View Full Version : In need of day pack recommendations
I'm in need of a day pack and I would like to keep the cost below $200. I tried searching for this, but all the threads I found were several years old and I'm sure there are plenty of newer packs out now to consider.
I would like it to be big enough to carry a change of clothes along with a pistol, spare mags, and other small items like a flashlight, small knife, etc. I don't really care if it's tactical looking or not (MOLLE on the outside), but I will be avoiding camo patterns like multicam so it's not too over the top. I would like it to be able to accommodate a hydration bladder as well.
I've been looking around some and I came across Grey Ghost Gear. They have a few different packs that look like they would work. I also like that the inner walls of several of their packs are lined with loop material for attaching pouches and organizers wherever you want. Does anyone here have any experience with their stuff? Do they make good products or should I look for something else?
I'm also open to any other suggestions that meet my criteria.
Thanks.
Osprey makes some of the best packs out there in my opinion, but it may not be tactical enough for your purposes. However, if you are looking for light weight, outstanding load distributuon and outdoor centric features give them a look. Not affiliated with them, just a satisfied user.
I have owned several GGG packs and have been underwhelmed. For your needs, I would take a look at the Sentinel pack from Sneaky Bags: http://soldiersystems.net/2016/01/11/sneak-peek-sentinel-pack/ or the Jedburgh pack from Blue Force Gear: https://www.blueforcegear.com/jedburgh-pack. There are some others out there, but these and the Arc'teryx Blade 20 or 28 pack, http://leaf.arcteryx.com/product.aspx?language=EN&category=Cross_Functional_Equipment&model=Blade-20-Backpack or http://leaf.arcteryx.com/product.aspx?language=EN&category=Cross_Functional_Equipment&model=Blade-28-Backpack, would be my first choices. I currently use a Blade 24 pack, which has been replaced by the Blade 20, on a daily basis and it is exceptional. If you can find one, I would jump on it. The 28 replaces the 30, but they are designed to carry a change of clothes plus all of your business or EDC stuff. I run a G19 in the small zippered pocket on the back panel of my 24 and you can't even tell there is a gun in there. Accessing it is a bit tricky, but it can be done. MM did a review of an older version of the pack here: http://www.militarymorons.com/equipment/packs6.html#blade15.
Let us know what you decide.
Thanks for the suggestions. I'll be looking at everything you guys have recommended.
Drtywk I'm curious what you found underwhelming about the GGG packs. I've never even seen one in person so all I have to go on is what I'm reading online.
http://www.first-spear.com/images/P/commpackFrontandBAck.jpg
Been using this for a couple of years... my search is over. Two sizes to choice from, build quality is great.
The packs from GGG are really nice, but most are built for the budget conscious and lack some of the EDC needs you are looking for. Additionally, they are made from lighter weight materials and thus lack a little bit of structure, which is important if you plan on carrying a pistol in it. Again, this isn't necessarily a bad thing, as they are built from the ground up to be light. Lastly, some of the GGG packs/bags are made in Vietnam, while all of the Karrimor packs/bags are made in Vietnam. This is ok, but when they do not let you know up front, that is an issue for me. Almost like they are trying to hide it from the consumer. Keep in mind that most of the popular packs/bags in the outdoor market are made in places like the Philippines, so the quality isn't really an issue, I just don't like being mislead. Karrimor, like a lot of other British military gear, has always been made in Vietnam, so no big deal there, especially since the Karrimor Sabre 30 is by far one of my most favorite packs.
