if you want to compress the sleeping bag more, you can sit on the bag as you pull up on the compression straps. Also when you are sleeping in one in cold or extreme cold weather, once you get in it you are supposed to strip off your uniform,(clothes), and keep them inside the bag with you. This allows your body to breathe so that you are not sweating in your clothes, and keeps your clothes warm for when you get up in the morning.
This was the most cozy sleeping bag system I've ever been in. Cold nights in Afghanistan, and in the mojave desert, and this thing got the job done. I will say it's rather heavy, but that is the only downfall. I miss it so much I ordered my own.
Bo Fa'aita Thanks for serving! Yeah, I used mine this weekend in my Hennessey Hammock while camping with the Boy Scouts. It got down in the low 40s and I was toasty, which is tricky in a hammock.
Bo Fa'aita same here. I missed mine so much that I just had to purchase my own since I couldn't get away with snagging it before my time was up. I still have my woobie though and managed to keep my USMC ILBE pack along with my assault pack that attaches to it to. What branch did you serve in by the way?
I brought mine home with me and my wife is such a bed sheet hog that one night I was being a smart a$$ and threw my sleeping bag on the bed. She said "what are you doing?" I climbed into the bag and said good luck steeling these covers!!". Dude!! Best nights sleep since Baghdad rotfl. Im so glad supply lost their records of issuing my TA-50. The only things I returned was my Kevlar and my IBA. Everything else I brought home with me :D
Brian, New subscriber, retired military. Good review. I use my mss with a foam thermarest ridgerest solar pad inside the bivi under the sleeping bag, inside my hennessy survivor woodland camo zip hammock. A little heavy for long range backpacking but, never been cold, never been wet. Take care stay safe O.P. ( Olde Phart)
Brian, I have been a grunt for 12 years. For 10 of those I used this sleeping system. As a grunt it it OK by normal standards I would rate it as good. Also the green bag goes inside the black bag.
My dad sent me one of these for some winter camping I’ve been doing. He said black goes in the green. Does it matter? In terms of compressing the fill or something??
Mine and my wife's came with a 9 strap compression sack. 6 that go long ways, and 3 that go short ways around the round part. You definitely want the 9 strap sack, it compresses it much better. They are about 20 bucks on ebay. I bought the whole 4pc system used in excellent condition for $140. I love it, it's my favorite piece of gear.
I have always had good luck getting my compression bags smallest when after pulling the straps tight, you can then sit on the top side of the bag and continue to tighten the straps. Let your weight and gravity do the work .
Brian, great video. You explained each piece of equipment, showed how they marry together, and the benefit of the bag as a whole. I bought one new, but have never used it. Now I'm old and sick, so time to pass it down to someone who might appreciate having one.
Brain I think this was the best yet. Don't think I have seen anyone show the whole system from take down put together and stuff to all in one video. Very good thanks a bunch.
These also come in a larger sizes for taller individuals. When purchasing said item,be sure you get the one that fits your size so that it can be used to it's full extent. I'm about 5' 8" and have the size listed as the one in this video. They can be purchased on eBay for a great price and in a variety of conditions with A being in tip top shape,and B being slightly used,and C having small holes/tares/rips,missing buttons or zippers that may not function but can be repaired. These sleep systems are an excellent item to add to your bug out bag or just for every day camping with the family. I would highly recommend the purchase of this sleep system for a variety of reasons. Don't forget to buy either a yoga mat to tuck inside of it or a self inflating mat for extra added comfort. Great video made here by the way and you won't regret purchasing such an item. In sime cases,most of these come with directions on how to dress properly for the environment you are in so that the MSS can be used to it's full potential when dressed properly in whatever climate you are in.
I have this MSS and the Canadian MSS, the US version does me well in my hot tents. My Cdn system is much larger and heavier and is good for much colder temps, but again your clothing you sleep in , and your shelter will make all the difference, a good pad and cot or insulation on the ground make all the difference. Will be using my US MSS this weekend at the prospector tent....cheers Fred
Thanks for the review. I've got two of these, one from the Army and one bought new/surplus. Since they've introduced a different color scheme and upgraded version these older ones with the green/black/woodland patters are going for real good prices new. It's not perfect, the tech is two decades behind, there's a lot of stuff out there that's lighter by a big margin. The stuff sack is just bad, there's no top/bottom cover to compress from that direction. Except for the patrol bag it really is too heavy a system for backpacking, but that green bag with a better sleeping pad [not the green one on the vid] should keep you warm down to 35 degrees or so. The whole thing is great for car camping or hunting trips.
I don't know how this video escaped me,but that is a great system Bryan..boy,mother nature really knows how to mess with us,don't she? Very thorough review and demo.This would be great to keep in the vehicle for the winter.
tom a I need to get a weatherproof camera but all the Go Pro type cameras have those wide angle lenses that make everything look all distorted. And, yes, the MSS is perfect for that. I came very close to being stranded last winter by the gigantic 4" snowfall that hit Georgia but I wasn't too concerned because I had what I needed to make it through the night in my truck. This winter I'll be even better prepared ;-)
I am 72 inches tall and about 240 lbs. and I fit in this entire system rather easily and comfortably. Takes a minute to get used to "mummy style" sleeping, but its worth it. Used these back in spring of 06 on Ft. Richardson, AK. They work great.
Finally found one listed as in "Excellent Condition" for under $100. Am happy you did a video on the complete system especially putting the assembled system into the stuff sack. Had been wondering if that was a possibility or not.
I recently got myself the Canadian version of this (all I need is the outer sleeping bag to complete the set) and although older tech, being down and the bags tie together instead of button, the bloody thing is toasty warm and the bivvy bag did its duty recently on a very wet weekend bush camp out!
@@turtlewolfpack6061 I've been looking for the Canadian version MSS. Where did you find yours, what name was the system called for me to do a search for them.
smart putting it in assembled in the bevy because of your carrying this and if it ever gets wet the bevy will keep the inner sleeping bags dry. that's how I put my sleep system in its compression pouch. Great video!
I purchased one of these just about a month ago. It was listed as used, but it came in like new condition, straight from an USAF base in Germany. I just took it up into the Sierra Nevada over the weekend on a backpacking trip, and it went great, using the patrol bag and the bivy. No problems at all sleeping at around 9,000 ft.
