they are harmless, as are wasps, bees and hornets if you don't swat at them or kill one, making them put out a federal scent indicating you are hostile and need to be dealt with.
I’m a trucker and I’m now planning on getting a heavier version, just in case of a break down in the dead of winter aka worst case scenario so thanks for alerting me to such a great producer of mil spec bags as I trust those most.
Flatbed driver here,I break down 2013/2014 in January -40 Fahrenheit men if I didn’t have sleeping bag,I would die waiting for road service to bring me the coolant hose,stay safe driver I wish you best this winter
If you don’t like bugs, try the Carinthia Tropen sleeping bag wich includes an insect net. Also combined with the Defence1 it becomes an impressive 4-Season sleep system. Half my outdoor gear contains Carinthia surplus products. Anything the German military provides
From a finish guy here this is one of the best products ever. It has gotten me below freezing tempetures and kept me warm. Its not a down bag but the pacsize is really increadable and its syntethic nature make me confidante it would keep you warm when it gets wet. I 100% recomend this product.
I'm going to an outdoor event in Sweden in late October and I have one of these. How well do you think it'll keep me warm if I also have a woobie inside it?
I was so satisfied with the Defence 1 and 4 my last years in the army, that I bought both after leaving. They are both regularly used, and have never disapointed. It might seem strange, but i use a Carinthia Eagle every night in my bed. I have extremely uneasy sleep, related to PTSD. I punch and I kick, which in it self is annoying. But since I also have a painfull busted knee, it's debilitating. The Eagle is extremely comfortable even at 30c. I bought the smallest size, which is a rather tight fit. It gives me better sleep then the different weightet blankets I've used previously. And at half the price for either of those. Probably not a use case that's relevant for many. Guess I just wanted to say, before starting my rambling. That Carinthia has quality products for all temperatures:)
i myself slept with the defence 1 and 4 combination to -25 celcius no problem. I also used there bivvy tents awesome kit. I now use the Brenta bag also great item for great value
Defence 4 here, it rocks, only thing is the zipper opened in middle of the night, and I had the feeling I was suffocating fecause the hole was small… but kept me warm the night long. Is my best sleepingbag
Defence4 is recommended (is sold together with) "tropen". It has zippers on the side and bug net. That is awesome for warm climate, and when combined with defence4 make an excelent combo, as there are no air moving through both zippers.
Hey There! I'm from Germany. Ex-Bundeswehr guy. I love my Carinthia Sleeping System! It is the Defence 1 + Defence 4 + gloft boots + gloft kinda hoodie. This combination keeps you alive with temp at -35°C. Comfort temp - 18°C. There not cheap, but bombproof. A life time sleeping system.
When I was 14 my parents bought me a Lesterel sleeping bag. It was awesome. I went to Tunisian desert, France, Baffin Island, Sweden, Apalachians... 34 years, it's brand new.
I remember when the Australain Army changed over from civi sleeping bags (that were rated to 15c) to mountain sleeping bags (rated to -7c)..., what a huge difference it made to moral after a cold night.
Carinthia makes incredible gear no doubt. I love it all. My only gripe is their specs. I'm 6'5". Buying gear is never easy especially sleeping bags. I bought the Large Defence 1 based a lot on your review. Carinthia states that there bags generally come in two sizes. One being Large and able to fit a person up to 6'7". It's simply not the case. I bought the Large and could not get in and lay flat on my back. I actually contacted Tacsale and they simply stated it is what it is. The specs were generated by Carinthia and used by Tacsale. I love the bag so much I kept it and altered the bottom by opening the bag up, creating a barn door with the resulting flap, and sticking my feet out with down booties on. Not a big deal during the warmer months. During the colder months I tuck the Defence 1 inside my wiggy military bag and all is good. You have to ask, what good is a bag if it doesn't allow you to lie flat on your back. Luke maybe you can decipher why Carinthia uses the specs they do. What's the logic?
3 года назад+8
I had the Carinthia 6 winter bag for some time years ago. I loved the center zip and the performance, but it´s monstrous in size. I passed it on and got a down bag.
I love this bag. Have two of them, one of each size so i can go camping with a frend. Works great with Särmä TST Thermal cloak also. So no need for Defence 4. Have you seen the Carinthia Finnish M05 sleeping bag, its like defence 4 but with liner and spark resistant footbox.
Have these as part of my gear in the Swedish army. This is next level professional bags. Highly recommended. Also, the compression bag it comes with is one of the best I've used also. I would reckon it's about 6-7 years ago I check mine out from from the qm, and it's still in tip top condition after massive amounts of use.
Swede here as well. Given you experience with said bag, would you say Tropen (for slightly warmer weather) is enough for weekend trips in the woods? Won't ever be used below the recommended comfort levels - but, looking at other reviews of sleeping bags, most seem to go for bags in the summer that have a comfort recommendation around +/- 0 C.
I have the defence 1, I accidently ordered the large. I'm 6'0" and I actually like the extra space in a summer bag. My 4 season bag is also by Carinthia, the Finnish Defense Force bag, it has some nice features over the defence 4.
@@thatchanguy The defense bags taper straight down from the head to the footbox where the FDF bag sides are parallel to the waist before tapering. It gives a little more arm room which I like, as I hate feeling constricted. I suppose a negative of that is there is more airspace inside the bag that your body needs to heat up. I live in the UK so I never get temps that come close to the lower limits of the bag. The outside of the footbox is also of a heavier material so you can "sack race" in the night for a pee break without getting out of your bag!
I've had this bag for a couple of years now. I recently used it in the Rockies at about 10,100 feet (3100 m). I'm a bigger guy and sleep warm. I love the bag, but don't look for it to do much more than any other 40-degree bag. I believe the design allows you to be more efficient at keeping heat inside the bag, but there is no comfort rating for it. It's "lower limit" is 39 degrees F and it's imagined that survivability extends down to about 15 degrees. When I was in Colorado, it was in the upper 30s every night. This bag was just a few degrees too cold to be comfortable which, to me, means they're pretty good at dialing in how warm it is. It was just a tick too cold for comfort if you're someone who doesn't wear all of their clothing when they sleep. I did have socks and a beanie all nights and my feet were still a little cool. The last night I just tossed a $3 fleece throw in there on top of me and it was much better. I'm considering getting another from the Defence line to work with this one. I also have a fleece liner that I can use as well to make up that difference. I do not want this to seem like I'm criticising the bag. I love everything about its build. But when it says it's a 39-degree bag, take that seriously. If you're going to be in lower temps, you need to move up a slot and get a bag for those. Don't try to roll the dice on this one giving you 10 degrees of grace within which you'll still be warm enough to sleep through the night. That's likely not happening. Take care.
