As I have been in an Infantry unit of the German Army, 2 things that I noticed: 1. The bag on the top of the ruckcsack, which opens sideways was developed for the entrenching tool. 2. Sleeping bags are never put in the bottom compartment, because they are way to big. We always used the straps on the topp to attach the sleeping bag. The bottom compartment was used for additional clothes as far as I remember. The only drawback was really the lack of a frame for your back. Marching 30k with this thing is really tiresome. German Special forces and airborne tend to use rucksacks like the Berghaus cyclops atlas(110liter!), which is by far superior.
Not all airborne. Back when I was in the 261. only the Recon, Evacuation and Special Forces Units of the Brigade got the Berghaus. The rest of us got this piece of shit.
Jan K. I used a similar pack, which unfortunately lacked some of the features, for some overnight hikings on the mountains and, for me, the pack performed perfectly. It’s not the most comfortable, it’s pretty spartan, but for a civvy it sure does the job. One trick that a friend taught me was to put a roll mat inside and use it to kinda wrap the gear inside, so the mat could work as a “frame”
6:36 Good to see you got hold of one of the “real” armed forces issues ones. When the packs where first rolled out in the Bundeswehr in the late 1990s, not every unit got them initially, but everyone wanted them. So some of my buddies in officers’ training bought cheap Chinese copies that looked more or less the same. One of those cheap knock-offs lost both shoulder straps (ripped off from the bag) in the first week when the bag was thrown around on the German obstacle course. We all had a good laugh - except the guy who bought it with his own money, of course 😂
We´ve been damn happy when they issued us these in 1999 before going into Kosovo. They replaced the small fu*** up olive ones we had. Made a lot of miles with it on my back :)
The Aluminium-Tube above the bag for the sleeping-mat is simply to hold the backpack a bit wider open. It also gives a bit more form and, beleve it or Not, it gives a Bit more comfort to wär. If you remove the Aluminium-Tube and the sleeping-mat the Backpack is very uncomfortable to pack.
That's why you get some rip-stop nylon bags with a cinch cord and barrel lock, so you can just pull that up and not have to do a "gear dump", especially at night. I think it would be a cooler ruck if the side pockets were bigger and could be unzipped, then zipped together for an assault pack, ala the Brit PLCE Bergen and similar rucks, and had lots of MOLLE all-'round ( I like customization and organization. I've heard Luke say he prefers to have one big compartment ).
I got two. I wouldn’t want to sleep on one, but it makes my frameless, Dutch 3 day assault pack, and it makes it like it has a frame, gives my back protection, and makes a fine seat.
6:57 I know this is an old video, +theoutdoorgearreview, but I'm fairly sure that bar is to secure your hydration carrier into place so it's not slipping down in the pocket. My Flecktarn hydro carrier has special tabs that fit the exposed portions of that bar just perfectly, I'm sure that must be the intended function.
I have one of these that I purchased a few years ago. It has been seeing more and more use. Recently, I used it on a November deer hunt an helped a friend on his elk hunt. I place a pad of closed cell foam in the back pouch. The pockets are nice for organizing gear so you don't have to dig around in the main compartment for small stuff sack (walmart sells a 5 pack of stuff sacks). During the hunts, I was able to place enough emergency gear inside in case we had to spend an unintended night out. Did some hard hiking and found the pack to be comfortable. It carries better than one of my packs that is 3x's the price. Today, I am setting it up for a winter day pack. I haven't replaced the "m buckle" type cinches yet. Perhaps not the best mountaineering/alpine pack but it would do. other choices for heavy tools/stuff-motar base plate, x tra MG ammo, or an elk quarter (used my ILBE for an elk quarter). Thanks to all of the German military personnel for sharing their expeiences.
Having used the older packs (and still using it today) I can say that the metal pole is meant to support the structural integrity of the pack. The older version in olive tends to fold in on itself depending on the weight and what you're carrying. These things will last a good while, mine is quite worn but still holding true.
Luke, if you’re not using the lower compartment will the compression straps close it off flat? If so, maybe a cabin bag? Have to say this pack “oozes” German engineering. It’s straight forward with no soppy gadgets or thrills, and most of all ... it’s affordable. Keep up the good work Luke.
i have the reproduction of this pack and its built very well too and with it the side pockets unzip from the bag and can be zipped together to make a mini pack if needed of 20L size and the entire pack is 80l
Good looking and correct sized backpack for outdoor use. So many of these military packs lend themselves so well to civilian use. I don't think I'd like anything bigger. Many features remind me of some big popular brand hiker packs. They've obviously influenced the backpacking manufacturers. Thanks Luke.
Liked the video review, very straight forward and not like many that ramble on pointlessly. Subscribed and will watch more video, thank you for a good review.
@@TheOutdoorGearReview I'd like this question answered thoroughly as soon as possible please! Isn't the Light Green of Flecktarn Woodland a Grayish/Greyish Green in any way?
The velcro bit on the back is for a name tag, so you can find your backpack faster amongst others. With the straps on the top and side pockets it looks like they've been folded over and sewn together on the ends, that's not original. Usually they are loose and you can pull them out and open the pockets all the way. Especially with the pocket on the top it would be very impractical because that's the pocket for the entrenchment tool and I'd imagine that it would be hard to slide that in there if you can't open the pocket all the way.
I'd love to see you do a review of the 80-100 Liter Flecktarn German rucksack. (This ones big brother) Only reviews I can find are done in German. And none really show very much detail.
9 лет назад+1
Yes, show the pack to us when you´ve changed the buckles you mentioned. Or make a video about the modification.
I said in another vid you had about the Italian Vegetato: the big -1 for most rucks is support/straps. No cumberbun/wide shoulder straps/etc = more difficult to manage weight distribution at best, sores at worse. If you get sores, you can die, and dying is not a good time.
