on a budget. Its combination of affordability, spacious capacity, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable pack without breaking the bank.
If you’re in need of a budget-friendly tactical backpack that doesn’t compromise on quality, the Kelty Redwing is the way to go.
3. The Everyday Carry Tactical Backpack: The Brown Buffalo Conceal 21L
Let’s delve into why The Brown Buffalo Conceal 21L earns its reputation as the top choice for everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts.
Specifications
- Capacity: 21 liters
- Material: Ballistic nylon
- Weight: 2.7 pounds (empty)
- Dimensions: 18″ x 12″ x 6″
- Laptop Compartment: Fits up to a 15″ laptop
Key Features
Everyday Carry Design: The Brown Buffalo Conceal 21L is specifically designed for everyday carry, making it perfect for urban commuters, students, and professionals alike.
Compact yet Spacious: With a capacity of 21 liters, this pack offers ample space for your daily essentials, including a padded laptop sleeve for secure storage of your electronic devices.
Durable Construction: Crafted from heavy-duty ballistic nylon, the Conceal 21L is built to withstand the rigors of daily use and is trusted by the US military for its reliability.
Comfortable Carry: Padded straps ensure a comfortable carry, even during long commutes or walks, while the pack’s lightweight design prevents unnecessary strain.
Organizational Efficiency: The Conceal 21L features multiple internal features, including specialized compartments and a top lid pocket, allowing for easy access to your gear.
Pros
Compact Design: The Conceal 21L’s compact size makes it ideal for everyday use, whether you’re navigating city streets or traveling light.
Durable Construction: Made from heavy-duty ballistic nylon, this pack is built to last through years of use, making it a reliable choice for everyday carry.
Comfortable Carry: Padded straps ensure a comfortable carry, even when the pack is fully loaded with gear, while the lightweight design prevents unnecessary strain.
Organizational Efficiency: The pack’s internal features, including specialized compartments and a top lid pocket, allow for easy organization and quick access to your essentials.
Cons
Limited Capacity: With a capacity of 21 liters, the Conceal 21L may not be suitable for carrying larger items or extensive gear.
Minimalist Design: While perfect for everyday carry, this pack may lack some of the features found in larger, more specialized packs, such as a full clamshell opening or dedicated pockets for gym gear or pocket knives.
Final Verdict
The Brown Buffalo Conceal 21L is one of the best tactical backpacks for everyday carry. Its compact yet spacious design, durable construction, and organizational efficiency make it the perfect companion for urban commuters, students, and professionals looking for a reliable pack that can keep up with their daily adventures.
4. For Heavy Loads: Kifaru Stryker XL
Let’s delve into why the Kifaru Stryker XL stands out as the ultimate choice for heavy load-bearing tactical backpacks.
Specifications
- Capacity: 64 liters
- Material: 500D Cordura nylon
- Weight: 5.8 pounds (empty)
- Dimensions: 26″ x 14″ x 10″
- Laptop Compartment: Not specified
Key Features
High Load Capacity: With an expansive 64 liters of storage space, the Kifaru Stryker XL excels in carrying heavy loads, essential for demanding missions and extended expeditions.
Rugged Durability: Crafted from robust 500D Cordura nylon, this pack ensures long-term durability, capable of withstanding rigorous outdoor use and harsh environments.
Comfortable Carry: Equipped with padded shoulder straps, a waist belt, and a back panel, the Stryker XL evenly distributes weight, reducing strain even during extended periods of wear.
Modular Design: Featuring MOLLE webbing and attachment points, the pack allows for seamless customization, providing ample options for attaching additional gear and accessories.
Versatile Use: Whether deployed on military missions, embarking on outdoor adventures, or undertaking challenging hikes, the Stryker XL excels in adapting to various scenarios.
Pros
Exceptional Load Capacity: With its expansive 64-liter capacity, the Stryker XL comfortably accommodates heavy loads, ensuring you can carry all necessary gear without compromise.
Built to Last: Constructed from premium-grade materials like 500D Cordura nylon, this pack guarantees exceptional durability, capable of withstanding the toughest conditions.
Comfortable Carrying Experience: The inclusion of padded shoulder straps, a waist belt, and a back panel ensures a comfortable carrying experience, even when hauling heavy loads over extended periods.
Customizable Design: The pack’s MOLLE webbing and attachment points offer endless customization possibilities, allowing users to tailor the pack to their specific needs and preferences.
Cons
Weight: Weighing in at 5.8 pounds empty, the Stryker XL may feel cumbersome, particularly for users who prioritize lightweight gear.
