View Full Version : ALICE replacement
I am going to be taking a collateral duty assignment where we are issued an ALICE pack and some other gear. I anticipate spending up to a week in the brush. My military experience with the ALICE pack was less than positive.
Can you recommend a replacement pack? Please list some pros/cons of whatever you suggest.
I am aware of the Tactical Tailor modifications available, but just do not like the way the ALICE ruck rides.
Does it need to be a "military style" or can it be civilian pack?
If military type, will you be wearing body armor in conjunction with the pack?
Also, do you know what size you need or how much weight you will be carrying?
Hispeedal2
07-07-11, 08:53
I have been using a Kelty Military pack for a few years now. Well, technically two Kelty packs. I have one ruck-sized and one 3 day-sized pack. The good part about both is they have internal aluminum stays for support. This is appreciated in the 3-day as we always end up carrying more than needed. I would recommend both.
As for use, the 3-day has more use as I haven't had to carry a large enough load to justify a ruck except for a handful of times. The 3-day has one 12 month tour, a metric crap load of hunting trips, and several 1-3 day light backpacking trips. It is by far my favorite.
Some other favorites I have seen around are the Camelbak Trizip (basically a Mystery Ranch design). Those are being issued in AFG and everyone I know that managed to keep one swears by them.
I have used a Kifaru. I still own a Scout. It is my favorite when I don't need the capacity of the Kelty 3-day. I sold my EMR to fund BOTH Keltys. It was a good pack, but I needed a slightly larger 3-day and by selling the EMR used and beat up, I was able to buy 2 packs as well made IMHO. The Keltys have the weight advantage when compared to the Kifaru too. Ounces add up.
I also have a Eberlestock. When I first started looking into one, I was skeptical. I figured they would be good at carrying a long gun (my primary purpose), but terrible in terms of use as "a pack". I was truly wrong. They are very well made and well thought out. Excellent suspension and straps.
Does it need to be a "military style" or can it be civilian pack?
If military type, will you be wearing body armor in conjunction with the pack?
Also, do you know what size you need or how much weight you will be carrying?
It will need to be a military style pack and I will be wearing body armor. It will have to be able to accommodate the same amount of gear as a GI Large ALICE ruck.
It will need to be a military style pack and I will be wearing body armor. It will have to be able to accommodate the same amount of gear as a GI Large ALICE ruck.
I think your only two options are Eberlestock (http://www.eberlestock.com/) and Mystery Ranch (http://www.mysteryranch.com/s.nl/c.999464/sc.7/.f).
Kifaru (https://kifaru.net/militarypacks.htm) also has great packs (I own a couple) but I'm not sure how adjustable they are for armor. My EMR has been in storage for years now.
Have you looked into the Down East 1606AC replacement frame for the ALICE?
Heavy Metal
07-08-11, 08:58
I have doen the Down East mod, it is a terrific mod for the money!
See if they will issue you a Marine Corps ILBE pack designed by Arcteyrx. There are three sizes, an "assault" day pack, a "recon" medium overnighter and a big rucksack. The rucks are very military, carry a huge load and are very comfortable. The only downer with mine is that it is a bit heavy duty for long distance backpacking. You can get one off ebay if your department won't issue one.
arbninftry
07-08-11, 22:38
I think your only two options are Eberlestock (http://www.eberlestock.com/) and Mystery Ranch (http://www.mysteryranch.com/s.nl/c.999464/sc.7/.f).
Kifaru (https://kifaru.net/militarypacks.htm) also has great packs (I own a couple) but I'm not sure how adjustable they are for armor. My EMR has been in storage for years now.
Plus one for a Mystery Ranch. They make a very durable, and comfortable 3 Day Assault pack. As comfortable, as carrying a pack mule type load, can be made.
Heavy Metal
07-08-11, 22:53
See if they will issue you a Marine Corps ILBE pack designed by Arcteyrx. There are three sizes, an "assault" day pack, a "recon" medium overnighter and a big rucksack. The rucks are very military, carry a huge load and are very comfortable. The only downer with mine is that it is a bit heavy duty for long distance backpacking. You can get one off ebay if your department won't issue one.
I have heard the Marines are dumping the IBLE because it does not play nice with plate carriers.
theblackknight
07-09-11, 12:18
See if they will issue you a Marine Corps ILBE pack designed by Arcteyrx. There are three sizes, an "assault" day pack, a "recon" medium overnighter and a big rucksack. The rucks are very military, carry a huge load and are very comfortable. The only downer with mine is that it is a bit heavy duty for long distance backpacking. You can get one off ebay if your department won't issue one.
lejueneyardsales.com/pendaltonyardsales.com you can find the ILBE pack for cheap.
theblackknight
07-09-11, 12:24
I have heard the Marines are dumping the IBLE because it does not play nice with plate carriers.
Marsoc still uses the ALICE, from A&S to the teams. They upgrade the straps,belt and all that, but still use the stock sacks and frame. The ilbe get interesting when you have a vest with cumberbun, battle belt and the pack waist belt all crowding your 6 pack/keg area. You can still make it work a keep the majority of the load on your hips.
See if they will issue you a Marine Corps ILBE pack designed by Arcteyrx. There are three sizes, an "assault" day pack, a "recon" medium overnighter and a big rucksack. The rucks are very military, carry a huge load and are very comfortable. The only downer with mine is that it is a bit heavy duty for long distance backpacking. You can get one off ebay if your department won't issue one.
I just purchased an ILBE ruck in like new condition for $40 on Craigs List. They were averaging $175-$200 on EBAY for lesser condition.
+1 for Mystery Ranch especially because of their system that is tailored to armor.
I used a CSM Gear mountain ruck for a month long training exercise and was pretty satisfied. Loads were between 55-75lbs. No armor though.
http://inlinethumb43.webshots.com/46698/2404651010101080816S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2404651010101080816zgyfwp)
I have heard the Marines are dumping the IBLE because it does not play nice with plate carriers.
Not sure about details, but I've heard this too.
Without any armor on, it's actually kind of nice, but with armor it's a pain in the butt. Also, with only one effective opening, it's a major hassle to get anything out of the bottom, like your sleep system or whatever.
I've heard from a reliable rumor mill that there's something new coming our way. Good news for me. In the mean time I'm going to make a visit to Saigon Sam’s...
Not sure about details, but I've heard this too.
Without any armor on, it's actually kind of nice, but with armor it's a pain in the butt. Also, with only one effective opening, it's a major hassle to get anything out of the bottom, like your sleep system or whatever.
I've heard from a reliable rumor mill that there's something new coming our way. Good news for me. In the mean time I'm going to make a visit to Saigon Sam’s...
I read the same rumor. Luckily for me, I only wear my soft armor when carrying the ruck. The plates will likely be inside.
I read the same rumor. Luckily for me, I only wear my soft armor when carrying the ruck. The plates will likely be inside.
In that case, you're set. I hope it works out well for you!
Although I hate Botach, they have Kelty packs on sale right now. I may have to get a Falcon. It is only $150.
Just a heads up regarding the Kelty Falcon. There's a guy on ebay selling them for 134.95 w/ free shipping.
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.5 Copyright © 2024 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.