Totally get where your coming from with the breathing hole placement.That's one of the things the Corinthia Defence 4 does well, the breathing hole is in the right place for you to have your pillow inside. Whenever you have a bag with a breathing hole though I think your always going to find it rubbing against your face regardless if your sleeping on your back.
I dont have the same experience with any of my other bags, including my Jura 2 that is based on this style bag. Its centre zip, pockets inside and the same sort of baffle for the zip. Its just got a bigger hood but that can be synched in small if needed.
The bag was designed to be used whilst wearing military combat gear including armour and boots.. the hood is small to allow the user to have peripheral vision,, the zip is in the centre for a quick reaction... Comparing it to civilian bags is unreasonable... Also when the army issues a bag it is fitted to the soldier there are different size variants available.. It is not designed for comfort but pure survival... A knackered soldier will sleep anywhere.
Although I completely agree with your comments, the video was made because I see a lot of people in the Bushcraft / wildcamping circles using them. I got one just to see what all the fuss was about. This is just my honest opinion after using one for a few weeks in the above mentioned settings. It may well be ok in a military setting, although they have now moved on to a better system. Regards JB.
I think they're great value for money, I just bought a British army arctic sleeping bag from ebay, grade 1 condition, I first used one over 20 years ago when I was in the territorial army and in combination with a British army gortex bivy bag it has saved my bacon on numerous occasions, you can literally sleep on a glacier with one of these and it has a lot more pro's than cons in my opinion so don't rule it out completely.
Most the time a soldier gets a chance to sleep he will doss down where ever he can, he won't worry about taking his boots off, body armour off, helmet off, he'll wrap the doss bag around him and try to catch 50 zzzzs. It's very rare a soldier will set up a full basha, poncho, doss bag, ground mat to sleep on either exercise or in battle. Be grateful for small mercies.
Really good review, cheers. One of the best reviews I've seen. So many sleeping bags seem to have warmth ratings that are total tosh... I've never had a bag yet that has a rating that's close to reality.
Good sleeping bag used one for 7 weeks in winter in the UK kept me warm never cold I got no body fat I did wear merino wool baselayers inside but was too hot but if you wear a layer inside then it's fine for the money, I've used thinner down bags in Scotland at bottom of mountains in the ice and just kept me warm not snug! If I had this bag I no I would of been a lot warmer! Originally bought one of these because I used them on military training in the UK yeah it wasn't in arctic climate but as a sleeping bag it was very comfortable! Never used in the snow yet so can't say if it's a good bag for snow or not! But never been cold in this bag when I have used it. Would be interesting to see how it handles -15 if we got that cold in the UK I would use it because I think it would keep me warm! Only negative is the fact it's a bit chunky packed away compared to a down bag but then it's worth it for the warmth in my opinion 🤔
Thanks for that comment. I use mummy bags most of the time, but not quite this shape. Some people love this bag but it just dont feel right for me. You will find with all my reviews (I dont do many) I just speak as I find. Dont matter if its popular or expensive, if I dont like it I will say so and the reason why. Regards JB.
Just received one of these in the mail today. It looks to be in decent shape. Obviously, as it’s not new unused condition it probably isn’t as good temperature rating. Was just trying mine for about 45 minutes at 32°F which is 0°C. The foot box was already beginningTo become cold. It does not have as much loft in the synthetic fill as I would have anticipated. The draft baffle along the zipper is super thick, but the rest of the bag looks like it uses Thinsulate insulation and there’s a good amount. It just not giving me confidence the comfort rating would be much less than freezing. Humidity outside was 70%. No doubt, moisture plays role if you get chilled or not. That was one positive the bag did not absorb the moisture in air. It wasn’t raining or anything, but it stayed dry inside the bag. Hey, it was comfortable enough. I’ll test it again for another hour or so at least tonight at 20° to see how it does. I also have a Belgium bivy that uses breathable nylon with silicone treatment that will most likely give it another possible 10°F rating. Will definitely see. It is quite a large bag does not compress down very well. I’m actually leaning more towards getting a new condition down synthetic combination bag that can more easily be packed. I’ll enter in another comment under this one later once I’ve tried the MK two synthetic British Arctic fart sack at 20° temperatures that is Fahrenheit. or about -7°C. One other last thought. In the United States we have temperature ratings that include survivable and also based on if you’re wearing the issued clothing layers. Like the Polartec longjohns and pajama top. Some people call it the ninja suit I actually have a set that sand colored. Wearing bass layers inside the sleeping bag definitely makes a difference. Also sometimes it’s recommended to wear your boots or at least it’s a possibility. I never have, but I do wear wool socks when I’m inside the sleeping bag. Earlier at around 0°C 32°F my wool socks were feeling the cold through the foot box of this bag. I was trying it without wearing bass layers. I guess a bit like going commando. That’s the best way to really feel if the bag is trapping in your body heat and where the cold spots might be. I’ll post another comment in a few hours after I try it at 20°F and possibly with the Belgium bivy which slides over much like a pillow case onto the sleeping bag.😅🎉
It may of been in storage for years, that will effect the loft. You could always try putting it in a tumble dryer on low heat will a couple of tennis balls. It might loosen up the filling a bit.
