Probably one of the best packs , I'd know I've used it for 8 years. Getting ready to buy a complete one with a USMC single man tent ( which I also have experience with ) for my get home bag.
These are top-notch bags. I got real lucky and purchased mine just as they started fielding the FILBE pack, and got one new (had to assemble the straps, belt and stays), with new assault pack for $125, now they are up near new commercial packs in price. I've seen so many problems with the stitching on the FILBE giving out easily, the frames breaking, and the numerous problems with the old MOLLE II rucks. But the ILBE has been a tank, and other than stains from use, is just as good as new. I wish I had bought a couple more at the time.
Those handles are specifically for putting on the pack. It's designed to clean that bad boy up, over your head and onto your shoulders for when you're pushing 80+ lbs in it
I know this is a seriously late addition in the comments... but, I never cared for the shoulder or waist straps. I use an eberlestock pack for hunting and needed to replace a broken buckle, I looked at their website and found they also sell their waist and shoulder straps separately. I bought them and with minimal effort, they fit my gen2 great and are far more comfortable for me. The price is better then the used replacement parts on ebay and for me are far more comfortable
Those side handles were not for dragging Marines (by the way, soldiers = Army), but rather for putting the pack on by throwing the pack over your head, down your back and letting the straps slide down your arms.
Soldier = Army, good to know, Thanks! I realized that I mispoke about those side handles, but I filmed all that a couple years ago and couldnt refilm it. I should have put in a text correction. Thanks!
Hey, don't sweat the "soldier" stuff. It is a common occurrence. And if shit hits the fan, we are grabbing whatever we can to get our buddy into cover to "Start the breathing, stop the bleeding, treat for shock and protect the wound". I used the Alice pack and "deuce gear". I just bought this Gen II ILBE to use for hunting, prospecting and for luggage when I fly. By the way, I could only use MARPAT gear its been in my DNA since 1982. But back then the pattern was "Woodlands" and we had Poplin cammies. By the way, I like your video. You seem like a "Good Joe" and you have good advice. Your first aid pouch idea is smart, making sure everyone knows where to find bandages, compresses and other medicinal items.
Hi Buddy. I looked around and found a couple possibles. Try these two resources: guide.alibaba.com/shopping-guides/ilbe-shoulder-straps.html picclick.com/USMC-ILBE-Shoulder-Straps-Gen-II-Woodland-162814896338.html
Hi Chris, Great Video. I am not a pack packer but looking for a large ruck sack that will fit on my motorcycle. My two questions are 1) is the pack frame and shoulder, waist straps removable? 2) Will the compression straps fit around the back of the pack and possibly connect to a sissy bar on a motorcycle? Thanks and keep up the good videos.
Hi. The straps on my pack are removable, same for the waist and shoulder straps. The compression straps are real long on mine at least. sometimes too long lol. Also, you can modify the whole system pretty easily. If you click on my links in the description, you should also see related packs that are pretty cool. There is a newer model that also shows up. One more thing, it also depends on how filled your pack is. Mine is pretty full in this video, but it is often more compressed when not storing winter gear in it. I actually have my M.S.S. sleeping bags and kit in the pack during this video.
Thanks for the info Chris, very helpful. As stated I am not a back packer but reviewing various you tubers who are and can recommend lightweight but good equipment for my motorcycle camping. Thanks again-John
guys also used the old ALICE packs aswell with this pack. the ILBE was new in 2003 and they had them on the sides of the tracks during the Iraq invasion or in Afghanistan as patrol packs
@@chrisegnoto i use a old original mediem ALICE pack from the army and a original ILBE with original blowup bed and sleeping bag, plus a original USMC hydation blader, but i use canteens that are surplus. Alot of my gear is suplus, btw love the video and i subed, you did a awesome job explaining this pack with the combat pack, alos some things are missing with my USMC ruck, but i use the ALICE more
hope the shoulder straps were bigger and wider. the buckle parts rest on near my nipples, rather than on the rib cage area. anyway it's a heck of a pack and awesome for the money if you think about buying from Mystery Ranch, Kifaru, Eberlestocks and so on..