The metal bar is to keep the pact with a constant and also when the spring sheet is in it'll rest on over it and put some support so the bottom of the bag don't drag me down and heavy loads
Hey Luke, great review! I like to see this backpack in your review. I wear this backpack in my basic training. With the sleeping pad in the back pocket he is quite comfortable. Cheers
Luke, please send a letter to the person on the inside of the lid, and do a follow up video. That would be so awesome to find out the history of this pack. Thanks Andrew
Hi Luke I would like to see you resew that German backpack and see how you would improve it. Also I would like to see how you would improve for us smaller and older guys,I’m 86 and can’t carry to much. Thanks again you and Susan are the best. Oh how will I know when you may do this??? Jim
+Jaz Mar If you aren't going to be carrying much and still want a good, military surplus, quality ruck, Coleman's Military Surplus has the German Mountain Rucksack. They aren't very big and aren't designed to carry much, but you can get a good, high quality military ruck that will last a long time for cheap. I forget how much they are, but I think it's about $40-$50 U.S. They are canvas, have side pouches, and of very high quality. If taken care of, your great grandchildren will be using those rucks
Just got one the other day! Glad to see this video! Got mine on keepshooting.com, I love the camo. Nice review! Also, that velcro pocket on top is commonly used to stash away those straps if they aren't being used. I also have a german folding sleeping mat, it makes a HUGE difference.
TexasLonghornRanch Yeah, I couldn't find any in the states either. I kept checking Ebay. I saw a new post which was a German Mountain Rucksack with the mat included for like $45, I decided to just buy it because I would have to pay close to that for international shipping anyways, plus i got another cool pack.
Great pack Luke, and nice review. I have the 100L mountain trecking version. The side pouches zip off and make into a 20L pack or 10L single packs. Same style and very comfy and does come with a frame. I reckon you would really enjoy it. All the best, Rob
I once had a High Sierra large backpack that had a wireframe it went from the internal back all the way to dying lacrosse to the top up and around the front and then back down to the back of the frame and did the exact same thing except the shape and kept some of the weight on frame
Hi Luke, By any chance do you know what size fastex buckles will be needed to mod the top and side pouches on the pack ? I have two i need to work on. For any one that already have one you can try adding more cushion to the back portion of this pack by sliding in a Fiskars, Large kneeling cushion pad from home depot. It's OD Green and you must install it with the handle portion facing down so that you can push and work around it. Wont be easy but it can be done.
I would be interested on your views on external frame packs such as US Alice lack versus modern frame lacks a d no frame packs. I recently bought an Alice pack and although heavy on the ground it has some advantages with air flow that even modern airflow system padding does not touch. Great channel, I really enjoy your longer videos and overnight trips.
TheOutDoorGearReview judging from colors on pattern wouldn't German Flecktarn Woodland in a way blend/work well during fall season, spring season, summer season & winter season combined in the wilderness?
It seems like that maybe that bar just serves to keep the mouth of that massive pocket spread open. That's the only thing I could think of. Also, I'd be interested to see some videos of you modifying the packs you do previews of just to see what modifications you place a high value on, what hardware you like to use, etc.
+dustysquito It acts like a hinge to provide a strong and sturdy means of repeatedly opening that massive lid with 2 pockets, especially with that huge one full of gear, and not wearing the lid fabric to death
Where to start..... they're made from 1000d cordura which is of excellent quality on these packs as is the thicker than usual P.U. backing. The aluminium rod has two functions;, to keep the top of the ruck rigid across the shoulders & as an attachment point for the grab handle & shoulder straps. This is a good pack in terms of build quality but it has it's flaws as a civil backpack. Firstly, though the simple traditional design may appeal to those who are into retro gear I find it completely inadaquate for pratical use, it has no back system, the shoulder straps are thin & are not ergonomically designed. It has no waist belt (just a retaining strap) so all the weight is carried on the shoulders. The German infantry soldiers have to carry 21 kilos in these bags, I wouldn't carry anymore than 10 kilos & then only for short distances. It's carrying capacity is another problem, they are tiny & although they are advertised as 65 litre bags I consider them more like 50 litre all in, especially when compared to civilian 65 litre packs.A few bulky items & the pack is full.! The side pockets are only 1.5 litres each so again limited in what they can carry. It has extra long straps on the lid, these are for carrying the army sleeping bag since there isn't any room inside the pack. Problem with this is that it completely alters the balance of the pack but then again, the soldiers are paid to be uncomfortable. The strangly placed top pocket is often used for carrying an entrenching tool. The ladder locks on the pockets are difficult to get used too particularly for those used to side release clips, but the webbing can be pulled through to completely open the pockets; just have to have the patience to thread them through again when you close them. All in all this is a good pack to handle & to look at but not to wear, it has an antiquated design which has apparently escaped the improvements in backpack technology developed over the last two decades, probably to keep manufacturing costs down but these packs are pretty brutal even by military pack standards.. If any one can pick one up for under 30 bucks & are only planning to carry a few kilos of gear into their local woods, then great it could work but if anyone is looking for a hiking pack & will be carrying medium to heavy loads over longish distances then this isn't the pack for you. EDIT. if anyone is seriously looking for one, tap BW Kampfrucksack in any search boxes.......on a different note the German army combat boots (BW kampfstiefel) are prehaps the best issued military boots in the world.