For an EDC pack that only has to carry what you listed and a little more, I can recommend Tactical Tailor's "Removable Operator Pack". It's been my daily carry pack since they came out about six years ago. It has held up without any issues. The PALS webbing allows adding some pouches to increase the capacity and versatility of the pack should you choose to do so. And can accommodate a hydration bladder as well.
http://www.tacticaltailor.com/removableoperatorpack.aspx
At Amazon for a lot less than MSRP.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EMG5O0O/ref=twister_B00EOXO9Z6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Another option is this new pack from Spec-Ops Brand. "T.H.E. PACK, E.D.C." A smaller version of their very durable "T.H.E. Pack". I have the big brother for my 3-Day, Get Home Bag, for the last ten years. One tough pack! This EDC version should fit the bill nicely. Check out the color options that are available.
http://www.specopsbrand.com/t-h-e-pack-edc-everyday-carry.html
Campbell and 3 AE thanks for the recommendations. Lots of good options so far.
Drtywk thanks for the follow-up.
The Covert 18 is a good choice http://www.511tactical.com/covrt-18-backpack.html
and this one from Hill People http://hillpeoplegear.com/Products/tabid/762/CategoryID/3/ProductID/8/Default.aspx
These are two different options that may work for you.
I have a Vertx EDC Gamut that I really like. Mine is an urban gray pack and blends into the daily commute scenery very nicely.
http://www.vertx.com/edc-gamut-plus-le
can't over recommend enough: Tactical Tailor Modular Operator Pack (http://www.tacticaltailor.com/modularoperatorpack.aspx), get the brown or green.
Made in Washington. Wait till it goes on sale on TT or Amazon.
Here's some pictures in the gallery (http://imgur.com/a/lfpZm) here too (http://imgur.com/a/Usbfh)...yup that's a JPC with plates inside
or a TAG Banshee (http://imgur.com/bS71Irn)...and it's travel log (http://edcforums.com/threads/pics-of-your-edc-bag-part-3.126611/page-60#post-2529571)
Rmplstlskn
02-20-16, 23:05
DIRECT ACTION!!!! (http://directactiongear.com/packs-and-bags/)
http://dfr4rssi07fv7.cloudfront.net/da/pl-dst-cd/35/070.jpg
For the very decent price, this has been the BEST bag for the buck I have ever had the pleasure to test... Seriously, I am that impressed with this made in Poland company line... I first got their Ghost backpack in Mandrake, then the Messenger Bag in Grey.
The grey is VERY discrete, yet all of them have the very low-profile, smooth-looking LASER CUT molle. Look at YouTube reviews for more info. You will regret not checking out these bags...
http://directactiongear.com/packs-and-bags/
Rmpl
HardToHandle
02-20-16, 23:13
GGG has been good to go for my experience to date. They are a minimalistic shop and their prices regard a balance of price to quality. My biggest gripe with them is the crappy shipping prices and slower shipping. Their newer Griff has been something I have been considering for just your use case. Bang Breach Clear had an interesting review.
As noted earlier they are not Arc'teryx is pentiultimate design nor the price point. Arc prices are crazy for a Phillippines/SE Asian sourced product. I tried a Blade for EDC, which seemed to be sized for 100lb smurf, not an American male lacking metrosexual shoulders. I have other Arc stuff that is more functional and have come close to pulling the trigger on a Khard 30. If you are going to buy Arc, look at Tactical Distributors for their sales.
The real issue is what is your price point - $200 puts you into the top tiers of most makers, so you have the right outlook.
GGG is the $100+ range. Arc is $150+. North face, REI, etc. may get you into the $50+ range.
If the issue is every day carry, go to EDC forums. There is a huge amount of information there on dozens of packs. The creator of Sneaky Bags, Helm, has an Alpha One Niner that looks to be a great pack at the sub-$200 price point. Looks to be way over engineered but likely bulletproof.
Might also do some searches on Soldier Systems and Military Morons, if you have not already. They will have some decent overviews.
Vertx has an amazing line of packs
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Thanks for all the suggestions. Lots of good looking options. The Direct Action Dust pack posted above looks especially interesting. I've got some more reading to do before making a final decision though. Thanks to everyone for your help so far.
HardToHandle I'll also check out EDC Forums and thanks for the follow up on GGG. Separate from my purposes for this thread, I'm also thinking of getting the GGG Coffin Sling Bag for other uses that I think it will work out well for.
https://store.kifaru.net/scout-1300ci213-liters-p51.aspx
Just over your budget line, but this is a very handy pack.
