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Archive for the ‘Packs’ Category

Bongo Gear Introduces SLAM Pack

Sunday, June 8th, 2025

New from Bongo is the SLAM Pack. Named after the MACV SOG SLAM (Search, Locate, Annihilate, Monitor) mission. It was designed as a supplement to the legendary Becker Patrol Pack at ~30 liters.

Coming Fall 2025…

bongogear.com/products/slam-pack

Canadian Army’s New Advanced Protective and Load Carriage Equipment from Logistik Unicorp

Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025

In March, the Canadian Army awarded a $19.7 million (excluding taxes) to Logistik Unicorp to supply its light forces with 3,000 units of advanced protective and load carriage equipment under the Dismounted Infantry Capability Enhancement (DICE) initiative.

At last week’s CANSEC, Logistik Unicorp exhibited the equipment. Some of the gear is based upon Logistik Unicorp subsidiary Australian Defence Apparel while the packs are from US manufacturer Stone Glacier.

Armour Carrier with 360° Protection

Mounted together, these components form a single vest that delivers both ballistic protection and load carriage capability. The PALS attachment system secures the user’s pouches as needed.

Designed to reduce total system weight, the Armour Carrier offers optimal protection while maintaining soldier mobility in both operational and training contexts.

Armour Carrier

  • Available in straight and contoured cuts
  • Breathable interior for optimal thermoregulation
  • 3-action quick-release system for swift removal
  • Front and back modular configuration: ballistic panels only, ballistic plates only, or both
  • Micro-adjustable Cummerbunds at front and back
  • Cummerbunds allow insertion of ballistic panels or stiffeners for a stable pouch platform

Modular Accessory Protector Panels

  • Deltoid Protector Panels adjustable to bicep circumference and height
  • Neck Protector Panel offers side and rear ballistic protection; shoulder bands ensure the proper positioning of the Deltoid Protector Panels
  • Throat Protector Panel offers front ballistic protection

3-IN-1 Combat Belt Modular System

Designed to provide the soldier with the benefits of a padded belt, as well as those of a traditional inner-outer tactical belt rig. It features independent PALS webbing for versatile configuration and accepts non-PALS attachment pouches when required.

The system distributes the weight of pouches at the waist rather than the shoulders. This configuration particularly benefits users carrying multiple pouches, reducing the load on the upper body and preserving mobility.

Light Belt Comforter

  • Reinforced pad to carry large pouches and heavy equipment
  • Channel system ensures a snug fit around the waist

Light Battle Belt

  • Two configurations: can be worn stand-alone or inserted into the Light Belt Comforter
  • Compatible with MOLLE system

Light Trouser Belt

  • Attaches to pants belt loops for added support of the Combat Belt

R3 Bag and Pack System

R3 3300 Bag

The R3 Frame System features a modular design with an integrated load shelf for carrying gear between the bag and frame, or directly on the frame. When paired with the R3 3300 Bag, it functions as a 72-hour assault pack with PALS webbing for customizable load configurations. The optional R3 Radio Harness secures the AN/ PRC-117G radio and allows quick battery access, ensuring both functionality and comfort in all operational conditions.

R3 Frame

  • Supports loads over 150 lb (68 kg)
  • Shoulder straps can be angled inward or outward to accommodate various shoulder widths, angles and additional environmental layers
  • Hip Belt attaches to the frame at five points for optimal load transfer to the hips
  • Two lumbar pad options for compatibility with the Armour Carrier

R3 3300 Bag

  • Capacity: 55 L
  • Top-load access and clamshell-style zippered opening
  • Communication port for antenna and cable routing

R3 Radio Harness

  • Two configurations: mounted on the R3 Frame and placed inside the R3 Bag

R3 7000 BAG

The R3 Frame System features an integrated load shelf, allowing gear to be carried between the frame and the bag, or directly on the frame. The R3 7000 Bag functions as a rucksack for missions up to 96 hours. R3 Side Bags can be mounted on either the R3 Bag or Frame, extending load capacity while preserving the mobility required for demanding operations.

R3 Frame

  • Supports loads over 150 lb (68 kg)
  • Adjustable shoulder straps and a 5-point hip belt attachment to the frame ensure optimal load transfer
  • Two lumbar pad options for compatibility with the Armour Carrier

R3 7000 Bag

  • Capacity: 90 L
  • Top-load access and clamshell-style zippered opening
  • Top hook-and-loop communication port for antenna and communication cable routing

R3 Side Bags

  • Capacity: 25 L (set of 2)
  • Expand the R3 3300 and R3 7000 Bags using non-PALS attachments

Modular Platform System

Chest Rig

The Chest Rig configuration allows access to munitions and mission-critical equipment over environmental dress. Designed to keep pouches low on the front of the torso, it preserves the soldier’s upper-body mobility. An optional Top Front Platform can be added to expand the PALS attachment surface.

