The Video Helikon-Tex Doesn't Want You To See - Helikon-Tex MK2 FoxTrot Belt Bag Kit Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 ส.ค. 2024
- This is a Helikon-Tex Foxtrot Mk2 Belt Rig Field Test Review;
How comfortable and how useful is a system like this and is it worth your hard earned money?
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Helikon-Tex Foxtrot Mk2 Belt Rig, Bushcraft Line
What it is : The Foxtrot is a lumbar bag that can be worn with just the included belt or with the included suspenders harness system. Think of this as a tactical fanny pack of sorts.
Link : amzn.to/40UsHBO
Materials : YKK Zippers, 500D Cordura
Capacity : 5.5l
Dimensions : 10.20" x 7.10 "x 4.70"
Weight : 1.5lbs
Colors : Olive Green, Black, Coyote Brown, Adaptive Green, Shadow Grey
Price : Retail is $70 , on Amazon it’s $78.
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I would just go with a military butt pack, harness set and 2 canteens. Sometimes old school is simply the best.
I don’t have a harness, but I do have a military ACU waist pack with two large pouches. Definitely a great setup.
You just described my day-hike kit.
Personally, I like/use the H harness instead of the Y. 👍
Frank, I agree, it works..
Old army style is the best way to go. Why are they trying to reinvent the wheel. $70.00, yeah right!!!.NO WAY.
I love the butt pack when your crawling and you realize your mags are back there hahaha
I love mine, hike about 4 days a week in the unforgiving heat of the southeast. Best bag I’ve ever owned.
I have over 100 miles with this harness. I use 2 32oz stainless steel bottles and have no issues getting them in and out of the pockets with it on. And that’s with a destroyed right shoulder. My usual weight was around 10lbs total weight.
Same here...
Glad to see you review the MKII, but quite suprised you don't like it. I find it to be quite comfortable, even in just a tee shirt. Molle'd on a dump pouch on one side (for collecting tinder or holding trail trash mostly), and a GP pouch on the other, typically for binoculars. There are also pass-throughs behind the molle for hanging a tomahawk or hatchet, which works quite nicely. The whole system works well stand-alone for taking my son for hikes and having lunch and hot chocolate deep in the woods. As a bonus, the water bottle pouches perfectly hold two 24oz Twisted Teas for the back-woods party time.
Carry on good sir; I await more great videos from thee.
Do you think he finds it so uncomfortable because he's carrying too much of the weight on his shoulders as opposed to the belt?
@@beetooexnot sure, this guys review is in stark contrast to so many good reviews on TH-cam.
I used this backpack on trail in the Alps and was pretty happy about the fact that it was sitting on the hips and during very sunny days, that was a plus. For the bottle pouches, I got used to it and didn’t need to take it off. But the comfort of the straps was a serious issue, (terribly painful worn on a T-Shirt , stiff, no padding). I did modifications… yes it can be improved I agree big time
Hi and yes the molle system should go almost all the way to the buckle to be really useful and comfortable to use.
I was in the middle of making a comment about the trail markers when you mentioned it. I think you might find this product more comfortable if you adopted a hiking style with much less bounce. In the army the guys who bobbed up and down had a rough time on the twenty plus mile marches. The drill sergeant would yell every ten minutes or so to try and warn them to no avail. Just my two cents though.
I think you got it bouncing is maybe his problem. I am using this kit few days a week in summer for longer walk than his test route with more weight as minimalistic overnight kit but shoulder strap are much less problems even with tshirt than his problems. But i agree that it is better to replace or modify then when you start adding weight to kit. Something like velocity jungle harness or simply buy padded shoulders standalone or as tube like addon to original one.
interesting. point noted.
Loosen up the was belt a bit, lengthen the harness straps allowing more of the weight to be of set to the shoulders. The reason I mention this is at least 2 things I noticed right away that leads me to believe Luke is wearing it more like a fanny pack than utilizing the shoulder straps is: In the thumb nail there is no tension on the straps, 2nd; when the belt is undone and done and 3rd; though shoulder straps are angled back, when he puts it back on you can tell the harness is 1-2" short.
My LBE/LCE was set slightly loose and hung at the top of hips to accommodate for my ruck. If you didn't, the lumbar pad of the ruck would grind the clasps into your back and wouldn't accommodate a butt pack. Eventually, we cut off the clasps and used gutted 550. (Scouts Out)
Some people naturally have a bounce to their walk which limits them on what they can carry when they walk or run distance.
@@radam8966when I was in the infantry, we used to use a boot blouse elastic band to “close” our belt on the LCE. Basically it wasn’t tight at all. Almost all the weight from two canteens, 6 30-round mags and grenades, bayonet, compass, and a butt pack with more weight than he has and it was all on the shoulders. I don’t think he is carrying with his shoulders at all.