Blacktimberw I have to agree with this post. I bought one and used it on a couple of basic trips and sold it on ebay. There is just not enough room for your gear. I added a ILBE frame sheet and barely helped and the waist belt just is useless. I am tall and it rides so uncomfortable on me when I was walking. Again Luke will tell you that this is a PREVIEW not a REVIEW. Also be careful since alot of the packs online are Chinese knock offs and not the real deal. If you buy one that is. Great site Luke. I look forward to all your videos.
i'm 5' 6" and have carried approx 20k in this pack for quite a lot of miles and the only thing I can fault it on is the shoulder straps and limited capacity for longer than 3-4 days. I find it comfortable and practical. I agree with some of the points but do find the this rucksack very good for my 3 day hikes and my bush-craft outings in the forest.
Not to crush your dreams, but that pack probably didnt see much. Those things are only used for training new recrutes. Real german soldiers have other packs like the Cyclops 2 Rucksack from Atlas and so on.
Love this pack due to the camo,but the Swiss M90 rubberized rucksack beats this hands down at a cheaper price! The Swiss M90 is capable of a harness set up around your waist carrying what you would have in your rucksack around your waist and not killing your back! I bought the Swiss M90 rucksack for $17.00 at keepshooting.com and the Swiss pouches for $4.95 to be put on a harness system. I have back problems ,so this is awesome for me,but you can buy an old pack with frame and attach this awesome flecktarn rucksack to it and be comfortable with up to 50lbs of gear! Thank you for your awesome review and I'm thinking of getting one and mounting it on a frame!
I've got the m90 and like the sack but not the straps, I find it torture unless I use it with belt kit, I would love to see how it all sets up properly as I've long suspected it was part of a webbing system the few bits I've seen suggest it would be simler to the British 58patten webbing in its design but theirs very little on you tube showing any of the m90 kit,
Thank You, I really enjoyed your video. I noticed that your pack has the two-pronged male buckle. Seeing how I’m unfamiliar with them, I’m not at all sure how well that type of buckle would hold up. Would you have any thoughts on them?
So who's actually used this pack as a "tactical/practical" ruck? How is it in the field after a couple of days? Coleman's Military Surplus has them for $60 and I was trying to decide between this, a large ALICE in MARPAT camo, and a couple others, since I want to add another mid-size ruck to my gear that's better than my LAPG Atlas 72 ( which is a pretty good ruck IMO ) . From what Iv'e seen of German military rucks, I think I'd get the German Alpine ruck if choosing between this ruck and that one. This hauls more gear, but I think I'd like the Alpine ruck better and just hump my ILBE with assault pack if I want/need to haul a shit ton of gear, which I rarely do, but it's nice to have that. I've even started using chest rigs above plate carriers ( keeping pouches attached and storing them with a rifle of the type it's set up for, so I can strap on my pistol belt [set up for high capacity, full-size .45 ACP, mostly Glock 21], attach the Stealth Angel waist pack/"waist duffel" to it at the small of my back, grab a ruck, and be ready pretty fast. Any German military/GSG 9/etc....... operatives around? If so, what's your favorite ruck and preferred weapons and ammo load ( I'm aware it's largely mission dependent, but if choosing your favorite load-up ), and tac vest/plate carrier/chest rig/whatever? If using this ruck, it seems I would be wise to load the top/lid pockets first before putting sleep system on top ( or attach the sleep system to the ruck's base, my preferred mode ) so the lid pocket can be fully loaded before you put all that weight on top.
I order one today in holland they not all like german gear but i love it,.! U say u change something wow man that must be illigal,.! German make things good and keep it origional,.! Only thing birdering me is the sleeping bag i realy like a origional german sleeping bag and maby it for a M90 NL
Thank you for this video!! Very good. Now you've had it over a year. Did you use it much? and did you do another video on changing the buckles? And what do you think of it 2016? Thanks Scott, Texas
It really lacks hip support. I guess I wasn't economical with my weights but I packed rather heavy stuff in my 58 liter bag, and without hip support, I would've needed a new spine.
I like the ILBE however I find myself wondering if there are hidden gems out there that you would recommend. And now that you have used this for a while can you update on you thoughts about it.
😂😊😉good Gear i was in Germany army( driving a Leopard 2 Tank best is carinthia defence 4 ( allgemein 2) sleeping bag i slepp often to 0 celsius it is one of my favorite Gear thing yes !! Im Sorry for the english
Hey ya Luke..new subscriber here... that does look like a good sturdy pack! Especially for that price! Is there any other military surplus packs that you would recommend over this one? Thanks!
