Glad you enjoyed it! If you're planning to buy you can use the links below. It would help the channel a lot. Have a nice day Frank! -Rolan Buy from: The North Face: (Worldwide): bit.ly/sovrntnfrecon Rushfaster (Australia): bit.ly/tnfreconrf Amazon (USA): amzn.to/2qbl1yzlemme Amazon (United Kingdom): amzn.to/2B7pKU3
Been using the same Recon backpack for about 10 years. No complaints. Ordering this one to replace and using my current (old) for a pistol carry etc. to the range. Hoping they've kept up the quality as the old one has treated me very well with a lot of usage.
I was deciding between the Surge and the Recon and this sealed the deal. Just the right amount of space without being too much for what I need. Thank you!
Have the Mk1 Recon , been busting it for 5 years now ,its only now starting to see wear and tear ,so just ordered this one (Mk2) looks ultra dope North face always deliver the straight dope gear 💯💪🏾😎
I managed to snag this backpack for $40 whilst I was in the US. I've been using it daily for almost a year. I absolutely love it. Just like you said, it's great for taking to work and then using it to its full capacity during the weekends.
Got this pack for college a little over four years ago. It is still good as new despite a small tear in the netting on the front pocket. I'm sure I will get six more years out of it.
Fantastic review. You explained everything quick, to the point, with plenty of info. Also I like the test at the end. Good job more reviewers should be like you.
Great review, Been eyeballing the RECON for awhile and purchased one yesterday. Like my other packs, I'll be cutting to fit some shipping foam for the inside bottom to aide in stability and for cushioning. Again, great review.
Nice review! I was looking for one review for this bag for more then 20min, because I am thinking of buying one. You take time to explain and show the conception and how the bag is. So thanks.
Amazing review! I have been using this pack for over 4 years and it is just perfect for daily use. Thanks to you now I know it always has had a whistle and I can remove the waist strap!
Really really like this mk2 recon from northface, bought it to use for my college and man was this a good buy, i wouldnt say the bag not being water proof is a problem cus i nvr really use a bagpack that was waterproof but this bag is actually pretty comfortable when carrying a heavy load, my laptop is less than a kilogram but my books and water bottle when fully filled is the wan that adds the weight. So throughout the day i didnt feel it was uncomfortable at all.
Great detailed review, and the video length is just right. Thank you! For other reviews, may you please show if a backpack can stand upright on its own (helps for loading and unloading) Thanks!
Thanks for convincing me on this bag I was getting tires of telling people where I got my 5.11 rush 24 lol need something a wee more low key. Great vid bud.
Love these vids! I’ve been looking for a while and can’t decide on which series NF … this is the past season model actually two years now and they have changed it. Could you do some new reviews?! Lol but I love the layout and how detailed his reviews are! They were even organized in the video section so I could find easy… all the different NF versions reviews in order. 👍🏻
I have one of these backpacks. I am an engineering student that travels to a city uni on public transport... Can recommend. The best bag I have owned. The only thing is, upgrading this backpack is going to be hard.
@@mr_red13 no it cannot its mostly for a mini or i carry a reading book in there. But i carry a Dell XPS15'' and a Microsoft surface pro both in thule cases in the laptop compartment with space for three extra books for uni. It doesn't affect the main compartment space at all really.
@@mr_red13 i mean you would definitely fit an iPad pro in the bag in the laptop compartment at the back... its extremely well protected.. i couldn't say sorry as i have never owned or seen a router bag. I just know that this bag is great and fits a lot of stuff in. I am also in Brisbane so it gets hot AF up here and the bag amazingly doesn't make my back all sweaty. even loaded up. The straps are the best I have used. the only downside is the adjust tabs move often when the bags sitting down.
FWIW, I tried traveling with all of my stuff in this bag (actually, it was a north face Surge, but same harness system). It was really uncomfortable and i had to switch it out for a backpack with a hip belt and curved back panel. Weight was probably around 9-10 kg. Just a heads up that I wouldn't recommend this if you're carrying a heavy load and value your comfort.
