I think the haversack is intended more for hunting / gathering, scouting etc once you have your base camp established. They're not intended to carry everything in your pack. I stuff a haversack into my main pack and they're awesome for this purpose.
Gold! As are all your vids. Still big belly laughing at the Velcro tip at the end. Had one of my RI’s pass on the same tip during my basic training back in ‘97 and cracks me up still. Keep ‘em coming mate.
Always does. Getting my kit together to go bush for some “grounding” when opportunity arises and huge thank you for your part in that inspiration. Had put the Helikon on a wish list, but thanks to your tips, I might just dig out the old webbing bumbag and see what happens. Cheers again!
My "go to kit" is a 45 litre Karrimor SF Predator, with side pockets and yoke. That way I have all bases covered. I've got the rucksack to get me and my camping kit to task. Then I use either one, or two, side pockets on the yoke. It's easy to set up and I know I can rely on it. For a single day out I either use the bag itself, or just the yoke and side pocket,(s). I can even sling my Small Forest Axe on to it. I appreciate your video though as it just confirms my choice! Thank you for what you do, it's always helpful.
Having had the military purposes of these bags explained it seems the common themes are carrying something extra to your normal (essential) kit, and that you can get easy access to it in a hurry. If you're going to find a use for these bags in your activities (bushcraft or otherwise) it'll probably be along those lines.
I have the Hellikon Bushcraft Satchel which is a bit expensive which is 17litre capacity and feels really cavernous. Great for day trips with a couple of water bottles, food and lightweight waterproof rolled up. The problem I have with backpacks is my back gets really sweaty wearing them but with a haversack it doesn't. But you do have the issue you mentioned of being loaded on one side so I just got into the habit of swapping the shoulder the bag was on. In the Indiana Jones movies his haversack was an old US army respirator bag with the cloth strap replaced by a leather one. I managed to find one of these bags on eBay years ago and put a leather strap on it, unpicked some of the stitching inside to remove some of the compartments. It is small, but it is really tough thick canvas. Converting army respirator bags seems like a common trick!
Back to schooldays. Everyone used "Army" bags for carrying lunch and schoolbooks. I've used a 37' pattern big pack with one strap as a haversack for years+++. All the commercial ones failed at the strap attachment or the zips in less than a year. I fancy one of those dark green respirator packs. Good one mate. McIntyre.
I remember those, I had a rucksack and a couple of two partition haversacks, really coarse canvas, sand coloured, I think my grandfather bought them just after WW2. I used the rucksack mainly, in the early 1980s, must have been popular because I remember at least 3 others had them, except theirs were copies- softer canvas and steel buckles, where as mine were brass. Theirs wore out in the course of 2 years, mine just kept going after lasting 40 years already!😁. My biggest regret was selling the last good one on eBay 5 years or more ago, fetched £30 or more, totally regret it now my life long love of wild camping has evolved into bushcraft!
Brilliant kit comparison gives you a very good idea where to go as most items bought on line and you can’t have a hands on until you have purchased your kit. Excellent review.
I often use both. My rucksack is a main load bearing pack with my haversack only carrying things such as lunch (eating on the move), gloves, a knife and IFAK. I use a hanging water bottle just because this is what I’ve always used and I like it. I would never recommend a haversack as a stand alone but as a convenience pack in unison with my ruck it is definitely worth it. Some may argue for a belt kit but trust me. On a hike, my main sport, these are cumbersome and often expensive to kit out with pouches. Many thanks
Brother ... I was laughing at the tactical velcro pull before you did it. I absolutely adore your channel. Keep up what you are doing, you've no idea the joy it spreads. Thanks man.
I completely agree with everything you have said, the haversack is a great dismount kit for taking away from camp when you have few bits and bobs for a walk about. But like you say for carrying heavy items the weight displacement isn’t good, but you can actually thread both arms through the strap so the strap is almost forming an “M” shape with the middle of the “M” at the nape of the neck. But of course that then stops how handy the access is, great video 👍
I use a 1937 pattern ‘small pack’ with a shoulder strap - no zips to break, looks traditional, has a divider inside and the front two smaller dividers are just the right size to hold a crusader mug and bottle, and space at the back for other stuff. Small med kit and brew kit in the other divider. I got a 1950’s dated one - was about £12
Thought this might make you smile. I bought a compass the other day very cheaply (used). Took it home and then realised it had a problem. North was completely opposite from it should have been. I looked at again and smiled to myself. I cannot see to read it anyway so does it really matter and if asked I have a compass. :)
Good last tip. I find my very light weight canvas haversack used in combination with a heavy duty backpack works best. For foraging, taking light equipment when collecting firewood, etc. when stepping away from camp, it's ideal. Thanks for all the videos Nick, keep 'em coming.