Survival On Purpose I've been burned before as well. The price was low though, and especially so seeing it arrived in such great shape. I think the quality, modular design will serve me well for quite some time. Thanks again for the review.
I have camped in this bag in a snowstorm that went down to around 15*F and was snug as a bug. It is very high quality, rugged gear that's very well thought out. One thing I did to reduce condensation was keep the bivy zipper open near my head and stuck a rolled bandana in the zipper to open a small gap. In the morning I had a little bit of frost on bivy near my head but not much. One thing I'd suggest is consider taking an air pad. The closed cell foam works pretty well but an air pad would have made a huge difference in terms of comfort and insulation. The other side of that coin is that an air pad can go flat and pads don't. YMMV
The sleeping bags I used in the British forces were quite different as we slept with our rifles at the ready.Top half just a flap to be quickly flipped open.You can not sleep with your rifle at the ready and exit quickly in the MSS.For civilian use a fantastic bag.Slept with just the patrol bag ,now it is diving below zero I installed the inner bag and the bivi bag.A very good bang for the buck.You can not beat army surplus stuff for design ,quality and toughness and price.
Love YKK zippers. I try to make sure I get the YKK Vislon zippers on all my jackets. Lenzip is also a good quality U.S. made zipper. I have them on my tool bags. Thanks for posting.
I’ve got two of these they do have a camp goretex bag that the stuff bag goes into there nice also I use mine every winter at my off grid cabin up in the mountains so far the patrol and the goretex bivy has been great you got a good Syst there it will do you well sir !
Thanks Bryan! for the best video review of the MSS system I've seen. You did all the research for us. I just received the black bag I ordered today. Can't wait to try it out.
Tracy Johnson I appreciate it Tracy. I had a hard time finding any reviews that answered all my questions before I finally decided to buy one so I tried to be as thorough as I could. Thanks for taking time to watch. You gonna be warm.
Hey man just wanna say thanks for this august marathon that you're doing for us . I've been researching this mss bag for a while now and have seen a bunch of videos but your video is the first video that I've actually seen the thing put together in real time . Your video definitely has made my final decision in getting this bag.. And also want to say Thanks for representing us Georgia boys keep up the good work and also an idea for maybe future videos is to explore a little bit more on wild edibles and medicinal plants here in the North Georgia area or East Coast area , I don't know about anybody else but I'm pretty lost when it comes to those things and being that I am living in the North Georgia area I could definitely benefit from such information but like I said it's just an idea you're doing pretty good so far, so thanks again!
Gbaum515 Yeah, when I was thinking about buying mine I watched a bunch of videos too. None of them seemed to show enough details so I tried to make sure mine did. I'm glad it helped you.As for the edible and medicinal plants, I was just talking to a friend yesterday about wanting to learn more about that subject. I have some good books but my knowledge is super basic. That will be a case of us learning together, which is OK by me. I said from the beginning I'm not any kind of expert, just a guy who has spent a night or two in the woods over the years and likes it.Stick with me and we'll get to it. Where do you live in Georgia?
I have this system, and I can tell you great winter kit, slept in it out in open under tarp down around 15 degrees no problem, only thing if you are a large person, it is tight, don,t know if they come in diffident sizes, this will be the last sleeping bag you will buy.
Darren Ledford That's good to hear. I know a lot of people may think it's expensive when you can buy a sleeping bag at Walmart for under $50 but you can spend a LOT of money on a sleeping bag without even trying so I think it's a good value. Of course it is WAY heavy of you are looking for ultralight gear.
Hey Bryan, not too far away, relative neighbors.... A quick question for you, I am a native of the UK, and we only have one poisonous snake species, the Adder a. pier I think.. I have never even thought about them when hiking I. England and Scotland... Very rare to come across them. Should I be concerned her in Georgia? I am a bit paranoid about them and not sure if I should worry unduly, what has been your experience when hiking..?
We 4 different types of venomous snakes here in Georgia, with several subspecies. Rattlesnakes, Copperheads, water moccasins and coral snakes. I have been hiking and camping in the Georgia woods for over 40 years and have only seen a venomous snake maybe 3 or 4 times and have never had a really close call. That's not to say it doesn't happen, it just hasn't happened to me. The most likely species you will encounter when hiking anywhere north of Macon would be copperheads or rattlesnakes. As long as you practice good hiking safety (such as stepping on top of logs instead of just stepping over them, etc) you could probably go your entire life and never see a poisonous snake in the wild. Especially if you are hiking on established trails. Having said that, the last one I saw was earlier this year at a very busy trail at Kennesaw Mountain in Marietta. We came upon a very small (8" or so) baby copperhead. Since there are always a lot of kids on that trail... I'll leave it at that. I have seen some big rat snakes on the same trail (4'-5') and that is always cool. Lots of deer there too, it's a great place to hike just not to secluded. But I digress. anyway, I wouldn't sweat it. And just remember, if you were to be bitten and envenomed, don't do the old cut and suck stuff. Just get to the hospital ASAP.
Bryan, really appreciate the quick response. I will go with your thoughts, ie don't sweat it, but be vigilante...lol... have a great weekend.. We definitely plan to do the Kennesaw trail and there is one called iron mill trail, on red mountain, that should get the blood circulating again...;0)
Thanks for the review. I am looking at picking up two of these. They look to be out of the new ones. The used ones are very inexpensive. $150 new there is the used price here for a good, not very good quality used. I will have to keep watching them and wait for some new or like new to come in.
butlersranger There are a lot of folks on eBay selling these. I just searched for new MMS sleep system or use one of the other names (ECWS, etc). Chris over at PreparedMind101 has a good source too. I don't know if they have new ones but here's a link to their store www.ebay.com/sch/samsurplussales/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_ipg=&_from=
very nice demo vid .the ultimate sleeping bag ive got one heavy but bullet prof and a comfortable nights sleep no shivering and shaking thanks mate atb
I was just looking at the Marine Corps video on their sleep system and it is different and if theirs is that good then the Air Force, Army, and Navy must have a similar system as well. I never had to depend on that type of system while on active duty and glad of it. The coldest place I was stationed at was Minot, North Dakota and I was so glad to be sent to Thailand after being there a year.
