That pack is more military than civilian, allthough its cross between those two. So lightly padded straps allow better aiming and shooting with assault rifles. And 220€ for 30+ litre military pack is cheap.
@@sebgroagreed, all the weight is on the waist belt and absolutely no downward pressure on the shoulders, I only tighten shoulder straps enough to keep it close to my back.
this is a military backpack and you usually wear a plate carrier underneath so much for padding with a vest it wears great but also without any reason to cry😊
I'll just quote Savotta "the shoulder straps, waist belt and back padding are designed to carry more weight comfortably than most packs of this size". Apparently Savotta don't think it's a military backpack 😂
I also wear it for bushcraft tours. From 15kg he is no longer fun 12kg is great. I have the carrying frame that makes no difference and is not heavy but you can also save. He stands better with it and keeps his shape better, but that's probably not the reason to order it. I have the 6l pockets on the sides, they are great. I love the backpack and it will definitely outlast me and my kids. great part.
I have this pack and totally agree. The heavier I load it the less I like it. Adding pouches via the webbing looks great but then the pack gets overloaded quickly and I quickly reach a point where I'll use my JAAKARI L pack instead and be way more comfortable.
Good review, thank you. The reason for the thin padding of the shoulder straps and the minimalistic frame is because the backpack is designed to use with a platecarrier. My Jäkkari M is in use now for about two years and i love it. I made the frame upgrade to. For me it is perfect comfort to carry for dayhikes wirth a weight up to about 10kg.
Thanks Ralph! I've heard that before and I don't buy it, I still think it's just lazy design. But the backpack itself is great when fitted with a frame.
@@frostys_bushcraft They made them thin deliberately. It helps one to shoot with a rifle, when the paddings are not too fluffy. Never had bothered me. There should not be too much weight on them, when hip belt adjusted correctly. They said this on savottas own introduction video. Oh also aluminium frame is quite new addition to this backpack, the backpack has been manufactured many years before they even had a frame for it. There You go 👍
I have similar thoughts about Fjallraven backpacks - simple design (sometimes too simple), high qualitty and very-very high price. It's not for everybody, it's just for people who loves crude, scandinavian style
Designed as a scout type pack for a military that deals with winter conditions. Not an expedition pack or a long haul hiker. Works great for bushcraft type trips, in my opinion. I wouldn’t load more than 30-35 ish lbs in mine and expect it to be comfortable after a while. Molle is nice for stuff like a small admin pouch, canteen pouch, first aid type stuff, etc. I wouldn’t add a bunch of weight to the sides. If you need big side pouches you should consider using a larger bag. I love mine, perfect for what I do.
at last someone calling it pals webbing not molle. well done frosty. every thing you gave as negatives is the same as mine but also i would say about waterproofness.
Thanks Gean. I didn't mention waterproofness as most backpack leak after a while, so that's orobably the norm. I had a Mammut mountaineering backpack that was actually waterproof and that was an amazing pack.
@@frostys_bushcraft Np I used to live by the ocean and that’s always the problem, if there’s some corrosion make sure to clean it with warm water and either lemon juice or white vinegar not too much just tiny bit and brush it, rinse with water and dry it once dry you can put wax.
This is a ruck designed for military use in the 1990s, made in Europe (not China) so it is natural to be missing civilian creature comforts. It is supposed to be simple, durable and worn over clothes.
@@frostys_bushcraft the point was, people buy these things with unfair expectations and take the product out of context entirely. It shouldn't be compared to modern hiking/backpacking bags, the creature comforts didn't ever seem to matter to the Finnish military as much as other nations. If we take a Gregory 50 liter backpacking bag for example (not military I know) they can be had for less than the Jaeger and have all the bells and whistles. It isn't as durable but most people shouldn't care. I love my military surplus rucks but I also appreciate my modern backpacks.
im in the US, i love this pack and appreciate your honest take on it, i use this pack for basically everything, i personally hate thicker padding because often times im wearing my packs with a thicker style field shirt or some type of parka along with a split rig system to carry things like ammo or other stuff. The thinner straps make shouldering rifles a lot more comfortable and also lends to lower heat trapping which can be a major concern for longer outdoor stuff, i think the reason the aluminum frame doesnt come with it is because a lot of the FDF who use this pack in finland run plate carriers thus the pack already sits against a fairly rigid structure. I prefer smaller packs with expand-ability because it means that i can tailor it to what i need to take, and because of using a split rig or some type of tactical carrying system with it i can shift extra stuff onto my gear or onto the pack as needed, the simple padding on the back aids in airflow which is a massive problem i have with more US style packs that tend to trap a ton of heat against my back. I also use the bottom straps to carry the savotta FDF pad, I really like Savottas sort of system they have where a lot of their products can work together.
Thanks for the honest review. Consider trying the DD Hammocks Bergen Rucksack..... It is a bit bigger, half the price, thick padding on the straps and it comes with removable side pouches, as well as with a removable pouch on the back, that can be used as an oversized fannypack. Great video, keep em coming :)
I'm covered as far as backpacks go :) My go-to is the Wisport Racoon45, I use that think as my main backpack for couple years now and really love it. And I just bought an external frame Tatonka I'll use for winter whenI need a bunch of gear on me. I saw the Bergen once on a friend but never really tried it myself.
I have the DD Bergen and I am in a love-hate situation because I don't like the velcro used for the sidepacks and actionpack.. and the hipbelt is too high. Also, no good solid back so I use a wooden cutting plate inside to add stability. What I love is the MOLE all around and the sidepacks containing my tarp and hammock. Also like the action pack. I have just added a bunch of gear and other pockets using the MOLE.
Yeah I've had an M for years now and it's definitely a love/hate relationship. It's too small for anything but for use as a day pack with extras, ala an assault pack for patrols, but the way it's built fools you into thinking it has more support and load carriage ability than it really does. The side pockets are sized almost perfectly for an FDF canteen, but not much else. Good luck getting a nalgene bottle to stay in there. You can remove the kidney pad but not the hip belt. You cannot adjust the height of the hip belt at all. I'm 84cm tall. It is too short for me, and I can't do anything to fix that. But it's just so simple and well made I keep it around and use it anyway. And it looks good. Everyone asks where I got it, but I can't bring myself to recommend it to other people because of all the drawbacks. Not for $200. Either get something lighter or buy something bigger with a frame. The M tries to occupy this strange middle ground of being both a full rucksack and not at the same time and it doesn't work.
Hi! I agree on almost all you said with exception of it being only a daypack. With clever packing 30l is enough for 2-3 day trips in warmer seasons. But then it's heavy enough to really emphasize the lack of padding and a hip belt. I'm short so the lenght of the pack is OK to me. I started using Mystery Ranch 30l backpack a while ago and it is so much more comfortable even with it also not having a propper hip belt.
I went with 2DAP and so far I love it. I've got a review of it somewhere if you're interested in my thoughts on it but long story short - only thing I dialike is it not having a propper hip belt.
I ultimately replaced mine with a MR popup 40. Wanted something a little bigger with an actual frame and hip belt, and the ability to cinch down odd loads between the frame and the bag works very well for my needs. Aimed primarily at hunters. Max weight capacity on the frame is advertised at 80lbs There's a 30L version too.
I got Tatonka's Lastenkraxe for odd shaped stuff and that thing is really good. Got a little shelf on bottom of the frame so it makes oacking stuff easy and it's comfy even at heavy loads. I carried my wife on it for fun and it's doable @ 100+ lbs 🤣
I friggin’ ❤️ my Savotta Jääkäri M! It’s not perfect, but it does the job. I regret not getting the side packs and the smiley patch though. (Shipped to U.S., so added cost was an issue) Nice review Frosty! Keep up the great work 🏕️
Thank you for your reply! I’m taking my pack this weekend for an overnighter in south central Missouri USA. Going to try a few of your bushcraft techniques as well. You have been a great inspiration to me, and I wish you safe journeys in the future. Also, please give Treff a good scratch behind the ears for me. He is such a good dog!
Watched this on my TV yesterday, came back so I could comment. This review is right on time, I have been watching several individuals using this for a year or more. The only reason I have not pulled the trigger was the price and some of what you mentioned as a minus that I noticed about it. So this info was exactly what I needed, now I am on the fence a bit but i have the ammo to work it out, thanks for posting as always. Perfect timing.
I think they designed it more towards winter,fall. These seasons you have a jacket more padding so no need for thick shoulder straps but still usuable in any season. Here in Florida i use it mostly in the winter.
They're "based" on military patrol packs to that's their reason for not having a frame and thin padding but if you're going to sell something in civilian market at premium price you should really work some details. Again, lots of things I like but it's far from "perfect" or "the best" like most reviews claim.