I've been having this backpack for a year and my only concern is that it does not stand still if you put it on the ground because of the curved bottom.
I just got this pack the other day, I have to say I think I like my borealies better, I still haven’t gotten a surge but I will soon. I thought about the jester but it felt like a cheaper version of all these packs, I love my zippers and tons of pockets the jester doesn’t. But as far as the recon it’s a very good pack the organization is better then the borealies I’ll give it that. But you can’t go wrong with either. Can’t want to get the surge to see what they has to offer. If anyone wants to know I got last version of packs 2020 the 2021 are complete different and have some good upgrades especially the bottom strap.
Love this design, EXCEPT those shoulder straps are the most painful I have ever experienced. After one SE Asia trip, I was so angry that I immediately cut off the shoulder straps and sewed on a different set. If you don't want to do that, I would actually recommend getting the earlier version on eBay for about $30 USD; it has more traditional straps. Proof that newer doesn't necessarily mean better. I travel super light. This backpack, which fits under any airline seat, plus a small manpurse for critical items are all I need to carry. That large mesh front pocket is perfect for a rain jacket. Both the material and the YKK zippers will last a long time. The only drawback is that it's not as sleek and stylish as everyone else's luggage in Asian airports. Great review, BTW.
Dang! That's a real shame the shoulder straps weren't working for you :( Most people have had fairly positive reviews on the harness system. But glad you managed to find a solution - absolute killer bag nonetheless. - Ed
Thanks for answering my question. My new question is do you know any backpacks of any brand that fits lab tops and also maybe iPads too that have straps that hold them into place so they don’t we go all over the place. I don’t know if there are any backpacks like that at all. I tried the Swiss 1900 TSA backpack. There was a strap but it was not able to tighten much. I think a lot of the back compartments either wiggle or floats or put the laptops in danger due to a little padding or protection. I’m surprised that no one came up with something that everybody would want which is more safety for their devices in a backpack? Do you know how many backpacks like this?
Absolutely great review. I was disappointed when you mentioned it has a SMALL tablet compartment. I was hoping to fit an 11 inch iPad pro in that spot, while reserving the laptop compartment for my 13 inch laptop.
I probably will buy it after the corona virus pandemic is over. I have been saving up from my job and need another high quality backpack that will last me at least 3 years. I am switching over from swiss gear backpacks.
Great bag, v happy with mine. Any idea why one of the side pockets (that hold water bottles) has a gap in it and the other doesn’t? Can’t find any explanation on TNF site. Would def recommend this bag. I bought the same model back in 2007 and the only thing that broke was the cord attached to the zips!
Hmm good question. I'd hazard a guess it's maybe also designed for something that loose debris could fall through over time? Either that or some cable porting for a battery bank. Glad you're happy with the bag though! :) - Ed
Yep we definitely do! :) rushfaster.com.au/product/the-north-face/womens-recon-15-laptop-backpack-tnf-black/20363/ You'll find a few colour styles there. Hope that helps! - Ed
Yeah I'd say that's one of its drawbacks. You have to pack pretty square in order to get it to stand upright. But yeah - really good pack otherwise. - Ed
I don't think you need to register for the warranty but there are certain conditions to fall under it. Read more here: thenorthface.com.au/content/Warranty_Policy.html Hope that helps! - Ed - Also the weight is 1.12KG
Fits 4 six packs the best backpack for any alcoholic.
Glad you know ;)
You just made my day! Stay safe my friend!
SOLD!
Comedian.
Does it hold a sawed-off 12 gauge and Beretta 92 asking for an friend
I have been watching and reading reviews of backpacks for several hours and this was the best review by far. Well done. I think I am sold!
Glad you enjoyed it! If you're planning to buy you can use the links below. It would help the channel a lot. Have a nice day Frank! -Rolan
Buy from:
The North Face: (Worldwide): bit.ly/sovrntnfrecon
Rushfaster (Australia): bit.ly/tnfreconrf
Amazon (USA): amzn.to/2qbl1yzlemme
Amazon (United Kingdom): amzn.to/2B7pKU3
Been using the same Recon backpack for about 10 years. No complaints. Ordering this one to replace and using my current (old) for a pistol carry etc. to the range. Hoping they've kept up the quality as the old one has treated me very well with a lot of usage.