Very interesting, I just bought a Polish Bread Bag to use as a haversack when day hiking, hill climbing etc as I'm fed up with a sweaty back from a rucksack and daypack sized rucksacks with breathable backs are stupidly expensive. Only need space for extra layers, crusader cup and osprey bottle, fire dragon stove, EDC pouch with first aid kit and fire starting kit and some food/snacks for longer trips so it should be ideal.
You know, when I watch videos about haversacks I'm always reminded of one of my favourite books - Jean Auel's amazing book 'Valley of The Horses'. It's the sequel to 'Clan of The Cave Bear'. Ayla has been chucked out of her clan and is roaming the Ukrainian Steppes. Her haversack is a large woven basket. In it, APART from everything else, is an Auroch hide that she uses as a shelter. An AUROCH hide...! She's about fifteen at the time... It was winter. We have it easy...
Loving it Bootneck ,listen in gentlemen haversacks ,all joking aside always found nature helps me readjust , great channel and here's to another year . ready yourselves to sign on again gentlemen
Well I'm glad I've finally seen this video. I'm now more than justified in persisting with my haversack/game bag. I can get an amount of stuff into it plus a 58 pattern poncho. With a blanket over my shoulder or wrapped around my bag I don't feel too put out. One thing I do differently is to carry my water in a wineskin, on it own shoulder strap....
I used a Helikon 'Man bag' when I was a phot. It was great for stashing lenses and other bits of kit and not stand out on the ground with a camera bag. Still use it now when I am Camping with the Scouts.
I am a big fan of Helikon-Tex, for heavier loads i use their Bushcraft Satchel, when i am not using my Berghaus Crusader. And man, i finally know how to silently open these velcro tabs. Thanks!
Another great video; I was just searching for military surplus haversacks on craigslist before I saw this. More for stuffing tinder and kindling and scroungables into rather than as a rucksack replacement.
Very informative and an amusing finale. I have a couple of those myself, but never used them as civie bags. The claymore one is my favourite, as it is completely no-nonsense. What I use now is a 30L pack with an 8L top pocket that is a buttpack / haversack when removed.
I have a large army back back with the zip-on side pouches. I'm giving the main pack to a friend but am keeping the pouches. It was while watching this that I realised that I can turn the pouches into haversacks, as they also have the side-release buckles at the top and bottom and I could make some webbing straps for them (I could also attach them together via the zip). Thank you for a most interesting And inspiring video.
Hmm, those old mask bags are indeed very useful. I've 4 x 90's hanging from headrests in my motor (mugs & brew kit in one, first aid in another, wet weather kit, etc - you get the picture), and a slightly modded car bag with rat pack and change of clothes in (never know when this could come in handy). And a partridge in a pear tree for good measure. The s10 (if that is what it was) bag makes for a good, if slightly tall butt pack, for those interested in that style of carry. And as i recognised the beginnings of a tall tale groaner i wondered if mainly british viewers had that build up smile, slightly squinted eyes, and slow groan of satisfaction or whether those from far off lands also did? Thanks mate😏
Great video, I love the military humour, more of that please lol I'd also love to see more foraging videos, I don't know why but the way you presented the info made it easy to remember all the plants, normally I forget this stuff as soon as I look away
I’ve used haversack bags many times through the years. I still have the same canvas claymore bag, it’s great for my water collection gear. And I’m currently using a 5.11 haversack/ messenger bag for my EDC for work. And I still have my duty bag from my law enforcement days. Keep up the absolutely fantastic work. It’s really great what you do.
Thank you so much for this video!! I'm going through my (vietnam vet) uncle's estate and came across a military issue haversack respirator bag. I thought what the....? After watching this video I have an immense appreciation for the haversack bag!! Also thank you for your service :)
Good information, I recently brought a "Romanian bread bag", just what I needed for half day walks. The back and lid are designed to lay flat against your side. I did get one with the leather strap points. I also gave it a coat of a well known tent proofing.