Superb review Frosty thanks👏 I love the bag and brand and feel that the relatively short distance/time/weight I regularly yomp would not be hindered by the straps and adjustment aspect you pointed out. The aluminium frame though? Having to buy that separately is a bummer👎KTF🙏
First like on this video mr frosty 👍 brilliant honest review after watching this video I am so glad I bought a wisport reinder 75l more bang for the buck I think keep up brilliant videos my friend 💪🏴👍🍻
Great review , I have the Marine Corp ILBE, it's a little larger at 75 litres so therefore somewhat heavier at over 6 pounds I believe, designed by Arcteryx. Both very similar. I've never tried that pack so I don't know anything about it but my ILBE even as big as it is it's a very comfortable pack to carry even when loaded to 25 to 40 pounds. It's capable of carrying more than a 100 pounds.
They're a great haulers for sure. I just bought a Tatonka Lastenkruxe frame for winter and am working on making a bag/pack for it. Never really tried external frames until now so looking forward to hauling to much gear just because I can 😅
I have the ILBE as well. Got it through surplus and feel it is a tremendous value. I recently purchased the waterproof liner and I’m pleased with that as well.
👍👍👍 .. a good review with the negatives most probably justified. I recently acquired the Jääkäri S and so far, I'm very happy with it .. and especially the simplicity thereof. One advantage about Simplicity is that there is less to go wrong. A positive is that one can 'customise' the pack to one's preferences. I initially got myself a set of 4L Side Pouches and a Sternum Strap with the Pack. Awaiting a restock notification is a pair of the Särma wider shoulder straps (although, up to now, the standard straps have performed well) and a German BW Surplus Folding Sleep Mat. Also going into the Cart will be a Beaver Tail. Price? One must consider where the Product is manufactured and the Standard of Living of those working there. I do not think that they can compete price-wise with some Manufacturers further to the East. But yes, they are expensive. Quality? Hopefully I'll be able to pass the Pack on to one of my Grand Children 😊. Take care ..
Thanks Thomas. I'm all for simplicity in the right places but a simple product usually means it's easy/fast to manufacture so the profit margins in this backpacks must be high. I'm not saying they are bad productsby any means, I'm just saying that I don't really buy that "they are designed that way because they are based on military backpacks and that's that" story. They're really quality made and probably last a lifetime but my opinion is that they could've been designed a bit better without adding much production cost - bit more padding and curved straps wouldn't cost much and they would work wonders even without the adjustable back system. Just my 2 cents.
@@frostys_bushcraft 👍 valid points. Similar to any relationship .. take the good with the bad, live with it or move on 😁. I believe that enough constructive feedback to the manufacturer could prompt change. That said, the Jääkäri S has replaced a 30 litre 'unknown brand' bought at a local Mil Surplus / Outdoor Store some years back .. has the hip belt, curved shoulder straps, risers and padded ventilated back. Use to date .. the Jääkäri doesn't do badly at all compared. But then, maybe it's still the 'honeymoon' phase 😁.
Hi Frosty, I'm curious about how you carry your Skrama. I have the same Jaakari M pack and same side pockets but I can no longer carry my Skrama on the side of the pack or even slide the Skrama behind the side pockets. The space is too narrow. I now end up putting it inside the pack. How are you now carrying yours? Thanks
Hey Frank! Yeah, that's a problem I never expected. Right now I carry my Shrama and Silky Inside the pack but I'm thinking of making some sort of holder for them as I really like the convenience of carrying them outside the pack.
@@frostys_bushcraft - Thanks Frosty. I mounted my side pockets 1 PALS webbing higher than you have yours to help clear that side pocket and can get the Skrama in it but it looks a little sloppy jammed in front of the side pocket. I’ll be interested in seeing what you come up with. Take care!
Thanks for this review! Q: what would you say is the highest "comfortable to wear"-weight on the Jääkäri M? Looking for a "substitute" of the "Kampfrucksack 90", the swiss armys "combat rucksack", bc i like the one-compartment-approach. I was pretty sure to buy the Jääkäri M, but your review made me hesitate now; especially bc of the frame and the non-existing padding (sounds like Savotta produces the KS90, too - they suffer from same illnesses ;) (and or would you know a not as expensive alternative with same approach to one-compartment?) Edit: i only find offers for the Jääkäri M without the side-pouches - are these "extra" or are there two models (old: without, new: with pouches) on the market? btw cheers from Switzerland
Hi Michael! Uh... I "lucky" I'm short so I can actually use the belt on my hips and get some of the weight off my shoulders so it's reasonabely comfortable even with a bunch of stuff inside. Mosi I carried inside was probably arround 15kg and I had no issues with it. Side pockets are sold seperately as they're new (ish) product line and come in bunch of sizes. This are the smallest ones at 4L and there are also 6,8 and 12L but larger ones are for bigger models. I think 4 & 6 fit Jaakari M, not sure about the rest.
As far as similar backpacks go, Berghaus Centurio 30 II and Centurio 30 III are similar in design and function. I used Enturio 30 II for couple of years. Centurio 30 IV is current model and jad added front opening zipper but you should still be able to find III on discount.
@@frostys_bushcraft found them - looking good, price is almost as high as the Jääkäri, but i see the shoulder-straps are more cushioned (which could be an advantage ;) ...it's kinda hard finding a good "everyday and single-day trekking"-rucksack i think...
@@michaelkeller5008 depends what you're looking for. My latest one is Mystery Ranch 2DAP and I'm loving that thing. Also needs a propper hip belt but I actually found one for it on AliExpress and works great. Jaakari with a good hip belt would be awesome.
I just purchased the Savotta jääkäri s for a day pack and after purchasing 2 mini side pouches and a small horizontal pouch and the smiley patch altogether cost about £200. I still want to get the foam mat yet.... I to agree they're not perfect. They're different but even so you can still get the job done with them. The quality of build is robust and strong but not the most refined. The pouches seem expensive as well I mean I paid £70 for 3 small pouches as I missed not having any pockets and like you said the zipper pocket is not the best due to where its position is. It does feel comfortable to wear though...
Second comment! ;-) Thanks for the real review. I was already wondering if this was hyped too much on TH-cam. What would you advise for a backpack between 30-45L?
Uh... I have Wisports Racoon 45 for couple of years and still love it. Bit on the heavy side but never a single problem with it, couple of my friends also have it and are happy with them. I had a bunch od others like Berghaus Centurio, Snugpak Endurance, Tasmanian Tiger etc but honestly the Wisport is the only one that I kept longer than two years.
hey Frosty, do you have any similar backpacks that have less of the minus points? for example better straps and back support? i have a simmilar backpack and i absolutely hate how sweaty and wet my back gets compared to backpacks with ventilation.
I dunno... I get by with 30 liters when the temperatures are above freezing but for all-year use the 45 liters just cuts it. Then again, I carry a bunch of stuff for Tref and that takes room in my pack. I'd take Wisport Racoon 45/65 or Wisport Reindeer 55 over Jaakari any day. Cheaper, better back system, comfy, same basic design, also great quality.
No offense, but this review as well as your comments are honestly just lazy. Savotta is and presents itself as a military gear company manufacturing for the use by infantry soldiers, while extending their market to civilians interested in buying their gear. It's an army backpack, obviously its gonna be less comfy, obviously youre gonna sweat a lot. In exchange for that it's basically indestructible and highly customizable, which is perfect for an outdoor person like me who is comfortable being uncomfortable - a trait important for being a soldier. None of this is meant to be compared to civilian packs, the "bottle holders" are actually for securing rifles, the straps are to be worn over gear, the price is high because - as I said - it is indestructible. I am a wildlife photographer and have dragged this pack through thick thorns, mud and various other environments and it will not break. I am very rough with my gear but the quality is so high that so far not a single spot has been damaged at all.
I'm telling it like it is and if you think comfort is secondary on this backpack you should really read what Savotta says about it and this is what they say "...the shoulder straps, waist belt and back padding are designed to carry more weight comfortably than most packs of this size". They also say side pockets are "used to secure tools, tripods etc." , no mention of rifles at all wich is logical as you can not carry a rufle securely on it. I know cause I tried with my AR15 and with my bolt action AND because I have hunting backpacks that do carry guns and it's completely different.
Finding a pack that's Tough; Cumfy and Light is still a challenge. Ray Mears Leaf Cutter; Crib Gogh's Rogue are interesting. I wish Mears put SOME bells and whistles on his pack for carrying Snowshoes, your Dogs Pack and Trekking Poles etc. I just think the 'classic bushcraft' packs like Savotta, Wisport and Fjallraven etc. are on the heavy side. The Leaf Cutter is 60l (90l inc. pockets) and less than 2kg! That's great. With some 'lash-on' features added I'd still be happy at, say, 2.25kg. That would be my ideal pack. Where is it? (The Rogue goes the other way: similar size, but due to military specific features, it hits 2.4kg. Still not too bad, when concidering the weight of these classics...