I have used mine for various hunting trips, also an excerise/day trip bag.
The quality is there.
Good luck.
I'm a fan of my Kelty Peregrine. I can pack a lot in it like your anticipated load out (used as a car/get home bag) and it carries well, or I can download it and use it as a day hiking/tac pack and it carries just as well. Mine's in coyote, but black would be pretty discrete.
http://www.first-spear.com/images/P/commpackFrontandBAck.jpg
Been using this for a couple of years... my search is over. Two sizes to choice from, build quality is great.
I like the looks of this bag. I can't make out the brand. Can someone help?
I like the looks of this bag. I can't make out the brand. Can someone help?
...that's the First Spear Comm Pack...
I have a Vertx EDC Gamut that I really like. Mine is an urban gray pack and blends into the daily commute scenery very nicely.
http://www.vertx.com/edc-gamut-plus-le
X2. I have the same one. Great edc bag.
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HighDesert
02-21-16, 20:11
Was a pretty big Kifaru, TAD, Goruck and Mystery Ranch snob until kids came around...
Honestly I've been using a 5.11 Rush 24 for close to a year for pretty much what you describe and I have been very pleased. $107 on Amazon is a steal.
From a bag snob, collector, abuser, etc.
If it can be bought at a big box store, I've probably destroyed one.
Goruck is my current pick as an EDC. It's in a league of it's own as an EDC pack, and I've owned a lot of the top tier brands such as Mystery Ranch. They may lack in "features", but in terms of quality and simplicity, it cannot be beat. I honestly doubt that I could wear mine out in my lifetime unless I intentionally drag it behind my truck.
If you want something with more bells and whistles, Kifaru's E&E pack is nice. The Hill people gear tarahumara is also a neat design that is well made.
For large(er) packs with frames Mystery Ranch is king (and Kifaru a close second).
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Can't ever go wrong with an Eagle Industry or LBT 3 day pack. They will last forever.
The new SKD Pig 40 Hour pack looks interesting.
http://www.skdtac.com/PIG-40-Hour-Pack-p/pig.721.htm
Moose-Knuckle
02-22-16, 04:33
Can't ever go wrong with an Eagle Industry or LBT 3 day pack. They will last forever.
I have two by each manufacturer and am very pleased with them.
RobertTheTexan
02-22-16, 12:03
I want to say upfront these bags I'm going to recommend are not an equivalent to a MaxPedition or TT, or other $100+ bags. These are sub $100 dollars bags, but so far have been worth that and then some. I've had very good luck with SOG bags. Yep, same people that make the knives. I've got one I abuse as a range/go bag and then one that I really abuse as my travel/laptop/ get home ruck. It's bigger than my range pack, but I carry a lot more gear in it. When I travel, besides carrying a 17" laptop, 1 lb charging brick, I also carry a full change of clothes, wet weather parka (or extra seasonal gear) a 72 HR food kit, first aid kit(combination of an iFak, blowout, and CVS pharmacy) all my electronics I need to perform my job, plus flashlight, batteries , recharge kit, self defense items and other items I will need should I get stranded at a client site. Also I rarely work in state and am often in places I can't have a firearm, so I have to get creative. This bag is heavy, a solid 35-38 lbs with my laptop and that with the charging brick. (And other accessories) I've been using it well over a year and nothing has malfunctioned, torn or broken. You may think 'well how hard can air travel be on a bag?' I can tell you that if you travel week in and week out like I often do, you'd be surprised how much damage you can do to a bag shoving it overheads, throwing it in a trunk, lugging it halfway across the country, kicking it, sleeping on it, eating on it etc.. The problem I faved was I was burning through very expensive Samsonite bags (and other expensive brands) and so one day I had an idea to try and use one of my tactical packs instead of a traditional backpack/laptop bag. It turned out to be a great decision. Then on top of all that when I do a weekend camp out with my boy, I dump the electronics and throw in more stuff, ammo, a pistol or two and other stuff and take it out to the field. It's got a great first aid kit as mentioned and a full compliment of EDC-"heavy" items. I really don't do that because I don't have other bags, but I really wanted to give this bag a workout. So the BLUF is that I'm impressed with these SOG bags. I don't know if they really put effort/quality due to a go-to market strategy, but I now have all SOF bags for my BoB and recommend them to my friends... Which doesn't mean a lot to you necessarily, but I take care what I say is GTG to anyone, but especially my friends.