I really like the look of that, will have to wait until I'm back in North America as almost any good piece of US army surplus, you get stung on the price in the UK (or it's a copy). Great stuff!!
Survival On Purpose A real shame, I'll have to look into the British or European systems see what they have going for them, always liked the look of the Dutch army hooped bivvi's.
We have something simular in uk miliary. Very good piece of kit even if used its still good kit. Made by many manufacturers to simular spec nato patern.
Been using mine since it was issued, I'm in it right now, and I never noticed that drawstring. Btw, I've always put the green bag inside of the black but mostly just run the green and bivy.
this is why I was looking at this product - winter hammock camping. 2 weeks ago I slept in a hammock in -11C with a 0 degree bag. obviously I want a warmer bag now lol
Me too, man. Just bought my first top notch hammock / tarp combo, haven't tried it yet but got an itch that I should research winter hammock camping a bit more. The temperatures in Finland are still dropping down to -10 C at nights, so I decided to put my money to good insulation and a decent sleeping bag or bags. If I get these, I'm not exactly planning to get an underquilt with them - they may (or may not) work wonders but man, are they are clunky.
Awesome. Nice comprehensive review. Just purchased mine, cost me both arms and a leg to get posted overseas (guess that will leave more room in the bag). I wasn't sure how this went together properly, this has helped lots. You should mention that this sleep system should not be stored compressed though. I have heard it will ruin the systems bag-fill.
+Couch Ninja I store mine compressed and I would bet the military does too. I'm sure it is better not to but many people don't have room to store theirs loose.
Your probably right, however the military can afford to just get another one off the shelf at will whenever the old one is no longer any good. I made the comment because you Americans often forget about your international subscribers. I purchased this system and it cost me $150 just to get the item shipped to my country. Letting me know that keeping it in a compressed state may effect the fill would have been something that I would have wanted to know, had I not already known it. I can't afford to just keep forking out $200+ for a sleep system, I need to look after it as best I can. As for space, well, it all folds up nicely into a cardboard box uncompressed, not that much more of a hastle to store. Still, keep up the good reviews, I enjoy your channel.
I understand. I was just being honest. I don't store mine uncompressed and I'm really not concerned about it. I Bet it will serve me fine for many years to come.
Excellent presentation. Yeah the only thing I didn't like about the system was it's weight but a bit of sweat now and sleep snug and warm. Thanks. atb Opal
I have the older style one I picked up recently for about $80 bucks at an army surplus place online. I can't wait to get out there and test it out now that the temperature is starting to drop :-) Actually I got mine the same place that you got yours, mine was used but in the top quality category. I got a bunch of stuff from that site, they really have some good deals!
Andy Lundberg I'm using mine for he first time this weekend in my Hennessey Hammock. I'll do a follow up in a few months after giving it a good shake down.
I purchased one of these new. Tried it overnight in 15°F weather, it was a miserable experience. I wouldn't mind the weight if it was warmer. I'm going to try a Recon 4 sleeping bag at only 3.5 pounds. I may still freeze but at least it will be much lighter.
Did you have a good ground pad? I slept in mine in the low 20s using both backs and the goretex bibs on the green military pad and I was warm enough. It wasn’t comfortable because I hate sleeping on the ground and my hips hurt from that but I wasn’t really cold.
with regard to the bivy it is designed to work with a basha over the top if its raining rather than on its own dont want to wake up with rain on your face in middle of the night
Hello sir Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. I’ve been thinking about getting one of these. My question is could you get a sleep system and avoid getting a under quilt. When it comes to sleeping in a hammock in the winter.
I hope fright train in all wether! I'm not knocking your video, I bought the same military system bag I'm not please with it... it's comes unsnap when tasing around in it and traps cold spot in-between the layers ,not something you want to deal with in sub zero weather..I have been using the old school Millarty OD green extreme for many years it's much more durable it's worth the weight to carry and a decent tarp to roll up in best of luck with your new bag?
Couldn’t find these for cheap online anywhere, me and my girlfriend went half on one for about 300. A little high but we love the outdoors so don’t care much about the price on quality gear
Very interested to know how this worked for you in the hammock. I'm also getting into hammock camping and am looking heavily at this system. It is a bit heavier than I wanted to go, but I love the modularity for different temps, so I don't necessarily need to take it all with. Hopefully you've gotten some use in with it. I don't really anticipate using it below high 20's... perhaps even low 30's. I'm in Arizona, so I'll be doing most of my camping around Prescott, Payson, or Sedona areas. Thanks!
I have not had the chance to use mine but once in my hammock. The temps were in the 40s and I was fine. I did use the whole system on the ground in. Mid 20s temps with just the bivy and no tent and I was toasty. I plan to use it in March in my hammock so I'll try to do a follow up after that.
Survival On Purpose Awesome. Thanks for the reply! Sub'd so I can catch your update! I went ahead and ordered one anyways. Found grade 1 'excellent' condition one on ebay for a little over $100. Looking forward to giving it a try.
Cold nights in Afghanistan and Germany taught me there's nothing warmer than this sleeping bag with an inflatable therma-rest inside of it. The barrier of warmed air enables you to sleep on rocks in 0 degrees.....in my experience anyway. *i do not encourage anyone to try this for any reason whatsoever*
don't store it compressed. Which model hennessy are you using? I think in the tent video you said hennessy. Chris just sold his warbonnet but i'm not on facebook alot so by the time I saw it, it was already sold.
Mooky Mann I have the Hennessey Explorer bottom entry. And I wouldn't store it compressed but i have 4 sons and we all have camping gear and I only have so much room.
Try getting in that setup in a downpour in the field. That said i will never look at rei systems again same thing 10x the cost. Good video. Just bring a plastic tarp with you if you anticipate rain. other than that it aint your grandmother's surplus.