Probably the best youtube review of an item i've seen. Very good! Much love from Sweden
I was deciding between the Surge and the Recon and this sealed the deal. Just the right amount of space without being too much for what I need. Thank you!
Awesome! We’re glad you’re happy with your choice.
Have the Mk1 Recon , been busting it for 5 years now ,its only now starting to see wear and tear ,so just ordered this one (Mk2) looks ultra dope North face always deliver the straight dope gear 💯💪🏾😎
hells yeah
Mortal Kombat?
What’s with all the dope? Speak properly.
I managed to snag this backpack for $40 whilst I was in the US. I've been using it daily for almost a year. I absolutely love it. Just like you said, it's great for taking to work and then using it to its full capacity during the weekends.
Dang - what a steal! Glad you're loving the bag!! :)
- Ed
where were you able to get it for that price?
Got this pack for college a little over four years ago. It is still good as new despite a small tear in the netting on the front pocket. I'm sure I will get six more years out of it.
Wow! Thanks for sharing. Really a worthy bag. Thanks!
Fantastic review. You explained everything quick, to the point, with plenty of info. Also I like the test at the end. Good job more reviewers should be like you.
Thanks Jay Son! :)
Appreciate the support - Ed
I purchased a recon yesterday because of this video ! Thank you
Hope you enjoy it! Glad we could help
@@RushfasterTV still loving it ..
Great review, Been eyeballing the RECON for awhile and purchased one yesterday. Like my other packs, I'll be cutting to fit some shipping foam for the inside bottom to aide in stability and for cushioning.
Again, great review.
Thanks Cruz!
- Ed
Bought one online yesterday huge upgrade from my 4 year old jansport the pads were as this as paper thanks for the reviews
thanks so much... enjoy your new gear.
Nice review! I was looking for one review for this bag for more then 20min, because I am thinking of buying one. You take time to explain and show the conception and how the bag is. So thanks.
Glad the video helped you! :)
- Ed
'Beer capacity test'??!! Only in australia.. Great bag, is high on my list for a new EDC bag.. Thanks...
Glad you liked out content! Really awesome bag - highly rate this!!! - Ed
Amazing review! I have been using this pack for over 4 years and it is just perfect for daily use. Thanks to you now I know it always has had a whistle and I can remove the waist strap!
Great to hear!
Bought it straight after watching, nice job.
Glad that you liked it! - John
I have this and I like the compartments, it has a lot but it’s heavy even when it’s empty.
Appreciate your thoughts and comments on the The North Face Recon Backpack. Cheers!
Love my Recon in the field and on the plane! Curl your jacket over the top and secure with the straps for more external capacity.
Really really like this mk2 recon from northface, bought it to use for my college and man was this a good buy, i wouldnt say the bag not being water proof is a problem cus i nvr really use a bagpack that was waterproof but this bag is actually pretty comfortable when carrying a heavy load, my laptop is less than a kilogram but my books and water bottle when fully filled is the wan that adds the weight. So throughout the day i didnt feel it was uncomfortable at all.
Yeah definitely a really good all-purpose bag! Almost all boxes ticked which is tough these days in the bag world!
Thanks for watching :) - Ed
Bought this bag after watching your review, thanks!
Awesome! Thanks for the kind words Faris!
- Ed
You are very good doing these reviews, thumbs up
Thanks Felix!
- Ed
I like your video. The way you rub the bag and the frequency of which you do so freaks me out a little bit haha
🤣
Your channel is quite unique bro. Kudos!
Great detailed review, and the video length is just right. Thank you! For other reviews, may you please show if a backpack can stand upright on its own (helps for loading and unloading)
Thanks!
A really complete video. Good work, the small detail of mentioning your height is a really cool and helpful one
Thanks Tentin, appreciate the feedback.