Great overview and review. I’ve seen many reviews on RUclips about the ILBE gen 2, and yours pretty much nails it. I bought mine off of Craigslist about 6 years ago for $75 and I love it. The lid and waist came brand new on mine. However, the main pack came slightly used. And my shoulder straps are still good but I’d like to get some new ones. I put a couple tubes worth of E6000 glue on the very bottom to prevent wear and to protect it from moist ground. I would like the assault pack also to add but the prices have skyrocketed, so I’ve just been using a tiny cheapo Outdoor Products brand daypack... It works great but can’t use the provided cam buckles on the ILBE to further connect the daypack as the assault pack would, but it still works great. I’ve seen guys cut a lot of the redundant molle webbing and straps off to save about 2 pounds. I think I’ll leave mine be. All in all, a fantastic budget friendly high-end quality backpacker pack, despite the bombproof rugged weight penalty.
Thanks so much! I know it's a long video, but I wanted to be thorough. Wow, you got yourself a deal on that. Too bad the assault packs have gone up so much. Good idea with the bottom, maybe I should do that. The shoulder straps can sometimes be tricky to find, just make sure to check the reviews. They are pretty heavy even when empty and also a bit too warm in the summer, but they are so rugged and well built. I hope you enjoy yours :)
Just a hint of advice brother....don’t ever call a Marine....A soldier to his/her face!! Oorah!! Ya might loose some teeth!! Other than that good vid!!! 👍
Hi. I own a 2nd gen and used the one issued by the British Army, have to say this is the comfy. A couple of things, 1, Where can I buy a half decent day pack and belt please? (before you say it eBay is shite) 2, And where is the USMC logo on them? (Not the badge inside) please?
Probably one of the best packs , I'd know I've used it for 8 years. Getting ready to buy a complete one with a USMC single man tent ( which I also have experience with ) for my get home bag.
I agree. I wish it was a bit lighter, but that's because it is so rugged. I need to get me one of those tents, too.
I have both the ILBE assult pack and the FILBE assult pack for get home bags, have not decided what one I like better.
These are top-notch bags. I got real lucky and purchased mine just as they started fielding the FILBE pack, and got one new (had to assemble the straps, belt and stays), with new assault pack for $125, now they are up near new commercial packs in price.
I've seen so many problems with the stitching on the FILBE giving out easily, the frames breaking, and the numerous problems with the old MOLLE II rucks. But the ILBE has been a tank, and other than stains from use, is just as good as new. I wish I had bought a couple more at the time.
mine didn't come with the assult pack and paid 65 for it, got the assult pack a few years latter for the same price both like new.
Those handles are specifically for putting on the pack. It's designed to clean that bad boy up, over your head and onto your shoulders for when you're pushing 80+ lbs in it
I know this is a seriously late addition in the comments... but, I never cared for the shoulder or waist straps. I use an eberlestock pack for hunting and needed to replace a broken buckle, I looked at their website and found they also sell their waist and shoulder straps separately. I bought them and with minimal effort, they fit my gen2 great and are far more comfortable for me. The price is better then the used replacement parts on ebay and for me are far more comfortable
That's good infor. It is great to see all the input and opinions on this video. Lots of smart ideas and insights - thank you!
Love mine have had it for years
I love mine, too. I just wish it was a bit lighter, lol.
@chrisegnoto yep, but they ride nice I think.
Those side handles were not for dragging Marines (by the way, soldiers = Army), but rather for putting the pack on by throwing the pack over your head, down your back and letting the straps slide down your arms.
Soldier = Army, good to know, Thanks! I realized that I mispoke about those side handles, but I filmed all that a couple years ago and couldnt refilm it. I should have put in a text correction. Thanks!
Brandon must be another former Devildog... We typically have an issue being called "soldiers"... :) Although, there is love for the Army guys...
Hey, don't sweat the "soldier" stuff. It is a common occurrence. And if shit hits the fan, we are grabbing whatever we can to get our buddy into cover to "Start the breathing, stop the bleeding, treat for shock and protect the wound".
I used the Alice pack and "deuce gear". I just bought this Gen II ILBE to use for hunting, prospecting and for luggage when I fly. By the way, I could only use MARPAT gear its been in my DNA since 1982. But back then the pattern was "Woodlands" and we had Poplin cammies.
By the way, I like your video. You seem like a "Good Joe" and you have good advice. Your first aid pouch idea is smart, making sure everyone knows where to find bandages, compresses and other medicinal items.
Bought one on eBay, but it came without straps. Any idea where to get those? I searched online but couldn't find any.
Hi Buddy. I looked around and found a couple possibles. Try these two resources: guide.alibaba.com/shopping-guides/ilbe-shoulder-straps.html
picclick.com/USMC-ILBE-Shoulder-Straps-Gen-II-Woodland-162814896338.html
@@chrisegnoto Thank you, that's very helpful!