They are decent pieces of kit to be fair. One of the points to remember is that they are old! modern sleeping bags have newer tec and are lighter and generally smaller to pack and carry. I think for a cheapish warm bag they are hard to better BUT the compromise is exactly as described Jim. If you buy one check the pockets!!!!! You might find all sorts lurking! all best mate.
That’s a shame mate, never had one so can’t comment. I do like to be able to move around too! Always struggle in the mummy bags Hope you’re feeling better now buddy, all the best Ash 🏕
Very honest, personal view of the bag, and I entirely agree, sleeping bags either suit you or not. I'm comfy in my old Eurohike, so until it gives/wears out or gets damaged it will do for going to ground. The Artic bag with its quite specific design, is probably perfect for some 🙂 Wouldn't fancy having to carry it along with my kit though....
I agree with you about the size and weight, found my warm enough but too claustrophobic for me as well. I just use a softie 6 and take a wool blanket, takes up less room. But the artic bag is good value for money.
Personal preferences are personal by definition. My British army bivvy has no zip, so the center zip on the bag makes it a lot easier to get in and out of them. I too doubt the temp rating, It's probably a survival rating not a comfort rating . The center zip is very convenient for heat regulation.
I really like mine, I like if you turn over, it turns with you. Yes, it’s big and heavy. I’ve used it down to about 3C and found it adequate but wasn’t convinced it would be comfortable (on its own) at much lower temps. As I plan on camping over winter I have reluctantly upgraded to the Corinthia defence 4 Again, another big heavy bag but it’s about 1.3kg lighter than the b.a.a bag.
Jim-Bob Outdoors I would say I’m a cold sleeper anyway, if we stuffed Keith Sallis in a B.A.A bag he probably would bake. Stick someone like him in one of these bags and they may be comfortable down to -5 or so🤷♂️ But I think -15 extreme is very unlikely. (Not that we will ever find out😅).
They are getting old now, so it would depend on how its been used and stored. Personally I would go for the current British army bag. Its a better design, not so old and around the same money. ruclips.net/video/AKkT71C7Hmo/видео.htmlsi=V7qBdpucvTocm4Wm
As much as I like mummy bags I agree they just don't fit quite right sometimes it's hard to roll over inside of them and the ratings I don't really trust either. The only one I found to have room was a sierria designs hibernator special forces sleep system. Just like yours I was comfortable warm in about 30cdegree when I should have been sweating because it is rated 0 degrees. Still nice bag though and yours. Thanks for sharing😎
Damn it, I've just chucked my down version out as it's deteriorating and it started letting in the cold. I bought the synthetic version which Fern used on our camp, it turns out she doesn't think it's that warm. I haven't used it yet, but time will tell I suppose, who knows I might love it. As for the hood, I never use them, I just wear a beanie on and wear my hood from my hoodie. What do you think of the Jura 2 in comparison? The pillow issue on the outside I have sorted by using a new trekology aluft pillow. It has a strap on the back that keeps it in place on your mat.
The Jura 2 is not a winter bag in my opinion, but is way better in very sense than the army bag. Still like the Jura 2 but just not for full on winter conditions. I know you use a under blanket though, that would make all the difference. 👍
Great review mate but on some parts i disagree cause iv used mine in winter months and i sweat in it still but i am warm blooded im always hot. My hood is bigger than that though i must have a dif model but i defo have a British army artic sleeping bag.. I love the centre zip makes its easier getting in and out when in tent or hammock only issue i have is it could zip all the way down would be better. Nice one
Mine is still plush after 29 years of ownership. Zip quality is epic- doesn't jam. I have hammock-slept in it in the Aussie winter (2 deg. That night, old school cotton hammock, no under blanket, not tarp top) and still woke up too hot. 🤣 it was an utter faff-around trying to shuffle into the bag once in the hammock😂.