Here are a few pics of my range bag. I can send pics for the large ruck if you want.(think like 3 day assault pack size.) . I think the smaller range pack would be perfect for your needs. They both have good compartments/pockets, organization, & heavy zippers. I hope this helps expand your options. I paid right at $40.00 for it. Really at that price and for the durability, it's outdone all $100+ bags I've bought over the years already with no signs of slowing down.
(EDITED after looking at all the other really nice bag recommendations)
After looking at all of the other posts, maybe I should file this bag in the PWT section. lol, I'll leave it up even though the other bags are probably in an entirely different class. But it's good to have options. Unfortunately I can't tell you what the bag does 5 yrs down the road like some of the other gents that posted, that would convince me to purchase based on their recommendation. But you can get this bag in black and OD, so maybe the black is a little more discrete than multicam
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160222/418d0bcf3192ed63d74d6d4cf2da4e85.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160222/e5f8789444ec4e433f92650d9b75a8c4.jpghttp://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160222/00bf12fca2aecb34d113e80ee776f5ba.jpg
SounderDelta
02-22-16, 12:45
I only have long term experience with camelpak and mystery ranch. My camelpak stuff was bought used at an REI and in great shape bought it for about 75% off so in that way it has been great. Has developed a small hole which is growing in the bottom of the main compartment this is after about 5 or 6 years of outdoor use as a daypack. Good value of you aren't paying full retail and would be fine (sans hole) if it lived it's life in a car trunk but just not rugged enough for long term use.
My mystery ranch gear is phenomenal. The zippers are stout the materials very tough. I've never seen one break and ive observed dozens. The one I use is user adjustable. Wore it everyday for almost 3 months and after the initial packrash sets in it was comfortable. Stands up to alot of weight and abuse. Mine weighed about 50lbs loaded and doubles as a pillow. I have no experience with their smaller packs but I would trust the brand. They are expensive but great quality.
I want to thank everyone for their help up to this point. So far I've ended up buying the SOG bag recommended by RobertTheTexan because I think it will be a great bag for a class or day at the range. I'm still looking to buy a dedicated EDC bag and there are a LOT of good recommendations here so far. Right now I'm leaning toward the Direct Action bag recommended by Rmplstlskn but I haven't decided for sure yet. I don't think I could go wrong with any of the bags recommended so far.
Have you considered the MSM Adapt Pack? It's about the same size as the Tactical Tailor Removable Operator Pack, but has the option of converting into a single strap pack if you want.
Have you considered the MSM Adapt Pack? It's about the same size as the Tactical Tailor Removable Operator Pack, but has the option of converting into a single strap pack if you want.
Yes that is one I'm considering.
RobertTheTexan
03-03-16, 11:27
I want to thank everyone for their help up to this point. So far I've ended up buying the SOG bag recommended by RobertTheTexan because I think it will be a great bag for a class or day at the range. I'm still looking to buy a dedicated EDC bag and there are a LOT of good recommendations here so far. Right now I'm leaning toward the Direct Action bag recommended by Rmplstlskn but I haven't decided for sure yet. I don't think I could go wrong with any of the bags recommended so far.
Hot dog I actually did something good on the forum.
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RioGrandeGreen
03-03-16, 13:35
Hot dog I actually did something good on the forum.