I use a Carinthia Brenta sleeping bag and I agree with you both when it comes to quality and price. It is simply awesome. My bag has a comfort rating at -10C, and I've used it in the middle of the summer as well, not getting to hot. Easy to pack, easy to sleep in and I love the extra "pillow casing" you get with it. Just stuff it with clothes you're not wearing and you got yourself a pillow without having to carry one :) I can really recomend this company 🤘
Buy a pack of cigarettes. Tear off the filter. Rip open add to cold water or spit. Rub wet tobacco to skin. BUGS WILL FLEE.you will stink untill you wash off WITH SOAP. BUGS WILL FLEE.
I have the Carinthia Survival One Sleeping Bag with the synthetic fill for over a year now. I sold my US Army ECWSS bags in order to get the Survival One. I am VERY happy with my purchase. It's the best made bag I've ever had in terms of function and utility. Love that I can kick my feet out the bottom, and / or wear the whole bag in a pinch. I combine it with a fleece liner for extra comfort, and even though It's waterproof-ish, I have a USMC gortex bivy I can slide the bag into to add another 10-degrees of warmth or heavy rain protection.
In the Finnish army we did have the def 1 & 4 (at least in recon where i was), but as a conscription country everything is so tight on the money that we could only wish for such benefits. Great bags to have in the military, though. Bought them myaelf afterwords. By the way, we had modifications that had flame protected bottoms for tent stove protection.
Very appreciate your recommendations. I bought one because of ur video like 2years ago? I used a lot, and just like you said, the product is amazing! Only done part from me that when fully zipped the zipper is like on my face, uncomfortable. I’m 511. Other than that amazing product, used it a lot and never fail me
Ahhh, the noble Sweat Bee, a foe I know very well. It was in fact the very first insect I was stung by once I moved from Detroit to WNC nearly 34 years ago.
I bought it last month after seeing your review, and went for a 2 nights trip in the mountain with my friends. I used it together with the Carinthia Special Forces Bivy : i had 2 amazing nights !!! Great products from Carinthia !!
I borrowed a defence 4 for a winter hunting trip 3 years ago at -5 degrees F on average every night for a week I was comfortable. I bought one as soon as I got back from that trip. One of the best economical 4 season bags I have ever tried
owning one i gotta say i'm pleased. i especially like how any future liner can be strapped into there, which is compelling. also really easy to store. i usually hate the feel of polyester on my skin but this bag doesn't give that 'burn' sensation at all. just really really nice. i love that it has some space to move around and the way it closes means no daylight in my eyes without a mask. means it's warmer too because the head loses alot of heat too. Just so snug!
Hi from the UK. The British army now use a very similar sleeping bag (I dont know if it's made by Carinthia or under licence - the only real difference is that the UK military bags are more of a sage green). Tjere are two bags in the system- a summer / tropical bag and a 3 season bag. The two bags are designed so that they can be combined into a genuine 5 season sleep system, much like the MSR. I have both the summer and winter weight bags, and they are great pieces of kit. They are designed to be soldier proof and are, therefore, just about bomb proof. Highly recommended.
Do you know how you can tell Luke's reviews are unbiased? He always let's the products speak for themselves. It is never Luke that tells you whether a product is good or bad, he always lets the products do that. Luke is just the narrator of the results. Great video Luke!
Also check out the Dutch/British army sleeping bag. It is basically the same, only it's made in Spain by Fesca. It seems to costs a lot less if you can find it.
I really appreciate and enjoy your videos, intelligent, great spirit, no dumb attitude like on some other gear review channels. also, very well done and thorough reviews. 👍
The Carinthia observer plus bivybag is superb. The Tropen does the work as well. I combine it with the defence 4. Well nice but using it months in a row it let me down a lot. Sleeping in minus 20 Celsius lots of time or rain/snow conditions. They are made bombproof that's what I like. But not so warm as they say. I combine it with a tarp by the way.
I copied the following from a user review of the Carinthia Defence 4 on Varusteleka’s website: “Excellent 3 season bag, simple but well made. Pro tip: Get a complete system from two bags instead of keeping many different bags, and do not use your lighter bag as a liner for the warmer bag, but go the other way around; Get a medium size defence 4 and a large defence 1, plus a cotton liner for the defence 1, for a complete four/five season system. Use the #1 plus liner for warm weather; the #4 for spring and autumn plus late/early winter, and the #4 inside the #1 for a proper deep cold winter sleeping bag. The pair will fit inside the #4 compression bag, and not allow for much compression, but you still only need to strap one bag on top of your pack.”
Good review. This reminds me of the patrol bag of ECWSS. It’s about the same weight and about the same temperature rating. I’ve used that whole system for a while with no complaints.
Hey Luke, thanks for the good and honest reviews. I really appreciate the effort you put into your channel. I just ordered a 1 and a 4. I hope they will work out well. The compression bag looks robust and I really like that the bags are not down. Best to you,
Hey Luke been using the #1 up here in Minnesota for the last 3 weeks. Very happy with my purchase, like the synthetic very much, like the middle zipper and the fact it is not a coil. the compression sack works well. No complaints. would be nice if they came with a storage sack, but I bought one. Haven't use the #4 yet but that time is coming soon. Temps have been in low 50's with no problem. I'll keep temp testing the #1 but certain will need cuddle duds pants and a puffy for the forties. Keep up the good work Luke. Much repect
This sleeping bag looks very similar to a US Army sleeping bag I used to own, my uncle had gave it to me and I am sure it was 70s era surplus, but it was filled with actual down, but was the warmest sleeping bag every owned and I used it in the back of pickup in the open air on the metal bed floor and was perfectly comfortable all night, except for my cousin squishing me trying to get warm in his cheap sleeping bag lol. I say it got down to low 30s that night.