I have this Foxtrot pack. I do not share your thoughts. For one, you packed a 1 liter Nalgene bottle that clearly was very snug. If your going on a 3 mile hike you don't need a 1 liter Nalgene bottle and another Swiss made bottle. You could of gotten away with 2 smaller bottles. You drank half of the water out of the one bottle. Secondly the bottle holders are round not oval. Your swizz cup was oval on size like fitting a square peg I a round hole. Thirdly, let's keep in mind that this is a harness lumbar pack. It was never intended for you to grab the water bottles without taking the pack off. At that point you would want something that goes around the waist and hips to grab a water bottle. You packed it with numerous things but not of specific intent. You ignored my past comment on this as well as others in regards to attach a large sized pouch onto the back harness straps which adds to the versatility of the lumbar pack itself. Molle webbing has also been supplied to attach canteen and canteen pouches making water more accessible with out taking off the pack. I think you were a little harsh and narrow minded in this review. If the straps are that uncomfortable than one can purchase padded straps to soften the irritability suggested. I have not found this to be the case with this harness. In addition, it seemed like you were on a race not a hike. Jumping and leaping over things at a face pace. I think this is unfair because jumping around is going to put pressures on those restrictive areas causing discomfort. Maybe if you distributed the weight of your water bottles could of infact made the race a bit more enjoyable. And isn't that the point to enjoy nature and take it in versus running through the trail.
Welcome back folks. We supposed to be watching a guy who never takes off his $300 Oakleys, wearing a $400 sweater, complaining about the quality of a $100 gucci gear butt pack. But he's just spent 80% of the run time showing us shots of the forest and his sunglasses/sweater combo instead.
This dood wore dewault shaded saftey glasses for almost a decade. If he wants to rock some Oaks at this point he's earned it.
I own this exact pack in this color. I personally love it. But that being said, I watch your reviews for your unbiased opinions. Everyone will not always have the same opinion or experience with a product. But another honest review regardless.
I own and use a web belt and Y-harness for short hikes and I like my setup. This looks very similar.
I've been using one of these waist packs for a couple of years now, and I'm really happy with mine.
I added the E&E pouch onto the MOLLE on the waist pouch on one side, and a CLS MCC canteen pouch on the other.
It's great for trail breaking in the woods, I love having a clear back and still having a brew kit and sundries.
Also, I find the Nalgene Oasis water bottles fit very well in the side pockets.
I've had this for 2 years now, great for a short hike with essential survival gear ie matches, ferro rod, compass, GPS, protein bar etc. & water.
The main advantage is the open back, thanks to which I do not sweat as much as when I use a backpack. I use it during several hours of activity when a backpack is too much, but as a rule it's worth having a few small things with you. At my age, I can't run from anyone anymore, and with my face, I don't really have anyone to run from. So I do have time to stop, rest and grab from the bag, all what I need. I fill depending on weather conditions and terrain with what may be absolutely necessary and does not fit in pockets. I used it in February during a one-day stay at a military training ground (I'm a librarian, not a soldier), and a walk in the Stołowe Mountains (Szczeliniec), Śnieżnik mountain in Poland. 0.5 liter bottles or a thermos of this capacity fit perfectly. I put a knife on my belt. Its removal is possible, its reinsertion is not. So instead on the molle straps I will attach pocket organizer's on both sides, or if I need more water on the molle panels I will attach additional bottle bags (0.75l - larger ones will be disturbing). A small knife or multitool will find its place attached to the chest straps. Spare caps under the elastic cord (?) on top of the top flap, waiting their turn or drying. Gloves on a carabiner (dring on the front). Attached from the bottom with compression straps, a scarf (very large, woolen), a sweater (thin woolen for a change or just in case) or a poncho can be found in a small compression bag. I agree with you that everything in the bag is out of reach. But. I always stop when I reach for something, e.g. from a bag on my shoulder. After loosening the belts, I don't have a problem to take anything off. I turn in front of me. Putting it on is troublesome. I put it on over my head like a sweater or aqualung by lifting the straps and the bag slides down the back without any problems (in this case the side adjacent to the back must be facing up). By the way. lunchbox. Fits MK2 Fox Trot Belt Bag.. Inside the box are Sandwiches that need to stay fresh all day. The frozen camping fridge liner is too big and too heavy. A cold gel medical reusable dressing 10x10 cm can work as a replacement for cooling food. With respect and gratitude for your reviews from which I get a lot of useful knowledge.