Lance Huntsman Hey there Lance, how are you doing buddy? Thanks for the sub. As for military packs, there are some great ones out there. What size are you looking for? - Luke
TheOutdoorGearReview Luke after looking around this one is definitely what I am looking for in size. .capacity. I'm glad I saw your video on it Thanks again
Will Amazon ship my pack but it's not the same as yours I got the mfh and it's brand new and slightly less quality materials doesn't have a sternum strap in the waist belt is a joke other than that it's just exactly the same as yours it says it 65l but I don't think it is I plan on modifying mine to fit on my Alice frame looks like I might have to cut the shoulder straps and it won't be much of a loss add a buckler too With this pack on the Alice frame it should be a pretty good fit
Me, being a German Army Infantryman, who went through a lot of training with this backpack, I have to say, i absolutely, ducking hate this ducking thing. No frame, no comfortable shoulder padding, crappy buckle openings on the sides. Wearing this thing over long distances with a lot of weight, with or without a body armour vest, this thing freaking sucks. ANYTHING is better than this! I personally like the ALICE pack. But as of now, the German Army has introduced new backpacks made by Tatonka, thank god. Advise by me: Spend your money on something better than this thing
Tactically speaking having the rifle on the back of the pack is not a wise idea by the manufactures of the pack Luke, in deed. That is one down on pack. Rifle always should be "within arms reach" and my vets fellows may comment on that.V/r
+Bear track woods Generally, if I'm carrying a rifle, I like it on a tac sling that keeps the rifle at the high ready, dangling there if I need to use both hands for something, yet instantly ready for action if a threat comes into view ( or if rifle mags are spent and in my dump pouch, I haven't reloaded them yet, and I need to draw a pistol because there is still a threat. That way I keep my rifle while I draw pistol and engage while getting cover. Fortunately, I haven't been in that situation ). I agree that having the rifle on the back of the ruck can get you killed if that is your main/only weapon. I wonder if that's really what the belts are for. The only weapons application I could see using the belts would be if you are carrying a tactical shotgun( for breaching and room clearing at CQB ranges ), a sniper rifle ( or a carbine or SMG if you are the designated marksman and the other gun is a fighting gun for times you aren't lining up a sniper shot ), an SMG for room clearing, and so-on. In other words, a place to mount your secondary long gun and I would rather have a shotgun/rifle/carbine scabbard MOLLE'd to it on my dominant side. At $60, I may get this ruck but, I would take it to a seamstress and have plenty of MOLLE added all-'round, even wrapping around the side pockets. I wonder if there is a way to have it modded to add an assault pack so you can stash your main ruck at the "jump off point" ( so that you can carry light for the assault on the objective, just bringing stuff to kill the enemy and pain killers/med bag and trauma kit in case you or a buddy catches a round ). My Spetznaz vest has mag pockets for 8 30's of 7.62x39 at chest level ( a big plus if you're an AKM guy, since U.S./NATO gear/chest rigs are so 5.56-centered that it can be difficult mounting those long mags and pouches on a FLICK, RACK, LBV, H Harness etc......., especially if you want easy access to your pistol and pistol mags ), as well as having grenade and comms pockets, 2 decent utility pouches right above waist level. On back there are additional AK double mag pockets at shoulder blades, pockets at kidney height ( both good size, one carries 4 AK 30's, the other my large drug/meds bag and trauma kit), and 2 "knapsacks", 1 above the other on the center of the back for essentials, taking care of the assault pack aspect.
Good review. I bought one about a year ago. I loved it my only dislike was the buckles, the waist belt and they did not include the sleeping pad which I was told was to save weight in shipping. I finally traded it but the few times I had it out I loved it. atb Opal
I understand if the op was reviewing this pack in the context of military use. Most people including the op are not going to use this pack for tactical or combat situations. Instead they’re probably buying this pack to use as an inexpensive but durable backup/bug out bag, or just a good pack to use for overnighters in the woods. I have an old ww2 US rucksack with leather straps that i use for the same thing, is it inferior to a Fallraven or Gregory pack? Yes. but I’m not using it to go on a 50 mile trek either. This is actually a great pack, and it’s not some stupid bright color, made out of nylon instead of polyester. I’ve seen literal POS bags selling for twice the price that these are selling for.
@@winterfar2814 I agree with everything you say 100%. I myself am looking to find and buy this pack. Im your average guy who enjoys over nights 4-5 km in the woods. This pack is perfect for me. 👍
Hey Luke have you seen this pack on ebay "80L internal frame travel hiking trekking camping hunting backpack rucksack bag"? It cost 36.09 + 10 bucks shipping. I know its not surplus but its surplus like?! Cheap bag plus generous sizing maybe a chinese made intro bag for beginners? Just a thought and keep up the good work. Great Site.
As I have been in an Infantry unit of the German Army, 2 things that I noticed:
1. The bag on the top of the ruckcsack, which opens sideways was developed for the entrenching tool.
2. Sleeping bags are never put in the bottom compartment, because they are way to big. We always used the straps on the topp to attach the sleeping bag. The bottom compartment was used for additional clothes as far as I remember.
The only drawback was really the lack of a frame for your back. Marching 30k with this thing is really tiresome. German Special forces and airborne tend to use rucksacks like the Berghaus cyclops atlas(110liter!), which is by far superior.
Jan K. Hi. Can you tell what the aluminium tube is used near the sleeping mat compartment?
Not all airborne. Back when I was in the 261. only the Recon, Evacuation and Special Forces Units of the Brigade got the Berghaus. The rest of us got this piece of shit.
It helps holding the lit open
Jan K. I used a similar pack, which unfortunately lacked some of the features, for some overnight hikings on the mountains and, for me, the pack performed perfectly. It’s not the most comfortable, it’s pretty spartan, but for a civvy it sure does the job. One trick that a friend taught me was to put a roll mat inside and use it to kinda wrap the gear inside, so the mat could work as a “frame”
Your English is FANTASTIC man
6:36 Good to see you got hold of one of the “real” armed forces issues ones. When the packs where first rolled out in the Bundeswehr in the late 1990s, not every unit got them initially, but everyone wanted them. So some of my buddies in officers’ training bought cheap Chinese copies that looked more or less the same. One of those cheap knock-offs lost both shoulder straps (ripped off from the bag) in the first week when the bag was thrown around on the German obstacle course. We all had a good laugh - except the guy who bought it with his own money, of course 😂
We´ve been damn happy when they issued us these in 1999 before going into Kosovo. They replaced the small fu*** up olive ones we had. Made a lot of miles with it on my back :)
The Aluminium-Tube above the bag for the sleeping-mat is simply to hold the backpack a bit wider open. It also gives a bit more form and, beleve it or Not, it gives a Bit more comfort to wär. If you remove the Aluminium-Tube and the sleeping-mat the Backpack is very uncomfortable to pack.
The Bar hold the Backside of the Rucksack in Form, prevents collapse when You pack in Your Equipment.
Love that pack! Great to have the side pockets for fire kit, brew, first aid and snacks! Nothing worse than digging around in your pack for kit.