Thank you for your very thorough and well done videos; no empty showing of walking, drinking coffee or egocentric things, just down to business; great! Just one tiny wish: the value of your videos for me (and probably for many people outside the US) would increase greatly if you could give measures in standard (SI) units. Problem is, we stopped using the older units such a long time ago, nobody that ever used them is still alive... is it possible that you show these on the screen, when you give eg the length in feet or inches? Of course one can go to Google and translate them or look up the products every time you give a measurement, but that really interrupts the flow of the video. If it's possible for you. However: thanks for really great content!
I have both the def 4 and 1. In Finland they are the perfect couple. Def 1 as a 3-season bag and def 4 for the winter and late fall and early spring. Actually, they are awesome to use on top of each other in the cold winter months (-15c and down). The def 4 is a bit too roomy for me, and thus gets a bit cold, so the def 1 works as a perfect liner inside it and boy is it warm. Actually, at least the def 4 needs a heat lock thingy on the shoulders to prevent air flow, so i sewed one on myself. On the Def 1 it is not as crucial. That's the only complaint I have about the Defences. I myself think the def 1 is the best price to warmth ratio sleeping bag, at least in my country's market. Love it! Great stuff, Luke! Keep up the good work! Cheers from the land of Where Is The Liquor (Varusteleka)👋
i was stuck between the snugpak and the carinthia for my first sleeping bag another great review from theoutdoorgearreview made the choice for me same as the litefighter1 that i bought greetings from the netherlands
Carinthia makes all the sleeping bags for the Finnish Defense Forces, the one in particular being the Carinthia M05-SA model (it's a modded Defence 4 with a fire resistant footbox bacause of heatingstoves) I've had countless hours in that bad boy and after using the Defence 1, I'm even more impressed by Carinthia. Excelent quality and like you said, no cons. Absolutely would recommend to anybody.
For 117 bucks, quality makes it a no brain purchase. I will add this to a MSS-type system for overland camping in the higher elevations in the Sierras and Cascades. Great review, Luke!
I went ahead and ordered the large and I expect I'll have enough room. 6'4 at 290lb. Even if it's somehow not enough room I'll make due - these specs for $120 make it an easy choice for my backpacking bag.
Mine arrived today. I just fit end-to-end and there's not a lot of extra room at the feet for storage like Luke suggests. I'm not mad about it though considering the price and it was delivered in less than a week. There is enough room for me to roll side-to-side without feeling like I'm getting stuck, too.
Courtesy of the youtube algorithm I have found this channel. Though camping is not for me personally, I do find your videos very well made and informative.
Looks like the seller in your link enjoyed your video as well. They raised the price to $146. I guess I'll wait until the price comes back down again. Great video regardless. +1
I have the defence 4 and the observer plus hooped bivi. I rarely use the defence 4, I sleep hot and anything above 0c is too warm for me to use the bag. The Observer plus is one of my goto bits of kit, I use it in all weathers. I will use a small tarp for an admin area if needed. It is stealthy and works just as well above the tree line. The bug mesh works well in warmer weather and it deals with any type of weather. I love my Carinthia stuff!
I have a Carinthia Defence 4 and a Tropen (summer bag with a mosquito net for your face). I love them. Put them together and you are good for a nordic winter night, no problem. Also get an inner-liner for a bit more warmth and especially longevity of the bag. Washing kills sleeping bags, so use a washable inner liner. I also have a surplus gore-tex bivvy bag and several sleeping pads to choose from. There is literally nowhere on the planet that you can´t sleep (well) with that system.
Just ordered the Defence 1, and the Survival 1000 Down based on your honest reviews. These will replace a German summer bag and a North Face -40 Inferno down bag. Looking forward to putting them to use.
My rig is a light parachute tissue hamac with a cord running in the lenght over it. Over the cord, you put a thin plastic for painters, about 3x3 meters in min. Then you close the gaps between plastic and hamac with a couple of cloth clamps. Comfortable to -10°C, weight under 1kg plus the sleeping bag. It is important to get off the ground.
My defence 4 has a mesh pocket on the inside at about chest level which is super nice to keep stuff that you want to access when you're mummied up in your bag. E.g phone, water , etc
I think you will find that your “ Defence 4 “ is in fact a Fesca Modular Mexium Wright Sleeping Bag, with the inside mesh pocket included. Fesca make copies of the Corinthia Defence 4.
Hi Luke. I just wanted to say thank you. Your reviews are great and thorough. I really appreciate the +/- approach you take to all your reviews. I just bought the defence 4 bag :). M
Carintiha makes brilliant bags. In the Danish army we each had the Tropen bag and the Defence 4. They are tried and tested bags, i have used them alot for a couple of years and in really bad weather. I have even used both at once in -20 degrees celcius under just a tarp with good sleep. We also had the "Bivy 2" wich worked great with bag and all rolled up inside it and just stuffed up under the lid of the backpack, but they could build up alot of condensation even though they had goretex.
After you've used it for a while, the zipper becomes so easy to open that it unluckily opens by itself. but the bag is wonderful, it also holds a sleeping pad and a pump bag for it. I have Carinthia 4&6
This could be the best bag ive seen in some time and possibly be the the replacement for my use mummy bag its down filled and its heavy i like this bag alot im definitely going to see if I can find one thanx luke
Carinthia make some outstanding military equipment for several European forces. Their notable product is the goretex hooped bivvy for the Dutch military. A very well made product with excellent versatility and performance. They are much sought after on the surplus market here in the UK and elsewhere in Europe. I recommend you get a hold of one and do a review if you haven't already done so. I have only the Tropen bag as I am not a great fan of synthetic loft material due to the weight and bulk penalty. Another excellent product.
Brilliant manufacturer - the quality is right out there with the likes of Savotta. I personally use their smallest late spring / summer bag ’Eagle’. I’m a hot sleeper, and also have a couple of their cotton inner liners, which in warm weather, especially coupled with a tent or if you stay indoors (couch surf), work well as a standalone sleeping bag.
I have the defence 1 ,4 , and 6. They cover everything you will really need in sleeping bags, the defence 6 however, is extremely large and bulky, i have to attach it to the outside of my packs if i ever take that on a winter trip, but usually the 1 and 4 get most of the jobs done.
I have the defence 4 (I think) and it's been brilliant. Yeah it might not pack as small as others but man, the comfort, the price, the quality; superb! Very similar to the one we used in the army. Real good stuff.