Price: While the pack’s quality justifies its cost, the initial investment may be prohibitive for budget-conscious buyers.
Final Verdict
The Kifaru Stryker XL emerges as the top choice for heavy load-bearing tactical backpacks. Its unparalleled load capacity, rugged durability, and customizable design make it an indispensable asset for any mission or adventure requiring substantial gear carriage.
If you’re in need of a pack that can reliably handle heavy loads without compromise, the Kifaru Stryker XL is the ideal choice.
5. The Most Modular Tactical Backpack: Prometheus Design Werx S.H.A.D.O. Pack
Now, let’s explore why the Prometheus Design Werx S.H.A.D.O. Pack stands out as the most modular tactical backpack on the market.
Specifications
- Capacity: 25 liters (expandable to 45 liters with accessory pockets)
- Material: 500D Cordura nylon
- Weight: 4.7 pounds (empty)
- Dimensions: 21″ x 11″ x 7″
- Laptop Compartment: Fits up to a 15″ laptop
Key Features:
Modular Design: The S.H.A.D.O. Pack is designed to be highly modular, with MOLLE webbing and attachment points throughout the pack. This allows you to customize it with additional pouches, pockets, and accessories to meet your specific needs.
Expandable Capacity: With an expandable capacity of up to 45 liters when using accessory pockets, the S.H.A.D.O. Pack offers plenty of room for all your gear. Whether you’re packing light or carrying a full load, this pack can adapt to accommodate your needs.
Durable Construction: Made from 500D Cordura nylon, this pack is built to withstand the rigors of daily use. It’s tough, rugged, and ready for anything you can throw at it.
Comfortable Carry: Padded shoulder straps, a padded waist belt, and a padded back panel provide comfort and support, even when the pack is fully loaded. Plus, load lifters help distribute weight evenly for a more comfortable carry over long distances.
Versatile Use: Whether you’re hiking, camping, or on a military mission, the S.H.A.D.O. Pack is up to the task. Its modular design and expandable capacity make it perfect for a wide range of applications.
Pros:
- Modular Design: With MOLLE webbing and attachment points throughout the pack, the S.H.A.D.O. Pack offers endless customization options to meet your specific needs.
- Expandable Capacity: The ability to expand the pack’s capacity up to 45 liters with accessory pockets makes it perfect for carrying everything you need for extended trips or missions.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials, this pack is built to last through years of use and abuse.
- Comfortable Carry: Padded shoulder straps, a padded waist belt, and a padded back panel ensure a comfortable carry, even when the pack is fully loaded.
Cons:
- Price: While the S.H.A.D.O. Pack offers exceptional versatility and customization options, it may be on the higher end of the price spectrum for some consumers.
- Complexity: With so many customization options, the S.H.A.D.O. Pack may be overwhelming for some users who prefer a simpler, more straightforward pack.
Final Verdict:
The Prometheus Design Werx S.H.A.D.O. Pack is the most modular tactical backpack on the market. Its highly customizable design, expandable capacity, and durable construction make it perfect for a wide range of applications.
Plus, with its comfortable carry and versatile use, you can trust that the S.H.A.D.O. Pack will be with you through every mission, adventure, and expedition. If you’re looking for a pack that can adapt to meet your specific needs and preferences, look no further than the Prometheus Design Werx S.H.A.D.O. Pack.
How to Choose a Good Tactical Backpack?
Choosing the right tactical backpack can significantly enhance your outdoor experience, whether you’re embarking on a hiking adventure, a military mission, or simply commuting to work. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision:
Size and Capacity
When selecting a tactical pack, consider the size and capacity based on your intended use. Tactical packs come in various sizes, ranging from compact daypacks to large expedition packs suitable for extended trips.
Determine how much gear you need to carry and choose a pack with sufficient capacity to accommodate your essentials, whether it’s for a day hike, a weekend camping trip, or a longer expedition.
Keep in mind factors such as the volume of the main compartment, side pockets, and hydration bladder compatibility to ensure you have enough room for all your gear, whether it’s for outdoor activities or military use.
Materials and Durability
Durability is paramount when selecting a backpack for tactical uses, especially if you plan to use it in rugged outdoor environments or demanding tactical situations. Look for packs constructed from high-quality materials such as ballistic nylon, Cordura, or ripstop fabric, known for their ruggedness and resistance to abrasions, tears, and water.
Ensure the pack features reinforced stitching and durable hardware, such as YKK zippers and Duraflex buckles, to withstand heavy use and harsh conditions encountered during outdoor activities, military operations, or hunting expeditions.