Thanks Nick, that was brilliant. I knew what was coming with the velcro but, it still made me laugh. I have used a Haversack for years, mine is very similar to the S10 pack but a bit bigger, it has an 8 litre capacity. Never carried a lot in it i.e. small brew kit,water 1Ltr, saw, knife and maybe a bit of scoff but I have found that over the years it has done a real FUBAR job on my shoulder. As I am now 70 I have switched to a small backpack, Tasmanian Tiger Essential Pack Large at 15 Lts and the difference is amazing, I still carry pretty much the same kit with, the addition of a Poncho, in total comfort thanks to the Sternum strap taking a lot of the load off my shoulders. No way will I go back to a haversack. I hope this helps somebody.
Nick the Helikon -Tex bush craft satchel is a pretty good shout and it looks just like a messenger bag. It can hold around 18 litres. Only mentioning it as i thought you used helikon bags. For reliability and value military gear from Ebay wins hands down but for a technical bag with a dual purpose and good capacity the bush craft satchel is worth a look in my opinion.
Timbuk2 make very good messenger bags They sling in the small of your back for a comfortable carry They have great internal storage, waterproof and padded sling All things considered I prefer a pack
We got Issued the Ammo bag allong with all the other MTP kit/Osprey MK4, for my last Afghan Tour (HERRICK 16). As a Combat Medic, It was my Every day carry. I wouldn't want to carry it every day for its intended purpose, loading it with 200 link, 9 Mags, 2 L109 Grenades, and 1 Red Phos, would be too unbalanced to carry that weight off set in a haversack. I would use mine to carry Med kit that I needed to get to in a hurry. Each ammo pouch would take an FFD/ECB, CAT Tourniquet and Morphine coffin. The 2 Grenade pouches take a Celox perfectly (there is a small space behind the grenade pouch that takes a hand full of latex gloves) The smoke pouch, takes a Blast bandage (the space behind it takes a pair of medics Scissors on a pistol lanyard) The main body takes Suction Easy, a few airway adjuncts, and a fluid pack with IO. Weighs alot less than Ammo, but important to have to hand for a Combat Medic/Marine MA
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A simple piece of kit I (re)discover here, I have one when I've done my formation in 1987-1988 and it was one far older than the most older here (in fact it was more something you had in the WWII ^^ I think it was British ones) , I used also these sort of bag just to go to school in the eighties. Simple, impossible to break ... jesus, I feel older and older now ;) I have one from Helikon Tex but not the Haversack but something similar, the Satchel
Hi Nick, another great presentation, I have an older respirator bag, as new old stock £10, cut off the strap and some internals, makes a great bag when going on a half day walk, flask, water proof and lunch, and a camera, any more and it's a small rucksack, Cheers Nick, take care 👍👍☕
In the 20s you can buy a fairly cheap chinese molle harness. Add a few round maxpedition style round waterbottle pouches. You got 2 room for 2 Nalgenes a nesting cup, gas, stove coffee, and a pack of 2min noodles. Put a GSR respirater bag in between as your bumbpack. Or the other use on a GSR bage I do is molle a few waterbottle pouches on the side. Theres my 2lt cup brews ets. In spring summer enough room in middle to turn a hike into a spontaneous overnighter. I intend to customise it a bit. The gas mask case would greatly benifit from a few nylex buckles straps to close the lid
I have a dump pouch that I like to use just as a "belt bin" of course I carry proper binliners with me but for the moments where you're eating or whatever then have to tear down a camp, chuck it in the belt bin then add it to the collection as I go. Always try and leave areas cleaner than when I arrive.
thanks for the vid and the advice about the Kelly ketle im definetly buying one for all the reasons you talked about so thanks now i only have to make a bag that will hold all the my kit without keeping me from walking!!
I have a C95 DPM respirator bag PLCE - a bit square but still a decent haversack. I've seen people use them as camera bags. Also goes onto a PLCE webbing too.
I love the look of the Helikon, I have been tempted by it many many times... But I have a polish bread bag haversack and I can't keep much in it before it pulls my shoulder and makes it ache or it impedes my right arm function and gets in the way so I have to push it out of the way etc. I find a back pack keeps everything bette, spreads load better and if I need quick access to anything, chuck a chest rig in.