- Ed
Really sharp looking pack and seems well designed. I think I'm going to pull the trigger on it.
This is a really good review!! Super helpful! A lot of them are usually annoying lol I really liked this one!!
Thanks for convincing me on this bag I was getting tires of telling people where I got my 5.11 rush 24 lol need something a wee more low key. Great vid bud.
Glad it was helpful! Cheers!
Love these vids! I’ve been looking for a while and can’t decide on which series NF … this is the past season model actually two years now and they have changed it. Could you do some new reviews?! Lol but I love the layout and how detailed his reviews are! They were even organized in the video section so I could find easy… all the different NF versions reviews in order. 👍🏻
I have one of these backpacks. I am an engineering student that travels to a city uni on public transport... Can recommend. The best bag I have owned. The only thing is, upgrading this backpack is going to be hard.
Glad it's been a good companion to you! Yeah defs gonna be hard to up the ante on this one!
- Ed
The tablet compartment can't fit an iPad Pro can it?
@@mr_red13 no it cannot its mostly for a mini or i carry a reading book in there. But i carry a Dell XPS15'' and a Microsoft surface pro both in thule cases in the laptop compartment with space for three extra books for uni. It doesn't affect the main compartment space at all really.
@@bc0150 that's such a bummer man. I was hoping to fit an 11in iPad pro.
Would you recommend the Router bag instead?
@@mr_red13 i mean you would definitely fit an iPad pro in the bag in the laptop compartment at the back... its extremely well protected.. i couldn't say sorry as i have never owned or seen a router bag. I just know that this bag is great and fits a lot of stuff in. I am also in Brisbane so it gets hot AF up here and the bag amazingly doesn't make my back all sweaty. even loaded up. The straps are the best I have used. the only downside is the adjust tabs move often when the bags sitting down.
really greet review dude, super helpful when trying to compare this bag to others
the whistler thingy sold me
How do you remove the waist straps?
Great review! Exactly what I was looking for. Thanks a lot.
Yes I agree. Thanks
Glad to hear it guys! :)
- Ed
FWIW, I tried traveling with all of my stuff in this bag (actually, it was a north face Surge, but same harness system). It was really uncomfortable and i had to switch it out for a backpack with a hip belt and curved back panel. Weight was probably around 9-10 kg. Just a heads up that I wouldn't recommend this if you're carrying a heavy load and value your comfort.
ShrimsList I’ve been looking at the recon, is it really big? Or medium sized?
You missed the best part: the little soft-lined zip pocket above the logo - that is always for my phone + wallet + mask...
I've been having this backpack for a year and my only concern is that it does not stand still if you put it on the ground because of the curved bottom.
Was going to ask this question, so thanks for sharing your experience!
damn thanks for the review. there are still good creators out here. again great review
Thanks Sondre! :)
- Ed
Lovely review I am in the process of buying one I think I will go for recon after your review 👍
Good choice mate! Enjoy :)
- Ed
Excellent video and relaxed presentation style
It has changed a lot from the 2013 model. Yes I still have the same one, I call it Ol’ Reliable
Ol' Reliable is a very apt name for this guy! :)
- Ed
Is it rain proof and what is the size measurement?
great backpack, thank you. I buy it.
I just got this pack the other day, I have to say I think I like my borealies better, I still haven’t gotten a surge but I will soon. I thought about the jester but it felt like a cheaper version of all these packs, I love my zippers and tons of pockets the jester doesn’t. But as far as the recon it’s a very good pack the organization is better then the borealies I’ll give it that. But you can’t go wrong with either. Can’t want to get the surge to see what they has to offer. If anyone wants to know I got last version of packs 2020 the 2021 are complete different and have some good upgrades especially the bottom strap.
how's the surge goes?
awesome review, thanks! very thorough
Very detailed very educational
thankyou for this review sir ....😊
Love this design, EXCEPT those shoulder straps are the most painful I have ever experienced. After one SE Asia trip, I was so angry that I immediately cut off the shoulder straps and sewed on a different set. If you don't want to do that, I would actually recommend getting the earlier version on eBay for about $30 USD; it has more traditional straps. Proof that newer doesn't necessarily mean better.
