GORE-TEX Professional

Archive for the ‘Packs’ Category

TwinNeedle ALICE Pack Straps and Hip Pad Now Available Through OP Tactical

Monday, July 28th, 2025

TwinNeedle—New Zealand’s trusted name in military-grade gear—has just made it easier for U.S. customers to upgrade their ALICE pack setup. Their renowned ALICE Pack Straps and Hip Pad will now be available stateside through OP Tactical.

Designed and handmade in New Zealand, TwinNeedle’s ALICE strap and pad system is a significant upgrade from standard-issue components. Built for those who use their kit hard, the design prioritises comfort, stability, and durability without compromising on weight or functionality.

Why This Setup Stands Out:

Hip Pad:

  • 1.5x thicker than standard issue hip pad for superior lumbar support
  • Contoured shape with rounded ends to resist wear
  • Secures with 3″ webbing through ALICE frame slots and dual 1″ webbing + ladderlocs
  • Optional “gut belt” integration via 2” ladderlocs
  • Will also fit MALICE and PALICE frames

Shoulder Straps:

  • Cut from one-piece of 1000D Cordura with Airmesh for breathability
  • Dual-layer reinforcement at buckle mounting points
  • 42-stitch bartacks at high-stress areas
  • Includes sternum slider, D-ring for hydration hose/radio handsets, and adjustable load lifter

Yoke & Harness:

  • Central yoke panel distributes load and ensures long-term durability
  • Reinforced with three 42-stitch bartacks at all major joins
  • Hitched webbing attachment & multiple bartacks mimic rappelling anchor construction
  • Horizontal and vertical stabilizers reduce sway and allow for a custom fit

Built to Last:

  • Webbing: A-A-55301 Type III (453.5kg direct pull rating)
  • Fabrics: 500D & 1000D Cordura + 4mm Airmesh
  • Foam: 25mm PE35 closed-cell (hip) / 15mm EVA (harness)
  • Fittings: ITW Ghillietex
  • Thread: A-A-59826 T-90 nylon bonded
  • All visible materials are NIR compliant

“Great replacement for the straps originally supplied with my ALICE pack frame. Wish I’d purchased the TwinNeedle straps sooner… they make an ALICE pack super comfy to carry. Highly recommend.”

These are, in TwinNeedle’s own words, the comfiest ALICE Pack Straps available—and they’re built for anything you throw at them.

Stocked exclusively in the U.S. by [OP Tactical] – www.optactical.com/product/twin-needle-alice-pack-straps-and-hip-pad

USMC Tests Mystery Ranch Military Light Frame

Saturday, July 26th, 2025

Under the auspices of a Military Light Frame Limited User Evaluation, Marine Corps Systems Command is testing the Mystery Ranch Military Light Frame (formerly known as the Nylinear Individual Carrying Equipment Frame) for use with the Family of Improved Load Bearing Equipment pack. The MLF is a pound lighter than the NICE Frame. LUEs are used to either inform requirements or as a precursor to larger procurements.

Back in May during Modern Day Marine we showed you that the NICE Frame is compatible with the FILBE Pack.

Introducing the Bongo Gear SLAM Pack!

Thursday, July 3rd, 2025

Bongo Gear is proud to announce the release of the incredible SLAM Pack! The SLAM Pack is a purpose-built, mission-driven, multi-operational pack designed with an emphasis on tropical/jungle operations. The pack was developed in closecollaboration with the experts at Tactical Tracking Operations School, Inc.(TTOS) and it is the result of over four years of intensive research, development, and field testing.

TTOS is known for their expertise in jungle operations and TTOS cadre haveconducted jungle warfare training for various Special Operations Forces for well over a decade. The team at TTOS was instrumental in bringing the SLAM Pack to life and the pack was evolved through both training and operational use. The SLAM Pack was specifically designed to meet the unique, rigorous, and harshdemands of vertical mobility and jungle operations. A large portion of the field testing of the pack was carried out during repeated deployments and training rotations in the PACOM area of operations.

The name “SLAM” is inspired by the legendary MACV-SOG’s SLAMcompanies. MACV-SOG (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group). SLAM is the acronym for Search, Locate, Annihilate, and Monitor missions. MACV-SOG performed extremely dangerous and demandingtop-secret, deep reconnaissance and interdiction operations that required equipment as rugged, resilient, and adaptable as the courageous men who carried it. The SLAM Pack honors that legacy with a design that merges the demands and qualities of extreme ruggedness and practicality with mission-driven utility.