Chest Rig

  • Front PALS webbing
  • Internal pocket for cable management, storage of 5.56 x 30 Rd magazines or miscellaneous equipment

Chest Rig Harness and Backstrap

  • Cable routing via webbing or hook-and-loop fasteners; excess cables may be stowed in the front pocket
  • Back rescue handle supports the soldier and equipment up to 227 kg

Combat Belt and Light Harness Modular System

When combined with the Light Harness, the Combat Belt System supports the carriage of heavy equipment or loads over environmental dress. The slim and discreet design of the Light Harness does not impede mobility or performance, while enabling 360-degree pouch attachment. Its adjustable webbing straps allow the user to position the Combat Belt at the desired height, ensuring proper integration with the R3 Frame System.

Light Harness

  • Slim webbing design prevents bulk and excess layering
  • Adjustable front and back webbing straps

Light Belt Comforter

  • Reinforced pad to carry large pouches and heavy equipment
  • Channel system ensures a snug fit around the waist

FirstSpear Friday Focus: New MultiCam Black Drop

Friday, May 30th, 2025

Now available at First-Spear.com/MultiCam-Black is our full line of MultiCam Black featuring products such as the Strandhogg v3, LaserFrame Primary Pocket Panel, Fleece Pullover, and more!

MultiCam Black features a distinctive pattern of blacks and dark grays, offering a sleek, aggressive aesthetic that emphasizes intimidation and authority and visually aligns with the gear used by SWAT teams and special response units. MC Black works well with night operations and urban landscapes. The subdued palette minimizes visual signatures under low-light conditions while maintaining a professional, unified look.

MultiCam Black represents a fusion of function and form, tailored for urban tactical use where visibility and presence matter just as much as protection.

Visit First-Spear.com/MultiCam-Black to view the full line of FirstSpear products now offered in MultiCam Black! FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting edge-tactical gear for military, law enforcement and those who train.

For more information visit First-Spear.com.

Contract Awarded for Modernized Equipment for the Canadian Army’s Light Forces

Friday, May 23rd, 2025


Dismounted infantry soldiers test Logistik Unicorp’s protective and load carriage equipment during trials for the Dismounted Infantry Capability Enhancement trials. (Cpl Peter Grieves)

On March 18, 2025, Canada awarded a contract with an initial value of $19.7 million (excluding taxes) to Logistik Unicorp to supply the Canadian Army’s (CA) light forces with 3,000 units of advanced protective and load carriage equipment. This contract includes the provision of ballistic armour layers, tactical vests, pack systems and associated pouches, as well as options for additional systems and services.

The current equipment used by CA soldiers offers excellent ballistic and blunt impact protection but requires modular capabilities for modern dismounted infantry operations. The Dismounted Infantry Capability Enhancement (DICE)initiative aims to improve the form, fit and function of this equipment, to enable a full range of motion for soldiers performing demanding tasks.

User trials were conducted from October to November 2024 with active dismounted infantry soldiers that provided detailed data and individual feedback, that were in turn analyzed carefully against the contract requirements. The result is that soldiers will be equipped with the modern and effective equipment needed to do their jobs, at the best value to Canadians. To address past concerns about fit, especially for women, the trials included soldiers of different sizes and body types, with female participation at 13.3 percent,higher than the 0.3 percentrepresentation in dismounted infantry units.

The new equipment was exhaustively tested to ensure that it fits various bodies and forms, with soft armour available in two distinct cuts. Ballistic plates will be offered in a greater range of sizes to maximize comfort and protection. While protection remains the priority, the new equipment significantly improves overall fit and coverage.

The new equipment is expected to be delivered starting in fall 2025 and will be used in conjunction with the contract awarded to Galvion in March 2023 for new helmets (known as the “Helmet High Cut Ground Troop”). While that initial contract was for 2,100 helmets and spare parts for the light forces, the Department of National Defence (DND) has since exercised its options to obtain more, bringing the total number of helmets to 10,500, for a total contract value of $14.9 million.

The DICE is working in parallel with the Soldier Operational Clothing Enhancement Modernization (SOCEM)initiative, which provides all CA units with a full range of modernized equipment and clothing. The DICE initiative allows DND to purchase smaller quantities of equipment for specific groups, and to trial procurement methods that can be applied to the larger SOCEM initiative. This approach helps to deliver new equipment quickly and effectively by applying best practices from smaller procurements.

By Nancy Cook

The Maple Leaf

Photo and article via CANADA DND

Sneak Peek – Minuteman Pack V2 from FullTang Tactical

Monday, May 19th, 2025

USMC ILBE meets FILBE meets modern patrol pack

FullTang Tactical says the Minuteman V2 pack is the most modular pack on the market.

It’s a 50 Liter ruck that attaches to Alice-style frames. The interior has a beavertail compression system, MOLLE grid, plush loop Velcro back wall, and large mesh pocket.

FullTang Tactical recommends the Frontier Resolve Fortitude Frame for this pack, and are selling these packs as a complete system with that frame soon. They will also be selling individual pieces as part of their B.A.R. (Build-A-Ruck) System.