I recently bought a brand new 90 pattern DPM haversack/respirator bag to use in conjunction with a 58 bottle + pouch on a plce belt, great as a little good weather/day hiking kit
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 still trying to get the "army storage smell" out of the water bottle, it's been airing for the last 3 months , and it's still there
Great discussion and review. I am not a fan of the haversack, but have started messing about with a couple of home-sewn "snap sacks". These are 17th century high tech--just cloth tubes tied at each end and slung over the shoulder or back. I think these bags ride a bit better across the back. Less convenient than a haversack in terms of ready access, but don't have that annoying habit of slapping one on the side every other step. Still, I may keep my eye open for a surplus mil bag suitable as a day-hike bag. Thanks for the overview.
Oddly I was only looking at the UK military respirator haversacks just a couple of days ago on Ebay. You can pick up the version between your two for about £13.00 new. That is a lot of bag for the money. I fancied one just to carry my pocket Rocket and cylinder, a simple Chinese tarp, and drinking equipment. They sound ideal, and I have also seen someone alter the strapping, to make a simple backpack, should it be so desired.
Nice show and tell there Nick I once carried a book 📕 bag 💼 for log books 📖 while I was a driver in the US army someone told me one time nice purse 👜😡 , then I found another use for it SNACKs beef 🥩 jerky, chips, sub sandwich 🥪, and the claymore bag 💼 used for my flashlights 🔦 eye 👁 protection and so on, 😂👍👌✌️🇺🇸
Love the old velcro trick lol 😆, I have the original helikon-tex bushcraft haversack, better than the newer version for sure, got a cracking little haversack off 3treesproducts (ranger haversack), about £18, brilliant little haversack, my son uses a 90's British gas mask bag as a haversack, serves him well, if you want a traditional canvas haversack, poole bay bushcraft haversack is the nuts, Steven is a legend with canvas, excellent quality, really enjoy your videos ,good health and safe travels, cheers craig
I use the new respirator bag, iv taken the side pockets off of mine and replaced them with an mtp water bottle pouch and an osprey first aid pouch. also guess you are probably aware but the frame to hold the respirator is attached with poppers and can be easily removed for a little extra space
I just received from an on-line supply the British Armed Forces respirator case, (your "old school" but in DPM camouflage). New unissued $10 U.S. I bought as a first aid/trauma kit to be attached to the outside of my ruck. But it would also serve perfectly as a simple overnight haversack. A second one with some added exterior straps for a woobie, would carry enough gear to serve as a bug out system
Do you know any reputable online military surplus stores that you can recommend to me? I also live in the US, but i usually order it off eBay. There are so many online surplus stores that i’m not sure which ones are legit. Thanks
@@1mataleo1 sorry for the late reply... My first choice is Coleman's in Pennsylvania. They have a great selection of Euro & US military gear. What I consider very fair prices, and very good customer service. Second choice is Midway sports in Missouri. There's Charlie's in Chicago, Just Keep Shooting in PA, ... avoid a company in Minnesota, who is deceptive and overcharges big time on S&H. Good luck
I have the MTP bag @ 14:17 and would love to attach it to the Brit Osrey molle/pals vest along with some well selected pouches and you can "wear" close to 25L of kit (Brit speak for gear😊)
Ace! Congratulations on your anniversary. You seem much more comfortable with the camera these days and your dits are good. I’ve got a load of that stuff in the loft, inspired to get up there and see what I can use now.
I think I probably have the resp' bag your missing, it cost me £5 in the local market. I use a haversack on every trip even with a backpack. If you put your head and arms through the loop to rest it on your stomach the weight is on the pack, excellent for putting water and snacks in to eat without stopping and my camera gear in my case...easy carry, easy access, can be a pain to get off, but then nobody is shooting at me.
Awesome video Nick, and thanks for sharing some of your own history and the stories behind these items. Who knew there was so much to think about with a Haversack!
I have one of the respirator packs, a slightly later model, darker green. I really love it- £10 brand new, so solid, no water is going to ingress, really handy size, I can fix so much in.😁 From what you said on the video, I’m thinking it’s the 1990 version. I also use the East German rucksacks, but as a haversack, two types, one has a roll top waterproof insert under the lid, they are rather cool looking with the Strichtarn camo, built like a tank!
i usually only use a possibles pouch when i'm sporting a big pack for multiple days. it goes to camp inside the pack and is then used to carry stuff on little scouts or to hold tools while constructing or w/e. i would never have thought about a pp as main-lbe and tbh, i don't think anybody else would have if dave had not started to promote them so heavily.