Your ground insulation is critical to maintaining warmth in any bag, also soldiers don't get undressed so I would wear thermal underwear in one with a bag liner as well or you will get cold 😎
Hello my friend I hope your well. I completely agree with this ,but , as you will probably know my best friend and camping buddy "The Veteran" was in the reconnaissance for 10 years. And he says the army issue equipment isn't made for comfort but purely survival, they slept in their boots fully clothed but with army softie over trousers and jacket witch they are issued with the bag witch all in all makes it down to the stated -15 comfort rating. Anyway I do agree to heavy and bulky and I would use one lol
im with you, i bought one after every one was raving about how warm it was, nope , i dont get it , to big, to heavy and not warm enough, a carinthia defence 4 is a much much better sleeping bag
@@jim-bob-outdoors the 58 patterm is voluminous and has a huge hood, you can roll around in it and it stays put BUT they are no good near 0° temperatures, had mine out in 6°c and felt the chill.
Hi JB, I know you have a Miltec Bivi bag so what about this idea 🤔 I have a Miltec Bivi bag, a 3 season Snugpak Basecamp synthetic bag, I'm on the verge of buying a exped down lite mat R rating 4.9. Wearing thermals and maybe using a sleeping bag liner should provide the extra warmth. It's rare UK drops below minus 10 for long periods unless it is somewhere extreme in UK. Many down sleeping bags are over priced and mummy shaped. I look forward to your next solo camp atb Taff 🤠
I have one, bought it to use in my lavuu which tends to be a bit muddy inside if my groundsheet moves so a cheap bag was I thought essential. I really liked it but I honestly thought it wasn't up to the temp rating even in my bivi bag.. It might be that its old but now I use two down bags one inside the other when its below freezing and man I'm warm ! And the two bags compress to much smaller than the arctic and weigh less than 2kg. Not sure if I've gone off subject here ! Thank you for a great review.
I agree Martyn, I do the same. 3 season bag with my summer bag over the top. Its been fine down to -5c but it is rare to get any colder than that locally. I was very disappointed with the army bag because it was in great condition, just didn't work out for me personally. Regards JB.
i i bought 1 about 6 years back for £50 unissued , still as good as it was from the day i bought it , i recently bought another unissued one for £25 in a small army navy store in glasgow scotland ,but the size can be a pain sometimes as its a big bag im 6ft 2 and its has loads of room .
@@johnbhoy1888 unissued is the key. The insulation breaks down over time, especially if it has been washed a lot. The replacement army bag is way better.
That sleeping bag would fill my rucksack near enough. So wouldn't be for me. I have the snugpak 4 season that's big. Would love to have have a down sleeping bag but very expensive.
Not a happy bag worm Allen. I can see why you haven't sold it on - you didn't want to inflict such discomfort upon another. That's a good quality. Have a cool week. Mark
Well I’ve been looking at one of these for myself but not been able to bite the bull it as yet Hmm pack isn’t really that good is it but if it keeps u warm in winter months then it’s good to go I supose really I still will try n get one at some point thanks for sharing mate
Hello Allan, I've waited a long time for this review ... and now : (( what a pity! I've had this bag for 2 months now ... but haven't been able to test it yet. What I know ... there are 2 sizes and over the years something has always been changed ... the zipper, for example, short and long. I heard that the "new" models no longer achieve the old quality ... is it possible that the loft of your sleeping bag has been compressed due to the long storage? And a question ... when you talk about temperatures ... do you mean degrees Celsius or Farenheit? As always, best regards from Germania Jürgen
My one is in very good condition and hardly looks used. It lofts ok as I store it hanging up, not compressed. My figures are always Celsius unless I make a point of using something different, its what I was taught. Regards Al.
@@jim-bob-outdoors hmm...me I'm 1,90 and round 100kg :(( maybe you try an large one when you have a possibility....by the way,there is an liner for these bags
@@jim-bob-outdoors to be fair I’ve not used any other sleeping bag so I have nothing to compare with. I do know that used with a bivi bag I can sleep in that naked in the snow.
Honest review and liked your delivery don't disagree with the size and weight issues. Interesting point on the warmth issues The current MOD Modular System has a life expectancy of 35 washes. At what point is a surplus mag moved out of the system and declared surplus and to will probably spent a lot of its life in its compression sack ? A surplus bag sold on the civilian market may well be moving towards its ende!
Its a very good point Raymond. I dont think mine has seen a lot of use or washes. It looks almost new, with no marks / stains etc. You never really know the history of these items though. 🤔 Thanks for watching. JB.
yes fair point, a lot of these have been thrashed before they are sold on. Also they have been stored for a long time possibly compressed. They are not going to be A1 nick unless very lucky. For the price they are good in my opinion but they are not 2020 fresh.