I travel super light. This backpack, which fits under any airline seat, plus a small manpurse for critical items are all I need to carry. That large mesh front pocket is perfect for a rain jacket. Both the material and the YKK zippers will last a long time. The only drawback is that it's not as sleek and stylish as everyone else's luggage in Asian airports.
Great review, BTW.
Dang! That's a real shame the shoulder straps weren't working for you :(
Most people have had fairly positive reviews on the harness system. But glad you managed to find a solution - absolute killer bag nonetheless. - Ed
Do you recommend the transit or resistor over the recon?
Thanks for answering my question. My new question is do you know any backpacks of any brand that fits lab tops and also maybe iPads too that have straps that hold them into place so they don’t we go all over the place.
I don’t know if there are any backpacks like that at all. I tried the Swiss 1900 TSA backpack. There was a strap but it was not able to tighten much.
I think a lot of the back compartments either wiggle or floats or put the laptops in danger due to a little padding or protection. I’m surprised that no one came up with something that everybody would want which is more safety for their devices in a backpack?
Do you know how many backpacks like this?
Probably the best backpack for me😊😊😊😊.Nice review bro
Thanks man! Hope it works wonders for you! :)
- Ed
Very nice review! please make one for North Face Surge backpack. Thanks!
Do the mesh water bottle pockets get ripped or scratched a lot since that’s one issue I’m facing with other backpacks.
Hey Mihir! We have not received any concerns regarding this so I am pretty sure it's sturdy enough :) - John
@@RushfasterTV alright thank you for the response, I’ll look into getting one
Can you do an updated video on the 2021 recon?
It's hard for us to get to all bags but we will try. - Daniel
@@RushfasterTV I completely understand!
Hey! Can you send me a link where to buy that umbrella that you use? 😀 Nice review, subscribed.
Amazing video
Glad you liked it! Thanks! - Ed
Nice review!
Glad you liked it Surawit! - John
I like this bag. I just wish Northface made a left/right pockets on the waist clip.
Yeah if you're planning on taking this out on long hikes, that would be a lacking feature - good point.
- Ed
0:57 What do those tabs do?
great vid
Great review, thanks!
Absolutely great review. I was disappointed when you mentioned it has a SMALL tablet compartment. I was hoping to fit an 11 inch iPad pro in that spot, while reserving the laptop compartment for my 13 inch laptop.
Ahh cheers mate! :)
Yeah unfortunately that tablet sleeve won't fit an 11" iPad Pro :(
@@RushfasterTV thanks for replying man!
Would it fit Kindle oasis
Can you use it on airport hand carry?
Does anyone know could I squeeze a 17" laptop in? Thanks
nice video very helpful thx mate!
Thanks David! :)
- Ed
Do you recommend this backpack for basketball players? Not looking to put the ball in the backpack just my shoes, clothes, water bottle, etc
this bag or an arc'teryx mantis 32🤔
Can you make a review of the NorthFace Router? I think it's perfect for traveling! Greetings from Berlin
Hast du mittlerweile den Rucksack?
good review, thanks
Can you fit an older ipad in there as well as a 15 inch laptop comfortably? May be a different compartments.
Hi! Yes, it fits 16" laptops easily.
wow, as many have already commented this was one of best reviews I've seen. What does the velcro tab at the top-center of the laptop sleeve do?
Thanks. Holds the laptop in.
This is going to be my next one, after my old North Face Tallac is going to die (what hopefully doesn't happen the next coming years😂)
Hey Ed great review as usual. I was wondering if you planned on reviewing the new Surge backpack.
We want to... we've reached out to TNF to see if we can.
does it stand up on it's own when packed out?
How many school books fit in it?
Very good review, it gave me a good idea on how exactly it looks like. thank you
Very good review!
Thanks!
Would it fit a 17.3 laptop?
Way better in built organisation but how does it compare to a go ruck bullet 15 or GR1 for edc in your view?