I don't really mind the weight as long as it's comfy to wear or haul. I just bought Tatonka Lastenkraxe frame and it's arround 2.7kg without the pack. But it's really comfy and you haul a lot of weight on it no problem. As far as classic backpacks go, just swich from 1000D to 500D and you lose a bunch of weight (380g/m2 to 240g/m2) without loosing much durability. Webbing is really light (20ish g/m2) so you can still use it without adding much weight. The Jaakari M could be made to be less than 1.5kg with the frame AND some padding and it would still be durable enough.
Well, thus Savotta backpacks can be good one's, but TOO expensive!!! 😱😱 Less expensive and also high quality backpacks are the Tasmanian Tiger they are German made as Tatonka.
I had Tasmanian Tiger patrol pack and I have Tatonka Lastenkruxe and Tatonka child carrier that survived two kids. Great products. Also, I have Wisport Racoon45 that I've been using for couple of years now and it's been great.
Well I use Tasmanian Tiger MK3, great backpack,sturdy, 52liter capacity, a lot pockets +aluminium bars to keep the bag straight and nice padded structure, overall very good product and costed me €250 😜 if compared with Savotta the max capacity backpack will cost you €650 😱😱😱 so all said, Savotta can be easily replaced by cheapest products but not less quality as TT or Tatonka
Thank you for this video; I've been looking at wanting to get something from Savotta to test out with the colder months rolling in. Defintely going to use some of your points of interest and see if I can modify it to either do better or something of that nature. Also, a random question, where did you acquire that cover (ballcap)? Love the camo pattern and spider on it.
Thanks! Got it at TRC Outdoors, they're the ones who brought the old night camo back and now a bunch of others started using it. Spider's actually called Timmy! No joke, it's called the Timmy hat for a reason.
I did a 3 day hike last week and after it this backpack went straight to the marketplace. Straps are not just thin but also spaced really close so I was cramping all the tome in my traps and back.
Great review Frosty ! I definitely agree with your findings however, I have never used this pack before. Just from what I have seen, I had the same ideas on the cons of the pack. They do make some pretty high quality gear though.
I use my Bag for around 4 years propperly more... as a forrest worker. The water bottle holders are the worst ive seen on a backpack. I would have loved some patting on the Straps, due to its base weight is kinda heavy... But its made 2 last 8 nuclear winters , 4 Alien Invasions , 2 Zombie invasions, and the end of the world.
@@nodramalama9531 That would make the riffle hit every branch when walking around with it, but im pretty sure they call they water bottle holders on the homepage.
Frosty zapratio sam te dok nisi imao 1k sub,sad gledam 190k ,svaka cast,kako si uspio,izgleda da te progurao onaj shorts klip sto ima preko 50mil pregleda?
Thank you for this assessment. I didn't realize there were these faults so it is an eye-opener. I heard a lot of good things about this company so it's good to hear the truth. I recently bought a backpack that added, sewn, on some load lifters. It helped a lot. Easy to do if you know someone with a good strong machine. Good hiking.
Thanks! I modify most of my gear and even make some of my own, check out one of my last posts - I made something between a backpack and a dry bag for my Tatonka koad carrier.
Thank you Frosty, that was a very good 👍 review on the Jarkaari backpack and I agree with you. The backpack is quite expensive for it not having the following features, shoulder riser straps, no padding for the straps and a frame for it and maybe some poches on the hip belt or a few Moller webbing. I do like the pack but not the price range. I think a better option would be something like the Italian Army Vegetado backpack and for the price, you can't beat it.
Good review, though I disagree with the point about the padding. I use it regularly on multi day hikes(priša je Velebit tri puta :-D) and with around 12-15kg, the shoulder straps and waist belt perform great. I personally prefer overloading the M to taking the L as it is sleeker, feels better and doesn't have that damned rolltop which makes finding anything inside it like a bloody caving expedition. With properly tightened and positioned waistbelt there is usually no downward pressure on my shoulders whatsoever and with those loads it does a good job over long distances. Without attaching a Hatka and large side pouches I cant imagine fitting more than 15kg inside it unless i fill it with sand. My biggest gripes with it are ridiculously tight and too shallow sidepockets, lid pocket could happily be a liter or two larger and when using it with the frame it creaks and squeels with every step when fully loaded. Last problem I had with the L as well. I was close to getting rid of both because of it until i found that wrapping self adhesive finger tape around the frame completely eliminated any annoying noises
The strap problem can be solved with the added padding you can get the high price of the bag for me is the durability it’s going to be a simple bag that could be improved but the quality of the kit that you get and how long that kit will last just blows other bags out of the water I’d say it’s worth buying the bag upgrades because the bag will probably last a lifetime I think this vid is giving savotta a bad name when the quality of the gear is extremely high quality and will last for I’d say around a decade of use 10 years even used as a daily bag all day use
Ah I just bought one without the frame but with side pockets. I noticed since Brexit postage from Finland to GB 3 times more than I paid before. I was using a Decathlon solognac backpack which was super cheap and it showed. But it did the job. For a while.
oh yes, salt water. killed the zip on my favorite bag a few years ago... good review, I've looked att the bag online many times but never felt it would fill a hole. I'll wait for the 1 year review. (don't really need another bag, but you know xD)
@@frostys_bushcraft yes, major problem with many zippers, once what ever they're coated with goes away they erode fast. I have a sailors canvas bag, made in Norway in the late 1930s, bronze zipper, I've used it on every travel each year since -92, the canvas is patched beyond recognition, but that zipper! im guessing its stitched to vinyl? still works so well, just some oil once a year before I put it away for the season. I'm amazed, if they still sold stuff like that i guess no one would make money, right:)♡♡♡
Yeah, no point in making products people only buy once 😂 To be honest this thing looks really durable but some details are just... not making me happy.
I have the same pack, added the aluminum frame and Savotta Medium vertical pouches in each side, as well as horizontals on the hip belt. My first real hike with this pack setup covered 83 km over 4 days, two weeks ago. Based on that trip I would say this bag could be greatly improved with better straps. Maxpedition makes strap pads that I may try but my biggest beef with the straps are the shape. They need to have more of a curve so they don’t dig into the shoulders.
Jakotta Savaari backpack? Before buying Savotta, just do your homework and make yourself aware of what Savotta design and mindset are all about. It is rugged, it is basic, it is durable, and, yes, it can be uncomfortable. The shoulder straps are narrow and thin for hunting and shooting purposes. If you’d have watched the official Savotta Jääkari M intro video, you would have known that.
I'm not going to enter yet another Savotta fanboy debate, I'll just quote Savotta on Jaakari M: "...designed to carry more weight comfortably than most packs of this size."
I have never owned a Savotta product in my life. My perspective is purely based on the gear we have used in the service. I will take the fanboy compliment with me. Try to differenciate between feedback and critique, no need to fight it.
@@wiz6330 Not looking for a fight but I heard the "it's a patrol pack, it's not made to be comfortable" so many times... sorry mate! It's not a problem of straps being thin but poorly shaped with no curve so inside edge digs in your traps. I actually sold the pack after 3-day hike in the mountains, my neck and back were cramping like crazy.
Hi Frosty, I have the MMPS Centurio 30 FA from Berghaus , I love them, Straps and Hipbelts with padding,and Backpack is normaly about 160.- euros, i got it for 80.- euros iven with 2 10 liter Side packs, all the best Frosty, Claudia
I had that backpack a while back when we did all the survival courses and crazy stuff. Survived it all without a problem and I love how easy it is to put the side pockets on it. Never understood the two plastic buckle-thingys on it though :) Thanks!
I do like Savotta packs, but prefer panel loading (front loading) vs top loading packs where you are required to pull everything out to get to items at the bottom of the pack.
Hm. I dont know what to tell you... always used top loading packs and never even considered anything else. I'm probably just "uninformed" but I always had a feeling front loading packs are a fad, the zipper will fail, they're not durable etc.. just ised to top loading I guess. This one has a zip on the side and I literally never used it. I also had a Kroko pack (Croatian Army manufacturer, really hard core backpacks but cost a fortune) with a front zipper and just couldn't get used to it.
@@frostys_bushcraft I don't really have a problem with top loading packs (like I said I do like Savotta gear as its well made), although I agree that it needs better padding. It's just that panel loading packs make it easier to get to your gear. Some of these packs unzip halfway down on both sides whereas others zip down all the way, which is what I prefer. And since they have been around for several years, one should not have to worry about the zippers on a quality pack. And all of my current packs are panel loading. A lot of packs also have a separate pouch on the bottom for sleeping bags, etc. making organizing gear abit easier.