It's a great system! However, my one complaint is that I don't feel like it'd be as homey feeling as a tent in rainy/stormy weather. It'd be a bit awkward laying down all day in it trying to escape bad weather, and the solution for that would be to bring a tarp to put over it! But again, other than that, it'd be a great system. As far as weight goes, obviously there's much lighter options but yes it's way warmer than any civilian system. As far as the weight goes, obviously no one says they wish they had more weight in their ruck, but I do train and condition myself to be able to carry heavy load outs. 10 extra pounds is pretty much nothing for me for a reasonable distance. Plus our soldiers hike for up to 12 miles with 80-100 extra pounds of gear, if they can do it we can too. Depending on physical health that is. Some people do unfortunately have disabilities. But if you're already healthy, I do definitely recommend conditioning your body. You'll be amazed at how much better you feel mentally and physically. Also don't be fooled by the weight, most sleeping bags are 3-5 pounds anyway. I have a 30° bag that weighs five pounds. Pair that with a heavy tarp and an inflatable mat like my single person intex mat with a pump, you're looking at around 10 pounds anyway. Plus most people add things in it that ends up adding the same amount anyway. My edc alone weights 5 pounds and my get home bag weighs around 20. So yeah. Just saying don't let the weight scare you.
I have only slept out using this system with the bivy as the only shelter once. But I have used the bag(s) many times in my Hennessey Hammock. I just consider the bivy a bonus piece.
+Nonya Business I think so, but I can't remember the specs as far as size goes. I'm about 5'8" and around 170lbs and I have plenty of room. I used just the black bag last weekend in my hammock and was toasty.
I suppose you wouldn't have to carry the whole system. Maybe just the black or the green part depending on the season you're in and if you have a tent. I have a used one . my compression bag is different I can pull on both long ways and fro the sides in. I'm going to read about washing it.
I've never seen the compression bag without the straps that go the other way u would think when u cinch it down it would get very far in the middle but it didn't seem 2
Now that you have had your MSS for a few years now how would you rate the bag. What was the coldest temp. that you slept in. I'm from Northern Ontario were the temps drop to below -30C. In you opinion will this bag keep me warm in that low temp.
if you want to compress the sleeping bag more, you can sit on the bag as you pull up on the compression straps. Also when you are sleeping in one in cold or extreme cold weather, once you get in it you are supposed to strip off your uniform,(clothes), and keep them inside the bag with you. This allows your body to breathe so that you are not sweating in your clothes, and keeps your clothes warm for when you get up in the morning.
Thanks
This was the most cozy sleeping bag system I've ever been in. Cold nights in Afghanistan, and in the mojave desert, and this thing got the job done. I will say it's rather heavy, but that is the only downfall. I miss it so much I ordered my own.
Bo Fa'aita Thanks for serving! Yeah, I used mine this weekend in my Hennessey Hammock while camping with the Boy Scouts. It got down in the low 40s and I was toasty, which is tricky in a hammock.
Bo Fa'aita same here. I missed mine so much that I just had to purchase my own since I couldn't get away with snagging it before my time was up. I still have my woobie though and managed to keep my USMC ILBE pack along with my assault pack that attaches to it to. What branch did you serve in by the way?
Bo Fa'aita...Agreed! And it gets plenty cold in Afghanistan.
I brought mine home with me and my wife is such a bed sheet hog that one night I was being a smart a$$ and threw my sleeping bag on the bed. She said "what are you doing?" I climbed into the bag and said good luck steeling these covers!!". Dude!! Best nights sleep since Baghdad rotfl. Im so glad supply lost their records of issuing my TA-50. The only things I returned was my Kevlar and my IBA. Everything else I brought home with me :D
10lbs isn’t it
Brian,
New subscriber, retired military. Good review. I use my mss with a foam thermarest ridgerest solar pad inside the bivi under the sleeping bag, inside my hennessy survivor woodland camo zip hammock. A little heavy for long range backpacking but, never been cold, never been wet.
Take care stay safe
O.P. ( Olde Phart)
Than you for your service! I am now using the Hennesssey Jungle Explorer Zip with the slide in thermal pad and it is pretty warm.
Brian, I have been a grunt for 12 years. For 10 of those I used this sleeping system. As a grunt it it OK by normal standards I would rate it as good. Also the green bag goes inside the black bag.
I thought the same. Green bag
My dad sent me one of these for some winter camping I’ve been doing. He said black goes in the green. Does it matter? In terms of compressing the fill or something??
@@yogalandawellnessyolandati7654 I believe the Green Bag is larger so it would go outside the Black Bag.
Mine and my wife's came with a 9 strap compression sack. 6 that go long ways, and 3 that go short ways around the round part. You definitely want the 9 strap sack, it compresses it much better. They are about 20 bucks on ebay. I bought the whole 4pc system used in excellent condition for $140. I love it, it's my favorite piece of gear.
Cool
I'll keep an eye out for that one.
Probably easier to get it compressed.
I have always had good luck getting my compression bags smallest when after pulling the straps tight, you can then sit on the top side of the bag and continue to tighten the straps.
Let your weight and gravity do the work .
+Jedi_Drifter yep
Brian, great video. You explained each piece of equipment, showed how they marry together, and the benefit of the bag as a whole. I bought one new, but have never used it. Now I'm old and sick, so time to pass it down to someone who might appreciate having one.
Brain I think this was the best yet. Don't think I have seen anyone show the whole system from take down put together and stuff to all in one video. Very good thanks a bunch.
benny voncannon Thanks Benny. I hadn't either so I wanted to show the whole process. Maybe a little boring but hopefully it helps.
These also come in a larger sizes for taller individuals. When purchasing said item,be sure you get the one that fits your size so that it can be used to it's full extent. I'm about 5' 8" and have the size listed as the one in this video. They can be purchased on eBay for a great price and in a variety of conditions with A being in tip top shape,and B being slightly used,and C having small holes/tares/rips,missing buttons or zippers that may not function but can be repaired. These sleep systems are an excellent item to add to your bug out bag or just for every day camping with the family. I would highly recommend the purchase of this sleep system for a variety of reasons. Don't forget to buy either a yoga mat to tuck inside of it or a self inflating mat for extra added comfort. Great video made here by the way and you won't regret purchasing such an item. In sime cases,most of these come with directions on how to dress properly for the environment you are in so that the MSS can be used to it's full potential when dressed properly in whatever climate you are in.