I currently have two Pathfinder haversacks. While I seldom carry a tarp or other such bulky items, I find that doing so is much easier by dividing the load between two bags, one on each side. The only downside is my tendency to pack unneeded items until both bags are overweight, a bad habit. A commonly mentioned problem with such a system is the constriction and chafing around the neck, which I solve by always wearing a thick, but lightweight scarf.
Thanks, very interesting. Meanwhile, Helikon Tex has introduced a modern version of the claymore bag, FYI. PS: Too bad you do not produce videos anymore, but I enjoyed your collaboration with TA Outdoors. Stay safe and have a good time! :-) Regards from Germany
Bought one of the mtp haversacks at the Bushcraft show a few years ago for £10 like new, perfect for carrying beers around :) Just ordered a DPM minimi bag to see how well it'll fit on the front of a bergen.
I have one very similar to the 1990 model except it is in DPM camo. Unfortunately some one removed the strap before I received it, however it has been handy for organizing extra outdoors equipment.
Got back today after my first trip. I now completely understand you have to learn by failure. The diamond tarp is amazing. The hammock… I need practice getting in and out, though it made for an entertaining show! The best sleep for a long time. Thanks for this channel. Great video again. I did think that the gas mask bag was cool. I don’t know how it would feel, but maybe using the clips to attach it to another bag could be used to strap it to your belt, along with the shoulder strap to keep it close to the body?
In lieu of a haversack, may I suggest something like a Mountainsmith lumbar pack? Their Tour and Day models allow the user to carry it like a haversack. Since it is also a fanny pack, you can strap it to your waist to prevent the pack from swaying from side to side. While they do have their 2020 version, I prefer the older 2016 version, which has MOLLE on it.
I had a Helikon bag similar to the one shown passed on to me a while back. It's not quite the same, lacking the flap, perhaps they changed the design. I appreciate the shortcomings described but have found it a good bit of kit. I have a bottle pouch molled to what I consider the back end and another pouch on the front for smaller stuff : mobile, power-pack, specs, shades, kfs, slide rule, pens, etc. This leaves the actual bag itself cavernously free for whatever and giving the advantage that the whole thing can be swung in front for an easy two-handed rummage without the need to be taken off only to be put down in the mud, or hung up in order to be accessed. When empty, being soft, it all sort of concertinas up nice and compact because the residual weight is at the ends. Works for me very nicely.
I went and bought one of their Bushcraft Satchels a few years ago after they came out and we started seeing TH-cam reviews. It’s a simpler version of the one you showed but does have a few molle points to attach small pouches. As it’s been noted it’s lightweight and can roll up quite small as it’s soft. Can get quite a lot in but of course too much weight can drag on your shoulder. I now tend to use it as my work day bag but will have a go again to use it for dog walking and day hikes. A great video (and I am off to find a knife to remove the pouches off my desert camp ammo/grab bag)
I have that HT haversack and find it ideal as my everyday work bag. Enough room for laptop, water bottle and with the addition of the HT velcro inserts for pens, multi tool, torch etc. is ideal for an urban environment. I didn't know that the catch was quick release, but now I do, I keep playing with it. I don't think this bag is really made for the bush, however it's great around town.
Hope your all well 👍 As always Awesome content great options really enjoyed listen about your time in the commandos Thank You for what you were doing over in Afghanistan I always show my love and appreciation. Have a very Blessed day to you all 🙏👍😎👍
I've started making my own bits of gear, this reminds me I should get off to my local army surplus for some inspiration and materials! Don't think a haversack would be my preference over a rucksack unless I was concentrating on one particular task that needed repeated access to a couple of items of kit. I did have a look at that Helikon one and given it looks decent quality it wasn't as expensive as I was expecting. Thanks for another great vid 👍
At 10:32 that looks like a gas mask bag with a space for a decon kit and atropine injectiors. ETA and after watching the video to the end I realized that's exactly what it was and that in the UK a gas mask is a respirator.