I got the Carintia Tropen, the Dutch Army airforce winter sleepingbag and Dutch Army 1 Hooped Goretex Bivibag. This is a super stealthy and durable combination for the winter times.
I have the Defence 6 and yes it's the best sleeping bag I have used. Going to buy this one for the summer. I especially like that it's robust. With all the UL stuff you need to be careful before you rip someting, this is not the case with Carinthia products.
Very nice bag! Looked at these a few times over the years just never bought one. I also like the snugpak elite 3 sleeping bag. You can make that bag wider for larger folks cause it has a double zipper. You can also shorten the bag with clips attached to the bag. These bags come long so that's a nice feature that way you don't have wasted space. All ykk zippers aswell. I think the Carinthia and snugpak bags are fairly comparible. Both are semi affordable and well thought out, well made. Snugpak also makes a special forces series sleep system that's pretty nice. Good stuff luke! Hike on!!
I own 4 Carinthia bags, Defence 1,2,4 and 6. The Defence 6 alone gives Comfort -19 celsius Extreme -40 celsius. It can be combined with one of Defence 1 or 2 for more warmth. Defence 6 and 1 cost me 350 euros.
Finnish military uses Carinthia sleeping bags. I think Defence 6 model. It keeps you warm even in -40 degrees. Scout troops just climb in the bag and then borrow into the snow and sleep there. It only works in very low temperatures and dry snow.
I also have both defence 1 & 4. They are really good to use while hammock camping as well because of the zipper in the middle. In can highly recommend Carinthias products for everyone. 👍🏻👍🏻
To contrast this with down sleeping bags, you can get double the temp rating, with half the weight. For instance, a Katabatic brand bag can be comfort rated to 32F, while weighing about 1 pound. The drawback is that it's thinner and more fragile material, and down does not work as intended when it's wet. But just fyi for those seeking the ultimate in temp rating while being the absolute lightest, you have to go with down, synthetic doesn't cut it.
Hi there, thx for the Video! As I know Carinthia recommend to combine the Tropen with the Defence 4 (as you can read in much other comments) and (as I know) because the Tropen version has the zipper on the side and not at the front as the defence 4. So less coldness can find its way through two zippers that are layin over another. But I´m sure the defence 1 will do also a good job. Best regards
Hi from the UK 🇬🇧 something that is excellent for keeping the bugs and mosquitoes away ( as used by the sas ) is skin so soft by avon you can get cream or spray 😄
The snugpak softie elite line also utilizes a similar thermal reflective lining within the bag that helps to keep you incredibly warm even with a lightweight bag utilizing synthetic materials.
Ordered this bag from a store in Finland because even with shipping to the US it’s still cheaper for a brand new bag vs a used one in the states lol. I’ve watched this probably 10 times because I can’t wait for my new bag 😅
If you want to try out using 2 sleeping bags from Carinthia I would suggest using a Carinthia Tropen with any other sleeping bag. The tropen is designed to be vapour permeable. Because of that, the Tropen acts like a super sleeping bag liner. Of couse insulation is still granted
I got the defence 4 bag. Love it. You should review the carinthia survival one bag. Got sleeves you can pull out and a zip at the bottom so you can pop your legs out to walk about camp like wearing a jacket. It's for even colder temperatures.
Looks like a Patrol bag from the military's ECWS setup. And you can even toss in a Gortex bivy and still be way less in costs. Just saying in a pinch.. nice bag and the reflective layer is a good idea. One can also toss a mylar blanket under any bag and improve it's heat reflection ability.
NC guy here...i hate the sweat bees (flies) whatever you wanna call them. Lol
Brother they are the freaking worst! I was eating lunch yesterday and one was on my sandwich...stung the inside of my mouth! - Luke
Need to get one of those tennis racket zappers...was camping last week and dispatched tons of bees, deer flies and other various swarms
they are harmless, as are wasps, bees and hornets if you don't swat at them or kill one, making them put out a federal scent indicating you are hostile and need to be dealt with.
Skin so soft works
@@Rougar00u hell no it does not. Try it in Algonquin Park
let’s take a minute to appreciate his description box. so informative
Where is the box?
god damn that's a lotta info
I've got the Carinthia MIG 3.0 jacket, tough and warm with a bombproof build quality.
I’m a trucker and I’m now planning on getting a heavier version, just in case of a break down in the dead of winter aka worst case scenario so thanks for alerting me to such a great producer of mil spec bags as I trust those most.
Flatbed driver here,I break down 2013/2014 in January -40 Fahrenheit men if I didn’t have sleeping bag,I would die waiting for road service to bring me the coolant hose,stay safe driver I wish you best this winter
If you don’t like bugs, try the Carinthia Tropen sleeping bag wich includes an insect net. Also combined with the Defence1 it becomes an impressive 4-Season sleep system.
Half my outdoor gear contains Carinthia surplus products. Anything the German military provides
Also, never, ever come to N. Carolina. lol
Tropen works even better with the Defence 4, if you ask me (or the Swedish army). ;)
Does the Tropen have a wire or something to keep the net off your face?
@@mariastevens6406 It does not. I have it too. It's a great bag though, and an easy fix if you want to add a small loop yourself.
@@c99kfm Does the Tropen have a side zip?
From a finish guy here this is one of the best products ever. It has gotten me below freezing tempetures and kept me warm. Its not a down bag but the pacsize is really increadable and its syntethic nature make me confidante it would keep you warm when it gets wet. I 100% recomend this product.
I'm going to an outdoor event in Sweden in late October and I have one of these. How well do you think it'll keep me warm if I also have a woobie inside it?
I was so satisfied with the Defence 1 and 4 my last years in the army, that I bought both after leaving. They are both regularly used, and have never disapointed.
It might seem strange, but i use a Carinthia Eagle every night in my bed. I have extremely uneasy sleep, related to PTSD. I punch and I kick, which in it self is annoying. But since I also have a painfull busted knee, it's debilitating. The Eagle is extremely comfortable even at 30c. I bought the smallest size, which is a rather tight fit. It gives me better sleep then the different weightet blankets I've used previously. And at half the price for either of those.
Probably not a use case that's relevant for many. Guess I just wanted to say, before starting my rambling. That Carinthia has quality products for all temperatures:)
Thank you so much for your service. I hope you continue to find relief and heal during your journey through this life.