That's why you get some rip-stop nylon bags with a cinch cord and barrel lock, so you can just pull that up and not have to do a "gear dump", especially at night. I think it would be a cooler ruck if the side pockets were bigger and could be unzipped, then zipped together for an assault pack, ala the Brit PLCE Bergen and similar rucks, and had lots of MOLLE all-'round ( I like customization and organization. I've heard Luke say he prefers to have one big compartment ).
The poutch on the top is for the "Klappspaten". Greetings from germany and sorry on my english.
Marcel M. The word you seek is folding shovel. :-)
It would actually be a Feldklappspaten or Folding Shovel.
Or entrenching tool if you're from the us.
Digging stick to the caveman.
Buy the Bundeswehr sleeping Mat.
It’s a Folding Mat thats perfectly fits into the Pocket Inside.
It’s for better use and Supports you by Carry it!
I got two. I wouldn’t want to sleep on one, but it makes my frameless, Dutch 3 day assault pack, and it makes it like it has a frame, gives my back protection, and makes a fine seat.
6:57 I know this is an old video, +theoutdoorgearreview, but I'm fairly sure that bar is to secure your hydration carrier into place so it's not slipping down in the pocket. My Flecktarn hydro carrier has special tabs that fit the exposed portions of that bar just perfectly, I'm sure that must be the intended function.
I have one of these that I purchased a few years ago. It has been seeing more and more use. Recently, I used it on a November deer hunt an helped a friend on his elk hunt. I place a pad of closed cell foam in the back pouch. The pockets are nice for organizing gear so you don't have to dig around in the main compartment for small stuff sack (walmart sells a 5 pack of stuff sacks). During the hunts, I was able to place enough emergency gear inside in case we had to spend an unintended night out. Did some hard hiking and found the pack to be comfortable. It carries better than one of my packs that is 3x's the price. Today, I am setting it up for a winter day pack. I haven't replaced the "m buckle" type cinches yet. Perhaps not the best mountaineering/alpine pack but it would do. other choices for heavy tools/stuff-motar base plate, x tra MG ammo, or an elk quarter (used my ILBE for an elk quarter). Thanks to all of the German military personnel for sharing their expeiences.
Having used the older packs (and still using it today) I can say that the metal pole is meant to support the structural integrity of the pack. The older version in olive tends to fold in on itself depending on the weight and what you're carrying. These things will last a good while, mine is quite worn but still holding true.
Luke, if you’re not using the lower compartment will the compression straps close it off flat? If so, maybe a cabin bag?
Have to say this pack “oozes” German engineering. It’s straight forward with no soppy gadgets or thrills, and most of all ... it’s affordable. Keep up the good work Luke.
i have the reproduction of this pack and its built very well too and with it the side pockets unzip from the bag and can be zipped together to make a mini pack if needed of 20L size and the entire pack is 80l
Great pack and looks reliable would love to see it in an overnight.
Good looking and correct sized backpack for outdoor use. So many of these military packs lend themselves so well to civilian use. I don't think I'd like anything bigger. Many features remind me of some big popular brand hiker packs. They've obviously influenced the backpacking manufacturers. Thanks Luke.
You can buy pack stiffeners on amazon, if you dont have the mat. Works pretty well, i'd recommend
Liked the video review, very straight forward and not like many that ramble on pointlessly. Subscribed and will watch more video, thank you for a good review.
Thanks Greg, it's nice to meet you.
- Luke
@@TheOutdoorGearReview I'd like this question answered thoroughly as soon as possible please! Isn't the Light Green of Flecktarn Woodland a Grayish/Greyish Green in any way?
I do want to see you sew the buckles. I have done some alterations myself in the past to some gear I own. Great video!
Germans build great quality.....great review Luke.....
The velcro bit on the back is for a name tag, so you can find your backpack faster amongst others. With the straps on the top and side pockets it looks like they've been folded over and sewn together on the ends, that's not original. Usually they are loose and you can pull them out and open the pockets all the way. Especially with the pocket on the top it would be very impractical because that's the pocket for the entrenchment tool and I'd imagine that it would be hard to slide that in there if you can't open the pocket all the way.
I'd love to see you do a review of the 80-100 Liter Flecktarn German rucksack. (This ones big brother) Only reviews I can find are done in German. And none really show very much detail.
Yes, show the pack to us when you´ve changed the buckles you mentioned. Or make a video about the modification.
I love this pack....its 1000D, and for me that a HUGE winning point
I said in another vid you had about the Italian Vegetato: the big -1 for most rucks is support/straps.
No cumberbun/wide shoulder straps/etc = more difficult to manage weight distribution at best, sores at worse.
If you get sores, you can die, and dying is not a good time.
The metal bar is to keep the pact with a constant and also when the spring sheet is in it'll rest on over it and put some support so the bottom of the bag don't drag me down and heavy loads
Hey Luke, great review! I like to see this backpack in your review. I wear this backpack in my basic training. With the sleeping pad in the back pocket he is quite comfortable. Cheers
Luke, please send a letter to the person on the inside of the lid, and do a follow up video. That would be so awesome to find out the history of this pack.
Thanks Andrew
I bought the big version with alluminium frame with a llittle defect, that was sewed and glued in 5 minutes, for about 20$.
As always Luke awesome video!!!
Hi Luke
I would like to see you resew that German backpack and see how you would improve it. Also I would like to see how you would improve for us smaller and older guys,I’m 86 and can’t carry to much.
Thanks again you and Susan are the best. Oh how will I know when you may do this??? Jim
+Jaz Mar If you aren't going to be carrying much and still want a good, military surplus, quality ruck, Coleman's Military Surplus has the German Mountain Rucksack. They aren't very big and aren't designed to carry much, but you can get a good, high quality military ruck that will last a long time for cheap. I forget how much they are, but I think it's about $40-$50 U.S. They are canvas, have side pouches, and of very high quality. If taken care of, your great grandchildren will be using those rucks
Late but totally looking for that buckle upgrade!