Sadly yes I gave it to a mate of mine. The current British army "medium weight" bag is way better, and cheaper too. 👍 ruclips.net/video/AKkT71C7Hmo/видео.html
She's big & heavy for sure. I've had mine since 1992 and it's still plush. That's nearly 30yrs‼️. The Mk1 bag was awful ( nicknamed ' the rubber maggot') - all the feather-down compressed and settled along the section seams so only 1/4 of the entire bag was capable of actually insulating you. 'Pillow space' isn't a consideration for genuine military use🤔🤣. The main zip shows no sign of jamming in mine, even after all this time. Yeah, I always thought it was rated to minus 14......... however, I reckon it's realistically good down to minus 3, but use a goretex bivvi bag & a modern sleep mat and it'll do you down to around minus 8 without layering up like an onion. Storing them non-compressed is the key to ensuring the bag stays in prime condition. There are better bags out there without doubt, but are they fit for military application?? Probs not.
thats so much deep hate for a sleep bag haha, and you contradicted yourself, you said you never slept in it, then go on to say you slept in it haha! like what dude
@@jim-bob-outdoors I paid £20 from a friend who drank too much got a beer belly and could no longer fit in it haha, but i must say, the only thing i dont like for casual camping with it is the mummy style, its not very free feeling, but then again it keeps you cozy
Totally get where your coming from with the breathing hole placement.That's one of the things the Corinthia Defence 4 does well, the breathing hole is in the right place for you to have your pillow inside. Whenever you have a bag with a breathing hole though I think your always going to find it rubbing against your face regardless if your sleeping on your back.
I dont have the same experience with any of my other bags, including my Jura 2 that is based on this style bag. Its centre zip, pockets inside and the same sort of baffle for the zip. Its just got a bigger hood but that can be synched in small if needed.
The bag was designed to be used whilst wearing military combat gear including armour and boots.. the hood is small to allow the user to have peripheral vision,, the zip is in the centre for a quick reaction... Comparing it to civilian bags is unreasonable... Also when the army issues a bag it is fitted to the soldier there are different size variants available.. It is not designed for comfort but pure survival... A knackered soldier will sleep anywhere.
Although I completely agree with your comments, the video was made because I see a lot of people in the Bushcraft / wildcamping circles using them. I got one just to see what all the fuss was about. This is just my honest opinion after using one for a few weeks in the above mentioned settings. It may well be ok in a military setting, although they have now moved on to a better system. Regards JB.
@@jim-bob-outdoors yeah I know about the new sleep system been a soldier for 30 years now...
I think they're great value for money, I just bought a British army arctic sleeping bag from ebay, grade 1 condition, I first used one over 20 years ago when I was in the territorial army and in combination with a British army gortex bivy bag it has saved my bacon on numerous occasions, you can literally sleep on a glacier with one of these and it has a lot more pro's than cons in my opinion so don't rule it out completely.
I now have the current British medium bag, its a big leap forward. 👍
Most the time a soldier gets a chance to sleep he will doss down where ever he can, he won't worry about taking his boots off, body armour off, helmet off, he'll wrap the doss bag around him and try to catch 50 zzzzs. It's very rare a soldier will set up a full basha, poncho, doss bag, ground mat to sleep on either exercise or in battle. Be grateful for small mercies.
I have one and it's perfect for me. Best cold weather bag ever!
It just didn't feel right for me or that warm. The current issue one, now that's a different story. 👍
Thank you for your honest feedback on this, I definitely don’t like the idea of rolling on to your side and the bag staying still.
Glad to be of some help.
Really good review, cheers. One of the best reviews I've seen. So many sleeping bags seem to have warmth ratings that are total tosh... I've never had a bag yet that has a rating that's close to reality.
Only bag I have that I believe the rating is spot on is the Eurohike 300. +3 to -3c comfort. I find this about right. 👍
Very true and these ratings don't take into account 9 times out of 10 you are fully clothed
Good sleeping bag used one for 7 weeks in winter in the UK kept me warm never cold I got no body fat I did wear merino wool baselayers inside but was too hot but if you wear a layer inside then it's fine for the money, I've used thinner down bags in Scotland at bottom of mountains in the ice and just kept me warm not snug! If I had this bag I no I would of been a lot warmer! Originally bought one of these because I used them on military training in the UK yeah it wasn't in arctic climate but as a sleeping bag it was very comfortable! Never used in the snow yet so can't say if it's a good bag for snow or not! But never been cold in this bag when I have used it. Would be interesting to see how it handles -15 if we got that cold in the UK I would use it because I think it would keep me warm! Only negative is the fact it's a bit chunky packed away compared to a down bag but then it's worth it for the warmth in my opinion 🤔
This is why I much prefer the envelope style bag. Great review based on the ‘it’s not for me, it might be ok for others’ approach.