I wish you recovery, hero.
i myself slept with the defence 1 and 4 combination to -25 celcius no problem. I also used there bivvy tents awesome kit. I now use the Brenta bag also great item for great value
I finally got one of these and it immediately became my favorite sleeping bag, and it's not even close.
I have a defense 4 and it's bananas good, they are also designed to be used without a shelter.
Wow that's impressive.
Defence 4 here, it rocks, only thing is the zipper opened in middle of the night, and I had the feeling I was suffocating fecause the hole was small… but kept me warm the night long. Is my best sleepingbag
The Defence 4 is also designed to use it together with the Defence Tropen, if it´s to cold for the defence 4 alone.
The Bundeswehr uses the Defence 4, they call it 'Schlafsack, Allgemein Typ II" 😁. Good quality sleeping bag, never failed me on manouvers.
I just checked out the link and looked at the bag defense 6....minus 18c....is this real? That's minus 64° in america
Defence4 is recommended (is sold together with) "tropen". It has zippers on the side and bug net. That is awesome for warm climate, and when combined with defence4 make an excelent combo, as there are no air moving through both zippers.
You are absolutly right got also both of it....carinthia has realy god stuff....👍👍
Hey There! I'm from Germany. Ex-Bundeswehr guy. I love my Carinthia Sleeping System! It is the Defence 1 + Defence 4 + gloft boots + gloft kinda hoodie. This combination keeps you alive with temp at -35°C. Comfort temp - 18°C. There not cheap, but bombproof. A life time sleeping system.
Just ordered mine because of this fantastic review: thank you once again for sharing your views for free
When I was 14 my parents bought me a Lesterel sleeping bag. It was awesome. I went to Tunisian desert, France, Baffin Island, Sweden, Apalachians... 34 years, it's brand new.
I remember when the Australain Army changed over from civi sleeping bags (that were rated to 15c) to mountain sleeping bags (rated to -7c)..., what a huge difference it made to moral after a cold night.
Cool! Bought one after watching your video about it. Wasn't disappointed. Probably going to get the defence 4 as well.. Thanks for the video!
Carinthia makes incredible gear no doubt. I love it all. My only gripe is their specs. I'm 6'5". Buying gear is never easy especially sleeping bags. I bought the Large Defence 1 based a lot on your review. Carinthia states that there bags generally come in two sizes. One being Large and able to fit a person up to 6'7". It's simply not the case. I bought the Large and could not get in and lay flat on my back. I actually contacted Tacsale and they simply stated it is what it is. The specs were generated by Carinthia and used by Tacsale. I love the bag so much I kept it and altered the bottom by opening the bag up, creating a barn door with the resulting flap, and sticking my feet out with down booties on. Not a big deal during the warmer months. During the colder months I tuck the Defence 1 inside my wiggy military bag and all is good. You have to ask, what good is a bag if it doesn't allow you to lie flat on your back. Luke maybe you can decipher why Carinthia uses the specs they do. What's the logic?
I had the Carinthia 6 winter bag for some time years ago. I loved the center zip and the performance, but it´s monstrous in size. I passed it on and got a down bag.
I love this bag. Have two of them, one of each size so i can go camping with a frend. Works great with Särmä TST Thermal cloak also. So no need for Defence 4. Have you seen the Carinthia Finnish M05 sleeping bag, its like defence 4 but with liner and spark resistant footbox.
Have these as part of my gear in the Swedish army. This is next level professional bags. Highly recommended. Also, the compression bag it comes with is one of the best I've used also. I would reckon it's about 6-7 years ago I check mine out from from the qm, and it's still in tip top condition after massive amounts of use.
Swede here as well. Given you experience with said bag, would you say Tropen (for slightly warmer weather) is enough for weekend trips in the woods? Won't ever be used below the recommended comfort levels - but, looking at other reviews of sleeping bags, most seem to go for bags in the summer that have a comfort recommendation around +/- 0 C.
I have the defence 1, I accidently ordered the large. I'm 6'0" and I actually like the extra space in a summer bag. My 4 season bag is also by Carinthia, the Finnish Defense Force bag, it has some nice features over the defence 4.
What do you like about the Finish bag over the Defence 4?
@@thatchanguy The defense bags taper straight down from the head to the footbox where the FDF bag sides are parallel to the waist before tapering. It gives a little more arm room which I like, as I hate feeling constricted. I suppose a negative of that is there is more airspace inside the bag that your body needs to heat up. I live in the UK so I never get temps that come close to the lower limits of the bag. The outside of the footbox is also of a heavier material so you can "sack race" in the night for a pee break without getting out of your bag!
I've had this bag for a couple of years now. I recently used it in the Rockies at about 10,100 feet (3100 m). I'm a bigger guy and sleep warm.
I love the bag, but don't look for it to do much more than any other 40-degree bag.
I believe the design allows you to be more efficient at keeping heat inside the bag, but there is no comfort rating for it. It's "lower limit" is 39 degrees F and it's imagined that survivability extends down to about 15 degrees.
When I was in Colorado, it was in the upper 30s every night. This bag was just a few degrees too cold to be comfortable which, to me, means they're pretty good at dialing in how warm it is. It was just a tick too cold for comfort if you're someone who doesn't wear all of their clothing when they sleep. I did have socks and a beanie all nights and my feet were still a little cool. The last night I just tossed a $3 fleece throw in there on top of me and it was much better. I'm considering getting another from the Defence line to work with this one. I also have a fleece liner that I can use as well to make up that difference.
I do not want this to seem like I'm criticising the bag. I love everything about its build. But when it says it's a 39-degree bag, take that seriously. If you're going to be in lower temps, you need to move up a slot and get a bag for those. Don't try to roll the dice on this one giving you 10 degrees of grace within which you'll still be warm enough to sleep through the night. That's likely not happening.
Take care.
I use a Carinthia Brenta sleeping bag and I agree with you both when it comes to quality and price. It is simply awesome. My bag has a comfort rating at -10C, and I've used it in the middle of the summer as well, not getting to hot. Easy to pack, easy to sleep in and I love the extra "pillow casing" you get with it. Just stuff it with clothes you're not wearing and you got yourself a pillow without having to carry one :)
I can really recomend this company 🤘
Nice to see this sleeping bag in your reviews. I use it for years and I love it !
Best tool for sweatbees or any flying biting insects. Flame thrower!