It's probably just a matter of getting used to something different. I have the bottom zipper on my bigger backpacks, also literally never even tried it. I have a way of arranging items in my packs that works for me and I don't even think about it. Nothing against front loading packs, just not my cup of tea at the moment... not saying I want change my mind in future :)
I considered Savotta before buying my last "medium" sized backpack. Thank you for confirming the impressions I had about the shoulder straps and waistband. Eventually I got a Komodo Dragon from Mistery Ranch and added 2 four liters Savotta side pouches like yours. I was struck by the fantastic quality of Savotta (I since then got some mesh bags and other items from them). They're waaaay better than many brands in the same price range. I just couldnt figure why the straps werent better designed for a bag that (for me at least) will weight over 20 kilograms for a 2-3 days hike.
"The "Jääkäri M" is based on Savotta's famous "Kevyt Rajapartio" (Light Border Patrol, a daypack developed in the late '90s for our border troops)," It's a 30L day/overnight military bag not meant for packing 20kilo multiple days... The komodo is 38L(?), and according to the website it's a bigger version of their 3day assault, + you added 8L side pockets.
Yup, sold it after one 3 day hike. Was cramping in neck and traps the whole time, couldn't wait to get back home. Good overall quality and materials but poor shoulder strap design.
@@piningbuck sold it after a 3-day hike where my neck and traps were cramping all the time. Great pack for short trips but uncomfortable for any decent weight and duration.
I think 35 pounds/15kg is way too much weight for a pack this size. I have considered this pack but I ended up buying the Tasmanian Tiger Mil Ops Pack 30 instead which I got for around 120 Euros I think. The TT pack is basically the same size and features, but even simpler without any frame, padding or hip belt whatsoever. But it does have nice wide padded shoulder straps. Reportedly the German army has bought this pack (at least two German youtube channels said so...) I've used it with around 25 pounds on extended daytrips. But for heavier loads I'd choose a different pack.
It's too much weight but it shouldn't be... 15kg is really not really heavy for a multi-day trip even in a 30 liter pack. As I like photography as well my pack is always +3kg just in photo gear (camera, lenses, spare batteries, powerbanks, light, tripod etc. and also double water for me and my dog, his food, his gear... gets heavy quick without even packing the essentials 😂 Most of that stuff is small in volume but relatively heavy.
@@frostys_bushcraft Yeah I know, got a dog as well and it easily adds 2-3kg in weight for a multi day trip. But for those I just choose larger packs since IMHO they're more comfortable to carry with heavier weights. And the additional weight of the pack doesn't really bother me that much when I have to carry that stuff for multiple days.
I have a LOT of HelikonTex gear but only one backpack and it's the 10l one, not sure anout the model name. Serves me fine for dayhikes and trips with kids.
How can I get your patches? Sometimes affordability is what you have to work with,seems like they could add the frame .and where you get that lighter, thats cool as silk.make sure you practice your fire lighting frosty brother.....lo.
Hey man! There's info on them in every video bio, usually at the bottom. Not sure if that's the one you're talking about but the only lighter I use is the Exotac titanLight, and I had no problems with ih.
1000D little bit overkill if you ask me. The carrying system begs for improvement no doubt about it. Regarding selling aluminum frame separately -no comment 🙈 Thanks for honest review. I hope they will watch it and take notes. 🖐🤠🏕
Agreed. Most used 500D as it's durable enough and a lot lighter, I think it's something like 240g/m2 vs 390g/m2. Not a huge dufference in a single pack as a bigger one maybe has 1m/2 of fabric but it all adds up.
"Quality" does not have a price except in the ability for marketing to mark it up. Off a 1.5 meter wide roll 1000 d cordura is ~12 to ~17 euros a meter. So, go with the higher cost. You have lets say 1 meter cut fabric total in that bag, 10 euros because you bought the full roll. Your labor to make that bag in ANY fabric 1 hour at 32 euros. The total of all add ons (snaps rings etc) be generous 10 euros. You can cheap out, yes. Use half the snaps and use lower priced fabric, maybe say bring it down by 5 euros. You still have not made something at an at-home back office sew shop side business that cost more than 52 euros, and a company that goes into production will have spend a third what a home maker would, but going with the home maker that is a still a 400% markup and they say "ohhh its expensive because quality costs more" no it's expensive because you buy it at that price.
I'm working on new model for the chest packs I designed. Manufacturing cost is a big factor as it's going to be produced in Europe. Difference between quality laser cut laminate and cheap one, ITW buckles and cheap ones, rainproof YKK or cheap zippers, X-pac or plain Cordura... it all adds up. I can make them at probably half the price in PRC and have an OK product or I can make them here with the best materials I can get and make an awesome product. But, it's not going to be cheap. And thats just manufacturing, without me or the store earning amything. It's never that simple, unfortunately. But I do agree you usually pay premium just for the brand name.
![[LIVE] : ONE ลุมพินี 90 | คู่เอก "ก้องไกล vs แอนตาร์"](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/VugIvOstzRI/mqdefault.jpg)
That pack is more military than civilian, allthough its cross between those two. So lightly padded straps allow better aiming and shooting with assault rifles. And 220€ for 30+ litre military pack is cheap.
Yeah I absolutely love the design and want to get it for backpacking, hiking but the padding is a really big turn off
@@ethenole10plusIn my experience, there’s no use for padding if you wear the bp properly.
@@sebgroagreed, all the weight is on the waist belt and absolutely no downward pressure on the shoulders, I only tighten shoulder straps enough to keep it close to my back.
this is a military backpack and you usually wear a plate carrier underneath so much for padding with a vest it wears great but also without any reason to cry😊
I'll just quote Savotta "the shoulder straps, waist belt and back padding are designed to carry more weight comfortably than most packs of this size".
Apparently Savotta don't think it's a military backpack 😂
I also wear it for bushcraft tours. From 15kg he is no longer fun 12kg is great. I have the carrying frame that makes no difference and is not heavy but you can also save. He stands better with it and keeps his shape better, but that's probably not the reason to order it.
I have the 6l pockets on the sides, they are great.
I love the backpack and it will definitely outlast me and my kids. great part.
Thanks Frosty. Glad you and Treff gave an honest opinion. Have a great day,
Thanks!
I have this pack and totally agree. The heavier I load it the less I like it. Adding pouches via the webbing looks great but then the pack gets overloaded quickly and I quickly reach a point where I'll use my JAAKARI L pack instead and be way more comfortable.
Agreed! Would be great if it had a propper hip belt.
Good review, thank you.
The reason for the thin padding of the shoulder straps and the minimalistic frame is because the backpack is designed to use with a platecarrier.
My Jäkkari M is in use now for about two years and i love it. I made the frame upgrade to. For me it is perfect comfort to carry for dayhikes wirth a weight up to about 10kg.
Thanks Ralph! I've heard that before and I don't buy it, I still think it's just lazy design. But the backpack itself is great when fitted with a frame.
@@frostys_bushcraft They made them thin deliberately. It helps one to shoot with a rifle, when the paddings are not too fluffy. Never had bothered me. There should not be too much weight on them, when hip belt adjusted correctly. They said this on savottas own introduction video. Oh also aluminium frame is quite new addition to this backpack, the backpack has been manufactured many years before they even had a frame for it. There You go 👍
I have similar thoughts about Fjallraven backpacks - simple design (sometimes too simple), high qualitty and very-very high price. It's not for everybody, it's just for people who loves crude, scandinavian style
Ut's like they were designed in the 80' and never updated.
Finland isn't part of Scandinavia
Thank god for for that
I have this pack and I love it. I do agree with all of your criticism but it’s cool factor is off the charts though.
Hahaha well, that's one reason to buy it.
Designed as a scout type pack for a military that deals with winter conditions. Not an expedition pack or a long haul hiker. Works great for bushcraft type trips, in my opinion. I wouldn’t load more than 30-35 ish lbs in mine and expect it to be comfortable after a while. Molle is nice for stuff like a small admin pouch, canteen pouch, first aid type stuff, etc. I wouldn’t add a bunch of weight to the sides. If you need big side pouches you should consider using a larger bag. I love mine, perfect for what I do.
at last someone calling it pals webbing not molle. well done frosty. every thing you gave as negatives is the same as mine but also i would say about waterproofness.
Thanks Gean. I didn't mention waterproofness as most backpack leak after a while, so that's orobably the norm. I had a Mammut mountaineering backpack that was actually waterproof and that was an amazing pack.
I put beeswax or candle wax to protect the zippers from corrosion and it makes zipper work smooth
That's actually great advice, I'll try it out!