I have the pack in the same green color and have not had the problems with the straps mentioned in the video. I have had the pack for over 2 years and use it when I ride my electric scooter for miles at the time. It is the only pack I have found that can deal with the shifting of my body weight as I ride up and sown hills and around turns. The water bottle pouches are somewhat hard to get the bottle out of but that is a plus in my use since they do not flop around. Also I have to stop the scooter to take a drink anyway so access has never been a problem. I generally have about the same weight in mine since I carry a hammock and small tarp so I can chill during my ride. I have not tried it on a hike but again I have no issue with the straps biting in and most of the time I am wearing just a tee shirt. Maybe it is an adjustment issue.
Thank you for this review, Luke.
I come from the time of ALICE gear (Deuce Gear, in the Marine Corps), of the 80's and prior, and transitioned to the MOLLE (and subsequent, MOLLE II).
So, I had some concerns of the tiny little (buttpack-like) pouch, that looked like something for a 2-4 hr walk in the woods, that might not fit the 5 C's at a minimum.
I was also wondering about reaching the water pouches, which you addressed.
For the price, we can go and get an old H-harness and pistol belt kit, complete with buttpack, 2 canteen covers, and maybe even some other pouches to carry gear with.
Plus, you can adapt Molle pouches onto the belt as well (if you don't want the ALICE clips digging in to your hips).
Thank you once again.
Keep up the great work !!!
This is what i was thinking as well, i used the same gear back in boot (Marine also). One thing i liked about that system is that you could wear it with a pack, but this seems too high up on the back to be worn with a pack.
@@AudiaciousLife, i think, it is meant to be worn with the Matilda Pack (35 L), Bergen (25 or 30 L) from Helikon-Tex, too.
Or with the modern backpacks and assault packs, which sit higher up.
I was looking into the Matilda pack, now, that my 8 yr old is starting to become "independent" and can carry his own gear (hammock, tarp, first aid kit, water, and some food/snacks, etc.), so I could down load MY pack (I use either the Blackhawk version of the Becker Patrol Pack (40-ish L), or the SpecOps Brand T H.E. Pack (41 L), '99 version, that I can add pouches to the outside and configure it like the Becker Patrol Pack....both, sit higher up on my back, and allow me to use a belt kit/shoulder harness kit with a buttpack - Deuce Gear)
But, I convinced myself to not buy the Matilda Pack...yet.....and wait another year or so, before going down to the smaller 35 L pack.
@@thefucrew9865 I just use a mardingtop pack, the 65l that TOGR hated lol. it works fairly well for me but i understand his issues. I think with the old h harness setup i probably could wear both that and my pack, but thinking back the ALICE pack was much shorter also so worn higher up also
@@AudiaciousLife, I have a few ALICE rucks (medium and large), and the Eberlestock V90 Battleship, and the Tactical Tailor Rhino Ruck, as well as the CSM Tactical rucksack (that they sent to the 82nd Airborne, and a few other "specialized" units, that could be worn with the old ALICE frame, newer types of Alice frames, and all of the MOLLE "plastic" frames.
I have a few "civilian type" packs (REI Mars and Saturn, and some Kelty's too.
I have a bunch from trying them out when I first retired from the military, but like the military types more
Alice gear was used all the way up to the early 2000s......it was replaced when Afghanistan and Iraq started and the defense budget exploded.
I've used this pack for several years and love it. Everyone is different and some will hate it for the reason you mention. Others will love it, I agree that the water bottle can be difficult to put back, but I can still manage to put it back in. I don't think it's a wasting minutes to take the pack off to access the water, if your hiking whats the rush? Take those minutes to rehydrate and enjoy your surroundings .
I've been eyeing this thing for a while now but, I got a 2022 Mountainsmith, Day Lumbar pack for 50% off this year (2023) instead. I purchased the Strapettes for it as well because I prefer that harness system. It's 13L and comes (sold separately) with a rain cover too if you're into that. Pretty happy with so far. Just figured I'd throw that out there for any one contemplating other options in this pack space.
The mountain smith is massive, at that point you might as well use a backpack instead.
I have a Mountainsmith lumbar pack from the early 90s that's still going strong.
I love my 9 liter mountain smith had it for a few years now
Mt smith make the best lumbar packs. Period.
I went with the older cordura model of the mountainsmith as well. It's just an overall better built rig than the foxtrot.
Love mine, been using it for three years. Zero issues reaching behind to get my canteen…
Another honest review. If someone is interested in something like this I believe they could save money and purchase a surplus web belt, Y or H harness and a pouch or two. That’s the route I went years ago and I’ve got less than $50 in a comfortable and adaptable setup. Depending on which pouches and gear you choose an overnight stay isn’t out of the question using just that harness system and appropriate gear.
I had the same idea. The H harness I bought has got molle down the back so I can attach stuff there too. I'm hoping with my bedroll (pad, bag and bivvy bag) on my back there'll be enough room in the belt pouches for everything else. The current British gas mask pouches are huge and two of them make a good fanny pack. Then it's a water bottle pouch on each hip within easy reach. I might get chance to test it as an overnight setup this summer what with wife, baby and work...