How much, Where, can I buy one? Any recommendations?
Buy a pack of cigarettes. Tear off the filter. Rip open add to cold water or spit. Rub wet tobacco to skin. BUGS WILL FLEE.you will stink untill you wash off WITH SOAP. BUGS WILL FLEE.
Fireboard those mother jammers! -Key and Peele
@@cynthiarothrock4255 Are you the martial arts Cynthia I saw in the H-TLJ TV series?
@Timothy Mckee Good one!
It's also one of the few bags that can come close to the MSS
MSS is better in what ways?
I am wanting to upgrade.
Carinthia are one of the best military brands in world!
Thanks!
I have the Carinthia Survival One Sleeping Bag with the synthetic fill for over a year now. I sold my US Army ECWSS bags in order to get the Survival One. I am VERY happy with my purchase. It's the best made bag I've ever had in terms of function and utility. Love that I can kick my feet out the bottom, and / or wear the whole bag in a pinch. I combine it with a fleece liner for extra comfort, and even though It's waterproof-ish, I have a USMC gortex bivy I can slide the bag into to add another 10-degrees of warmth or heavy rain protection.
I was so lucky that I got the defense 1 and 4 for free after my time in the military 🔥🔥
Since it's a bag not from the U.S I take it you weren't an American soldier but I still want to thank you for serving in your country's military.
@@morrius0757 Thank you. I served in the Norwegian Army 🤩 One of the best years of my life
@@LBEfication A new Kalmarunionen like the one Queen Margrete 1 made...? Count me in... ;)
Damn you norwegians and your oil money! I can only dream of getting something free from the military even after 5+ years of service.
In the Finnish army we did have the def 1 & 4 (at least in recon where i was), but as a conscription country everything is so tight on the money that we could only wish for such benefits. Great bags to have in the military, though. Bought them myaelf afterwords.
By the way, we had modifications that had flame protected bottoms for tent stove protection.
Very appreciate your recommendations.
I bought one because of ur video like 2years ago?
I used a lot, and just like you said, the product is amazing!
Only done part from me that when fully zipped the zipper is like on my face, uncomfortable. I’m 511.
Other than that amazing product, used it a lot and never fail me
Ahhh, the noble Sweat Bee, a foe I know very well. It was in fact the very first insect I was stung by once I moved from Detroit to WNC nearly 34 years ago.
At least they don't rob you like the critters in detroit LOL
I bought it last month after seeing your review, and went for a 2 nights trip in the mountain with my friends. I used it together with the Carinthia Special Forces Bivy : i had 2 amazing nights !!! Great products from Carinthia !!
Ah yes- sweat bees. We had a whole load of fun with them on the Deep Creek and Indian Creek trails this week
I borrowed a defence 4 for a winter hunting trip 3 years ago at -5 degrees F on average every night for a week I was comfortable. I bought one as soon as I got back from that trip. One of the best economical 4 season bags I have ever tried
I need to get me one of them, thanks Luke. You do such a thorough and really good review.
owning one i gotta say i'm pleased. i especially like how any future liner can be strapped into there, which is compelling. also really easy to store. i usually hate the feel of polyester on my skin but this bag doesn't give that 'burn' sensation at all. just really really nice. i love that it has some space to move around and the way it closes means no daylight in my eyes without a mask. means it's warmer too because the head loses alot of heat too. Just so snug!
I was only two thirds of the way through the video when I paused it and ordered one. Thanks for a great review. Sold me.
Aw thanks! But I didn't give you my shipping address yet.
Hi from the UK. The British army now use a very similar sleeping bag (I dont know if it's made by Carinthia or under licence - the only real difference is that the UK military bags are more of a sage green). Tjere are two bags in the system- a summer / tropical bag and a 3 season bag. The two bags are designed so that they can be combined into a genuine 5 season sleep system, much like the MSR. I have both the summer and winter weight bags, and they are great pieces of kit. They are designed to be soldier proof and are, therefore, just about bomb proof. Highly recommended.
Do you know how you can tell Luke's reviews are unbiased? He always let's the products speak for themselves. It is never Luke that tells you whether a product is good or bad, he always lets the products do that. Luke is just the narrator of the results. Great video Luke!
Also check out the Dutch/British army sleeping bag. It is basically the same, only it's made in Spain by Fesca. It seems to costs a lot less if you can find it.
Yep!... Your video helped make my decision on buying the Carinthia 6 sleeping bag!... Awesome bag, and well done! Thank you!!!
I really appreciate and enjoy your videos, intelligent, great spirit, no dumb attitude like on some other gear review channels. also, very well done and thorough reviews. 👍
The Carinthia observer plus bivybag is superb.
The Tropen does the work as well. I combine it with the defence 4. Well nice but using it months in a row it let me down a lot. Sleeping in minus 20 Celsius lots of time or rain/snow conditions. They are made bombproof that's what I like. But not so warm as they say. I combine it with a tarp by the way.
I copied the following from a user review of the Carinthia Defence 4 on Varusteleka’s website: “Excellent 3 season bag, simple but well made. Pro tip: Get a complete system from two bags instead of keeping many different bags, and do not use your lighter bag as a liner for the warmer bag, but go the other way around; Get a medium size defence 4 and a large defence 1, plus a cotton liner for the defence 1, for a complete four/five season system. Use the #1 plus liner for warm weather; the #4 for spring and autumn plus late/early winter, and the #4 inside the #1 for a proper deep cold winter sleeping bag. The pair will fit inside the #4 compression bag, and not allow for much compression, but you still only need to strap one bag on top of your pack.”
I have Carinthia Tropen, absolutely flawless. Might have to look into one of the Defence for colder temp or combos.
Good review. This reminds me of the patrol bag of ECWSS. It’s about the same weight and about the same temperature rating. I’ve used that whole system for a while with no complaints.
Yep the patrol bag and the bivy cover got me through a ton of bad weather.