@@frostys_bushcraft Np I used to live by the ocean and that’s always the problem, if there’s some corrosion make sure to clean it with warm water and either lemon juice or white vinegar not too much just tiny bit and brush it, rinse with water and dry it once dry you can put wax.
I'll defenitely try it out, thanks!
This is a ruck designed for military use in the 1990s, made in Europe (not China) so it is natural to be missing civilian creature comforts. It is supposed to be simple, durable and worn over clothes.
Well... the mk.1 Golf was a great car at the time but now they're making mk.8 Golf. Products evolve and adapt over time.
@@frostys_bushcraft the point was, people buy these things with unfair expectations and take the product out of context entirely. It shouldn't be compared to modern hiking/backpacking bags, the creature comforts didn't ever seem to matter to the Finnish military as much as other nations.
If we take a Gregory 50 liter backpacking bag for example (not military I know) they can be had for less than the Jaeger and have all the bells and whistles. It isn't as durable but most people shouldn't care.
I love my military surplus rucks but I also appreciate my modern backpacks.
I’d love that update!!! :)
Love your honesty, Frosty… see you soon for an adventure, I hope! 💞
Thanks Suzanne! Yup, soon :)
im in the US, i love this pack and appreciate your honest take on it, i use this pack for basically everything, i personally hate thicker padding because often times im wearing my packs with a thicker style field shirt or some type of parka along with a split rig system to carry things like ammo or other stuff. The thinner straps make shouldering rifles a lot more comfortable and also lends to lower heat trapping which can be a major concern for longer outdoor stuff, i think the reason the aluminum frame doesnt come with it is because a lot of the FDF who use this pack in finland run plate carriers thus the pack already sits against a fairly rigid structure. I prefer smaller packs with expand-ability because it means that i can tailor it to what i need to take, and because of using a split rig or some type of tactical carrying system with it i can shift extra stuff onto my gear or onto the pack as needed, the simple padding on the back aids in airflow which is a massive problem i have with more US style packs that tend to trap a ton of heat against my back. I also use the bottom straps to carry the savotta FDF pad, I really like Savottas sort of system they have where a lot of their products can work together.
Thanks for the honest review. Consider trying the DD Hammocks Bergen Rucksack..... It is a bit bigger, half the price, thick padding on the straps and it comes with removable side pouches, as well as with a removable pouch on the back, that can be used as an oversized fannypack. Great video, keep em coming :)
I'm covered as far as backpacks go :) My go-to is the Wisport Racoon45, I use that think as my main backpack for couple years now and really love it. And I just bought an external frame Tatonka I'll use for winter whenI need a bunch of gear on me. I saw the Bergen once on a friend but never really tried it myself.
I have the DD Bergen and I am in a love-hate situation because I don't like the velcro used for the sidepacks and actionpack.. and the hipbelt is too high. Also, no good solid back so I use a wooden cutting plate inside to add stability. What I love is the MOLE all around and the sidepacks containing my tarp and hammock. Also like the action pack. I have just added a bunch of gear and other pockets using the MOLE.
Yeah I've had an M for years now and it's definitely a love/hate relationship.
It's too small for anything but for use as a day pack with extras, ala an assault pack for patrols, but the way it's built fools you into thinking it has more support and load carriage ability than it really does.
The side pockets are sized almost perfectly for an FDF canteen, but not much else. Good luck getting a nalgene bottle to stay in there.
You can remove the kidney pad but not the hip belt. You cannot adjust the height of the hip belt at all. I'm 84cm tall. It is too short for me, and I can't do anything to fix that.
But it's just so simple and well made I keep it around and use it anyway. And it looks good. Everyone asks where I got it, but I can't bring myself to recommend it to other people because of all the drawbacks. Not for $200. Either get something lighter or buy something bigger with a frame. The M tries to occupy this strange middle ground of being both a full rucksack and not at the same time and it doesn't work.
Hi! I agree on almost all you said with exception of it being only a daypack. With clever packing 30l is enough for 2-3 day trips in warmer seasons. But then it's heavy enough to really emphasize the lack of padding and a hip belt. I'm short so the lenght of the pack is OK to me. I started using Mystery Ranch 30l backpack a while ago and it is so much more comfortable even with it also not having a propper hip belt.
@@frostys_bushcraft which 30 liter backpack did you end up getting? I am looking at the scree 32, bridger 35, and coulee 40
I went with 2DAP and so far I love it. I've got a review of it somewhere if you're interested in my thoughts on it but long story short - only thing I dialike is it not having a propper hip belt.
I ultimately replaced mine with a MR popup 40. Wanted something a little bigger with an actual frame and hip belt, and the ability to cinch down odd loads between the frame and the bag works very well for my needs. Aimed primarily at hunters. Max weight capacity on the frame is advertised at 80lbs
There's a 30L version too.
I got Tatonka's Lastenkraxe for odd shaped stuff and that thing is really good. Got a little shelf on bottom of the frame so it makes oacking stuff easy and it's comfy even at heavy loads. I carried my wife on it for fun and it's doable @ 100+ lbs 🤣
I friggin’ ❤️ my Savotta Jääkäri M! It’s not perfect, but it does the job. I regret not getting the side packs and the smiley patch though. (Shipped to U.S., so added cost was an issue) Nice review Frosty! Keep up the great work 🏕️
I'm stil in a love-hate relationshio with it. Some details are great but it kinda looks like it was deaigned in the 80s and never updated.
Thank you for your reply! I’m taking my pack this weekend for an overnighter in south central Missouri USA. Going to try a few of your bushcraft techniques as well.
You have been a great inspiration to me, and I wish you safe journeys in the future.
Also, please give Treff a good scratch behind the ears for me. He is such a good dog!
Hahaha will do :) Thanks!
Watched this on my TV yesterday, came back so I could comment. This review is right on time, I have been watching several individuals using this for a year or more. The only reason I have not pulled the trigger was the price and some of what you mentioned as a minus that I noticed about it. So this info was exactly what I needed, now I am on the fence a bit but i have the ammo to work it out, thanks for posting as always. Perfect timing.
You have something to think about :)
@@frostys_bushcraft No doubt, even for the shortfalls I really like it simple much like you. We will see ...
On the Jaakari L there are technically 3 different heights you can place the hip belt at because it's connected by 2 rows of webbing.
I also wish on the Jaakari M that you could remove the hip belt.
You can remove it, it's only held in place by the belt webbing.
THANKS Frosty great to the point review great job
Thanks!
I think they designed it more towards winter,fall. These seasons you have a jacket more padding so no need for thick shoulder straps but still usuable in any season. Here in Florida i use it mostly in the winter.
They're "based" on military patrol packs to that's their reason for not having a frame and thin padding but if you're going to sell something in civilian market at premium price you should really work some details. Again, lots of things I like but it's far from "perfect" or "the best" like most reviews claim.
It was designed to wear over body armour, hence the un padded straps
@@JonMorah357 Agreed. Great military pack, also sold in the civilian market. It is what it is 😂
I added Maxpedition shoulder pads to mine, helps alot
I own s, l and xl and been very satisfied
Superb review Frosty thanks👏 I love the bag and brand and feel that the relatively short distance/time/weight I regularly yomp would not be hindered by the straps and adjustment aspect you pointed out. The aluminium frame though? Having to buy that separately is a bummer👎KTF🙏
Thanks Marty. Yeah, 'cause the frame itself is cheap and you end up paying more for postage than the frame if you order seperately.
Very nice review. I purchased one about two years ago. It's served me well for my trips. Stay Frosty!
Thanks! Hope I get to loving this one in time, maybe it grows on me 😊
Honestly your opinion is on point and appreciate it! Thanks brother Frosty
Thanks brother!
First like on this video mr frosty 👍 brilliant honest review after watching this video I am so glad I bought a wisport reinder 75l more bang for the buck I think keep up brilliant videos my friend 💪🏴👍🍻
Thanks Paul! I have the Racoon 45 for couple years now and still love it, great pack.
Great review , I have the Marine Corp ILBE, it's a little larger at 75 litres so therefore somewhat heavier at over 6 pounds I believe, designed by Arcteryx. Both very similar. I've never tried that pack so I don't know anything about it but my ILBE even as big as it is it's a very comfortable pack to carry even when loaded to 25 to 40 pounds. It's capable of carrying more than a 100 pounds.
They're a great haulers for sure. I just bought a Tatonka Lastenkruxe frame for winter and am working on making a bag/pack for it. Never really tried external frames until now so looking forward to hauling to much gear just because I can 😅
I have the ILBE as well. Got it through surplus and feel it is a tremendous value. I recently purchased the waterproof liner and I’m pleased with that as well.
👍👍👍 .. a good review with the negatives most probably justified.