I'm glad got the right size
I have this MSS and the Canadian MSS, the US version does me well in my hot tents. My Cdn system is much larger and heavier and is good for much colder temps, but again your clothing you sleep in , and your shelter will make all the difference, a good pad and cot or insulation on the ground make all the difference. Will be using my US MSS this weekend at the prospector tent....cheers Fred
Thanks for the review. I've got two of these, one from the Army and one bought new/surplus. Since they've introduced a different color scheme and upgraded version these older ones with the green/black/woodland patters are going for real good prices new.
It's not perfect, the tech is two decades behind, there's a lot of stuff out there that's lighter by a big margin. The stuff sack is just bad, there's no top/bottom cover to compress from that direction.
Except for the patrol bag it really is too heavy a system for backpacking, but that green bag with a better sleeping pad [not the green one on the vid] should keep you warm down to 35 degrees or so. The whole thing is great for car camping or hunting trips.
It is indeed a little heavy but it works
I don't know how this video escaped me,but that is a great system Bryan..boy,mother nature really knows how to mess with us,don't she? Very thorough review and demo.This would be great to keep in the vehicle for the winter.
tom a I need to get a weatherproof camera but all the Go Pro type cameras have those wide angle lenses that make everything look all distorted. And, yes, the MSS is perfect for that. I came very close to being stranded last winter by the gigantic 4" snowfall that hit Georgia but I wasn't too concerned because I had what I needed to make it through the night in my truck. This winter I'll be even better prepared ;-)
I am 72 inches tall and about 240 lbs. and I fit in this entire system rather easily and comfortably. Takes a minute to get used to "mummy style" sleeping, but its worth it.
Used these back in spring of 06 on Ft. Richardson, AK. They work great.
+Samual Iam And they are toasty.
I have one of these and I absolutely love it. Thing is too dang warm for me almost, I recon i would sleep fine down to -30 no problem.
+KatzOhki Pretty heavy too.
Finally found one listed as in "Excellent Condition" for under $100. Am happy you did a video on the complete system especially putting the assembled system into the stuff sack. Had been wondering if that was a possibility or not.
Barely ;-)
I love mine. Highest quality. One can serve as a cushion if needed. Nice video.
To my understanding when you combine the patrol bag and the intermediate cold bag it brings the protection to -25.
I recently got myself the Canadian version of this (all I need is the outer sleeping bag to complete the set) and although older tech, being down and the bags tie together instead of button, the bloody thing is toasty warm and the bivvy bag did its duty recently on a very wet weekend bush camp out!
+TurtleWolf Pack I bet the down bags are warm. You just have to make sure they stay dry.
Survival On Purpose yup you do and not a good idea to store them compressed.
Which is probably a good idea with all bags but I just don't have room
Survival On Purpose less so with synthetic bags is my understanding.
@@turtlewolfpack6061 I've been looking for the Canadian version MSS. Where did you find yours, what name was the system called for me to do a search for them.
smart putting it in assembled in the bevy because of your carrying this and if it ever gets wet the bevy will keep the inner sleeping bags dry. that's how I put my sleep system in its compression pouch. Great video!
Good idea
Thank you for your video;I got this system new and its warm but way heavy and bulky I wish it lighter and smaller!
+Tonauac/Teonewhopossesseslight /Nahuatl Wouldn't that be great.
Great video. Smart, simple, effective. Thank you.
I purchased one of these just about a month ago. It was listed as used, but it came in like new condition, straight from an USAF base in Germany.
I just took it up into the Sierra Nevada over the weekend on a backpacking trip, and it went great, using the patrol bag and the bivy. No problems at all sleeping at around 9,000 ft.
MrPatagonicus That's good to know. I almost went with a used one, I have just been burned on stuff like that before. Glad you got a good one.
Survival On Purpose I've been burned before as well. The price was low though, and especially so seeing it arrived in such great shape.
I think the quality, modular design will serve me well for quite some time. Thanks again for the review.
Thanks for watching.
Had mine for about 2 yrs. Best system I have ever owned.
Heavy but warm
I have camped in this bag in a snowstorm that went down to around 15*F and was snug as a bug. It is very high quality, rugged gear that's very well thought out.
One thing I did to reduce condensation was keep the bivy zipper open near my head and stuck a rolled bandana in the zipper to open a small gap. In the morning I had a little bit of frost on bivy near my head but not much.
One thing I'd suggest is consider taking an air pad. The closed cell foam works pretty well but an air pad would have made a huge difference in terms of comfort and insulation. The other side of that coin is that an air pad can go flat and pads don't. YMMV
Yeah, the foam bad is not really comfy. My hips hurt in the morning.
The sleeping bags I used in the British forces were quite different as we slept with our rifles at the ready.Top half just a flap to be quickly flipped open.You can not sleep with your rifle at the ready and exit quickly in the MSS.For civilian use a fantastic bag.Slept with just the patrol bag ,now it is diving below zero I installed the inner bag and the bivi bag.A very good bang for the buck.You can not beat army surplus stuff for design ,quality and toughness and price.
Mine keeps me toasty
Brian this is an awesome video and you are a very good instructor! Thank you for sharing! Semper Fi
Thanks. I appreciate it.
Love YKK zippers. I try to make sure I get the YKK Vislon zippers on all my jackets. Lenzip is also a good quality U.S. made zipper. I have them on my tool bags. Thanks for posting.
awsome video, been thinking about buying one of these. Thanks for a complete look at the entire system!
It is very warm and fairly heavy.
I’ve got two of these they do have a camp goretex bag that the stuff bag goes into there nice also I use mine every winter at my off grid cabin up in the mountains so far the patrol and the goretex bivy has been great you got a good Syst there it will do you well sir !
Thanks Bryan! for the best video review of the MSS system I've seen. You did all the research for us. I just received the black bag I ordered today. Can't wait to try it out.
Tracy Johnson I appreciate it Tracy. I had a hard time finding any reviews that answered all my questions before I finally decided to buy one so I tried to be as thorough as I could. Thanks for taking time to watch. You gonna be warm.
dose very well in a hammock I slept in mine at -9°F with an under quilt
+Michael Lester Underquilts make all the difference.