Hey Luke, thanks for the good and honest reviews. I really appreciate the effort you put into your channel. I just ordered a 1 and a 4. I hope they will work out well. The compression bag looks robust and I really like that the bags are not down. Best to you,
This isn't a review, it's a sales pitch
Hey Luke been using the #1 up here in Minnesota for the last 3 weeks. Very happy with my purchase, like the synthetic very much, like the middle zipper and the fact it is not a coil. the compression sack works well. No complaints. would be nice if they came with a storage sack, but I bought one. Haven't use the #4 yet but that time is coming soon. Temps have been in low 50's with no problem. I'll keep temp testing the #1 but certain will need cuddle duds pants and a puffy for the forties. Keep up the good work Luke. Much repect
This sleeping bag looks very similar to a US Army sleeping bag I used to own, my uncle had gave it to me and I am sure it was 70s era surplus, but it was filled with actual down, but was the warmest sleeping bag every owned and I used it in the back of pickup in the open air on the metal bed floor and was perfectly comfortable all night, except for my cousin squishing me trying to get warm in his cheap sleeping bag lol. I say it got down to low 30s that night.
Thank you for your very thorough and well done videos; no empty showing of walking, drinking coffee or egocentric things, just down to business; great! Just one tiny wish: the value of your videos for me (and probably for many people outside the US) would increase greatly if you could give measures in standard (SI) units. Problem is, we stopped using the older units such a long time ago, nobody that ever used them is still alive... is it possible that you show these on the screen, when you give eg the length in feet or inches?
Of course one can go to Google and translate them or look up the products every time you give a measurement, but that really interrupts the flow of the video.
If it's possible for you. However: thanks for really great content!
Have been using this bag and can say it is worth it 👍👍👍👍
I have both the def 4 and 1. In Finland they are the perfect couple. Def 1 as a 3-season bag and def 4 for the winter and late fall and early spring. Actually, they are awesome to use on top of each other in the cold winter months (-15c and down). The def 4 is a bit too roomy for me, and thus gets a bit cold, so the def 1 works as a perfect liner inside it and boy is it warm.
Actually, at least the def 4 needs a heat lock thingy on the shoulders to prevent air flow, so i sewed one on myself. On the Def 1 it is not as crucial. That's the only complaint I have about the Defences.
I myself think the def 1 is the best price to warmth ratio sleeping bag, at least in my country's market. Love it!
Great stuff, Luke! Keep up the good work!
Cheers from the land of Where Is The Liquor (Varusteleka)👋
Yes, mate. Carinthia are the Dog's Bollocks. I have the Defence 4 bag, the Tropen Bag, and their G-Loft Ultra jacket. Superb equipment. Cheers.
i was stuck between the snugpak and the carinthia for my first sleeping bag another great review from theoutdoorgearreview made the choice for me same as the litefighter1 that i bought greetings from the netherlands
Carinthia makes all the sleeping bags for the Finnish Defense Forces, the one in particular being the Carinthia M05-SA model (it's a modded Defence 4 with a fire resistant footbox bacause of heatingstoves) I've had countless hours in that bad boy and after using the Defence 1, I'm even more impressed by Carinthia. Excelent quality and like you said, no cons. Absolutely would recommend to anybody.
For 117 bucks, quality makes it a no brain purchase. I will add this to a MSS-type system for overland camping in the higher elevations in the Sierras and Cascades. Great review, Luke!
I just order mine, thank you very much for the review on a great product that doesn't break the bank...prolly should have ordered two...
Thank you for exposing me to this brand.
I hope you do more with this brand.
That is a new manufacturer for me, that seems to be very good quality.
they supply the german armed forces, so they're pretty well known in the EU
@@Bandanko Good to know that.
@@IceDaemon I tend to trawl through german/austrian/dutch surpluss websties for these gems to come up.
@@Bandanko They also supply the Scandinavian countrys
@@kutteknugen so they do....and there is room for both a Mora and Fallkniven inside.... Lol!
The Large sounds awesome, it’s hard to find bags that are comfy for big guys. Need to check it out more! Thanks man!
I went ahead and ordered the large and I expect I'll have enough room. 6'4 at 290lb. Even if it's somehow not enough room I'll make due - these specs for $120 make it an easy choice for my backpacking bag.
Mine arrived today. I just fit end-to-end and there's not a lot of extra room at the feet for storage like Luke suggests. I'm not mad about it though considering the price and it was delivered in less than a week. There is enough room for me to roll side-to-side without feeling like I'm getting stuck, too.
Courtesy of the youtube algorithm I have found this channel. Though camping is not for me personally, I do find your videos very well made and informative.
Looks like the seller in your link enjoyed your video as well. They raised the price to $146. I guess I'll wait until the price comes back down again. Great video regardless. +1
I have the defence 4 and the observer plus hooped bivi. I rarely use the defence 4, I sleep hot and anything above 0c is too warm for me to use the bag. The Observer plus is one of my goto bits of kit, I use it in all weathers. I will use a small tarp for an admin area if needed. It is stealthy and works just as well above the tree line. The bug mesh works well in warmer weather and it deals with any type of weather. I love my Carinthia stuff!
I have a Carinthia Defence 4 and a Tropen (summer bag with a mosquito net for your face). I love them. Put them together and you are good for a nordic winter night, no problem. Also get an inner-liner for a bit more warmth and especially longevity of the bag. Washing kills sleeping bags, so use a washable inner liner. I also have a surplus gore-tex bivvy bag and several sleeping pads to choose from. There is literally nowhere on the planet that you can´t sleep (well) with that system.
All of their bags are great.
Greetings from Austria 🇦🇹 😀
Just ordered the Defence 1, and the Survival 1000 Down based on your honest reviews. These will replace a German summer bag and a North Face -40 Inferno down bag. Looking forward to putting them to use.
My rig is a light parachute tissue hamac with a cord running in the lenght over it. Over the cord, you put a thin plastic for painters, about 3x3 meters in min. Then you close the gaps between plastic and hamac with a couple of cloth clamps. Comfortable to -10°C, weight under 1kg plus the sleeping bag. It is important to get off the ground.
My defence 4 has a mesh pocket on the inside at about chest level which is super nice to keep stuff that you want to access when you're mummied up in your bag. E.g phone, water , etc
I think you will find that your “
Defence 4 “ is in fact a Fesca Modular Mexium Wright Sleeping Bag, with the inside mesh pocket included. Fesca make copies of the Corinthia Defence 4.
just bought the defence 4 and was eyeballing the 1 when your vid popped up. Looks like a go...