Zippers and Stitching
Pay close attention to the quality of zippers and stitching when evaluating a tactical backpack. Opt for packs equipped with robust YKK zippers known for their reliability and smooth operation, ensuring easy access to your gear while minimizing the risk of zipper failure.
Additionally, inspect the stitching throughout the pack, including seams, stress points, and attachment points for hip belts and shoulder straps. Reinforced stitching and bar tacking enhance the pack’s overall durability, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including carrying heavy loads or navigating rough terrain.
Organization
Efficient organization is essential for maximizing the usability of your tactical backpack. Look for packs with multiple compartments, pockets, and MOLLE webbing for attaching additional pouches and accessories.
A well-organized pack allows you to categorize and access your gear easily, whether it’s for storing outdoor essentials, military equipment, or hunting gear.
Consider features such as a dedicated hydration bladder compartment, side pockets for water bottles or gear, and a main compartment with internal dividers for separating items to ensure efficient organization and accessibility during outdoor activities or tactical missions.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort and fit are crucial aspects to consider when selecting a tactical backpack, especially if you’ll be carrying it for extended periods during outdoor activities or military operations. Look for packs with padded shoulder straps, adjustable sternum straps, and hip belts to distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure on your shoulders and back.
Additionally, choose a pack with a padded back panel and ventilation channels to enhance airflow and minimize perspiration, ensuring a comfortable carry in various climates and conditions. Properly adjusting the straps and hip belt ensures a customized fit that prevents discomfort and fatigue during long hikes, patrols, or missions.
Features
Consider the specific features that align with your needs and preferences when choosing a tactical pack. Features such as MOLLE webbing, compression straps, and attachment points for accessories offer versatility and customization options for attaching external gear, securing equipment, or adding modular pouches.
Look for packs equipped with hydration bladder compatibility, allowing you to stay hydrated during outdoor activities or tactical operations without interrupting your workflow.
Other features to consider include built-in rain covers for water resistance, dedicated compartments for electronic devices or medical supplies, and quick-access pockets for essential items such as navigation tools, pocket knives, or communication devices.
By carefully evaluating these factors and considering your specific requirements, you can select a tactical pack that meets your needs and enhances your outdoor experience, whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in military operations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best tactical backpacks is crucial for ensuring that it meets your specific needs and requirements. With the wide array of options available in the market, it’s essential to consider various factors to make an informed decision.
By prioritizing key aspects such as durability, capacity, organization, comfort, and features, you can find a backpack that seamlessly integrates into your lifestyle, whether you’re embarking on outdoor adventures, commuting in urban environments, or serving in military operations.
Opting for materials known for their durability, such as those featuring water-resistant properties and reinforced with Duraflex hardware, ensures that your backpack withstands the rigors of daily use and outdoor activities.
Additionally, paying attention to the size and capacity, along with organizational features like multiple compartments and hydration bladder compatibility, ensures that you can comfortably carry enough gear for your intended activities.
When considering the best tactical backpacks, keep in mind the specific needs of your lifestyle or profession. Whether you require a pack designed for military use, outdoor adventures, or simply as a reliable gym bag, prioritize features that align with your intended use.
Lastly, adhere to the general rule of investing in a high-density backpack that offers sturdy construction and ample storage space, ensuring it can withstand the demands of your adventures while providing reliable performance for years to come.
FAQ
What makes a tactical backpack water-resistant?
Tactical backpacks are typically made from water-resistant materials such as Cordura nylon or polyester with water-resistant coatings. Additionally, some packs feature water-resistant zippers and seams to further enhance their ability to repel moisture.
How much gear can I typically fit in a tactical backpack?
The capacity of the best tactical backpacks vary depending on its size and design. As a general rule, larger packs with higher cubic inches offer more storage space and can accommodate a greater amount of gear. It’s essential to consider your specific needs and intended use when selecting a backpack with enough gear-carrying capacity.
Are tactical backpacks suitable for outdoor activities?
Yes, many tactical backpacks are designed with outdoor activities in mind and feature durable materials, water-resistant properties, and specialized compartments for outdoor gear. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or engaging in other outdoor pursuits, a well-chosen tactical backpack can serve as a reliable companion.
What is Duraflex hardware, and why is it important in tactical backpacks?
Duraflex hardware refers to high-quality plastic buckles, clips, and other fasteners used in tactical backpacks. Known for their durability and reliability, Duraflex hardware ensures that your backpack’s components can withstand the demands of rugged environments and frequent use, providing added peace of mind during your adventures.