The SLAM Pack comes in at about 35 liters total. It was designed with jungle/water ops, technical rope work (rappels, climbing, etc.), and free-fall as part of its DNA.  It is a mission-first solution for operators working in extremely demanding and logistically isolated environments. Every feature is based on real-world needs derived from many years of jungle warfare instruction and operational deployments. Every detail incorporated was designed for utility andpracticality and to ensure the pack is rugged and reliable and that it meetsessential requirements.

Only the highest quality, U.S.A.-made Mil-Spec, NIR compliant fabric, webbing, and hardware are used in the making of a SLAM Pack. Fabrics and components are selected to help reduce signature and facilitate silent movement through dense terrain and double and triple-canopy jungle.

SLAMS Packs are available in Ranger Green and Vietnam Tiger Stripe. Other colors such as Multicam Tropic and Multicam/OCP are available upon request (minimum order quantity applies).

KEY FEATURES:

• Quick-Drain External Pouches (2) with adjustable buckle closures, drawstring collars, and pass-throughs with hook & loop. Pouches are large enough to easily accommodate 2-liter water bottles. Each pouch is about 2.5 liter capacity.

• Superior Drainage provided via heavy-duty Mil-Spec woven mesh. Water drains almost instantaneously.

• Ergonomic and Comfortable Shoulder Straps with adjustable chest strap.

• SLAM Lid Configuration with single, center-point fastener for quick opening and closing; quick-drain zippered Claymore pouch; horizontal Daisy Chain; large loop pile for attaching luminous tape/identification markers/morale patches/etc.; underside zippered mesh pocket for maps/documents/miscellaneous.  

• Quick-Drain External Zippered Pouch located above the two front buckled pouches. 

• Internal Daisy Chain attachment points for securing radio pouches, carabiners, tubes (e.g. LAW rockets), etc. using Voilé-style straps and cord.

• Internal Pockets (2) on inside front panel – a top zippered pocket for secure storage and an open-top bottom pocket for quick-access items.

• Removable Plastic Framesheet/Closed-cell Foam Back Pad – framesheet with bendable central aluminum stay to add structure and 1/2″ thick foam to provide padding and some flotation.

• Center-Mounted External Daisy Chain and Lashing Loop (ice axe loop) for modular attachment.

• Reinforced Carry Handle at the top of the pack back. Handle is large enough for use with gloved hands.

• Horizontal Daisy Chain on both sides above the PALS webbing for clipping on carabiners and for tie-points.

• PALS Webbing on both side panels for modular expansion.

• Copious Amounts of Drainage Mesh in all water entrapment areas for rapid water evacuation and elimination of water retention.

• Integrated A-Frame Webbing System (“A-harness”) for parachute harness interface and lowering of pack prior to ground impact.

         ? Note: The SLAM Pack has been designed, fabricated, and tested for jumping but it is not currently “certified for airborne operations.”

• Retaining tabs (4) for retention of pack lowering line during technical mobility operations. Tabs are located on the lid just aft of the zippered Claymore pouch.

For procurement inquiries, custom orders, detailed spec sheets, and bulk unit pricing, contact Bongo Gear Sales at info@bongogear.com  or visit www.bongogear.com.

Equip your team to Search, Locate, Annihilate, and Monitor — and bring every operator home.

Tasmanian Tiger Launches New TT MEDIC CONTAINER for Military Field Hospital Operations

Tuesday, June 24th, 2025

Durable 50L medical transport system designed to organize and deploy lifesaving gear in demanding environments.

Knoxville, Tenn. (June 2025) – Tasmanian Tiger®, a tactical nylon line of products distributed exclusively for the US market by Proforce Equipment, Inc., is proud to announce the release of its newest professional-grade medical transport solution: the TT MEDIC CONTAINER. Developed with direct feedback from military medical professionals, this 50-liter modular system is engineered to streamline the transport, storage, and access of essential medical supplies in field hospital settings.

Designed specifically for the fast-paced and high-stakes conditions of deployed medical environments, the TT MEDIC CONTAINER features two linked modules that can be hung quickly using integrated hooks, keeping vital gear visible and accessible. The system includes eight detachable pouches of varying sizes to accommodate a wide range of medical equipment. Constructed from rugged CORDURA® 500 Denier and 420 HD Nylon, the TT MEDIC CONTAINER offers long-term durability and reliable performance in any environment.

A carry handle and detachable shoulder strap provide multiple carry options, whether transporting by hand or over the shoulder. With a generous 50-liter capacity, this transport set is purpose-built for organization, mobility, and rapid deployment.

The TT MEDIC CONTAINER weighs 136 oz. / 8.5 lbs. and measures 20 x 20 x 12 in. / 51 x 51 x 30.5 cm. It is available in Black, Olive, and Coyote for an MSRP of $589.00.

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