Tactical Tailor Extended Range Operator Pack

[Hawkeye]

I've been searching for a pack for a few years now, that was bigger than a typical 3 day type pack, but didnt want something big enough to put a fullsize refridgerator in. Something in the 3k-4k CU range, give or take. I've looked around at the usual suspects, and while I like some of them, I just couldnt quite find exactly what I wanted. All of my longer range rucking has been done with my old issue ALICE pack. I wanted something more comfortable than that.
I found out earlier this year that Tactical Tailor was coming out with a new line of rucks, and was instantly excited. I've been a huge Tactical Tailor fan for some years now. Their gear is some of the best in my opinion, not only in quality of construction but in design and engineering as well. Enter their new line of Elite Operator Series Packs (http://www.tacticaltailor.com/eliteseriespacks.aspx). The Extended Range Operator Pack instantly caught my attention, and after looking over the details on their website as soon as I saw they were up, I placed an order for one in Coyote. Finally got it in and thought I'd throw up a few initial thoughts on it. You can read most of the technical details about it here (http://www.tacticaltailor.com/extendedrangeoperatorpack.aspx). I havent used it yet obviously, but, my initial impressions from just giving it a once over and test fitting, I am VERY impressed with it. It doesnt have all the bells and whistles of some brands/models, but, it has just enough for my taste.
Its an internal frame pack with an interesting clamshell type opening, but can be used like a top loader. There are dual direction zippers that run about 2/3rds of the way down each side. This allows you to access the main compartment from the top, or the sides. It has an external pouch on top, 2 mesh pockets on each side of the main compartment, as well as a mesh pouch and enclosed pouch on the inside of the lid. There is a seperate pouch for a hydration bladder. There is a hidden pouch on the top that contains a pull out VS-17 type marker panel for emergencies. The bottom is lined with a similar material to make finding things in the bottom a bit easier. The shoulder straps are nicely padded, as is the waist belt, and have QR buckles at the adjustment points. The waist belt is not removeable, but does have a couple of columns/rows of MOLLE webbing. The sternum strap is very easily adjusted for position. The shoulder straps, waist belt, and back area are all covered with breathable mesh, and the back is nicely padded with a air channel running down the centerline.
The oustide of the pack itself obviously has MOLLE webbing on each side and down the back, and there are a total of 6 compression straps. Plenty of expansion capability via user added external pouches. One thing that I really like, is how all the hardware such as the buckles, zippers, etc., is all color matched. To many other brands skimp in my opinion and simply use black hardware across the board, regardless of the pack color. TT also add's 550 cord pulls to all the zippers. This not only makes opening and closing them easier, but helps to silence them as well. These small touches may go unnoticed by some, or may be of little interest to others. To me, they say alot about TT's attention to detail. I'm sure I've missed something, so I'll be happy to try and answer any questions. Here are some initial pics. I plan to take some additional shots along side a few other packs just for size comparison, as well as add some more thoughts once I have a chance to load it up and get out with it some.


Shoulder straps and back area.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp1.jpg


Waist Belt.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp2.jpg


Load lifters on top of the shoulder straps, and a excellent low profile carry handle.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp3.jpg


Side view.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp4.jpg


Top view.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp5.jpg


Top zippered pouch.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp6.jpg


Front view.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp7.jpg


Top view again.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp8.jpg


VS-17 panel.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp9.jpg


Lower bungee attatchment points of the VS-17 panel.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp10.jpg


External pocket...one on each side.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp11.jpg


Bottom view.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp12.jpg


Side access.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp13.jpg


4 internal mesh pockets.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp14.jpg


Bottom inside view.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp15.jpg


Inside lid view, mesh pocket and zippered pocket.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp16.jpg

[jerry7784]

I like that bag I didn't know that TT has products like that I live near one I'm going to get one now, Thanks man!

[Hawkeye]

Couple of pics just for size comparison/reference.....