Just got one the other day! Glad to see this video! Got mine on keepshooting.com, I love the camo. Nice review! Also, that velcro pocket on top is commonly used to stash away those straps if they aren't being used. I also have a german folding sleeping mat, it makes a HUGE difference.
MovieMakerZT
The german folding sleeping mat is must have! I had to buy one from over seas... still worth it.
TexasLonghornRanch Yeah, I couldn't find any in the states either. I kept checking Ebay. I saw a new post which was a German Mountain Rucksack with the mat included for like $45, I decided to just buy it because I would have to pay close to that for international shipping anyways, plus i got another cool pack.
I just bought one for 28 dollars ,sent it to a great human being in Tennessee !! $28 on Amazon
Great pack Luke, and nice review. I have the 100L mountain trecking version. The side pouches zip off and make into a 20L pack or 10L single packs. Same style and very comfy and does come with a frame. I reckon you would really enjoy it. All the best, Rob
Whag brand is this pack? I might know it
I once had a High Sierra large backpack that had a wireframe it went from the internal back all the way to dying lacrosse to the top up and around the front and then back down to the back of the frame and did the exact same thing except the shape and kept some of the weight on frame
Hi Luke, By any chance do you know what size fastex buckles will be needed to mod the top and side pouches on the pack ? I have two i need to work on. For any one that already have one you can try adding more cushion to the back portion of this pack by sliding in a Fiskars, Large kneeling cushion pad from home depot. It's OD Green and you must install it with the handle portion facing down so that you can push and work around it. Wont be easy but it can be done.
I would be interested on your views on external frame packs such as US Alice lack versus modern frame lacks a d no frame packs. I recently bought an Alice pack and although heavy on the ground it has some advantages with air flow that even modern airflow system padding does not touch. Great channel, I really enjoy your longer videos and overnight trips.
TheOutDoorGearReview judging from colors on pattern wouldn't German Flecktarn Woodland in a way blend/work well during fall season, spring season, summer season & winter season combined in the wilderness?
It seems like that maybe that bar just serves to keep the mouth of that massive pocket spread open. That's the only thing I could think of. Also, I'd be interested to see some videos of you modifying the packs you do previews of just to see what modifications you place a high value on, what hardware you like to use, etc.
+dustysquito It acts like a hinge to provide a strong and sturdy means of repeatedly opening that massive lid with 2 pockets, especially with that huge one full of gear, and not wearing the lid fabric to death
Did you ever fix the buckles? Where did you buy the new ones???
Thanks.
Where to start..... they're made from 1000d cordura which is of excellent quality on these packs as is the thicker than usual P.U. backing. The aluminium rod has two functions;, to keep the top of the ruck rigid across the shoulders & as an attachment point for the grab handle & shoulder straps.
This is a good pack in terms of build quality but it has it's flaws as a civil backpack. Firstly, though the simple traditional design may appeal to those who are into retro gear I find it completely inadaquate for pratical use, it has no back system, the shoulder straps are thin & are not ergonomically designed. It has no waist belt (just a retaining strap) so all the weight is carried on the shoulders. The German infantry soldiers have to carry 21 kilos in these bags, I wouldn't carry anymore than 10 kilos & then only for short distances.
It's carrying capacity is another problem, they are tiny & although they are advertised as 65 litre bags I consider them more like 50 litre all in, especially when compared to civilian 65 litre packs.A few bulky items & the pack is full.! The side pockets are only 1.5 litres each so again limited in what they can carry.
It has extra long straps on the lid, these are for carrying the army sleeping bag since there isn't any room inside the pack. Problem with this is that it completely alters the balance of the pack but then again, the soldiers are paid to be uncomfortable.
The strangly placed top pocket is often used for carrying an entrenching tool.
The ladder locks on the pockets are difficult to get used too particularly for those used to side release clips, but the webbing can be pulled through to completely open the pockets; just have to have the patience to thread them through again when you close them.
All in all this is a good pack to handle & to look at but not to wear, it has an antiquated design which has apparently escaped the improvements in backpack technology developed over the last two decades, probably to keep manufacturing costs down but these packs are pretty brutal even by military pack standards..
If any one can pick one up for under 30 bucks & are only planning to carry a few kilos of gear into their local woods, then great it could work but if anyone is looking for a hiking pack & will be carrying medium to heavy loads over longish distances then this isn't the pack for you.
EDIT. if anyone is seriously looking for one, tap BW Kampfrucksack in any search boxes.......on a different note the German army combat boots (BW kampfstiefel) are prehaps the best issued military boots in the world.
Blacktimberw I have to agree with this post. I bought one and used it on a couple of basic trips and sold it on ebay. There is just not enough room for your gear. I added a ILBE frame sheet and barely helped and the waist belt just is useless. I am tall and it rides so uncomfortable on me when I was walking. Again Luke will tell you that this is a PREVIEW not a REVIEW.
Also be careful since alot of the packs online are Chinese knock offs and not the real deal. If you buy one that is. Great site Luke. I look forward to all your videos.
i'm 5' 6" and have carried approx 20k in this pack for quite a lot of miles and the only thing I can fault it on is the shoulder straps and limited capacity for longer than 3-4 days. I find it comfortable and practical. I agree with some of the points but do find the this rucksack very good for my 3 day hikes and my bush-craft outings in the forest.
Another great preview, Can't beat the price on that one :)
Not to crush your dreams, but that pack probably didnt see much. Those things are only used for training new recrutes. Real german soldiers have other packs like the Cyclops 2 Rucksack from Atlas and so on.
