Camelbak what can I say!
Look guys they are ok but expensive, I have been lucky and picked up the big pack (name alludes me) and this one.
These bags are quite functional and fit for purpose, I have taken my other pack overseas and it’s held up ok (just be careful of back boards and frames in the larger packs with air travel).
The pack will take a bit of gear but I recommend a little organisation because it will drive you dippy throwing everything in an digging it out. The pack comfortably took 40foz insulated bottle, 8x5x6 in trauma kit, folder, gloves, PPE and few other things but again planning is required.
Build quality on this one is ok.
Bad stuff: zipper top front be careful lining gets trapped and you will have to release it (annoying), bag will be uncomfortable if the back compartment is lightly loaded they tend to bend if this will drive you insane carrying it for hours. Hydration packs require care and camelbak gear well I suggest filtered water and dump water daily (yes some people keep it) they do make tablet but they aren’t cheap in australia. They seem to have fixed this but be really careful where you position the Velcro tabs that secure loose straps, they can also ride up if they work up or you wind them wrong they will wear a hole in clothing fast (other companies use elastic bands which I prefer) do it right shouldn’t have an issue or tape them.
Overall camelbak is ok and their milspec gear has served me quite well and overseas I used more of the bag attachments for quick access. Given the options if you want a good milspec pack they are up there and should last a good amount of time. I do not like they are made in the developing world but most things are and given the premium price yeah not great.
I will be honest when purchasing I was looking at Direct Action and this bag but went with what I know rather than an unknown.
I’d also highly recommend Wisport for milspec packs made in Poland (unfortunately stock is depleted due to Ukraine conflict).
You won’t go wrong with camelbak but they are in no way the best nor the worst, you just pay a lot for the bags.
Freddys price was really what they are worth.