I recently acquired the Jääkäri S and so far, I'm very happy with it .. and especially the simplicity thereof. One advantage about Simplicity is that there is less to go wrong.
A positive is that one can 'customise' the pack to one's preferences. I initially got myself a set of 4L Side Pouches and a Sternum Strap with the Pack. Awaiting a restock notification is a pair of the Särma wider shoulder straps (although, up to now, the standard straps have performed well) and a German BW Surplus Folding Sleep Mat. Also going into the Cart will be a Beaver Tail.
Price? One must consider where the Product is manufactured and the Standard of Living of those working there. I do not think that they can compete price-wise with some Manufacturers further to the East. But yes, they are expensive.
Quality? Hopefully I'll be able to pass the Pack on to one of my Grand Children 😊.
Take care ..
Thanks Thomas. I'm all for simplicity in the right places but a simple product usually means it's easy/fast to manufacture so the profit margins in this backpacks must be high. I'm not saying they are bad productsby any means, I'm just saying that I don't really buy that "they are designed that way because they are based on military backpacks and that's that" story.
They're really quality made and probably last a lifetime but my opinion is that they could've been designed a bit better without adding much production cost - bit more padding and curved straps wouldn't cost much and they would work wonders even without the adjustable back system.
Just my 2 cents.
@@frostys_bushcraft 👍 valid points.
Similar to any relationship .. take the good with the bad, live with it or move on 😁.
I believe that enough constructive feedback to the manufacturer could prompt change.
That said, the Jääkäri S has replaced a 30 litre 'unknown brand' bought at a local Mil Surplus / Outdoor Store some years back .. has the hip belt, curved shoulder straps, risers and padded ventilated back. Use to date .. the Jääkäri doesn't do badly at all compared. But then, maybe it's still the 'honeymoon' phase 😁.
Hi Frosty, I'm curious about how you carry your Skrama. I have the same Jaakari M pack and same side pockets but I can no longer carry my Skrama on the side of the pack or even slide the Skrama behind the side pockets. The space is too narrow. I now end up putting it inside the pack. How are you now carrying yours? Thanks
Hey Frank! Yeah, that's a problem I never expected. Right now I carry my Shrama and Silky Inside the pack but I'm thinking of making some sort of holder for them as I really like the convenience of carrying them outside the pack.
@@frostys_bushcraft - Thanks Frosty. I mounted my side pockets 1 PALS webbing higher than you have yours to help clear that side pocket and can get the Skrama in it but it looks a little sloppy jammed in front of the side pocket. I’ll be interested in seeing what you come up with. Take care!
I'm waiting on some material so I can make my own "backpack" for load carrier, when they come I'll also make this holder. Cheers!
Thanks for this review!
Q: what would you say is the highest "comfortable to wear"-weight on the Jääkäri M?
Looking for a "substitute" of the "Kampfrucksack 90", the swiss armys "combat rucksack", bc i like the one-compartment-approach. I was pretty sure to buy the Jääkäri M, but your review made me hesitate now; especially bc of the frame and the non-existing padding (sounds like Savotta produces the KS90, too - they suffer from same illnesses ;)
(and or would you know a not as expensive alternative with same approach to one-compartment?)
Edit: i only find offers for the Jääkäri M without the side-pouches - are these "extra" or are there two models (old: without, new: with pouches) on the market?
btw cheers from Switzerland
Hi Michael! Uh... I "lucky" I'm short so I can actually use the belt on my hips and get some of the weight off my shoulders so it's reasonabely comfortable even with a bunch of stuff inside. Mosi I carried inside was probably arround 15kg and I had no issues with it. Side pockets are sold seperately as they're new (ish) product line and come in bunch of sizes. This are the smallest ones at 4L and there are also 6,8 and 12L but larger ones are for bigger models. I think 4 & 6 fit Jaakari M, not sure about the rest.
@@frostys_bushcraft thanks a lot!
15kg seems reasonable for "single day-usage"...
As far as similar backpacks go, Berghaus Centurio 30 II and Centurio 30 III are similar in design and function. I used Enturio 30 II for couple of years. Centurio 30 IV is current model and jad added front opening zipper but you should still be able to find III on discount.
@@frostys_bushcraft found them - looking good, price is almost as high as the Jääkäri, but i see the shoulder-straps are more cushioned (which could be an advantage ;)
...it's kinda hard finding a good "everyday and single-day trekking"-rucksack i think...
@@michaelkeller5008 depends what you're looking for. My latest one is Mystery Ranch 2DAP and I'm loving that thing. Also needs a propper hip belt but I actually found one for it on AliExpress and works great. Jaakari with a good hip belt would be awesome.
How do you like it after a year?
Sold it. Loved the quality, loved the form factor, loved many things about it but it was really uncomfortable to carry on longer trips.
I just purchased the Savotta jääkäri s for a day pack and after purchasing 2 mini side pouches and a small horizontal pouch and the smiley patch altogether cost about £200.
I still want to get the foam mat yet....
I to agree they're not perfect. They're different but even so you can still get the job done with them.
The quality of build is robust and strong but not the most refined.
The pouches seem expensive as well I mean I paid £70 for 3 small pouches as I missed not having any pockets and like you said the zipper pocket is not the best due to where its position is.
It does feel comfortable to wear though...
Glad you agree with me!
@@frostys_bushcraft just ordered a 5.11 Rush 24 in ranger green.
Hi...I like the raised bed..what material is the fabric is?any video on diy or you just buy the whole thing?tq.. following
Hi! I made the bed in two versions, last one was from 500D cordura, a lot lighter than the first one. Thanks!
@@frostys_bushcraft ..thank you for the information...stay🥶 and safe!!!
Thanks!
Second comment! ;-) Thanks for the real review. I was already wondering if this was hyped too much on TH-cam. What would you advise for a backpack between 30-45L?
Uh... I have Wisports Racoon 45 for couple of years and still love it. Bit on the heavy side but never a single problem with it, couple of my friends also have it and are happy with them. I had a bunch od others like Berghaus Centurio, Snugpak Endurance, Tasmanian Tiger etc but honestly the Wisport is the only one that I kept longer than two years.
hey Frosty, do you have any similar backpacks that have less of the minus points? for example better straps and back support? i have a simmilar backpack and i absolutely hate how sweaty and wet my back gets compared to backpacks with ventilation.
I'm interested in this backpack... For a overnighter what size you recommend? L? Great review!
I dunno... I get by with 30 liters when the temperatures are above freezing but for all-year use the 45 liters just cuts it. Then again, I carry a bunch of stuff for Tref and that takes room in my pack.
I'd take Wisport Racoon 45/65 or Wisport Reindeer 55 over Jaakari any day. Cheaper, better back system, comfy, same basic design, also great quality.
@@frostys_bushcraft Thanks! Ye, it depends on season... winter sleeping back takes a lot of space... 🤣
Yeah and I carry two :D
No offense, but this review as well as your comments are honestly just lazy.
Savotta is and presents itself as a military gear company manufacturing for the use by infantry soldiers, while extending their market to civilians interested in buying their gear.
It's an army backpack, obviously its gonna be less comfy, obviously youre gonna sweat a lot. In exchange for that it's basically indestructible and highly customizable, which is perfect for an outdoor person like me who is comfortable being uncomfortable - a trait important for being a soldier.
None of this is meant to be compared to civilian packs, the "bottle holders" are actually for securing rifles, the straps are to be worn over gear, the price is high because - as I said - it is indestructible.
I am a wildlife photographer and have dragged this pack through thick thorns, mud and various other environments and it will not break. I am very rough with my gear but the quality is so high that so far not a single spot has been damaged at all.
I'm telling it like it is and if you think comfort is secondary on this backpack you should really read what Savotta says about it and this is what they say "...the shoulder straps, waist belt and back padding are designed to carry more weight comfortably than most packs of this size". They also say side pockets are "used to secure tools, tripods etc." , no mention of rifles at all wich is logical as you can not carry a rufle securely on it. I know cause I tried with my AR15 and with my bolt action AND because I have hunting backpacks that do carry guns and it's completely different.
Finding a pack that's Tough; Cumfy and Light is still a challenge. Ray Mears Leaf Cutter; Crib Gogh's Rogue are interesting. I wish Mears put SOME bells and whistles on his pack for carrying Snowshoes, your Dogs Pack and Trekking Poles etc. I just think the 'classic bushcraft' packs like Savotta, Wisport and Fjallraven etc. are on the heavy side. The Leaf Cutter is 60l (90l inc. pockets) and less than 2kg! That's great. With some 'lash-on' features added I'd still be happy at, say, 2.25kg. That would be my ideal pack. Where is it? (The Rogue goes the other way: similar size, but due to military specific features, it hits 2.4kg. Still not too bad, when concidering the weight of these classics...