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Thanks for the review. I need a setup like yours for AS. I actually looked for them last weekend at Walmart and they were OOS.
Thanks for the review. I need a setup like yours for AS. I actually looked for them last weekend at Walmart and they were OOS.
I ended up getting one off of Amazon.
ExplorinInTheWoods
03-03-16, 18:16
Try the tactical tailor urban operator pack, it's a good little day pack for me.
A little late to the thread but just in case anyone else is looking:
http://www.loadedpocketz.com/alpha-one-niner-evade-backpack-review/
RioGrandeGreen
03-05-16, 18:03
Thanks guys for the info.
Looking for another Day Pack here; has anyone heard of Cannae (https://cannaeprogear.com/product-category/packs-and-bags/backpacks/) and their Legion Series Day Packs and the Phalanx? I'm curious to know if these are Made in the USA.
Looking for another Day Pack here; has anyone heard of Cannae (https://cannaeprogear.com/product-category/packs-and-bags/backpacks/) and their Legion Series Day Packs and the Phalanx? I'm curious to know if these are Made in the USA.
Looks like they're a very new brand. Haven't heard anything about them before. Usually, most companies who have gear made in the USA has it proudly listed in the product description. From glancing around their site and their "about us", I'm thinking this may be imported stuff. Best way to find out is to email/call them.
Looks like they're a very new brand. Haven't heard anything about them before. Usually, most companies who have gear made in the USA has it proudly listed in the product description. From glancing around their site and their "about us", I'm thinking this may be imported stuff. Best way to find out is to email/call them.
Indeed! Also from perusing their site I didn't come across that and am suspecting/supposing they may very well be made overseas.
lawusmc0844
06-12-16, 18:43
I have a 5.11 COVRT 18 that I have been using for nearly two years, excellent pack. I used it for school, range, hiking and as an EDC and it has held up very well. My only complaints are the bottom is not stiff so I place a old laundry bag down there if I carry anything heavy in the main compartment. The side bottle pockets aren't designed for Nalgene bottles, they will fit but very tight. And lastly it doesn't come with a waist strap which is needed when I use the pack as an assault pack. Other than that, I love this bag and highly recommend it. It may not be as nice as my USMC Corpsman assault pack but doesn't scream tactical either.
Its made in China but does that matter? I got many items that have held up to all kinds of abuse and at the same time I have expensive American made jackets that got ripped up just from the washing machine. Good thing I didn't pay full price for them...
I was gonna start my own thread but I'll just bring this one back up to the top. I'm looking for an EDC bag in the same price range as above (sub $200) but I don't want any of the molle or velcro covered stuff. Every pack everyone makes now seems to have gone to the molle fad and it does nothing for me and short of attaching my streamlight penlight to the outside of my current edc bag I have not had a single use for it.
I really like the look of both the Vertx Gamut Plus and the First Spear Comm Bag. I was going to buy the Gamut until I saw some reviews that say it doesn't hold nearly as much as you would think because the outside pockets fold into the bigger compartment taking up the main space. Can anyone here confirm that?
With the Large Comm bag, I'd probably just wait for a sale before I buy it. I wish it had an admin section but overall thats not enough to compel me to not get it. This bag will be my everything bag, so itll be used for edc, go bag, and hiking bag depending what I'm doing that day. I'm worried it might be overly large for a hiking bag and would probably have to spend more to get something smaller like a camelbak.
I've looked through the bags mentioned above and the Hill people Gear bag looks interesting. Any other non-tactical looking but tactical bags that anyone can suggest?
Mystery Ranch offers some non-tacticool options if you like their designs:
http://www.mysteryranch.com/java-pack?quantity=1&itemcolor=1
http://www.mysteryranch.com/urban-assault-pack
I really liked my Sweet Pea, but it was a tad large for everyday carry. If I were looking for a new pack, I would be looking hard at the above two if I'm trying to fly under the radar.