The string on the gass bag dates back to 1915 it forms the method of wearing the bag on your chest normally there's a circular disc like a wheel rim on one side you please the bag using the shoulder strap over your head pull the string out of its pouch left side on a mk six and eight pass it under your right arm thread it through the sling then bring it down under your left arm then adjust and tightenthe bag by winding it around the circular teacher point it looks a bit like a wheel rim finish with half hitch and loop using this method you can put your Web gear back on even a burgan or day pack and there's very little discomfort as the shoulder strap lays flat and string is string if it's too tight you will feel the string on your ribbs just slaken off if needed
That last part got my sides in stitches
I think the haversack is intended more for hunting / gathering, scouting etc once you have your base camp established. They're not intended to carry everything in your pack. I stuff a haversack into my main pack and they're awesome for this purpose.
Haversacks are also great as a vehicle bag for a quick scout. I've camped (summertime, light rain) out of one too.
Gold! As are all your vids. Still big belly laughing at the Velcro tip at the end. Had one of my RI’s pass on the same tip during my basic training back in ‘97 and cracks me up still. Keep ‘em coming mate.
Always does. Getting my kit together to go bush for some “grounding” when opportunity arises and huge thank you for your part in that inspiration. Had put the Helikon on a wish list, but thanks to your tips, I might just dig out the old webbing bumbag and see what happens. Cheers again!
My "go to kit" is a 45 litre Karrimor SF Predator, with side pockets and yoke. That way I have all bases covered. I've got the rucksack to get me and my camping kit to task. Then I use either one, or two, side pockets on the yoke. It's easy to set up and I know I can rely on it. For a single day out I either use the bag itself, or just the yoke and side pocket,(s). I can even sling my Small Forest Axe on to it.
I appreciate your video though as it just confirms my choice! Thank you for what you do, it's always helpful.
Thank You for your service brother! AA 82nd ABN DIV … trained with several Brits.. always good guys! 🇺🇸👍🏻
Your camp and cabin is strangely beautiful and relaxing to look at. Thank you for sharing it with us viewers!
Having had the military purposes of these bags explained it seems the common themes are carrying something extra to your normal (essential) kit, and that you can get easy access to it in a hurry. If you're going to find a use for these bags in your activities (bushcraft or otherwise) it'll probably be along those lines.
Really fascinating. Who'd have thought that a haversack could be so interesting! Thank you for that.
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I have the Hellikon Bushcraft Satchel which is a bit expensive which is 17litre capacity and feels really cavernous. Great for day trips with a couple of water bottles, food and lightweight waterproof rolled up.
The problem I have with backpacks is my back gets really sweaty wearing them but with a haversack it doesn't. But you do have the issue you mentioned of being loaded on one side so I just got into the habit of swapping the shoulder the bag was on.
In the Indiana Jones movies his haversack was an old US army respirator bag with the cloth strap replaced by a leather one. I managed to find one of these bags on eBay years ago and put a leather strap on it, unpicked some of the stitching inside to remove some of the compartments. It is small, but it is really tough thick canvas. Converting army respirator bags seems like a common trick!
Can try to balance with a water carrier on the other-side and wear the straps cross body. It works pretty well.
Back to schooldays. Everyone used "Army" bags for carrying lunch and schoolbooks. I've used a 37' pattern big pack with one strap as a haversack for years+++. All the commercial ones failed at the strap attachment or the zips in less than a year. I fancy one of those dark green respirator packs. Good one mate. McIntyre.
I remember those, I had a rucksack and a couple of two partition haversacks, really coarse canvas, sand coloured, I think my grandfather bought them just after WW2. I used the rucksack mainly, in the early 1980s, must have been popular because I remember at least 3 others had them, except theirs were copies- softer canvas and steel buckles, where as mine were brass. Theirs wore out in the course of 2 years, mine just kept going after lasting 40 years already!😁. My biggest regret was selling the last good one on eBay 5 years or more ago, fetched £30 or more, totally regret it now my life long love of wild camping has evolved into bushcraft!
Brilliant kit comparison gives you a very good idea where to go as most items bought on line and you can’t have a hands on until you have purchased your kit. Excellent review.
I often use both. My rucksack is a main load bearing pack with my haversack only carrying things such as lunch (eating on the move), gloves, a knife and IFAK. I use a hanging water bottle just because this is what I’ve always used and I like it. I would never recommend a haversack as a stand alone but as a convenience pack in unison with my ruck it is definitely worth it.
Some may argue for a belt kit but trust me. On a hike, my main sport, these are cumbersome and often expensive to kit out with pouches.