Did I mention it is available in Woodland?

Coming soon from fulltangtactical.com.

Magpul EDC Packs Now Available

Monday, May 12th, 2025

Offered in three sizes, the new Magpul EDC pack line is made from premium, wear-resistant materials. They really hit it out of the park with these. They are not? only functional, but they look great and really help you blend in. I have been using the EDC18 off and on since SHOT Show. While I’m well known at trade shows for wearing a Tigerstripe backpack, many who saw me with the Magpul bag asked about it and my impressions. It’s comfortable to carry, well thought out and at a price that makes it more than competitive with other EDC brands.

In addition to the 15-liter messenger bag and 18-liter and 25-liter backpacks, they are two accessory sleeves, a Tactical Sleeve and a Media Sleeve insert. The bags are available in Black/FDE, Sleeves available in Black.

Each bag includes a CCW pocket (or to) for carrying a firearm, comfortable carriage design, and smart storage and organization options.

EDC15 Messenger Bag Features:

15-liter capacity

Built around a hidden CCW compartment?with dual access zippers

18? laptop storage compartment with 210 dimpled nylon fabric for protection

Large compartment for organization (includes two pen pockets, a zippered mesh pouch, and two pockets for smaller items)

Front compartment contains two stretch pockets and key leash

Includes an Apple® Airtag® pocket

Trolley pass through

Can be carried via the included padded shoulder strap or a carry handle on top of the bag

Custom zipper pullers from Duraflex

YKK Aquaguard® zippers

Constructed of durable 500 denier (500D) medium-weight, TPU-coated nylon fabric weave

Weighs 2.1 lbs.

EDC18 Backpack Features:

18-liter capacity

Built around a hidden CCW compartment?at the bottom of the bag

18? laptop storage compartment with multiple stretch pockets 

Hook-and-loop tab for Media Sleeve or Tactical Sleeve (sold separately)

Large middle pocket for organization (includes two mesh, zippered pockets, and two pen pockets)

Front compartment contains an Apple® Airtag® pocket and key leash

Trolley pass through

Can be carried via the adjustable, padded shoulder straps or the carry handle on top of the bag

Custom zipper pullers from Duraflex

YKK Aquaguard® zippers

Side pockets for Nalgene water bottle

Constructed of durable 500 denier (500D) medium-weight, TPU-coated nylon fabric weave

Weighs 2.8 lbs.

EDC25 Backpack Features:

25-liter capacity

Built around two (2) hidden CCW compartments?in the back of the bag

18” laptop storage compartment with multiple stretch pockets

Hook-and-loop tab for Media Sleeve or Tactical Sleeve (sold separately)

Large middle pocket for organization (includes two mesh, zippered pockets, and two pen pockets)

Front compartment contains an Apple® Airtag® pocket and key leash

Trolley pass through

Can be carried via the adjustable, padded shoulder straps or the carry handle on top of the bag

Custom zipper pullers from Duraflex

YKK Aquaguard® zippers

Side pockets for Nalgene water bottle

Constructed of durable 500 denier (500D) medium-weight, Thermoplastic Polyurethane-coated nylon fabric weave

Upgraded centered aluminum spine

Weighs 3.4 lbs.

Tactical Sleeve Features:

Made from durable Hypalon

MOLLE attachment points (3X13 slots per panel)

Accepts sturdy DAKA Gear Straps

Hook-and-loop attachment point to expand utility in EDC backpacks

Can be used to convert a Magpul EDC Backpack into a range backpack

Weighs 10 oz.

Media Sleeve Features:

Laptop/tablet compartment is made from dimpled 210D nylon fabric for protection

Hook-and-loop attachment point to expand utility in EDC backpacks

Can be used as a standalone media sleeve

Stretchable, mesh zippered pocket

Two (2) writing-utensil pockets

Weighs 15 oz.

magpul.com/gear/everyday-carry

SOF Select 15 – Mystery Ranch Gunfighter Armor Attach 2.0

Tuesday, May 6th, 2025

Coming soon from Mystery Ranch is an update to the Gunfighter Armor Attach pack.

Made from 330D Cordura, they’ve added a removable compression panel, expanded primary access to bag and made the shoulder straps stowable. Additionally, it comes with zip-on PALS adapters.

MDM 25 – Mystery Ranch NICE Frame

Wednesday, April 30th, 2025

Many may not know it but Mystery Ranch was instrumental in the development of the Marine Corps issue Family of Improved Load Bearing Equipment and that the pack was actually designed for use with the NICE Frame.

The Nylinear Individual Carrying Equipment Frame features the Futura Yoke which is offered in three sizes with 8″ of adjustment in each size. Additionally, the framing allows for torsional movement, but its three vertical and horizontal composite stays are rigid in the vertical plane to transfer the load efficiently. Finally, it incorporates the Bolstered Ventilation Stability to keep the pack stable even when wearing a rear armor plate.