Hi Luke. I just wanted to say thank you. Your reviews are great and thorough. I really appreciate the +/- approach you take to all your reviews. I just bought the defence 4 bag :). M
Carintiha makes brilliant bags. In the Danish army we each had the Tropen bag and the Defence 4. They are tried and tested bags, i have used them alot for a couple of years and in really bad weather. I have even used both at once in -20 degrees celcius under just a tarp with good sleep. We also had the "Bivy 2" wich worked great with bag and all rolled up inside it and just stuffed up under the lid of the backpack, but they could build up alot of condensation even though they had goretex.
After you've used it for a while, the zipper becomes so easy to open that it unluckily opens by itself. but the bag is wonderful, it also holds a sleeping pad and a pump bag for it. I have Carinthia 4&6
This could be the best bag ive seen in some time and possibly be the the replacement for my use mummy bag its down filled and its heavy i like this bag alot im definitely going to see if I can find one thanx luke
Carinthia make some outstanding military equipment for several European forces. Their notable product is the goretex hooped bivvy for the Dutch military. A very well made product with excellent versatility and performance. They are much sought after on the surplus market here in the UK and elsewhere in Europe. I recommend you get a hold of one and do a review if you haven't already done so. I have only the Tropen bag as I am not a great fan of synthetic loft material due to the weight and bulk penalty. Another excellent product.
Brilliant manufacturer - the quality is right out there with the likes of Savotta.
I personally use their smallest late spring / summer bag ’Eagle’. I’m a hot sleeper, and also have a couple of their cotton inner liners, which in warm weather, especially coupled with a tent or if you stay indoors (couch surf), work well as a standalone sleeping bag.
I have the defence 1 ,4 , and 6. They cover everything you will really need in sleeping bags, the defence 6 however, is extremely large and bulky, i have to attach it to the outside of my packs if i ever take that on a winter trip, but usually the 1 and 4 get most of the jobs done.
I have the defence 4 (I think) and it's been brilliant. Yeah it might not pack as small as others but man, the comfort, the price, the quality; superb! Very similar to the one we used in the army. Real good stuff.
Defence 4 is too warm for summer UK
great bag though
I got the Carintia Tropen, the Dutch Army airforce winter sleepingbag and Dutch Army 1 Hooped Goretex Bivibag. This is a super stealthy and durable combination for the winter times.
I have the Defence 6 and yes it's the best sleeping bag I have used. Going to buy this one for the summer. I especially like that it's robust. With all the UL stuff you need to be careful before you rip someting, this is not the case with Carinthia products.
Nice! Finally a light weight bag to go with my 1949 extreme cold weather down mummy bag and bivi.
Very nice bag! Looked at these a few times over the years just never bought one. I also like the snugpak elite 3 sleeping bag. You can make that bag wider for larger folks cause it has a double zipper. You can also shorten the bag with clips attached to the bag. These bags come long so that's a nice feature that way you don't have wasted space. All ykk zippers aswell. I think the Carinthia and snugpak bags are fairly comparible. Both are semi affordable and well thought out, well made. Snugpak also makes a special forces series sleep system that's pretty nice. Good stuff luke! Hike on!!
I just picked up the Defense 1 & 4. Great kit.
I own 4 Carinthia bags, Defence 1,2,4 and 6. The Defence 6 alone gives Comfort -19 celsius Extreme -40 celsius. It can be combined with one of Defence 1 or 2 for more warmth. Defence 6 and 1 cost me 350 euros.
Finnish military uses Carinthia sleeping bags. I think Defence 6 model. It keeps you warm even in -40 degrees. Scout troops just climb in the bag and then borrow into the snow and sleep there. It only works in very low temperatures and dry snow.
I have the entire MSS Modular Sleep System, this looks like a good alternative to that. Throw it in a Snugpak Bivy and good to go.
I also have both defence 1 & 4. They are really good to use while hammock camping as well because of the zipper in the middle. In can highly recommend Carinthias products for everyone. 👍🏻👍🏻
To contrast this with down sleeping bags, you can get double the temp rating, with half the weight. For instance, a Katabatic brand bag can be comfort rated to 32F, while weighing about 1 pound. The drawback is that it's thinner and more fragile material, and down does not work as intended when it's wet. But just fyi for those seeking the ultimate in temp rating while being the absolute lightest, you have to go with down, synthetic doesn't cut it.
Hi there, thx for the Video!
As I know Carinthia recommend to combine the Tropen with the Defence 4 (as you can read in much other comments) and (as I know) because the Tropen version has the zipper on the side and not at the front as the defence 4. So less coldness can find its way through two zippers that are layin over another. But I´m sure the defence 1 will do also a good job.
Best regards
I got a Carinthia Defence 4. Best purchase ive done so far.
All I have to say is, I am in the north western part of NC in the mountains. Those little bees, wasps, and no see ems are no joke.
I own one of these. One of my favorite pieces of kit and I swear by it
Hi from the UK 🇬🇧 something that is excellent for keeping the bugs and mosquitoes away ( as used by the sas ) is skin so soft by avon you can get cream or spray 😄
The snugpak softie elite line also utilizes a similar thermal reflective lining within the bag that helps to keep you incredibly warm even with a lightweight bag utilizing synthetic materials.
Ordered this bag from a store in Finland because even with shipping to the US it’s still cheaper for a brand new bag vs a used one in the states lol. I’ve watched this probably 10 times because I can’t wait for my new bag 😅
If you want to try out using 2 sleeping bags from Carinthia I would suggest using a Carinthia Tropen with any other sleeping bag.
The tropen is designed to be vapour permeable. Because of that, the Tropen acts like a super sleeping bag liner. Of couse insulation is still granted
I got the defence 4 bag. Love it. You should review the carinthia survival one bag. Got sleeves you can pull out and a zip at the bottom so you can pop your legs out to walk about camp like wearing a jacket. It's for even colder temperatures.
Great Review ❗️
In Europe you either love or hate it, but for the Price you get great value. Use it with the Carinthia Tropen down to -8 Celsius 👍🇨🇭
Looks like a Patrol bag from the military's ECWS setup. And you can even toss in a Gortex bivy and still be way less in costs. Just saying in a pinch.. nice bag and the reflective layer is a good idea. One can also toss a mylar blanket under any bag and improve it's heat reflection ability.
Great review. Im looking for a second bag so this looks great. Thank you.
I might experiment with this bag and the Onewind top quilt. Could be an interesting combo there.