I have a modified LBE that I had from my days in the U.S. Army. It has a single strap up the back from the belt that splits into a Y at the middle of my back and then comes over the shoulders and down to the belt. I have a large 4 liter bag on the back part of the belt, and a 2qt square canteen that fits across the center of the chest. Super comfortable, weight is spread evenly, water is quick to get. Cost to me was nothing because I always kept a new set for inspections that I turned in when my tour was over..and I kept the used equipment. I think you could get the same gear now for less than $50 at a surplus shop.
I am using it with Helikon dual E&E pouch , canteen set in one. This way it easier for drinking. Second way and much easier is simply using titanium bottle with nesting cup. Hard to insert cup but it works. Nesting cup is then like hard tunnel for easy bottle insert and removal so you can easily take drinks during walking. So i dont think it is a problem as long as you are not using standard bottles only.
Reminds me of the "butt pack" the army issued back in the 70's & 80's. All your comments and complaints applied to the military butt pack. I wish we had the gear that the army uses today... it is sooo much better.
Just for grins and giggles I went searching for used Army Butt Packs (no harness included) and they ran the gamut from $9.96 to $1,200 with the median for most of them between $25 - $50. But as you point out, they are uncomfortable as all get out and if someone offered me one for free, I'd turn them down.
I have this pack and use it for day hikes and scouting out new areas, and have used it thoroughly for a good number of years now. For myself I don't find any discomfort with the straps, and if packed very light it can be used without the straps. But I love the straps and have experimented with the use of them in multiple ways. Firstly I often use the D rings located on the front to connect a chest pack, and secondly I have used the webbing located on the upper back to attach a sapper shovel, or a water bladder, which works brilliantly. Although I agree that a nalgene bottle is a tight fit on the side pouches, it can definitely be done without removing the pack once you get the technique down, pulling them out however is very easy. The side webbing for me is also no problem for myself, and I have a leatherman that takes permanent residence on this pack. As for what you can fit in it, thats just comes down to the size like with any bag, so it comes down to what your doing and if it suits that need, and for a scout pack its brilliant. Now all that being said, I have an old Swedish harnesses that can do the same job, and was an 8th of the price.
I agree with the painful harness. I have two Helikon-Tex MK2 FoxTrot system which I use for photography. To make them usable, I ditched the original harness with the Hill People Gear Shoulder Harness. One pack has the Hill People Gear "Line Pocket" attached which holds a ground cloth and tarp. It always rains when you are photographing! The other back uses the Hill People Harness and a Hill People "Capture Flap", which I attached a MaxPedition "Beefy Pocket Organizer", which has some first aid and other items. I attach two camera lens pouches to the FoxTrot Belt Bag and the rest of the bag has other photo equipment inside. I carry two water bottles on the side pouches and mayby one on the front of the harness. With the Hill People harness, I can't even feel the weight of the pack! I have hiked 10 miles and love it.
As a photographer, why do you not have videos of your photos ???
Or, at least of the equipment you just mentioned....so that others could see it in action...
Just a suggestion.
Would like to see your setup, sounds great
Looks like a pack that could make great use of a Hardside Hydration kit on the Nalgene.
That's what I was thinking to use with my own MK2.
I'm glad to see that the consensus in the comment section is in agreement. I own one of these two and I don't struggle with it like the gear review guy here. And no you don't have to take it off to access your water
Interesting. I use this belt bag and I find it very comfortable, even though I use it in summer with just a lightweight UV/mozzie-repellent shirt. I looked at a photo of myself in it and I think when I'm wearing it I carry it lower on the hips. I've also removed the chest strap, so the straps sit quite differently. I guess with the unpadded straps it's a bit like a pair of sandals, they'll be comfortable if they fit and sit just right and awful if they don't. I can also reach the water bottles while wearing it, which might be partly due to different anatomy, and partly due to wearing it lower. It's my preferred carry for short summer hikes because it's cool to wear in hot weather.
I have the older, Foxtrot MK.1, which doesn't have shoulder straps, and just one bottle loop. This has always been useful, comfortable, and does not suffer from lack of shoulder straps. It will stay in position, provided you don't put bricks in it.
I love mine! Very comfortable.