Hi Chris, Great Video. I am not a pack packer but looking for a large ruck sack that will fit on my motorcycle. My two questions are 1) is the pack frame and shoulder, waist straps removable? 2) Will the compression straps fit around the back of the pack and possibly connect to a sissy bar on a motorcycle? Thanks and keep up the good videos.
Hi. The straps on my pack are removable, same for the waist and shoulder straps. The compression straps are real long on mine at least. sometimes too long lol. Also, you can modify the whole system pretty easily. If you click on my links in the description, you should also see related packs that are pretty cool. There is a newer model that also shows up. One more thing, it also depends on how filled your pack is. Mine is pretty full in this video, but it is often more compressed when not storing winter gear in it. I actually have my M.S.S. sleeping bags and kit in the pack during this video.
Thanks for the info Chris, very helpful. As stated I am not a back packer but reviewing various you tubers who are and can recommend lightweight but good equipment for my motorcycle camping. Thanks again-John
No problem - let me know what you decide - there are some cool options out there.
Oh, and if you click my link within 24 hours of ordering whatever you decide on, it actually help me out too!
guys also used the old ALICE packs aswell with this pack. the ILBE was new in 2003 and they had them on the sides of the tracks during the Iraq invasion or in Afghanistan as patrol packs
That's good to know. Thanks. What do you use?
@@chrisegnoto i use a old original mediem ALICE pack from the army and a original ILBE with original blowup bed and sleeping bag, plus a original USMC hydation blader, but i use canteens that are surplus. Alot of my gear is suplus, btw love the video and i subed, you did a awesome job explaining this pack with the combat pack, alos some things are missing with my USMC ruck, but i use the ALICE more
I bet some Marines pack that thing so dang full... Crazy sons of guns. Love the Marines 💪👍
Fun times lugging that bad boy around fully loaded!!
Shoot for 20% of your bodyweight as one of the factors in loading your ruck.
THAT is great advice, thank you!!
hope the shoulder straps were bigger and wider. the buckle parts rest on near my nipples, rather than on the rib cage area. anyway it's a heck of a pack and awesome for the money if you think about buying from Mystery Ranch, Kifaru, Eberlestocks and so on..
Great overview and review. I’ve seen many reviews on RUclips about the ILBE gen 2, and yours pretty much nails it. I bought mine off of Craigslist about 6 years ago for $75 and I love it.
The lid and waist came brand new on mine. However, the main pack came slightly used. And my shoulder straps are still good but I’d like to get some new ones. I put a couple tubes worth of E6000 glue on the very bottom to prevent wear and to protect it from moist ground. I would like the assault pack also to add but the prices have skyrocketed, so I’ve just been using a tiny cheapo Outdoor Products brand daypack... It works great but can’t use the provided cam buckles on the ILBE to further connect the daypack as the assault pack would, but it still works great.
I’ve seen guys cut a lot of the redundant molle webbing and straps off to save about 2 pounds. I think I’ll leave mine be.
All in all, a fantastic budget friendly high-end quality backpacker pack, despite the bombproof rugged weight penalty.
Thanks so much! I know it's a long video, but I wanted to be thorough. Wow, you got yourself a deal on that. Too bad the assault packs have gone up so much. Good idea with the bottom, maybe I should do that. The shoulder straps can sometimes be tricky to find, just make sure to check the reviews. They are pretty heavy even when empty and also a bit too warm in the summer, but they are so rugged and well built. I hope you enjoy yours :)
You're wrong about the mortar rounds. Do not refer to Marines as soliders, there is a difference
k
Who cares
@@chrisegnoto as a Marine I'm telling you rn. You can call us soldiers.
Enjoyed the video keep up the good work be blessed
you're better off putting the heavier stuff in the bottom
Always gotta have hot sauce on your person. Can cauterise wounds with it in a pinch.
Always!
Not to mention its effectiveness at making a burnt meal taste much better
Yo.. long term camp .
Yep.
Just a hint of advice brother....don’t ever call a Marine....A soldier to his/her face!! Oorah!! Ya might loose some teeth!! Other than that good vid!!! 👍
lol, thanks I will remember that
Hi. I own a 2nd gen and used the one issued by the British Army, have to say this is the comfy. A couple of things, 1, Where can I buy a half decent day pack and belt please? (before you say it eBay is shite) 2, And where is the USMC logo on them? (Not the badge inside) please?