I don't really mind the weight as long as it's comfy to wear or haul. I just bought Tatonka Lastenkraxe frame and it's arround 2.7kg without the pack. But it's really comfy and you haul a lot of weight on it no problem.
As far as classic backpacks go, just swich from 1000D to 500D and you lose a bunch of weight (380g/m2 to 240g/m2) without loosing much durability. Webbing is really light (20ish g/m2) so you can still use it without adding much weight.
The Jaakari M could be made to be less than 1.5kg with the frame AND some padding and it would still be durable enough.
Well, thus Savotta backpacks can be good one's, but TOO expensive!!! 😱😱
Less expensive and also high quality backpacks are the Tasmanian Tiger they are German made as Tatonka.
I had Tasmanian Tiger patrol pack and I have Tatonka Lastenkruxe and Tatonka child carrier that survived two kids. Great products. Also, I have Wisport Racoon45 that I've been using for couple of years now and it's been great.
Well I use Tasmanian Tiger MK3, great backpack,sturdy, 52liter capacity, a lot pockets +aluminium bars to keep the bag straight and nice padded structure, overall very good product and costed me €250 😜 if compared with Savotta the max capacity backpack will cost you €650 😱😱😱 so all said, Savotta can be easily replaced by cheapest products but not less quality as TT or Tatonka
I love TT products. The Lastenkraxe has the V2 carry system just like your Raid MK3 and is really comfy.
Thank you for this video; I've been looking at wanting to get something from Savotta to test out with the colder months rolling in. Defintely going to use some of your points of interest and see if I can modify it to either do better or something of that nature. Also, a random question, where did you acquire that cover (ballcap)? Love the camo pattern and spider on it.
Thanks! Got it at TRC Outdoors, they're the ones who brought the old night camo back and now a bunch of others started using it. Spider's actually called Timmy! No joke, it's called the Timmy hat for a reason.
@@frostys_bushcraft sweet! Thanks again for the good Intel also the info on the hat. 👊🏼
No problem mate!
Thank you for this review. Was gonna ask the wife for one for Father’s Day but now I’m not sure I want one because of the thin shoulder straps
I did a 3 day hike last week and after it this backpack went straight to the marketplace. Straps are not just thin but also spaced really close so I was cramping all the tome in my traps and back.
the very best honest , noble comment . thanks.
Thanks!
Oh no I should be going to sleep but you've posted a video. 🙈
Haha it's just 10 minutes 😊
@@frostys_bushcraft I had to watch it. 🤪
Great review!
Thanks Angie!
Great review Frosty ! I definitely agree with your findings however, I have never used this pack before. Just from what I have seen, I had the same ideas on the cons of the pack. They do make some pretty high quality gear though.
Yeah, really robust stuff but it's like it was designed in the 80s.
@@frostys_bushcraftin the 80s,back when things were made properly :)
I love my M backpack(not overloaded).
I use my Bag for around 4 years propperly more... as a forrest worker.
The water bottle holders are the worst ive seen on a backpack.
I would have loved some patting on the Straps, due to its base weight is kinda heavy...
But its made 2 last 8 nuclear winters , 4 Alien Invasions , 2 Zombie invasions, and the end of the world.
Agreed, rugged but not really comfy or featured.
it's not a bottle holder, its for the butt stock of a rifle
@@nodramalama9531 That would make the riffle hit every branch when walking around with it, but im pretty sure they call they water bottle holders on the homepage.
Frosty zapratio sam te dok nisi imao 1k sub,sad gledam 190k ,svaka cast,kako si uspio,izgleda da te progurao onaj shorts klip sto ima preko 50mil pregleda?
Tako je, s njim je krenulo ludilo. Iskreno, vjerovatno je napravilo vise stete nego koristi ali to ce vrijeme pokazati.
Thank you for this assessment. I didn't realize there were these faults so it is an eye-opener. I heard a lot of good things about this company so it's good to hear the truth. I recently bought a backpack that added, sewn, on some load lifters. It helped a lot. Easy to do if you know someone with a good strong machine. Good hiking.
Thanks! I modify most of my gear and even make some of my own, check out one of my last posts - I made something between a backpack and a dry bag for my Tatonka koad carrier.
Thank you Frosty, that was a very good 👍 review on the Jarkaari backpack and I agree with you. The backpack is quite expensive for it not having the following features, shoulder riser straps, no padding for the straps and a frame for it and maybe some poches on the hip belt or a few Moller webbing. I do like the pack but not the price range. I think a better option would be something like the Italian Army Vegetado backpack and for the price, you can't beat it.
Thanks Irving!
Just to add, the larger sized versions do have frames (Large and XL) 👍
I like that bag nice post😀
Thanks.
Love the shirt... Take care..
Thanks Andrew! It's from friends of mine, Harbor Hill :)
Good review, though I disagree with the point about the padding. I use it regularly on multi day hikes(priša je Velebit tri puta :-D) and with around 12-15kg, the shoulder straps and waist belt perform great. I personally prefer overloading the M to taking the L as it is sleeker, feels better and doesn't have that damned rolltop which makes finding anything inside it like a bloody caving expedition.
With properly tightened and positioned waistbelt there is usually no downward pressure on my shoulders whatsoever and with those loads it does a good job over long distances.
Without attaching a Hatka and large side pouches I cant imagine fitting more than 15kg inside it unless i fill it with sand.
My biggest gripes with it are ridiculously tight and too shallow sidepockets, lid pocket could happily be a liter or two larger and when using it with the frame it creaks and squeels with every step when fully loaded. Last problem I had with the L as well. I was close to getting rid of both because of it until i found that wrapping self adhesive finger tape around the frame completely eliminated any annoying noises
The strap problem can be solved with the added padding you can get the high price of the bag for me is the durability it’s going to be a simple bag that could be improved but the quality of the kit that you get and how long that kit will last just blows other bags out of the water I’d say it’s worth buying the bag upgrades because the bag will probably last a lifetime I think this vid is giving savotta a bad name when the quality of the gear is extremely high quality and will last for I’d say around a decade of use 10 years even used as a daily bag all day use
Ah I just bought one without the frame but with side pockets. I noticed since Brexit postage from Finland to GB 3 times more than I paid before. I was using a Decathlon solognac backpack which was super cheap and it showed. But it did the job. For a while.
Very well done review.
Thanks Mark!
oh yes, salt water. killed the zip on my favorite bag a few years ago...
good review, I've looked att the bag online many times but never felt it would fill a hole. I'll wait for the 1 year review. (don't really need another bag, but you know xD)
I feel like this zipper keeps oxidizing no matter how many times I clean or brush it... salt water just kills them.
@@frostys_bushcraft yes, major problem with many zippers, once what ever they're coated with goes away they erode fast.
I have a sailors canvas bag, made in Norway in the late 1930s, bronze zipper, I've used it on every travel each year since -92, the canvas is patched beyond recognition, but that zipper! im guessing its stitched to vinyl? still works so well, just some oil once a year before I put it away for the season. I'm amazed, if they still sold stuff like that i guess no one would make money, right:)♡♡♡
Yeah, no point in making products people only buy once 😂 To be honest this thing looks really durable but some details are just... not making me happy.
I have the same pack, added the aluminum frame and Savotta Medium vertical pouches in each side, as well as horizontals on the hip belt.
My first real hike with this pack setup covered 83 km over 4 days, two weeks ago. Based on that trip I would say this bag could be greatly improved with better straps. Maxpedition makes strap pads that I may try but my biggest beef with the straps are the shape. They need to have more of a curve so they don’t dig into the shoulders.
Agreed 100%. Forgot to mention the lack of curve on the straps.
Du bist absolut richtig, deswegen habe ich mir den L gekauft :).
Jakotta Savaari backpack? Before buying Savotta, just do your homework and make yourself aware of what Savotta design and mindset are all about. It is rugged, it is basic, it is durable, and, yes, it can be uncomfortable. The shoulder straps are narrow and thin for hunting and shooting purposes. If you’d have watched the official Savotta Jääkari M intro video, you would have known that.
I'm not going to enter yet another Savotta fanboy debate, I'll just quote Savotta on Jaakari M: "...designed to carry more weight comfortably than most packs of this size."
I have never owned a Savotta product in my life. My perspective is purely based on the gear we have used in the service. I will take the fanboy compliment with me. Try to differenciate between feedback and critique, no need to fight it.
@@wiz6330 Not looking for a fight but I heard the "it's a patrol pack, it's not made to be comfortable" so many times... sorry mate!
It's not a problem of straps being thin but poorly shaped with no curve so inside edge digs in your traps. I actually sold the pack after 3-day hike in the mountains, my neck and back were cramping like crazy.
Hi! this backpack have aluminium frame ? thanks
You have to buy it seperately.