Hmm very hard to say here. Both great products but the GR1 Bullet is by far a more heavy duty product. Naturally I'd lean towards the GoRuck. - Ed
Rushfaster cheers Ed
Do you have a Review about the north face Router?
No we don't have one yet - but we might look into it :)
@@RushfasterTV would be perfect, thanks alot 👍
Great review, thanks! So the ipad/kindle sleeve won't fit a 9'7 ipad? :/
Does recon can hold a 16inch macbook pro ?? Plzz tell🙏
Yes I believe it should. They've been made to fit 15" laptops and will have enough squeeze for a 16" I believe.
Does anyone know the difference between the luxe recon and a regular recon ??
Oh.. i've not heard of a luxe recon... - Daniel
Can you share the link for south east asia
Hi Yoshwanth! You may get it from their main site here: bit.ly/sovrntnfrecon - John
@@RushfasterTV thanks
Where did you get your hat?
Right now its 30% off on amazon so now is the best time to get it
I probably will buy it after the corona virus pandemic is over. I have been saving up from my job and need another high quality backpack that will last me at least 3 years. I am switching over from swiss gear backpacks.
Average Gamer I got one during the sale and they’re worth it
@@dcnannen4319 nice good for you. :)
Great video! Now please do the North Face #Surge backpack.
We want to... we've reached out to TNF to see if we can.
Can you do a router transit by TNF review
Nice review.
Great bag, v happy with mine. Any idea why one of the side pockets (that hold water bottles) has a gap in it and the other doesn’t? Can’t find any explanation on TNF site. Would def recommend this bag. I bought the same model back in 2007 and the only thing that broke was the cord attached to the zips!
Hmm good question. I'd hazard a guess it's maybe also designed for something that loose debris could fall through over time? Either that or some cable porting for a battery bank. Glad you're happy with the bag though! :)
- Ed
It’s for easy access to your phone apparently!
Great review. Has tempted me to buy it. BTW where the laptops/ tablet/ phone cables power packs go. Can it be in the 1st laptop compartment
Thanks! :)
And yes totally - they can probably go in the first compartment - totally up to you :)
@@RushfasterTV Thank you for informative videos. It helped me to pickup the North Face Recon and I am enjoying it.
What year model is this one? And do they still make ‘em?
Hi Lawrence! This is an old video but we made a new one for the 2022 version. Here you go: th-cam.com/video/DxNfeSXUjCw/w-d-xo.html
Do you guys sell the women's version? (Strap diff/lighter)
Yep we definitely do! :)
rushfaster.com.au/product/the-north-face/womens-recon-15-laptop-backpack-tnf-black/20363/
You'll find a few colour styles there. Hope that helps! - Ed
I want to get one but i worry about my laptop. Its a 17inch monster. Its actually 13 inch wide. Will it fit this backpack?
I'd say it probably can't fit into the laptop sleeve, but if you have your own separate sleeve or case, it might fit in the main compartment :)
- Ed
Im only 163cm tall would this backpack be too long for me ?
It may be a bit large. - Daniel
how do i remove the waist straps?
You can pull the strapping right through the buckles at the ends (it requires a bit of force though). Hope that helps! - Ed
It's waterproof?
Recon or vault??
It does not sit up by itself besides that it's a really good pack
Yeah I'd say that's one of its drawbacks. You have to pack pretty square in order to get it to stand upright. But yeah - really good pack otherwise.
- Ed
Will this fit underneath a seat of a plane?
yes
yep it certainly should! :)
- Ed
Is the bag able to stand upright?
Mmm no not really, most of TNF bags will lean forwards because of the way the back panel is designed. - Ed
@@RushfasterTV Thanks Ed!
Swissgear the goat!
How do you register it for a lifetime warranty? Also, how heavy it is?
I don't think you need to register for the warranty but there are certain conditions to fall under it. Read more here: thenorthface.com.au/content/Warranty_Policy.html
Hope that helps! - Ed
- Also the weight is 1.12KG
@@RushfasterTV Thanks for the info 😁
Just scored one for $20 on Mercari lightly used
Nice one!