This episode was reminiscent of my time spent at The Basic School in Quantico, VA. The terrain in Prince William Forest is very similar to your filming location. Your review of the kit you were carrying also harkened back to my tactical rig that I used throughout the 70’s. During the Vietnam Era it was called the US M1956 Canvas Buttpack Field Pack and was just part of my full field issue. My issued kit was constructed with olive green color canvas and webbing material. The two canteens were carried in canvas pouches placed on either of the pack on a web-belt. If we we’re carrying our M-14’s, and later the M-16, we also had magazines pouches and other gear affixed. The entire rig could weight 25 lbs or more. Back in the day, field gear was built for utility and durability with personal comfort further down the list of design requirements. I survived however, and now I enjoy the opportunity to reminisce about my life’s adventures. Keep on charging, truth and honor!
Bless you. Thank you for your service.
I love mine. I molled two GP pouches from Helikon and on one of them compas pouch and multitool pouch. I'm using it for day hikes and can pack everything I need inside including my trangia 27 with 300ml trangia fuel bottle and dehydrated food for cooking plus tea or coffee :). I used source convertube on 1l nalgene bottle so I can drink from tube same like from water bladder. This kit is amazing and no problem with comfort whatsoever. I highly recommends it to everyone who don't like sweating back.
Product reviews were very helpful from Korean subscribers
This is one man's opinion on a pack that does not personally suit him so he will find fault with it . I have had this pack for a long time now and I have never had any issues with it , in fact I think it is a great day / overnight pack but that is my opinion as well , each to there own I say , 🙂 / 🇦🇺 .
I purchased one of these packs and used it one time hiking and my wife immediately took it away from me, she absolutely loves it on summer hikes. I then tried to purchase another one but the Wuhan Virus had pretty much shut everything down. I was able to obtain another pack almost a year and a half later. I love the second copy. I do not find it uncomfortable in the least even when worn Over a T-shirt. I just unsnap the belt , pull it around and take out my water bottle, drink, replace and re-snap the belt without missing a step. I don’t find the straps uncomfortable (when properly adjusted) nor do I find them abrasive. I usually carry two liters of water, a fire kit, a rain jacket, a bathroom kit, a small first aid kit , a sawyer water filter, a knife 18:59 and lunch. Maybe I am not carrying as much weight as you are currently but my wife swears by hers and I love mine as well. The jacket is very lightweight and carries well on the outside of the pack. I pretty much carry small or ultra lightweight. I enjoy my back not sweating under a pack in the summer
I have had the earlier Helikon-Tex Bushcraft Satchel for a number of years and use it for low level and coastal day walks in Northumberland … for those purposes I find it ideal . I also use the Swiss Army Water Bottle and Canteen Cup combo but place the Canteen Cup on top of the Bottle before slipping into a side pocket and secure everything using the butterfly handles and elasticated cords on the pack … in the other side pocket I carry a lightweight Poncho … my Sit Mat is secured under the base . With careful packing I can carry in the other compartments all I require for a safe and well fed walk .
I know you like this brand, so your review is genuine. You’ve highlighted everything that needs improvement with this gear, yet others have not cited these as issues, possibly just personal preference 🤷♂️ this pack style is very appealing, on a day hike, I would prefer not to wear a backpack to avoid sweating, and this seems ideal. The size is fine for day hikes: food, water, tarp, poncho, snakebite kit, plus some light gear, also, the top and bottom attachments can store your jacket and shirt if you get too hot. Most waist packs are too small for this purpose, and I’ve struggled to identify anything of comparable quality to helikon tex, and many do not have shoulder harness. If you’re covering 20km of rock scrambling along a ridgeline, this style pack seems so much better than a light backpack.
Oh yeah, and I’m still considering getting this even after your review, do you know of any better alternatives?
First, I never like the H-Harness either.
One work around:
Release the waist belt, loosen the shoulder straps.
Swing the bag around to access the water bottle pouch.
***use a smaller bottle***
Then just reconnect the belt, when done, and adjust the shoulder straps, as needed.
You nailed it mate I wore harness webbing for years and it fit like a glove and what u said is what I told people when they said they were uncomfortable worked everytimep
Yeah, I grabbed one of these. Strap pads help the shoulders, but the belt isn't thick enough because there's no padding behind the molle and it doesn't carry right. Really doesn't ride against lumbar either, just hangs down on shoulders
I don't have any problem getting to the water bottles, besides I've added a military style canteen with pouch that attaches to the side webbing which is even closer access. The shoulder straps are basically the same quality on all of my gear probably because I can't afford high-end stuff.😢 overall it seems to work for what it was designed for and quality is pretty good IMO.
The straps aren’t padded, so I don’t think it’s designed for the amount of weight you are carrying. A jacket, snack and modest water bottle should be okay. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
That's what i said! It's meant for light loads, if you treat it like a backpack or a backpack replacement you're not going to like it.