Love this pack due to the camo,but the Swiss M90 rubberized rucksack beats this hands down at a cheaper price! The Swiss M90 is capable of a harness set up around your waist carrying what you would have in your rucksack around your waist and not killing your back! I bought the Swiss M90 rucksack for $17.00 at keepshooting.com and the Swiss pouches for $4.95 to be put on a harness system. I have back problems ,so this is awesome for me,but you can buy an old pack with frame and attach this awesome flecktarn rucksack to it and be comfortable with up to 50lbs of gear! Thank you for your awesome review and I'm thinking of getting one and mounting it on a frame!
I've got the m90 and like the sack but not the straps, I find it torture unless I use it with belt kit, I would love to see how it all sets up properly as I've long suspected it was part of a webbing system the few bits I've seen suggest it would be simler to the British 58patten webbing in its design but theirs very little on you tube showing any of the m90 kit,
Thank You, I really enjoyed your video. I noticed that your pack has the two-pronged male buckle. Seeing how I’m unfamiliar with them, I’m not at all sure how well that type of buckle would hold up. Would you have any thoughts on them?
That's a really cool looking pack.
You did not tell us where you bought the back from.. Thanks a great video. Keep up the good work.
Indeed , good quality , as usaul with most german things .😊
awesome video thanks for showing the rucksack so thoroughly did the original owner ever get contacted?
So who's actually used this pack as a "tactical/practical" ruck? How is it in the field after a couple of days? Coleman's Military Surplus has them for $60 and I was trying to decide between this, a large ALICE in MARPAT camo, and a couple others, since I want to add another mid-size ruck to my gear that's better than my LAPG Atlas 72 ( which is a pretty good ruck IMO ) . From what Iv'e seen of German military rucks, I think I'd get the German Alpine ruck if choosing between this ruck and that one. This hauls more gear, but I think I'd like the Alpine ruck better and just hump my ILBE with assault pack if I want/need to haul a shit ton of gear, which I rarely do, but it's nice to have that. I've even started using chest rigs above plate carriers ( keeping pouches attached and storing them with a rifle of the type it's set up for, so I can strap on my pistol belt [set up for high capacity, full-size .45 ACP, mostly Glock 21], attach the Stealth Angel waist pack/"waist duffel" to it at the small of my back, grab a ruck, and be ready pretty fast. Any German military/GSG 9/etc....... operatives around? If so, what's your favorite ruck and preferred weapons and ammo load ( I'm aware it's largely mission dependent, but if choosing your favorite load-up ), and tac vest/plate carrier/chest rig/whatever? If using this ruck, it seems I would be wise to load the top/lid pockets first before putting sleep system on top ( or attach the sleep system to the ruck's base, my preferred mode ) so the lid pocket can be fully loaded before you put all that weight on top.
I order one today in holland they not all like german gear but i love it,.! U say u change something wow man that must be illigal,.! German make things good and keep it origional,.! Only thing birdering me is the sleeping bag i realy like a origional german sleeping bag and maby it for a M90 NL
Good job, Luke.
Great review thanks for sharing
Hey Luke you should do a bug out bag or get home bag type video. Also have you ever researched any of the big Agnes brand tents. Thanks.
Great review Luke
Did You ever try to contact David Müller, and did he respond?
Just order one with a matching boonie. I plan on attaching to an external aluminum frame later. Great review!
Did you ever have luck attaching a frame? How did you do it?
@@jasondavis741 No I never got it to a frame...just ended up running as is.
Love the new intro!
Thank you for this video!! Very good. Now you've had it over a year. Did you use it much? and did you do another video on changing the buckles? And what do you think of it 2016? Thanks Scott, Texas
It really lacks hip support. I guess I wasn't economical with my weights but I packed rather heavy stuff in my 58 liter bag, and without hip support, I would've needed a new spine.
think you could rig ones of these up to a frame/Alice frame?
Looks like you're rocking a new camera, Luke... What is it?
I like the ILBE however I find myself wondering if there are hidden gems out there that you would recommend. And now that you have used this for a while can you update on you thoughts about it.
😂😊😉good Gear i was in Germany army( driving a Leopard 2 Tank best is carinthia defence 4 ( allgemein 2) sleeping bag i slepp often to 0 celsius it is one of my favorite Gear thing yes !! Im Sorry for the english
nice ruck i like it....hmmmm...musn't cave!
anther great review Luke...thanks...woods
very cool looking pack wish is was a little lighter.Weighs about the same as my hiking pack
Flecktarn is one of better camouflages on the market, derived from ww2 times, when Waffen SS units started to use it widely in combat.
Do you think it would pretty easy to mount this to an Alice/LK35 frame?
Hey ya Luke..new subscriber here... that does look like a good sturdy pack! Especially for that price! Is there any other military surplus packs that you would recommend over this one?
Thanks!
Lance Huntsman Hey there Lance,
how are you doing buddy? Thanks for the sub. As for military packs, there are some great ones out there. What size are you looking for? - Luke
TheOutdoorGearReview Luke after looking around this one is definitely what I am looking for in size. .capacity. I'm glad I saw your video on it
Thanks again
great bag
I bought one today
Kinda reminds me of the CFP-90.
I'm love my fmh pack had it full with cans of food and washings that bar is there to help with the load keep it shape keep it tight on your back
Will Amazon ship my pack but it's not the same as yours I got the mfh and it's brand new and slightly less quality materials doesn't have a sternum strap in the waist belt is a joke other than that it's just exactly the same as yours it says it 65l but I don't think it is
I plan on modifying mine to fit on my Alice frame looks like I might have to cut the shoulder straps and it won't be much of a loss add a buckler too
With this pack on the Alice frame it should be a pretty good fit
Me, being a German Army Infantryman, who went through a lot of training with this backpack, I have to say, i absolutely, ducking hate this ducking thing.