Thanks for that comment. I use mummy bags most of the time, but not quite this shape. Some people love this bag but it just dont feel right for me. You will find with all my reviews (I dont do many) I just speak as I find. Dont matter if its popular or expensive, if I dont like it I will say so and the reason why. Regards JB.
Just received one of these in the mail today. It looks to be in decent shape. Obviously, as it’s not new unused condition it probably isn’t as good temperature rating. Was just trying mine for about 45 minutes at 32°F which is 0°C. The foot box was already beginningTo become cold. It does not have as much loft in the synthetic fill as I would have anticipated. The draft baffle along the zipper is super thick, but the rest of the bag looks like it uses Thinsulate insulation and there’s a good amount. It just not giving me confidence the comfort rating would be much less than freezing. Humidity outside was 70%. No doubt, moisture plays role if you get chilled or not. That was one positive the bag did not absorb the moisture in air. It wasn’t raining or anything, but it stayed dry inside the bag.
Hey, it was comfortable enough. I’ll test it again for another hour or so at least tonight at 20° to see how it does. I also have a Belgium bivy that uses breathable nylon with silicone treatment that will most likely give it another possible 10°F rating. Will definitely see. It is quite a large bag does not compress down very well. I’m actually leaning more towards getting a new condition down synthetic combination bag that can more easily be packed.
I’ll enter in another comment under this one later once I’ve tried the MK two synthetic British Arctic fart sack at 20° temperatures that is Fahrenheit. or about -7°C.
One other last thought. In the United States we have temperature ratings that include survivable and also based on if you’re wearing the issued clothing layers. Like the Polartec longjohns and pajama top. Some people call it the ninja suit I actually have a set that sand colored. Wearing bass layers inside the sleeping bag definitely makes a difference. Also sometimes it’s recommended to wear your boots or at least it’s a possibility. I never have, but I do wear wool socks when I’m inside the sleeping bag. Earlier at around 0°C 32°F my wool socks were feeling the cold through the foot box of this bag. I was trying it without wearing bass layers. I guess a bit like going commando. That’s the best way to really feel if the bag is trapping in your body heat and where the cold spots might be.
I’ll post another comment in a few hours after I try it at 20°F and possibly with the Belgium bivy which slides over much like a pillow case onto the sleeping bag.😅🎉
It may of been in storage for years, that will effect the loft. You could always try putting it in a tumble dryer on low heat will a couple of tennis balls. It might loosen up the filling a bit.
They are decent pieces of kit to be fair. One of the points to remember is that they are old! modern sleeping bags have newer tec and are lighter and generally smaller to pack and carry. I think for a cheapish warm bag they are hard to better BUT the compromise is exactly as described Jim. If you buy one check the pockets!!!!! You might find all sorts lurking! all best mate.
Empty pockets in this one I am afraid. 😁👍
That’s a shame mate, never had one so can’t comment. I do like to be able to move around too! Always struggle in the mummy bags
Hope you’re feeling better now buddy, all the best
Ash 🏕
Getting better mate thanks. 👍
I'm the same, mummy bags are so restricted and I often walk up feeling like I'm in a straight jacket lol
Very honest, personal view of the bag, and I entirely agree, sleeping bags either suit you or not. I'm comfy in my old Eurohike, so until it gives/wears out or gets damaged it will do for going to ground. The Artic bag with its quite specific design, is probably perfect for some 🙂 Wouldn't fancy having to carry it along with my kit though....
It is a big heavy bugger. 😂
I agree with you about the size and weight, found my warm enough but too claustrophobic for me as well. I just use a softie 6 and take a wool blanket, takes up less room. But the artic bag is good value for money.
My Eurohike or the DD Jura 2 is normally fine when used in a bivvy.
Personal preferences are personal by definition.
My British army bivvy has no zip, so the center zip on the bag makes it a lot easier to get in and out of them.
I too doubt the temp rating,
It's probably a survival rating not a comfort rating .
The center zip is very convenient for heat regulation.
I do like a centre zip. The modern British army sleeping bag has one and its way better that the old one. Lighter, packs smaller and I find it warmer.
I really like mine, I like if you turn over, it turns with you.
Yes, it’s big and heavy.
I’ve used it down to about 3C and found it adequate but wasn’t convinced it would be comfortable (on its own) at much lower temps.
