An Cosantóir

32 | GEAR REVIEW 5.11 TACTICAL RUSH 72 BACKPACK (OD GREEN) €169.99 x 3" velcro patch is great for flag or unit patches. Its large main compartment has a pocket that will fit most sleeved laptops and the bungeed cinch top will keep any load in place. Two mesh pockets on the inside of the main flap hold computer accessories, electronics, binos and other smaller items you want readily accessible. The top of the backpack has a separate fleece lined eyeglass/mobile Sized for a three-day excursion, the RUSH 72 Backpacks are loaded with features and come with two large compartments and a compression strap system that allows expandability depending upon how much gear you carry. The front section of the pack includes an organiser; a separate zippered compartment, a key fob and radio/magazine pockets with hook and loop straps. The main compartment has three mesh zippered pockets and a separate large cinch pocket. With two full-length side pockets that can handle a variety of different items including water bottles. Web platform on the outside of the compartment allows you to add 5.11's SlickStick pouches for even more gear capacity and the 2" phone pocket and two smaller external zippered gear pockets. A reinforced internal hydration pocket allows you to add a hydration bladder for imme- diate access to water. All RUSH72's also feature a heavy-duty, nylon carry handle at the top. Molle-compatible webbing runs down the front and side of the pack, al- lowing you to attach a host of different accessories. This carrier features our SlickStick molle-attachment system which is also compatible with standard molle attachment systems, yet functions like none other. The Slickstick slides through a UV-resistant ring making it easier to arrange and attach your pouches and other gear. Slickstick attaches like a normal molle attachment, but it slides to make it easier. To remove an item, just pop the snap and pull the stick out. The RUSH72 is made with high quality YKK zippers throughout, high-im- pact plastic clips which remain stable in all temperatures and elastic keepers to secure the ends of all straps. Once you've got the pack adjusted to your size, you'll be able to secure the ends of all straps with these elastic keepers. Tested by Capt Rory Esler (Overseas) This is an excellent piece of kit, as you would expect from any 5.11 product. It is well manufactured and very durable. The carrying system is comfortable and fits very well. It is perfect as a grab bag or a short term patrol pack. Although advertised as a 72 hr pack, it is more suited to a shorter term patrol pack, i.e. 24hr or 48hr max. There are plenty of compartments which make it easy to separate kit and easy access. The reinforced internal hydration pocket can be used with most hydration bladders including the one currently on issue to Irish troops. A very important feature when access to fluids is required. I think the price of €169.99 is a bit high, but overall it is a very versatile backpack and I would definitely recommend it to a friend. RATING: Quality/Durability 9 - Versatility 9 - Value for money 7 An Cosantóir July/August 2012 www.dfmagazine.ie Sponsored by Team Alpha.ie CAMELBAK THERMOBAK 3L HYDRATION PACK €54.95 3 Litre CamelBak Hydration Pack can be worn on its own and also features attachment points to add to load- bearing vest or rucksack. D-ring attachment points to add to load-bearing vest or rucksack. Quick- release shoulder straps unclip for easy removal and stow- away inside built-in pocket, NEW! Add or remove nametags and unit badges quickly with integrated Velcro strips, Tough, abrasion-resistant 1000D Cordura® Fabric exterior, External fill allows for easy access to the OMEGA HydroTanium™ Reservoir, Front zippers allow for easy access to the massive OMEGA external access port for easy filling, cleaning and adding ice. Tested by Sgt Mark Coffey (MAS, Mil Col) I tested this on Ultra Marathon training days before I used it in a tactical situation. When trying to save time the external fill was excellent for filling/refilling on the move. Its shape and style fitted nicely and I didn't 'feel it' while running when it was full. The big valve and cap were easy to manipulate when I needed to use it. The packaging says it is easy to clean and leaves no smell or after taste and it lived up to this claim. I used the pack in full military battle order to see how it would integrate with my current military backpack. It was sleek and easy to wear (while full) with all the other gear. The only small drawback was the DPM pattern didn't exactly match our pattern but they are available in other DPM patterns. I would recommend this product as it does what it says on the tin. RATING: Functionality 10 - Ease of Operation 8 - Value for money 7

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