I us the bivy with my kelty bag it is real nice. I have the compression sack too. I store my kelty, bivy, silny tarp and hammock in it.
Stanley Sprow Sounds perfect Stanley.
Thank you for your knowledge! Just bought this system. Thanx again for what you do.
Donald Staples You're gonna like it.
got mine new for 100 dollars on eBay but sadly now it's sold out. just did a review of it on my channel. thanks for the review!
Great deal
@@SurvivalOnPurpose Yeah I was happy when I found it. Thanks again!
Yeah now their 170 seems
I have used the bags without the Goretex in freezing temperatures. I am grateful for the comfort.
They are toasty
Thank you so much for this vid. It was very helpful. I am trying mine out tonight- temps in 20's!!
Hey man just wanna say thanks for this august marathon that you're doing for us . I've been researching this mss bag for a while now and have seen a bunch of videos but your video is the first video that I've actually seen the thing put together in real time . Your video definitely has made my final decision in getting this bag.. And also want to say Thanks for representing us Georgia boys keep up the good work and also an idea for maybe future videos is to explore a little bit more on wild edibles and medicinal plants here in the North Georgia area or East Coast area , I don't know about anybody else but I'm pretty lost when it comes to those things and being that I am living in the North Georgia area I could definitely benefit from such information but like I said it's just an idea you're doing pretty good so far, so thanks again!
Gbaum515 Yeah, when I was thinking about buying mine I watched a bunch of videos too. None of them seemed to show enough details so I tried to make sure mine did. I'm glad it helped you.As for the edible and medicinal plants, I was just talking to a friend yesterday about wanting to learn more about that subject. I have some good books but my knowledge is super basic. That will be a case of us learning together, which is OK by me. I said from the beginning I'm not any kind of expert, just a guy who has spent a night or two in the woods over the years and likes it.Stick with me and we'll get to it. Where do you live in Georgia?
can't wait for my bag . just ordered one
It is a great system. Heavy but great.
Using my MSS right now in northern alberta,temp fluctuations are great, 2 bag system allow to adapt quickly. 30c to -30c.
+Infidel Atheist It is a great system
I have this system, and I can tell you great winter kit, slept in it out in open under tarp down around 15 degrees no problem, only thing if you are a large person, it is tight, don,t know if they come in diffident sizes, this will be the last sleeping bag you will buy.
Darren Ledford That's good to hear. I know a lot of people may think it's expensive when you can buy a sleeping bag at Walmart for under $50 but you can spend a LOT of money on a sleeping bag without even trying so I think it's a good value. Of course it is WAY heavy of you are looking for ultralight gear.
You are right no Walmart bag and a little heavy but worth every penny. You will be happy.
I'm already happy and I haven't even slept in it yet ;-)
Nice job in the review. I enjoy all of your videos.. No BS, good honest evaluation.. Keep them coming..
Keith Rudge Thanks Keith. Hello up in Alpharetta. I'm in Douglasville.
Hey Bryan, not too far away, relative neighbors.... A quick question for you, I am a native of the UK, and we only have one poisonous snake species, the Adder a. pier I think.. I have never even thought about them when hiking I. England and Scotland... Very rare to come across them. Should I be concerned her in Georgia? I am a bit paranoid about them and not sure if I should worry unduly, what has been your experience when hiking..?
We 4 different types of venomous snakes here in Georgia, with several subspecies. Rattlesnakes, Copperheads, water moccasins and coral snakes. I have been hiking and camping in the Georgia woods for over 40 years and have only seen a venomous snake maybe 3 or 4 times and have never had a really close call. That's not to say it doesn't happen, it just hasn't happened to me. The most likely species you will encounter when hiking anywhere north of Macon would be copperheads or rattlesnakes. As long as you practice good hiking safety (such as stepping on top of logs instead of just stepping over them, etc) you could probably go your entire life and never see a poisonous snake in the wild. Especially if you are hiking on established trails. Having said that, the last one I saw was earlier this year at a very busy trail at Kennesaw Mountain in Marietta. We came upon a very small (8" or so) baby copperhead. Since there are always a lot of kids on that trail... I'll leave it at that. I have seen some big rat snakes on the same trail (4'-5') and that is always cool. Lots of deer there too, it's a great place to hike just not to secluded. But I digress. anyway, I wouldn't sweat it. And just remember, if you were to be bitten and envenomed, don't do the old cut and suck stuff. Just get to the hospital ASAP.
Bryan, really appreciate the quick response. I will go with your thoughts, ie don't sweat it, but be vigilante...lol... have a great weekend.. We definitely plan to do the Kennesaw trail and there is one called iron mill trail, on red mountain, that should get the blood circulating again...;0)
Appreciate the advice, thanks
Thanks for the review. I am looking at picking up two of these. They look to be out of the new ones. The used ones are very inexpensive. $150 new there is the used price here for a good, not very good quality used. I will have to keep watching them and wait for some new or like new to come in.
butlersranger There are a lot of folks on eBay selling these. I just searched for new MMS sleep system or use one of the other names (ECWS, etc). Chris over at PreparedMind101 has a good source too. I don't know if they have new ones but here's a link to their store www.ebay.com/sch/samsurplussales/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_ipg=&_from=
Great set up. Can't go wrong with US mil spec.
It's warm
very nice demo vid .the ultimate sleeping bag ive got one heavy but bullet prof and a comfortable nights sleep no shivering and shaking thanks mate atb
Paul Tindall Yep. It's warm and it's heavy. I took mine on a backpacking trip and started looking at lightweight gear the very next week ;-)
If you want to really compress the compression sack, try sitting on it, while you sinch it down.
cool friend the Best Militär Sleep System ! cool
Nice video I been looking into getting a sleeping bag to add to the bag this seems like a good system from wat I've read n seen. Thanks for the video
I think it will be. I'm going to use it exclusively this fall and winter (maybe not for backpacking). And I'll do a follow up video on a few months.
Excellent video. I just received my bag and pad and hope to have many years of use.
+Panzer D You'll be warm for sure.