As I plan on camping over winter I have reluctantly upgraded to the Corinthia defence 4
Again, another big heavy bag but it’s about 1.3kg lighter than the b.a.a bag.
I am just in the process of looking for a new winter bag. I was surprised that I was not too hot in the Arctic bag at 5c. 🤔
Jim-Bob Outdoors I would say I’m a cold sleeper anyway, if we stuffed Keith Sallis in a B.A.A bag he probably would bake.
Stick someone like him in one of these bags and they may be comfortable down to -5 or so🤷♂️
But I think -15 extreme is very unlikely. (Not that we will ever find out😅).
@@sheepsteef1974 Very true. 👍
At first glance I thought shit bear Grylls has aged 😂
Now that's funny. 🤣👍
Hello, how good are the used Grad1 sleeping bags? Thanks
They are getting old now, so it would depend on how its been used and stored. Personally I would go for the current British army bag. Its a better design, not so old and around the same money. ruclips.net/video/AKkT71C7Hmo/видео.htmlsi=V7qBdpucvTocm4Wm
As much as I like mummy bags I agree they just don't fit quite right sometimes it's hard to roll over inside of them and the ratings I don't really trust either. The only one I found to have room was a sierria designs hibernator special forces sleep system. Just like yours I was comfortable warm in about 30cdegree when I should have been sweating because it is rated 0 degrees. Still nice bag though and yours. Thanks for sharing😎
Its great for the price (about £30) but it just dont work for me. 🤔
Damn it, I've just chucked my down version out as it's deteriorating and it started letting in the cold. I bought the synthetic version which Fern used on our camp, it turns out she doesn't think it's that warm. I haven't used it yet, but time will tell I suppose, who knows I might love it. As for the hood, I never use them, I just wear a beanie on and wear my hood from my hoodie.
What do you think of the Jura 2 in comparison?
The pillow issue on the outside I have sorted by using a new trekology aluft pillow. It has a strap on the back that keeps it in place on your mat.
The Jura 2 is not a winter bag in my opinion, but is way better in very sense than the army bag. Still like the Jura 2 but just not for full on winter conditions. I know you use a under blanket though, that would make all the difference. 👍
I agree with you there. I had to unzip mine for more room. I was hot in it but then again it was a humid night, so I do need to take it out again.
Just felt to restrictive for me. 😒
@@jim-bob-outdoors mines a large. What size is yours?
@@RickallsBushcraft01 Medium but meant to be ok up to 6 foot 2" 🤔
@@jim-bob-outdoors maybe we could try a swap?
Great review mate but on some parts i disagree cause iv used mine in winter months and i sweat in it still but i am warm blooded im always hot.
My hood is bigger than that though i must have a dif model but i defo have a British army artic sleeping bag.. I love the centre zip makes its easier getting in and out when in tent or hammock only issue i have is it could zip all the way down would be better.
Nice one
I just dont get on with this model. Much happier in the Jura 2. 👍
@@jim-bob-outdoors is it the standard size jura 2 or the XL? I was told the xl is the same size as the british army bag?
@@southbucksbushcraft6572 Mine is the standard. Half the pack size/ weight but loads more room.
Mine is still plush after 29 years of ownership. Zip quality is epic- doesn't jam. I have hammock-slept in it in the Aussie winter (2 deg. That night, old school cotton hammock, no under blanket, not tarp top) and still woke up too hot. 🤣 it was an utter faff-around trying to shuffle into the bag once in the hammock😂.
The hood looks out of proportion as soon as I saw it. It would drive me crazy. Take care mate. 😎🐺☮️👍
Yes its just not right for me personally. JB.
Your ground insulation is critical to maintaining warmth in any bag, also soldiers don't get undressed so I would wear thermal underwear in one with a bag liner as well or you will get cold 😎
I am always well insulated, I think this bag was just past its best.
Hello my friend I hope your well. I completely agree with this ,but , as you will probably know my best friend and camping buddy "The Veteran" was in the reconnaissance for 10 years. And he says the army issue equipment isn't made for comfort but purely survival, they slept in their boots fully clothed but with army softie over trousers and jacket witch they are issued with the bag witch all in all makes it down to the stated -15 comfort rating. Anyway I do agree to heavy and bulky and I would use one lol
Many people rave about them, so I though I would give it a go. All that size and bulk is just not worth it.