No frame, no comfortable shoulder padding, crappy buckle openings on the sides.
Wearing this thing over long distances with a lot of weight, with or without a body armour vest, this thing freaking sucks.
ANYTHING is better than this!
I personally like the ALICE pack.
But as of now, the German Army has introduced new backpacks made by Tatonka, thank god.
Advise by me:
Spend your money on something better than this thing
Tactically speaking having the rifle on the back of the pack is not a wise idea by the manufactures of the pack Luke, in deed. That is one down on pack. Rifle always should be "within arms reach" and my vets fellows may comment on that.V/r
+Bear track woods Generally, if I'm carrying a rifle, I like it on a tac sling that keeps the rifle at the high ready, dangling there if I need to use both hands for something, yet instantly ready for action if a threat comes into view ( or if rifle mags are spent and in my dump pouch, I haven't reloaded them yet, and I need to draw a pistol because there is still a threat. That way I keep my rifle while I draw pistol and engage while getting cover. Fortunately, I haven't been in that situation ). I agree that having the rifle on the back of the ruck can get you killed if that is your main/only weapon. I wonder if that's really what the belts are for. The only weapons application I could see using the belts would be if you are carrying a tactical shotgun( for breaching and room clearing at CQB ranges ), a sniper rifle ( or a carbine or SMG if you are the designated marksman and the other gun is a fighting gun for times you aren't lining up a sniper shot ), an SMG for room clearing, and so-on. In other words, a place to mount your secondary long gun and I would rather have a shotgun/rifle/carbine scabbard MOLLE'd to it on my dominant side. At $60, I may get this ruck but, I would take it to a seamstress and have plenty of MOLLE added all-'round, even wrapping around the side pockets. I wonder if there is a way to have it modded to add an assault pack so you can stash your main ruck at the "jump off point" ( so that you can carry light for the assault on the objective, just bringing stuff to kill the enemy and pain killers/med bag and trauma kit in case you or a buddy catches a round ).
My Spetznaz vest has mag pockets for 8 30's of 7.62x39 at chest level ( a big plus if you're an AKM guy, since U.S./NATO gear/chest rigs are so 5.56-centered that it can be difficult mounting those long mags and pouches on a FLICK, RACK, LBV, H Harness etc......., especially if you want easy access to your pistol and pistol mags ), as well as having grenade and comms pockets, 2 decent utility pouches right above waist level. On back there are additional AK double mag pockets at shoulder blades, pockets at kidney height ( both good size, one carries 4 AK 30's, the other my large drug/meds bag and trauma kit), and 2 "knapsacks", 1 above the other on the center of the back for essentials, taking care of the assault pack aspect.
Good review. I bought one about a year ago. I loved it my only dislike was the buckles, the waist belt and they did not include the sleeping pad which I was told was to save weight in shipping. I finally traded it but the few times I had it out I loved it. atb Opal
Nice
Hey man! just a question, do you se it easily being rigged to an alice frame?
Sebastian Villa And please do the buckle vid
how about putting a trashcan in it, Nice to have a bucket some times .ie Trapping or to carry water ,Many good ideas I think.
Hi Luke! Do you like tomahawks? Can you p/review some?
would like to see entire contents in proper places.
next... the pattern 82 canadian rucksack
Great review, thanks :)
Just bought 1 £27 brand new
German!
I want this pack what is the name of it?
Bundeswehr Kampfrucksack
As a former German airborne soldier: Any channel that has a positive review of this pack loses all credibility.
I understand if the op was reviewing this pack in the context of military use. Most people including the op are not going to use this pack for tactical or combat situations. Instead they’re probably buying this pack to use as an inexpensive but durable backup/bug out bag, or just a good pack to use for overnighters in the woods.
I have an old ww2 US rucksack with leather straps that i use for the same thing, is it inferior to a Fallraven or Gregory pack? Yes. but I’m not using it to go on a 50 mile trek either.
This is actually a great pack, and it’s not some stupid bright color, made out of nylon instead of polyester. I’ve seen literal POS bags selling for twice the price that these are selling for.
@@winterfar2814 I agree with everything you say 100%. I myself am looking to find and buy this pack. Im your average guy who enjoys over nights 4-5 km in the woods. This pack is perfect for me. 👍
Bernie Wojewski Verusteleka has some in stock now. www.varusteleka.com/en/product/bw-combat-rucksack-flecktarn-surplus/1250
@@winterfar2814 and they still do! I came here from there lol
Served with The kampfrucksack at Luftwaffe She's a keeper still have her absolute reliable greets from cologne
great review, however this pack has more cons than pros for me..........
i cut the straps and added fastex buckles
How many liters is this pack
+garrett petrick About 65
Where can I get that backpack??
Amazon
Amazon only sells reproduction crap. What he's showing in the video is the legit military surplus ruck.
MC4U sells them. But its a Dutch website though.
Varusteleka
Www.swisslink.com
Hey Luke have you seen this pack on ebay "80L internal frame travel hiking trekking camping hunting backpack rucksack bag"? It cost 36.09 + 10 bucks shipping. I know its not surplus but its surplus like?! Cheap bag plus generous sizing maybe a chinese made intro bag for beginners? Just a thought and keep up the good work. Great Site.
The Waffen SS really started something when They started using Cammo on uniforms !
Grosartig, ich bin schulig von dir.
Inside looks like GORETEX. (When your talking about the rubbery material.)
Whitewolf Crowley Nah, it's just PU.
Good afternoon! I watched your videos. Very interesting, and I invite you to travel in nature with me. like 708 subscribed Natalya
thanks LUKE bubba
stolz nicht schultig.
das ist kase