HardToHandle
06-29-16, 22:27
I really like the look of both the Vertx Gamut Plus and the First Spear Comm Bag. I was going to buy the Gamut until I saw some reviews that say it doesn't hold nearly as much as you would think because the outside pockets fold into the bigger compartment taking up the main space. Can anyone here confirm that?
Picked up a Gamut Plus awhile back from Botach. It is a functional bag with some built in organization while still possessing some flexibility with Velcro loop lining. The side pockets do protrude into the core pocket... After using it, I feel the side pockets are too large, especially when they expand into the core pack. I simply use the side pockets sparsely and it is not an issue. The main compartment is roomy and the space compares favorably to generally similar Khard/VanquestIBEX 30. Those bags also have side pockets that impact the main compartment, even if a bit less.
Gamut Pluses are pretty good sized, as an example, they are officially too large for US commercial airliners. That said, mine
fits with no issue on regional BAE and Embrarers with small overheads. For me, the Plus would be too large for my EDC, but works as a solid 2 day travel bag for me.
I had tried the Vanquest IBEX and was ready to pull a trigger on a Khard, both of which had similar but more hiking focused features. I picked the Gamut plus for $95, which is roughly half the price of IBEX and less than one third of a Khard. That price differential made taking a gamble on the Gamut Plus worthwhile.
Picked up a Gamut Plus awhile back from Botach. It is a functional bag with some built in organization while still possessing some flexibility with Velcro loop lining. The side pockets do protrude into the core pocket... After using it, I feel the side pockets are too large, especially when they expand into the core pack. I simply use the side pockets sparsely and it is not an issue. The main compartment is roomy and the space compares favorably to generally similar Khard/VanquestIBEX 30. Those bags also have side pockets that impact the main compartment, even if a bit less.
Gamut Pluses are pretty good sized, as an example, they are officially too large for US commercial airliners. That said, mine
fits with no issue on regional BAE and Embrarers with small overheads. For me, the Plus would be too large for my EDC, but works as a solid 2 day travel bag for me.
I had tried the Vanquest IBEX and was ready to pull a trigger on a Khard, both of which had similar but more hiking focused features. I picked the Gamut plus for $95, which is roughly half the price of IBEX and less than one third of a Khard. That price differential made taking a gamble on the Gamut Plus worthwhile.
I'm glad you mentioned their size. I had to go back and look at them for the Gamuts. They are a lot bigger than I thought. I had previously thought the Plus was about the size as the regular. If I go with the Gamut I will probably get the regular one now as a 35 liter pack is larger than I need for sure.
BumbleBeeGIXXER
07-01-16, 14:01
I've been using the standard size Gamut for a little over 2 years now and I am very pleased with it. No real construction issues to date. Zippers, stitching and velcro are all in tact. Typically loaded with a G19 and a spare mag, puff jacket, change of clothes, handheld light, pens, notebooks, laptop, etc. My carry on bag every time I fly, gets thrown in and out of my truck every day multiple times as I travel for work when needed. I got the black on black versus the red because I just wanted something that didn't stand out too much. I'd recommend it for a low profile EDC bag for general use. Probably grab one of my Arc'teryx or Eberlestock packs for harder use.
I am trying to find one that can double as my work pack for my laptop and a range bag. I have a rush 24 which is nice but it's a bit to big for an edc but perfect for work travel and to fit a change of clothes or two
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BrigandTwoFour
07-02-16, 09:11
I know I'm late to this thread, but if you haven't checked out the GoRuck GR1 mentioned on the first page then you really should consider it. I've been using it for a while now, and it is hands down the most useful pack I've owned. It is extraordinarily well made, and because it doesn't "specialize" in doing any one thing, I find it to be useful for just about everything. Be it day hikes, EDC, gym bag, range days, or picnics with the family.
That said, it is a bit above the $200 price point. If sticking below that, I feel like I would be happy with Grey Ghost Gear options (Lightweight Assault Pack, Griff Pack, or Throwback)
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