I was just looking at the Marine Corps video on their sleep system and it is different and if theirs is that good then the Air Force, Army, and Navy must have a similar system as well. I never had to depend on that type of system while on active duty and glad of it. The coldest place I was stationed at was Minot, North Dakota and I was so glad to be sent to Thailand after being there a year.
I think this one may have been replaced. Gotta keep spending those tax dollars ;-)
Best sleeping bag ever used them on deployments in the mountains of Afghanistan.
It is warm.
Exactly what I was lookig for!! Thanks for sharing Brian!!
It works great.
I really like the look of that, will have to wait until I'm back in North America as almost any good piece of US army surplus, you get stung on the price in the UK (or it's a copy). Great stuff!!
+jelkel25 They are hit and miss here now.
Survival On Purpose A real shame, I'll have to look into the British or European systems see what they have going for them, always liked the look of the Dutch army hooped bivvi's.
..I had a chance to buy this exact same bag used from a surplus guy for $100 but idk..I'm kinda bed bug conscious.. but excellent video!
+biblical giants You'd probably be OK as far as bed bugs go. I just found a new one for a little more so that made sense.
We have something simular in uk miliary. Very good piece of kit even if used its still good kit. Made by many manufacturers to simular spec nato patern.
I've used the patrol bag down to the lower 20's, but I sleep fully clothed. My feet were a bit cold, but other than that no worries.
I have too and it was fine
I use the improved system but with the woodland camo bivy.
+Brian Dunn This one does great. The only improvement I can think of is I wish it was lighter ;-)
Been using mine since it was issued, I'm in it right now, and I never noticed that drawstring. Btw, I've always put the green bag inside of the black but mostly just run the green and bivy.
Wait, so you wrote this comment while tucked into your bag? I never thought the MSS was versatile enough to allow someone to use their smart phone.
@@concernedcitizen2898 More versatile than a poncho and woobie.
this is why I was looking at this product - winter hammock camping. 2 weeks ago I slept in a hammock in -11C with a 0 degree bag. obviously I want a warmer bag now lol
Brrrr
Me too, man. Just bought my first top notch hammock / tarp combo, haven't tried it yet but got an itch that I should research winter hammock camping a bit more. The temperatures in Finland are still dropping down to -10 C at nights, so I decided to put my money to good insulation and a decent sleeping bag or bags. If I get these, I'm not exactly planning to get an underquilt with them - they may (or may not) work wonders but man, are they are clunky.
I'm from Minnesota
I jam mine into the stuff sac Judd like you did, all snapped into one piece. I also leave my pillow in the top. it still food in the sac.
+kevin schulmeister You have room for a pillow? You must be a better stuffer than me.
Nice honest review Brian. Cheers mate !
trinovantian1 Thanks.
👍 Good stuff brother I need to get one.
I'll let you know how it works after it gets cold.
Awesome. Nice comprehensive review. Just purchased mine, cost me both arms and a leg to get posted overseas (guess that will leave more room in the bag). I wasn't sure how this went together properly, this has helped lots. You should mention that this sleep system should not be stored compressed though. I have heard it will ruin the systems bag-fill.
+Couch Ninja I store mine compressed and I would bet the military does too. I'm sure it is better not to but many people don't have room to store theirs loose.
Your probably right, however the military can afford to just get another one off the shelf at will whenever the old one is no longer any good. I made the comment because you Americans often forget about your international subscribers. I purchased this system and it cost me $150 just to get the item shipped to my country. Letting me know that keeping it in a compressed state may effect the fill would have been something that I would have wanted to know, had I not already known it. I can't afford to just keep forking out $200+ for a sleep system, I need to look after it as best I can. As for space, well, it all folds up nicely into a cardboard box uncompressed, not that much more of a hastle to store. Still, keep up the good reviews, I enjoy your channel.
I understand. I was just being honest. I don't store mine uncompressed and I'm really not concerned about it. I Bet it will serve me fine for many years to come.
Thank you Sir
Ive got this system as well. Very versatile. I really think youll get some good mileage out of yours.
Breakdady I'm sure I will. If it's good enough for our folks in uniform, it's good enough for me.
Excellent presentation. Yeah the only thing I didn't like about the system was it's weight but a bit of sweat now and sleep snug and warm. Thanks. atb Opal
It is definitely warm.
Very nice been looking at one my self for this winter. how did it work out in the winter? Thanks s for sharing atb John
+Turtle Bushcraft I slept in the complete system, including bivy, in mid 20 degree F with no tent and stayed toasty.
Thanks for the reply i think it will do me fine, atb John
I have the older style one I picked up recently for about $80 bucks at an army surplus place online. I can't wait to get out there and test it out now that the temperature is starting to drop :-) Actually I got mine the same place that you got yours, mine was used but in the top quality category. I got a bunch of stuff from that site, they really have some good deals!
Andy Lundberg I'm using mine for he first time this weekend in my Hennessey Hammock. I'll do a follow up in a few months after giving it a good shake down.
Survival On Purpose I will be testing mine in my Warbonnet lol. We will have to compare notes.
That will be interesting. I slept in my hammock last night with the black bag at about 60F. It was actually a little too warm but I just unzipped it.
I purchased one of these new. Tried it overnight in 15°F weather, it was a miserable experience. I wouldn't mind the weight if it was warmer. I'm going to try a Recon 4 sleeping bag at only 3.5 pounds. I may still freeze but at least it will be much lighter.
Did you have a good ground pad? I slept in mine in the low 20s using both backs and the goretex bibs on the green military pad and I was warm enough. It wasn’t comfortable because I hate sleeping on the ground and my hips hurt from that but I wasn’t really cold.
Cool vid. Thanks
with regard to the bivy it is designed to work with a basha over the top if its raining rather than on its own dont want to wake up with rain on your face in middle of the night
Thanks!
try to pick a raised spot of ground rather than dip as you can wake up in a puddle thats what the bivi was for
Hello sir Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. I’ve been thinking about getting one of these. My question is could you get a sleep system and avoid getting a under quilt. When it comes to sleeping in a hammock in the winter.
I guess that depends on you. The advantage of an under quilt is that it doesn’t get compressed by your body and lose it’s ability to insulate.
I hope fright train in all wether!