With my Mystery Ranch 3 day/Assault pack.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp17.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp20.jpg


With my old ALICE pack.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp18.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp21.jpg


All 3.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v86/Hawkeye1/Gear/ExOp19.jpg

[SeriousStudent]

Very nice pack!

I think the old ALICE packs crippled more young adults than MS.

[HES]

Very nice pack!

I think the old ALICE packs crippled more young adults than MS.
From talking to a couple of orthopedists who have been around the block with whom I have spoken, with when they see the combination of a compressed lumbar region and hyper extended cervical region of the spine the first words out of their mouths may very well be something along the lines of: "Were you in the Military?" or "Were you in the Army / USMC?" or "were you a grunt?".

Yeah I have first hand experience with this :(

[SeriousStudent]

Yup. 0331 here, former Misguided Child.

I'm past the half-century mark now, and my MD says the same things. I just smile back and say "Doc, I'm alive. Every day above ground is a victory." :D

And I bet yer deaf, too, right? :p

We now return you to your previously-scheduled thread, already in progress.

[Von Rheydt]

Pack looks nice enough and TT have a good rep. Personally, I always question long zippers on "luggage" though 'cos if a zipper fails you can have skivvies and socks all over the place. I would have another compression strap between the two that are already there....just in case.


I'm past the half-century mark now, and my MD says the same things. I just smile back and say "Doc, I'm alive. Every day above ground is a victory." :D

And I bet yer deaf, too, right? :p


Can we start a forum sub-group.:D

[91Bravo]

At the time we called the ALICE large "kidney killers". But the truth is 40 years later we all have spinal compression disease.

91Bravo medic.

[91Bravo]

Any idea what the TT Extended Operator pack weighs. I saw 3000 cu in. It looks good as a long distance pack if it doesn't weigh too much. ie < 5 lbs.

[just a scout]

I just got my Extended Operator pack and Removable Operator pack. Small one mounts perfectly to my TT MAV Super X harness and to the bigger pack. Both are comfortable and excellent construction. Now to get out in the field and test them out.

[91Bravo]

Answering my own question the pack weighs 6.5 lbs and holds 3143 cubic inches. IMO Too small and too heavy for real long distance carrying. IMO.

[suthrncop66]

those look nice, been carrying a maxpedition but that is definately its big brother

[just a scout]

From talking to a couple of orthopedists who have been around the block with whom I have spoken, with when they see the combination of a compressed lumbar region and hyper extended cervical region of the spine the first words out of their mouths may very well be something along the lines of: "Were you in the Military?" or "Were you in the Army / USMC?" or "were you a grunt?".

Yeah I have first hand experience with this :(

Funny. The first thing the Radiologist asked me was "what was your MOS?" Apparently it's called "rucksack back".

[nimslerpon]

I've been eyeing one of these for awhile now and your pics/review just sold it. Thanks for the info!

[nobody knows]

I too have been considering this pack as well as the arc'teryx echo pack. I haven't made my mind up yet but im thinking its going to be the TT pack. I already have the removable operator pack and really like it. Plus TT's quality and customer service is awesome.

[MiamiC70]

Just picked one up in OD green any updates on yours any tips or pics of it loaded out?
On sale all month + you get the 15% Founders day discount though May 15th so it's pretty good deal right now.

[Ike990]

Looks like the gen 1 ILBE marpat to me. Nice pack though

[falcon5]

Yup. 0331 here, former Misguided Child.

I'm past the half-century mark now, and my MD says the same things. I just smile back and say "Doc, I'm alive. Every day above ground is a victory." :D

And I bet yer deaf, too, right? :p

We now return you to your previously-scheduled thread, already in progress.

Hell, I'm an old 0351, talk about deaf...

[Redmanfms]

After many years of experience backpacking, side access is a solid no-go for me, as are zippers. TT makes great kit, but zippers break really easily and are practically impossible to make field-expedient repairs to and side access (especially with a zipper) is just asking for it.

I've found a large ALICE with TT's frame, "super straps" and "super belt" really work quite well. I began backpacking with ALICE because it was cheap, and I've returned to it after a years' long journey because of its simplicity and durability.