Hi Frosty,
I have the MMPS Centurio 30 FA from Berghaus , I love them, Straps and Hipbelts with padding,and Backpack is normaly about 160.- euros, i got it for 80.- euros iven with 2 10 liter Side packs, all the best Frosty, Claudia
I had that backpack a while back when we did all the survival courses and crazy stuff. Survived it all without a problem and I love how easy it is to put the side pockets on it. Never understood the two plastic buckle-thingys on it though :) Thanks!
@@frostys_bushcraft What buckle Thingys you mean??
The "walking pole" buckles. Always seamed flimsy :)
@@frostys_bushcraft when you go into the Mountains, they are fine for the GEBIRGSJÄGER PICKEL, and also for the Walking Sticks ,if you dont need them!
You could've just said ice axe :D
I actually never used them, but then... I hardly ever used walking sticks.
This was a very helpful review.
Thanks Bill!
I do like Savotta packs, but prefer panel loading (front loading) vs top loading packs where you are required to pull everything out to get to items at the bottom of the pack.
Hm. I dont know what to tell you... always used top loading packs and never even considered anything else. I'm probably just "uninformed" but I always had a feeling front loading packs are a fad, the zipper will fail, they're not durable etc.. just ised to top loading I guess.
This one has a zip on the side and I literally never used it. I also had a Kroko pack (Croatian Army manufacturer, really hard core backpacks but cost a fortune) with a front zipper and just couldn't get used to it.
@@frostys_bushcraft
I don't really have a problem with top loading packs (like I said I do like Savotta gear as its well made), although I agree that it needs better padding.
It's just that panel loading packs make it easier to get to your gear.
Some of these packs unzip halfway down on both sides whereas others zip down all the way, which is what I prefer.
And since they have been around for several years, one should not have to worry about the zippers on a quality pack. And all of my current packs are panel loading.
A lot of packs also have a separate pouch on the bottom for sleeping bags, etc. making organizing gear abit easier.
It's probably just a matter of getting used to something different. I have the bottom zipper on my bigger backpacks, also literally never even tried it. I have a way of arranging items in my packs that works for me and I don't even think about it.
Nothing against front loading packs, just not my cup of tea at the moment... not saying I want change my mind in future :)
That's why I have Matilda from Helicon-Tex👍😉
It's been a year. Any update?
I considered Savotta before buying my last "medium" sized backpack. Thank you for confirming the impressions I had about the shoulder straps and waistband.
Eventually I got a Komodo Dragon from Mistery Ranch and added 2 four liters Savotta side pouches like yours.
I was struck by the fantastic quality of Savotta (I since then got some mesh bags and other items from them). They're waaaay better than many brands in the same price range.
I just couldnt figure why the straps werent better designed for a bag that (for me at least) will weight over 20 kilograms for a 2-3 days hike.
"The "Jääkäri M" is based on Savotta's famous "Kevyt Rajapartio" (Light Border Patrol, a daypack developed in the late '90s for our border troops),"
It's a 30L day/overnight military bag not meant for packing 20kilo multiple days... The komodo is 38L(?), and according to the website it's a bigger version of their 3day assault, + you added 8L side pockets.
Thanks for the information about the frame, I will check it out. Great video.
Any updates on this bag yet?
Yup, sold it after one 3 day hike. Was cramping in neck and traps the whole time, couldn't wait to get back home. Good overall quality and materials but poor shoulder strap design.
@@frostys_bushcraft thanks man probably gonna go with the direct action ghost mk2 or the mystery ranch 2dap instead
TH-cam says its been a year. Are we getting the update video?
@@piningbuck sold it after a 3-day hike where my neck and traps were cramping all the time. Great pack for short trips but uncomfortable for any decent weight and duration.
@@frostys_bushcraft thanks for the update
I think 35 pounds/15kg is way too much weight for a pack this size. I have considered this pack but I ended up buying the Tasmanian Tiger Mil Ops Pack 30 instead which I got for around 120 Euros I think. The TT pack is basically the same size and features, but even simpler without any frame, padding or hip belt whatsoever. But it does have nice wide padded shoulder straps. Reportedly the German army has bought this pack (at least two German youtube channels said so...) I've used it with around 25 pounds on extended daytrips. But for heavier loads I'd choose a different pack.
It's too much weight but it shouldn't be... 15kg is really not really heavy for a multi-day trip even in a 30 liter pack. As I like photography as well my pack is always +3kg just in photo gear (camera, lenses, spare batteries, powerbanks, light, tripod etc. and also double water for me and my dog, his food, his gear... gets heavy quick without even packing the essentials 😂 Most of that stuff is small in volume but relatively heavy.
@@frostys_bushcraft Yeah I know, got a dog as well and it easily adds 2-3kg in weight for a multi day trip. But for those I just choose larger packs since IMHO they're more comfortable to carry with heavier weights. And the additional weight of the pack doesn't really bother me that much when I have to carry that stuff for multiple days.
Savotta
I like the Helikon-Tex backpacks.
Very affordable.
Padded straps.
Frame where needed.
I have a LOT of HelikonTex gear but only one backpack and it's the 10l one, not sure anout the model name. Serves me fine for dayhikes and trips with kids.
@@frostys_bushcraft
The Bergen and Raccoon.
Hi! Which side pocket are those? 4 / 6 / 8 / 12 Liters? Thanks! :)
The 4l ones. I think bigger ones would get too wide on such a small backpack.
@@frostys_bushcraft Perfect. gonna order 2 now! :) Thanks for fast respond.
No problem mate.
How can I get your patches? Sometimes affordability is what you have to work with,seems like they could add the frame .and where you get that lighter, thats cool as silk.make sure you practice your fire lighting frosty brother.....lo.
Hey man! There's info on them in every video bio, usually at the bottom. Not sure if that's the one you're talking about but the only lighter I use is the Exotac titanLight, and I had no problems with ih.
Would you load this to 28 pounds and take it on a fifty mile three day hike?
Loaded it up to 35ish lbs and took on a 3 day hike over mountains. Sold it the moment I got back.
@@frostys_bushcraft yep. I think I’ll retire mine to just day hikes. Looking at the mystery ranch terraframe for longer trips.
@@jeromebullard6123 I have their 2DAP and it's soooo comfy
Hey man what brand is that hat you got? Looks sick
@@Brexit_Bloke TRC Outdoors "Timmy hat" :)
@@frostys_bushcraft Cheers lad
1000D little bit overkill if you ask me. The carrying system begs for improvement no doubt about it. Regarding selling aluminum frame separately -no comment 🙈 Thanks for honest review. I hope they will watch it and take notes. 🖐🤠🏕
Agreed. Most used 500D as it's durable enough and a lot lighter, I think it's something like 240g/m2 vs 390g/m2. Not a huge dufference in a single pack as a bigger one maybe has 1m/2 of fabric but it all adds up.
Nice Bag 👍
ILove Savotta
Уже второй день присматриваюсь к этому рюкзаку. Отлично 😅
Thanks!
What's it like in the raining pouring down torrential rain?
@@WanderingAnglo eh, same as every backpack... dry bag inside or everything's wet
@frostys_bushcraft true, that makes sense
Thanks bro
i like it
Thanks!
Jakotta Savari 😄
Archeon 45 was my solution.
That's a sexy pack. Never used Osprey packs before, not really commom here.
"Quality" does not have a price except in the ability for marketing to mark it up. Off a 1.5 meter wide roll 1000 d cordura is ~12 to ~17 euros a meter. So, go with the higher cost. You have lets say 1 meter cut fabric total in that bag, 10 euros because you bought the full roll. Your labor to make that bag in ANY fabric 1 hour at 32 euros. The total of all add ons (snaps rings etc) be generous 10 euros. You can cheap out, yes. Use half the snaps and use lower priced fabric, maybe say bring it down by 5 euros. You still have not made something at an at-home back office sew shop side business that cost more than 52 euros, and a company that goes into production will have spend a third what a home maker would, but going with the home maker that is a still a 400% markup and they say "ohhh its expensive because quality costs more" no it's expensive because you buy it at that price.
I'm working on new model for the chest packs I designed. Manufacturing cost is a big factor as it's going to be produced in Europe. Difference between quality laser cut laminate and cheap one, ITW buckles and cheap ones, rainproof YKK or cheap zippers, X-pac or plain Cordura... it all adds up. I can make them at probably half the price in PRC and have an OK product or I can make them here with the best materials I can get and make an awesome product. But, it's not going to be cheap. And thats just manufacturing, without me or the store earning amything.
It's never that simple, unfortunately. But I do agree you usually pay premium just for the brand name.
👍👍👍👍🌹🌹🌹🌹
Looks more like a large shopping bag.