I’ve had one for a few years. I have always seen this as more of a scout pack and not a hiking pack. I will pack quite a bit of gear in there, but because it’s a small “bag”, I pack small. I use it when I go hunting, so there’s no trying to access the water bottle while walking. I get to where I’m going and access what I need at that point. I agree about the straps. I am still using the ones that came with them, but I’ve been meaning to change them out with more comfortable straps - I just have not gotten around to it yet.
*a Grayl water press (the large one) doesn’t fit in the pockets. The smaller one is so tall, it won’t stay in the pockets.
One thing I didn’t see covered in this video are the adjustable straps to hold clothing, bivys, jackets etc on the bottom and the surprisingly functional shock cords on top that I’ve been able to secure quite a few items with over the years.
I like mine. I have my gripes - but all in all, it IS worth the $… in my opinion, that is.
Surprised at all the negative comments. I own 2 of these and 782 gear. The helikon Tex rig is great for lite weight quick hikes like walking the shore of a lake fishing etc I think Luke might have had the harness to tight.
I once paid $50.00 for what appeared to be a good small pack, it didn't last one day.
So I am one of those people who watch gear reviews. Always interested in new product testing review.
I like mine during day hikes when i'm also carrying a dslr with a long lens, when backpacks would just get in the way.
One observation: I have the same pack with roughly the same weight for day hikes (about 5 kg) and I don't find the straps uncomfortable. The reason, I think, is that I have a smaller frame than you. The harness is not very wide in general and for me it does not stretch as far back to my sides, which means it doesn't dig in as much. To illustrate: I can actually reach around and get my water bottle out (and with a bit of struggle back in, too) without taking of the pack. It is simply made and may not fit every body type, but if it is compatible with yourself, it is a great day pack.
I have a foxtrot mk2 coyote tan
Have had it for 2 seasons now
For some reason yours looks different even smaller than mine
Pouch seemed to be larger than yours
I hiked miles with mine didn’t find it uncomfortable
I put attachments on mine for more gear
First aid pouch on the side
I had no problem with my water conditioner and my 1litre thermos
I also attached a Tasmanian tac 9 to the back for extra gear if I am out longer
Quick release if I don’t need it
I wonder maybe they sourced out the newer ones that they are making
I find a picture and I will send it to you maybe you can see the difference in size
I tend to agree with the "other options method" it can be less or more expensive but there are plenty of ALICE components for cheap or MOLLE battle belt/harness and equipment (butt pack, canteen, utility pouch ect.) set ups out there you can piece together and then it's tailored to you the end user.
I also agree on the shoulder harness. I got around that problem with a fairly simple paracord wrap. I worked with it because i love the way it carries gear. I've got a large utility pouch on one wing and a water bottle pouch on the other, which solves the reaching water problem. I can easily reach everything i need immediately in those pouches. I can carry everything i could ever need for a day hike or rough overnighter in it. I also have a small bag to carry my sleep system and a few extras to allow for a minimal 3day system. I would not fault anyone for going with something else, but this bag is not so bad i would give mine up. It does what i want it to do and has so far held up very well. It was a fun system to put together and my favorite setup so far. To each their own though.
I use the Helikon-Tex Bushcraft Satchel as my day pack, it's a perfect size for me and at half the price (UK anyway) of this I'll definitely be sticking with it. Only 17L but also has PALS webbing on the ends to attach MOLLE pouches if required. Helikon-Tex gear does seem to be very hit or miss though.
That's a great little bag. I've got that and the Helikon Haversack, I call them my handbags 😂 love them both. 👍
Had this mk with added 2 front pouch from Helikon too for 2 years and never any uncomfortable issue with the harness or rubbing issue even with wearing a tee only. Used it for a 20km hike,buckled and unbuckled with the full load on the harness along the hike, never had issues with it too.
As for water bottle. It works well for me as we hike, stop rest hydrate. We dont walk and drink, thus never have the need to reach for the bottles at all.
I have one of the frame alice packs us army. Lots of room. But heavy when filled
The molle webbing on the waist belt is, in my opinion, very useful for carrying spare mags for a sidearm or even a tactical radio with a push to talk mic cable running up the harness strap to whichever shoulder you like
I think I will keep using my military lc2 gear. You can get it cheaper than 70 bucks. It's also more modular and can be set up how you like. Thanks for the review.
I can see you asking, “Does this pack make my butt look big”?
Yaaaaas😂
My mk2 is the most comfortable rig I've ever used. I have used my old issue H harness for 30 yrs and replaced it with the mk2 and love it. I wish the bottle pockets were bigger.
Looks to me like you have it on too tight. It should drape off the shoulders and hang. It's a bit too low on the back and too tight everywhere else.
Your just a gentlemen at all times. Thank you for sharing in your journey. Blessing to you and Susie
I’ve had this for a few years and would only really recommend them for military people I would run this with a day pack for a weekend if your all about light weight back packing or civilian packs buy something else,it’s solid gear.