[TacticalSledgehammer]

That pack looks really well made. I'll keep them in mind for my next one as I usually go through one a yr, working on the railroad. Thanks for the review.

[mike11]

nice pack, the frame kind of looks similar to the mystery ranch frames. my back problems may be in their infancy but i still cant say i like any pack better than the old mountain ruck. ive tried alot, and ive used them both in body armor and without body armor all over the world, i also cant afford a mystery ranch haha. just gotta love the old mountain ruck!

[SunTzu]

Since this thread was resurrected I would be interested in hearing updates on pack usage, if possible.

[BigJoe]

i really like the size of that pack... hmnmmm

[870pilot]

sweet pack, but some solid review(s) would be appreciated!

[skoolbussid]

identical pack but with grey ghost label and pretty sure made by TT........$127....at greyghostgear.com....only in coyote brown....just got mine today...ordered on monday night late from iowa.....check it out!!!!!!!

[falcon5]

I've had the same pack for a few months now and it is good to go. Solid construction, plenty of capacity without being a beast. I'd buy it again happily at a higher price, at current price it's a steal.

[ra2bach]

identical pack but with grey ghost label and pretty sure made by TT........$127....at greyghostgear.com....only in coyote brown....just got mine today...ordered on monday night late from iowa.....check it out!!!!!!!

is this really identical? does it have internal frame sheet, interior pockets, same material and zippers, etc.??

all of these features cost money. there's gotta be a reason this is half price...

[currahee]

After many years of experience backpacking, side access is a solid no-go for me, as are zippers. TT makes great kit, but zippers break really easily and are practically impossible to make field-expedient repairs to and side access (especially with a zipper) is just asking for it.

I've found a large ALICE with TT's frame, "super straps" and "super belt" really work quite well. I began backpacking with ALICE because it was cheap, and I've returned to it after a years' long journey because of its simplicity and durability.

Like several others I spent a portion of my late teens and early 20s with ALICE, and I think some of my current back issues are due to that.

But adding new straps and frame have really helped. I've tried a few better rucks but that is an expensive proposition, and I end up coming back. One of the main reasons is hating the zippers, as you mention.

This is also a tag because the pics aren't coming up for me at work.

[Koshinn]

is this really identical? does it have internal frame sheet, interior pockets, same material and zippers, etc.??

all of these features cost money. there's gotta be a reason this is half price...

Grey ghost sells overstock TT items and rebadges them. I just bought the extended range op pack from them, what do you want to see and ill get pictures of it.

[skoolbussid]

i looked around on grey ghost but could not find the cordura weight........may be lighter,,,,like 500 rather than the 1000 ...but all else is the same as far as i can tell....did not mean to mislead in any way....was just going off what i knew....still a great pack!!!!!

[MFS1589]

The GGG pack BLOWS!!!!!! cheap everything, it is not overstock, it is the LA Police gear cheap a$$ version of a solid TT pack.

[Ironman8]

The GGG pack BLOWS!!!!!! cheap everything, it is not overstock, it is the LA Police gear cheap a$$ version of a solid TT pack.

What is your experience with it? Personally owned? Or is that secondhand info?

[Endur]

The GGG pack BLOWS!!!!!! cheap everything, it is not overstock, it is the LA Police gear cheap a$$ version of a solid TT pack.

I am almost positive GGG is made by TT.

[Armati]

I like everything about this pack but the weight. It needs to be 500D. I am surprised TT hasn't given this pack the Light Fighter treatment.

[ra2bach]

The GGG pack BLOWS!!!!!! cheap everything, it is not overstock, it is the LA Police gear cheap a$$ version of a solid TT pack.

how do you know this?..

[Ironman8]

I like everything about this pack but the weight. It needs to be 500D. I am surprised TT hasn't given this pack the Light Fighter treatment.

This is where I'm at with this pack as well.