@@jim-bob-outdoors agreed 👍
im with you, i bought one after every one was raving about how warm it was, nope , i dont get it , to big, to heavy and not warm enough, a carinthia defence 4 is a much much better sleeping bag
Yes, I fail to see what all the fuss is about. 🤔
I use a rubber type mesh mat (light)
this helps stop everything turning when I roll over in the sleeping bag😀
I have the 58 and the arctic M37 bag, i absolutely agree with this review, hood too small, not comfy but cheap enough 👍
Agreed, its good for the money, but it just dont feel right for me personally.
@@jim-bob-outdoors the 58 patterm is voluminous and has a huge hood, you can roll around in it and it stays put BUT they are no good near 0° temperatures, had mine out in 6°c and felt the chill.
@@kentprepper6392 Yep, the are better options out there. My Jura 2 is the same sort of design and a lot more comfortable.
I have never been cold in a 58 pattern bag.
Woke up to find frost on the outside of it once, but I was perfectly warm!
Excellent review. We get too many positive reviews everywhere for everything , nice to see you telling it like it is.
Thanks. I just try to be honest. It might be fine for some people, but I just didn't get on with it. Regards JB.
Hi JB, I know you have a Miltec Bivi bag so what about this idea 🤔
I have a Miltec Bivi bag, a 3 season Snugpak Basecamp synthetic bag, I'm on the verge of buying a exped down lite mat R rating 4.9.
Wearing thermals and maybe using a sleeping bag liner should provide the extra warmth. It's rare UK drops below minus 10 for long periods unless it is somewhere extreme in UK.
Many down sleeping bags are over priced and mummy shaped.
I look forward to your next solo camp atb Taff 🤠
I am fine in the bivvy with what I have, it was more for hammock use. I have another in mind. 👍
I have one, bought it to use in my lavuu which tends to be a bit muddy inside if my groundsheet moves so a cheap bag was I thought essential. I really liked it but I honestly thought it wasn't up to the temp rating even in my bivi bag.. It might be that its old but now I use two down bags one inside the other when its below freezing and man I'm warm ! And the two bags compress to much smaller than the arctic and weigh less than 2kg. Not sure if I've gone off subject here ! Thank you for a great review.
I agree Martyn, I do the same. 3 season bag with my summer bag over the top. Its been fine down to -5c but it is rare to get any colder than that locally. I was very disappointed with the army bag because it was in great condition, just didn't work out for me personally. Regards JB.
I like the fact your honest about it. Thanks for the review.
Thanks. I try to just keep things simple and my honest view. JB
So which bag would you recommend ?
Depends what you are looking for. On the surplus market, the current British army medium weight bag takes some beating.
BEST BIT OF KIT I HAVE BOUGHT, THATS ONLY MY OPINION.
Its good that you have got something that is right for you. Just did not feel right for me. 👍
i i bought 1 about 6 years back for £50 unissued , still as good as it was from the day i bought it , i recently bought another unissued one for £25 in a small army navy store in glasgow scotland ,but the size can be a pain sometimes as its a big bag im 6ft 2 and its has loads of room .
@@johnbhoy1888 unissued is the key. The insulation breaks down over time, especially if it has been washed a lot. The replacement army bag is way better.
Good stuff mate a big head 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 I still like the look of these may still buy one but yeah that's a small hood for a big unit
Some people love it, but the is a lot better out there for not much more money.
I've got the exact same bag, and have exactly the same criticisms of it that you voice. For exactly the same reasons.
It's such a pity isn't it !!
I really wanted to like it, but after using it a couple of times it was starting to really annoy me. 😒
@@jim-bob-outdoors I understand completely Jim. Such a pity isn't it.
I've not tried one of those but like you, I like the idea. If I do get one I now know a few things to look for.
I would not bother, the is a lot better out there for sensible money.
Thanks for the honest review.
Just my opinion, some people love them. 👍
That sleeping bag would fill my rucksack near enough. So wouldn't be for me. I have the snugpak 4 season that's big. Would love to have have a down sleeping bag but very expensive.
I have been looking at down winter bags too. At the moment the OEX ev 900 looks the best bet for performance v price. (about £125) 🤔
Not a happy bag worm Allen. I can see why you haven't sold it on - you didn't want to inflict such discomfort upon another. That's a good quality. Have a cool week. Mark
Thanks for watching Mark. 👍
@@jim-bob-outdoors A pleasure.
Well I’ve been looking at one of these for myself but not been able to bite the bull it as yet Hmm pack isn’t really that good is it but if it keeps u warm in winter months then it’s good to go I supose really I still will try n get one at some point thanks for sharing mate
They are ok for the money but it depends if the shape suites you as I found out. 👍
Hello Allan,
I've waited a long time for this review ... and now : (( what a pity!
I've had this bag for 2 months now ... but haven't been able to test it yet.