I have the Kifaru Tailgunner and love it. Also run the MountainSmith Day with smaller loads and it is light and rides great.
I find it comfortable. Goes on easy if you hold it up out front and put on like a coat. 2 E&E added. One holds canteen and cup, the other a poncho which doubles as a small tarp. Inside I keep firebox nano. Great for day pack paired with the chest pack. Go
I like the EVOC Hip Pack Pro 3 Hydration Waist Pack. It’s got everything I need.
Thanks Luke a very informative review of this gear. I am wondering have you ever done a review of any SUV Camping tents as I am interested in purchasing one this season. Thanks!
I just put a dump pouch on the side of mine for a waterbottle which makes it easier to drink on the move, but generally I stop when I am drinking anyway. The otherside I put a small med pouch, or sometimes a double mag pouch, leatherman in one side and torch in the other, still working that out. I seem to get on with mine although I do agree about the harness itself, it could have a bit more padding for comfort. But the reality is that it's not designed for long distances and heavy gear, short to medium walks paired up with a numbat is a good choice. Pity the D ring is not further around towards the buckle that would make it more useful. Good review, it has some flaws but for me the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
I added 2 mollie pouches and a chest rig works fine.might swap one out for a dump pouch
I think I’d prefer a normal daypack, back pack. Weird, I just love my numbat chest rig. It is like the exact opposite.
I know from my youth while back packing, we kept the majority of weight distributed on our hips. But even with that, the shoulders still had to share the load. I don't see where this pack allows for that very much. It does look very stiff and not user friendly. May as well carry a fanny pack as that one. I would rather have a chest rig. That rig looks like it would best be put on over the head and both arms through at the same time. Then once you have it on, look around for the gear that used to be attached to the webbing that went flying when you swung it overhead. The shoulder straps could use some padding.
Thanks for your review.
Stay safe and God bless.
This is a buddy system deal , your buddy Carrie’s two of these, when you get thirsty sit down and wait for buddy to catch up, grab a bottle
Love mine but pair it with a 3L hydration bladder
I like the two part reviews. I remember your first video on this and it swayed my opinion of it. Thank you for the hard work. Do you have any summer hiking pants reviews?
You secretly love it
I bought this product today. My aim was to design it as a hunting bag. I put everything I would need in it and I was very uncomfortable when I wore it. It caused a lot of discomfort, especially to my trapezoids. The straps are so thin that it seems like it will cut like a razor. And I will return it.
Equipment in my bag
cartridge box 12 gauge 25 pieces +
lighter +
poncho +
military canteen 1 liter +
kuksa +
shemagh +
head lamp flashlight batteries +
mechanix gloves +
power bank +
nalgene 1 liter +
It is about 5 kg, but even at 2 kg, there is discomfort on the shoulders. The shoulder straps are quite bad. It is a product that is not worth the money.
The park service marks that trail so they don’t have to search for city folk
Here's the thing, when you look at it, it looks very practical. In these latter days I have made my own traditional small backpack with a willow pack frame and leather harness, and you know what, it is more comfortable than anything I have ever bought from a camping store. Maybe because it is customised to me. It is certainly not the lightest but when I am wearing it I hardly notice it is there.
Oh wow. That sounds awesome. Is there any video of a pack like that on TH-cam?
probably another option is to swap out the harness that comes with it with a more comfortable one?
How easy are the straps to adjust??? If they are hard to adjust loosen to put on and take off. Maybe a bit wider H in the back and possibly a bit larger pack for more storage. Smaller diameter bottle???
I wonder if in the past someone did get lost so they overmarked the trail. Love your honest reviews.
I think it would be interesting to compare it to an Alice system
Jay R , I was thinking the exact same thing. It would be interesting to see a comparison with the A.L.I.C.E system.
Bergans Budor Hip pack, I would love to see a rewiev😊
Think I'll stick with my 782 gear, padded harness, multiple attachments, easy to modify for a specific outing.
Camelback water carriers have water tubes with "bite-to-drink" valves so you can access your water on the move. Get a lid for the Nalgene bottle that has a water tube and bite valve built in so you can drink easily.
Mountainsmith Lumbar packs with harness, best kit for day hikes. I've never had a problem, apart from wearing them out, because I walk ten miles a day.
Thank you Luke
Like others have mentioned this looks clearly based on lc-2 and other military harnesses. Comfort is never a top priority, and the capabilities you are trading for don't come in to play. If you aren't balancing a large sustainment load and a fighting/ patrol load at the same time there isn't much use for the buttpack and harness other than looking cool.
@13:00 I love the struggle with the twisted elastic band, just like a pair of underwear in the summer 🤣🤣🤣
That rig reminds me of the old G.I. LBE buttpack system I was issued in the late 80's. BUT the G.I. stuff at least had padded straps.