The way I see it is, Mil (style) packs are either too heavy for my liking and/or priced WAY too expensive and usually don't come with an internal suspension system that is adjustable like alot of civ packs. As a civvie, I don't need a pack designed to withstand an IED or multiple combat tours. I prefer something in between. Nor do I need all the MOLLE webbing.

As for civvie packs, they are usually made with fabric that isn't durable enough for my liking or made in gay flamboyant colors.

I just wish there could be a good, affordable middle ground between these two.

Probably the closest I've seen is some of the Osprey pack line. In particular, I've had my eye on the Osprey Kestrel.

Anyway, done with my pack rant...

[MFS1589]

how do you know this?..

Personally owned for less that 12 hours because that is how bad it was. Soon the the PO opened it was sent back. From the imitation fastex(copy) buckles to the black nylon mesh, to cheap zippers, everything was done to keep the cost down. If TT makes it, they are making it to GGG specs(cheap). I would rate it a $49 pack tops. Let me be clear, I am referring to the GGG version, not the TT version.

[Koshinn]

As for civvie packs, they are usually made with fabric that isn't durable enough for my liking or made in gay flamboyant colors.


The gay flamboyant colors are for safety in a civilian hiking/camping environment. It's like having VS-17 always deployed incase you are unconscious and need rescuing or some shit. It's also to be seen by hunters so you don't get shot by accident.

Ever see the first Hot Shots movie? :lol:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQmBJONo5_E

[ra2bach]

Personally owned for less that 12 hours because that is how bad it was. Soon the the PO opened it was sent back. From the imitation fastex(copy) buckles to the black nylon mesh, to cheap zippers, everything was done to keep the cost down. If TT makes it, they are making it to GGG specs(cheap). I would rate it a $49 pack tops. Let me be clear, I am referring to the GGG version, not the TT version.

thanks for that! good info saving an expensive lesson...

[Endur]

This is where I'm at with this pack as well.

The way I see it is, Mil (style) packs are either too heavy for my liking and/or priced WAY too expensive and usually don't come with an internal suspension system that is adjustable like alot of civ packs. As a civvie, I don't need a pack designed to withstand an IED or multiple combat tours. I prefer something in between. Nor do I need all the MOLLE webbing.

As for civvie packs, they are usually made with fabric that isn't durable enough for my liking or made in gay flamboyant colors.

I just wish there could be a good, affordable middle ground between these two.

Probably the closest I've seen is some of the Osprey pack line. In particular, I've had my eye on the Osprey Kestrel.

Anyway, done with my pack rant...

Check out Kifaru. They make great packs and if you want a military version I am sure if you ask for 500D they will. Best packs I have ever seen.

[Koshinn]

Well I got the GG version in. Compared to my TT fight light operator pack, the zippers seem lower quality, but overall it doesn't seem any worse. Especially at less than half the price of the TT version. Anyone want pictures of specific parts?

The buckles are also different than my TT FL OP, which are similar to the first post ER OP.

It's also 5.2 lbs or so (using bathroom scale taking my weight + pack, my weight without pack, and subtraction). That makes it a lb less than the TT version, so lighter materials are definitely used.

[ra2bach]

Well I got the GG version in. Compared to my TT fight light operator pack, the zippers seem lower quality, but overall it doesn't seem any worse. Especially at less than half the price of the TT version. Anyone want pictures of specific parts?

The buckles are also different than my TT FL OP, which are similar to the first post ER OP.

It's also 5.2 lbs or so (using bathroom scale taking my weight + pack, my weight without pack, and subtraction). That makes it a lb less than the TT version, so lighter materials are definitely used.

yes pics would be nice. also, I'm interested in the suspension system. I have 3-day packs with internal frame sheet and that's ok for that small of a load but may not be for a larger pack. what's your take?..

[Koshinn]

yes pics would be nice. also, I'm interested in the suspension system. I have 3-day packs with internal frame sheet and that's ok for that small of a load but may not be for a larger pack. what's your take?..

What parts do you want pics of?

[ra2bach]

What parts do you want pics of?

I don't know. what do you think is relevant?