I'm not knocking your video, I bought the same military system bag I'm not
please with it... it's comes unsnap when tasing around in it and traps cold spot in-between the layers ,not something you want to deal with in sub zero weather..I have been using the old school Millarty OD green extreme for
many years it's much more durable
it's worth the weight to carry and a decent tarp to roll up in
best of luck with your new bag?
you can find them on ebay slightly used for around $190 and new in package for $300+
Thanks!
Couldn’t find these for cheap online anywhere, me and my girlfriend went half on one for about 300. A little high but we love the outdoors so don’t care much about the price on quality gear
Sit on the compression sack while tightening it down. Makes it a lot easier.
Daniel Kean Yep, that's what I figured out. It's still a job though.
Very interested to know how this worked for you in the hammock. I'm also getting into hammock camping and am looking heavily at this system. It is a bit heavier than I wanted to go, but I love the modularity for different temps, so I don't necessarily need to take it all with. Hopefully you've gotten some use in with it. I don't really anticipate using it below high 20's... perhaps even low 30's. I'm in Arizona, so I'll be doing most of my camping around Prescott, Payson, or Sedona areas. Thanks!
I have not had the chance to use mine but once in my hammock. The temps were in the 40s and I was fine. I did use the whole system on the ground in. Mid 20s temps with just the bivy and no tent and I was toasty. I plan to use it in March in my hammock so I'll try to do a follow up after that.
Survival On Purpose Awesome. Thanks for the reply! Sub'd so I can catch your update! I went ahead and ordered one anyways. Found grade 1 'excellent' condition one on ebay for a little over $100. Looking forward to giving it a try.
Joshua Kampmeier You'll be warm.
Cold nights in Afghanistan and Germany taught me there's nothing warmer than this sleeping bag with an inflatable therma-rest inside of it. The barrier of warmed air enables you to sleep on rocks in 0 degrees.....in my experience anyway. *i do not encourage anyone to try this for any reason whatsoever*
Good tip.
Really liked this video ... You mentioned that you were going to do another review, after you used them ... did you do another video on them?
Not yet. But they rock, just heavy
OK :)
don't store it compressed.
Which model hennessy are you using? I think in the tent video you said hennessy. Chris just sold his warbonnet but i'm not on facebook alot so by the time I saw it, it was already sold.
Mooky Mann I have the Hennessey Explorer bottom entry. And I wouldn't store it compressed but i have 4 sons and we all have camping gear and I only have so much room.
Try getting in that setup in a downpour in the field. That said i will never look at rei systems again same thing 10x the cost. Good video. Just bring a plastic tarp with you if you anticipate rain. other than that it aint your grandmother's surplus.
It's a great system!
However, my one complaint is that I don't feel like it'd be as homey feeling as a tent in rainy/stormy weather. It'd be a bit awkward laying down all day in it trying to escape bad weather, and the solution for that would be to bring a tarp to put over it! But again, other than that, it'd be a great system. As far as weight goes, obviously there's much lighter options but yes it's way warmer than any civilian system. As far as the weight goes, obviously no one says they wish they had more weight in their ruck, but I do train and condition myself to be able to carry heavy load outs. 10 extra pounds is pretty much nothing for me for a reasonable distance. Plus our soldiers hike for up to 12 miles with 80-100 extra pounds of gear, if they can do it we can too. Depending on physical health that is. Some people do unfortunately have disabilities. But if you're already healthy, I do definitely recommend conditioning your body. You'll be amazed at how much better you feel mentally and physically.
Also don't be fooled by the weight, most sleeping bags are 3-5 pounds anyway. I have a 30° bag that weighs five pounds. Pair that with a heavy tarp and an inflatable mat like my single person intex mat with a pump, you're looking at around 10 pounds anyway. Plus most people add things in it that ends up adding the same amount anyway. My edc alone weights 5 pounds and my get home bag weighs around 20. So yeah. Just saying don't let the weight scare you.
I have only slept out using this system with the bivy as the only shelter once. But I have used the bag(s) many times in my Hennessey Hammock. I just consider the bivy a bonus piece.
Thanks for taking the time to make the vid, what is your opinion on someone that is 6'2" 240lbs would they fit?
+Nonya Business I think so, but I can't remember the specs as far as size goes. I'm about 5'8" and around 170lbs and I have plenty of room. I used just the black bag last weekend in my hammock and was toasty.
Great video and awesome details.
Thanks. I appreciate it.
thumbs up.
I suppose you wouldn't have to carry the whole system. Maybe just the black or the green part depending on the season you're in and if you have a tent. I have a used one . my compression bag is different I can pull on both long ways and fro the sides in. I'm going to read about washing it.
Yep, just carry what you need.
I've never seen the compression bag without the straps that go the other way u would think when u cinch it down it would get very far in the middle but it didn't seem 2
The caps keep it all in place
Keep up the good work
Chris Smith Thanks a lot Chris. I'll do my best.
love the longer intro!
Teds Outdoors I had to go back and check. What longer intro?
I thought the song at the beginning was longer, I could be wrong.
I don't think so but I'm glad you like it ;-)
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching!
Very good. Thank you very much
Thanks. I appreciate it.
Great review
Thanks. I appreciate it.
Good review
Good video
Thanks
love this thank you .
Thanks
all I use is military gear it holds up
and last a long time
Great info! Would an Escape Bivvy be necessary in addition with this particular system or is the patrol bag basically the same thing??
+ROLLIN THUNDER That is what the outer camo Goretex bivy is for
+Survival On Purpose Yea that's what I thought but I'm hearing tons of folk suggesting adding the SOL Escape Bivvy along with this system. Thanks!
Now that you have had your MSS for a few years now how would you rate the bag. What was the coldest temp. that you slept in. I'm from Northern Ontario were the temps drop to below -30C. In you opinion will this bag keep me warm in that low temp.
coldest I have slept in was about 25 F, with the entire system and no tent, just the bivy and green pad. It was warm enough for that
I have the bivy with a backpacking sleeping bag.
Teds Outdoors I will be trying mine out in a couple of weeks.
Can you roll the green patrol sleeping bag without damaging the material??
I don’t see why not