I use the mountainsmith lumbar pack with strapettes!! Much more better than the Helikon
Anyone know of a similar product that fixes these issues? Would be great to see some alternatives.
Hopefully, yours and others feedback will spur improvements to this kit🤷🏽♂️
I bet with the helikon tex numbat chest pack I can get a little more gear in there then the foxtrot mk2 belt rig but it could be a little better hopefully in the future, they will improve it i’m glad I watched this video before thinking about buying one.
Brilliant, honest, review... As always
Put me right off
Try the Duluth all day lumber pack. I have used mine for day hikes and overnighters for the past two years. I did modify the back straps by attaching a Camel Bak 100oz bladder. I use the water bottle pockets for a fire kit and med kit. It is a bit pricey!
Strap discomfort? Sounds like classic new gear gripes. Run it through the laundry a few times, then fuzz up the webbing with a random orbit sander.
I’ve never adopted the Nalgene bottles because of general pouch concerns. I’d stick with adding either a conventional canteen pouch or a Camelback.
The concept looks like a good one. I like the idea of using a load bearing harness for a relatively small loadout.
I have the same pack an I like it greate for mimilost packya harness takes getting usto an their is break in. In my opeanon it a good pack great for minlest gear
Have you looked at some of the products from Hill People Gear? I've been impressed with them
Wish you had reviewed this a couple of years ago before I bought one. I agree with most of your assessment. I bet Wranglerstar could get 3 U.S. Forest Service canteens in the small water bottle pouches.
As always, thanks for the review/ warning!
Who knows what trail he’s on?
You don't carry your gun?
That’s why you should ‘ tape ‘ the Straps so they become smooth.
Also there is Molle to attach Pouches next to where the Water Bottles go, you could put your Water there instead so it’s easy to get to.
Those Water Pouches could easily be used for storing other things and covered.
Just because it didn’t work for you doesn’t mean it wouldn’t work for others, it’s that simple.
It’s up to the individual and how they adapt it and adapt with it.
This is Lukes opinion
@@marko7969 and mine is mine……or can’t I have one?
It's a bag, if I need to do a bunch of mods to it to make it comfortable or more usable I might as well just buy a different bag in the first place
I carry a waist pack for my Get Home Bag. Mine is quite bigger, has more supplies needed, and has two very extensive medical kits. One kit is designed for major trauma and the other for smaller medical needs.
Granted Mine is not light, and it's kind of bulky. To help, I used a strap to take away some of the weight away from my hips.
I would try to add a military canteen to the harness and butt bag for more storage
At that point, wouldn’t a backpack be more efficient? If I had to buy something to make my original purchase actually work, I’d pass.
No a backpack would not work but what I use is a turkey hunting harness and I add my military canteen and a L handle canteen cup and pouch to my turkey hunting harness and add my straight blade also to my turkey hunting harness and I have a large amount of space and different pockets for stuff
I looked thru your videos and couldn't find an answer, have you tested the MountainSmith Day lumbar pack that @SuperFunk1100 and others discuss below? If not, I'd like to suggest you look at it. I'm an older wanderer and it has been my go-to for over a decade for all my day trips, and I think you'd find It has solutions for all the problems you had with the Helikon.
If you decide to review it, I strongly suggest also testing both the strapettes and shoulder strap attachment that allow you to use it as either a supported lumbar pack or a knapsack.
Great work as always, thank you again.
That’s good to hear you like the MountainSmith…mine is on it’s way! It seemed like a handy thing.
Been a happy owner of this butt pack for two years. Although nothing Luke said is false, I have a very different experience with it :
- I bought it because I have back problems and for day hikes I wanted the weight elsewhere. So on my waist and not on my back.
=> In this regard I find the MK2 very comfortable
- Never done more than a day hike, so no long exposition to start to feel the discomfort of the straps and the H harness.
- My area is mostly composed of flat terrain, so no hard efforts in climb or descent.
- I'm a bushcrafter, when I go in nature I take my time. So having to take off the pack to drink doesn't bother me at all. I usually hang it from a tree, drink or access the bag and sometimes take a short break observing nature. I'm not a hiker with a set distance to walk per day and objectives. I have my time.
- The small size of the water pouches can be a bit annoying but it also reduces the risk of losing your bottle. I use two Nalgenes but not the cylindrical wide mouth, rather classical canteen shape. They are a bit easier to slip in and out of the pouches.
=> Careful however, if you are shorter than 1,73m you will not be able to set the harness. This is my height and I've set it to the shortest possible. If you are shorter, the harness will be too long for you.
=> I would have like Fastex buckles on the straps under the bag instead of classical ones.
Other than that I like this product.