What I know ... there are 2 sizes and over the years something has always been changed ... the zipper, for example, short and long.
I heard that the "new" models no longer achieve the old quality ...
is it possible that the loft of your sleeping bag has been compressed due to the long storage?
And a question ... when you talk about temperatures ... do you mean degrees Celsius or Farenheit?
As always, best regards from Germania
Jürgen
My one is in very good condition and hardly looks used. It lofts ok as I store it hanging up, not compressed. My figures are always Celsius unless I make a point of using something different, its what I was taught. Regards Al.
@@jim-bob-outdoors Ok...I'm 1,90 and sure a bit heavier than you 😐 and have enough room.. maybe it's possible that you get a medium one ( think)
@@j.juergen1010 Yes mine is the medium. I am about 1,80 and 83kg. 👍
@@jim-bob-outdoors hmm...me I'm 1,90 and round 100kg :(( maybe you try an large one when you have a possibility....by the way,there is an liner for these bags
@@j.juergen1010 I will probably end up just buying a proper winter bag. 😁
You’re doing something wrong I can get that down to more than half that size
I can get it smaller but nothing like my other bags.
@@jim-bob-outdoors to be fair I’ve not used any other sleeping bag so I have nothing to compare with. I do know that used with a bivi bag I can sleep in that naked in the snow.
Honest review and liked your delivery don't disagree with the size and weight issues. Interesting point on the warmth issues The current MOD Modular System has a life expectancy of 35 washes. At what point is a surplus mag moved out of the system and declared surplus and to will probably spent a lot of its life in its compression sack ? A surplus bag sold on the civilian market may well be moving towards its ende!
Its a very good point Raymond. I dont think mine has seen a lot of use or washes. It looks almost new, with no marks / stains etc. You never really know the history of these items though. 🤔 Thanks for watching. JB.
yes fair point, a lot of these have been thrashed before they are sold on. Also they have been stored for a long time possibly compressed. They are not going to be A1 nick unless very lucky. For the price they are good in my opinion but they are not 2020 fresh.
@@greetb9330 Mine was in good condition, hardly looked used. It was just the shape / design I could not get on with. JB.
@@jim-bob-outdoors All down to personal taste mate, worth giving it a try and theres always a market for them anyway. Happy camping.
@@greetb9330 Yes its just not the one for me. Gave it away to a mate yesterday. 👍
Hay bob did u finally give the army sleeping bag away yet I would love one just wondering if you had or not
Sadly yes I gave it to a mate of mine. The current British army "medium weight" bag is way better, and cheaper too. 👍 ruclips.net/video/AKkT71C7Hmo/видео.html
Where do you find 8t
On a military surplus site online. You can also find them on Ebay.
She's big & heavy for sure. I've had mine since 1992 and it's still plush. That's nearly 30yrs‼️. The Mk1 bag was awful ( nicknamed ' the rubber maggot') - all the feather-down compressed and settled along the section seams so only 1/4 of the entire bag was capable of actually insulating you.
'Pillow space' isn't a consideration for genuine military use🤔🤣.
The main zip shows no sign of jamming in mine, even after all this time. Yeah, I always thought it was rated to minus 14......... however, I reckon it's realistically good down to minus 3, but use a goretex bivvi bag & a modern sleep mat and it'll do you down to around minus 8 without layering up like an onion. Storing them non-compressed is the key to ensuring the bag stays in prime condition. There are better bags out there without doubt, but are they fit for military application?? Probs not.
I now have the modern replacement, British medium weight bag (Corinthia rip off) its way better. 😎
Jim-Bob's Adventures & Kit - obviously after my time, probs around the same time they surrendered the poncho's and adopted real tarps🇬🇧😯👍
thats so much deep hate for a sleep bag haha, and you contradicted yourself, you said you never slept in it, then go on to say you slept in it haha! like what dude
I did spend the night in it on more than one occasion. Just did not get a lot of sleep. The is way better bags out there for the money.
@@jim-bob-outdoors I paid £20 from a friend who drank too much got a beer belly and could no longer fit in it haha, but i must say, the only thing i dont like for casual camping with it is the mummy style, its not very free feeling, but then again it keeps you cozy
@@Millzieeeee The current British medium weight bag is way better and around the same price. Still mummy ish, but loads of room so not restrictive. 👍
@@jim-bob-outdoors would I'd assume so yknow technology progresses and all that jazz
@@Millzieeeee not only better materials but a better shape too. 👍
You need a bigger size
Not anymore, I gave it away. 😁
@@jim-bob-outdoors 😎😂