Military, hiking or hunting packs; which backpack is going to hold up when you need it and which pack is right for your unique situation? Both have their pros and cons, but to really figure out which one is the best, you need to find out exactly how you’ll be using it. One of the top benefits of choosing a hiking style backpack is how light and comfortable they are. Over the last couple of years, these bags have come into their own; they are lighter, stronger and a whole lot more comfortable to carry than bags from even a couple years ago. If you plan on traveling over long distances, where fatigue will become an issue, then these bags are probably going to be one of the best options to consider. Because these companies cater to hikers, many of whom are a little obsessive about their pack weights; these bags are designed to be carried on long hauls. Unfortunately, the light hiking craze does have a downside; for every ounce you lose in pack weight, you sacrifice organizational tools like MOLLE, pouches and other methods of carrying extra gear.

The downside to buying these types of packs: One of the biggest drawbacks to these kinds of packs is their lack of compartments and organization. Since every bit of extra material can add weight to the bag, many of these companies have slimmed down the amount of storage space in favor of one large compartment. While that might be perfect for light hikers, it’s a negative point for those who want an easy to organize bag. If you’re not concerned with the weight of your pack, then a military pack can be a good option – especially if storage and organization are a concern. While these packs are usually on the heavy side, they are super durable, made to be carried through harsh conditions, and are generally easy to organize and add attachments and gear directly to the bag. The main benefit of choosing a military-style bag is the ability to attach utility packs, accessories, and magazine pouches right to the bag, using a MOLLE system or ALICE system on older style packs.

Since most modern accessories are designed to be used with MOLLE style bags, I would tend to stay away from the older ALICE packs. MOLLE (pronounced molly) is an acronym for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. MOLLE packs use the Pouch Attachment Ladder System or PALS, a grid of webbing that allows you to easily attach and detach pouches, slings, gear or other items to your pack or vest. Most modern tactical equipment, like knife sheaths holsters, magazine pouches, and radio pouches are designed around this system. DIY TIP: For all the Do-it-Yourself guys out there, who want to add MOLLE to their traditional hiking packs: The PALS grid system uses horizontal rows of 1″ Mil-W-43668 Type III nylon webbing (commercial vendors use Type IIIa), spaced 1″ apart, and reattached to the backing at 1.5″ intervals. The real downside to these packs is their weight. If the pack is going to be carried by someone with back issues, or someone who has a hard time carrying large amounts of weight, then a hiking backpack might be the better option since they are usually much easier to carry.

One word of warning on buying military backpacks: If you do decide to go with a military pack, make sure it’s an actual military pack, or a pack built by a reputable company – not some cheap Chinese knockoff that’s going to split open the moment you start stuffing it full of gear.laptop backpack for msi gt70 If you’re buying a pack specifically for long hikes then buy a hiking backpack, they are generally more comfortable and designed to be carried for hours on end. uworld backpackIf you’re buying a bag that’s primary purpose is for bugging out, then a military bag is probably the way to go. admin backpack dayzThe military pack is generally a bit cheaper, easier to organize, and easier to carry gear specifically made for bugging out.maxpedition pygmy backpack

A few things to keep in mind when choosing a backpackLike its predecessors, The Blaze AC 60 is Spartan in its simplicity and features our engineered AirCurrent suspension. The AirCurrent suspension consists of a 3-dimensionally molded alloyed frame, our quickest torso length adjustment system, padded shoulder straps, and a swappable hip belt for a custom fit. 63l backpackThe AC frame has molded air channels, works in conjunction with a molded foam pad and durable stretch mesh to aid in venting heat and moisture away from the back; ottilie backpackallowing for natural evaporating cooling. piezoelectric backpackThe pack body is a simple, lidless top loader with a tall spindrift opening that can be cinched and rolled down tight for weather resistance and also expanded when extra space is needed.

The arched Line-Loc compression system allows the load to be cinched tight in every direction (side, front, and top) as well as allowing additional gear to be lashed to the pack. The Line-Loc cord can easily be replaced if it wears out from extended use. Durable and versatile stretch mesh pockets on the bottom of the pack sides work well for water bottles, while the tall front center pocket is great for damp tarps or ultralight tents. Designed for lightweight simplicity on the climb and trail, the Blaze AC 60 pack that 60-liters of capacity and weighs in at just 2 pounds, 14 ounces. Featuring Granite Gear's engineered AirCurrent suspension, the pack delivers a cooler, more comfortable journey thanks to a molded design that fits the 3D contours of your back and flexes with your movement. In addition, the Air Current suspension has integrated air channels that allow heat and moisture an outlet for evaporative cooling. The pack is compatible with Granite Gear's swappable hip belts for a custom fit and maximum comfort.

The Blaze AC 60 pack body is a simple, lidless top loader with a tall spindrift opening that can be cinched and rolled down tight for weather resistance and also expanded when extra space is needed. The arched Line-Loc compression system allows the load to be cinched tight in every direction (side, front, and top) and also allows additional gear to be lashed to the pack. Durable and versatile stretch mesh pockets on the bottom of the pack sides work well for water bottles, while the tall front center pocket is great for damp tarps or ultralight tents. Ideal for expeditions, travel, and hiking, the Blaze AC 60 offers the features you need without a lot of extras to weigh you down. Backed by Granite Gear's strong record for creating long-lasting outdoor gear, the Blaze 60 is covered by a lifetime warranty against defects in material and workmanship. How to Measure Your Torso to Choose the Best Back Pack Size: To find your torso length, measure the distance between your seventh cervical vertebra and the shelf of your hipbones.

Do this by standing up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Tilt your head forward and place your hands on your hips, thumbs to the back. With a flexible tape, have someone measure from the most prominent vertebra at the base of your neck to an imaginary line drawn between your thumbs. This will be your torso length. Please note: Each framesheet has fine adjustment settings spaced in one inch increments to further fine-tune your fit. If you are a 17-inch torso, it is recommended to try the short torso first. Ultralight Pack Belt (comes standard): Granite Gear's Ultralight Pack Belt is a soft belt with no plastic exoskeleton like Granite Gears other belts. This lighter belt is more comfortable when carrying smaller loads of 40 pounds or less. Although it is Granite Gear's simplest interchangeable belt, it still boasts the Pivot Point connection, hip stabilizers, dual density foam, and a stretch woven fabric. Hip Belt Size Specifications: About Granite Gear: Founded by Jeff Knight and Dan Cruikshank in 1986, Granite Gear began in the wilderness with the founders' vision to design and make innovative, functional and durable gear, that would support wilderness adventurers in the pursuit of discovering something about themselves.