Many thanks
Being a bit a gadget nut that Norwegian bag you showed at the end looks interesting.
Brother ... I was laughing at the tactical velcro pull before you did it. I absolutely adore your channel. Keep up what you are doing, you've no idea the joy it spreads. Thanks man.
I completely agree with everything you have said, the haversack is a great dismount kit for taking away from camp when you have few bits and bobs for a walk about. But like you say for carrying heavy items the weight displacement isn’t good, but you can actually thread both arms through the strap so the strap is almost forming an “M” shape with the middle of the “M” at the nape of the neck. But of course that then stops how handy the access is, great video 👍
I use a 1937 pattern ‘small pack’ with a shoulder strap - no zips to break, looks traditional, has a divider inside and the front two smaller dividers are just the right size to hold a crusader mug and bottle, and space at the back for other stuff. Small med kit and brew kit in the other divider. I got a 1950’s dated one - was about £12
Thought this might make you smile. I bought a compass the other day very cheaply (used). Took it home and then realised it had a problem. North was completely opposite from it should have been. I looked at again and smiled to myself. I cannot see to read it anyway so does it really matter and if asked I have a compass. :)
That's because the earth's magnetic field has shifted through the poles.
It's the dawn of the the age of Aquarius and you are chosen.
That or it's broken
Is it an Australian compass? They work upside down…
The old ones are always the best! Top vids mate - My bergen is itching to get out there! One of the best BC/FC channels out there. Gleaming!
Good last tip. I find my very light weight canvas haversack used in combination with a heavy duty backpack works best. For foraging, taking light equipment when collecting firewood, etc. when stepping away from camp, it's ideal. Thanks for all the videos Nick, keep 'em coming.
Very interesting, I just bought a Polish Bread Bag to use as a haversack when day hiking, hill climbing etc as I'm fed up with a sweaty back from a rucksack and daypack sized rucksacks with breathable backs are stupidly expensive. Only need space for extra layers, crusader cup and osprey bottle, fire dragon stove, EDC pouch with first aid kit and fire starting kit and some food/snacks for longer trips so it should be ideal.
You know, when I watch videos about haversacks I'm always reminded of one of my favourite books - Jean Auel's amazing book 'Valley of The Horses'. It's the sequel to 'Clan of The Cave Bear'. Ayla has been chucked out of her clan and is roaming the Ukrainian Steppes. Her haversack is a large woven basket. In it, APART from everything else, is an Auroch hide that she uses as a shelter. An AUROCH hide...! She's about fifteen at the time... It was winter. We have it easy...
LOL! Love that secret Velcro tip. Pure gold.
A haversack is very handy to have. I throw 3 days worth of rations into mine when I go camping. It saves room in my backpack.
Loving it Bootneck ,listen in gentlemen haversacks ,all joking aside always found nature helps me readjust , great channel and here's to another year . ready yourselves to sign on again gentlemen
Well I'm glad I've finally seen this video. I'm now more than justified in persisting with my haversack/game bag. I can get an amount of stuff into it plus a 58 pattern poncho. With a blanket over my shoulder or wrapped around my bag I don't feel too put out. One thing I do differently is to carry my water in a wineskin, on it own shoulder strap....
I used a Helikon 'Man bag' when I was a phot. It was great for stashing lenses and other bits of kit and not stand out on the ground with a camera bag. Still use it now when I am Camping with the Scouts.
I am a big fan of Helikon-Tex, for heavier loads i use their Bushcraft Satchel, when i am not using my Berghaus Crusader.
And man, i finally know how to silently open these velcro tabs. Thanks!
Another great video; I was just searching for military surplus haversacks on craigslist before I saw this. More for stuffing tinder and kindling and scroungables into rather than as a rucksack replacement.
Lots of great content out there on the tube, but far and away yours is the best! Thank you 😊
Very informative and an amusing finale. I have a couple of those myself, but never used them as civie bags. The claymore one is my favourite, as it is completely no-nonsense. What I use now is a 30L pack with an 8L top pocket that is a buttpack / haversack when removed.
I have a large army back back with the zip-on side pouches. I'm giving the main pack to a friend but am keeping the pouches. It was while watching this that I realised that I can turn the pouches into haversacks, as they also have the side-release buckles at the top and bottom and I could make some webbing straps for them (I could also attach them together via the zip).
Thank you for a most interesting And inspiring video.
Sunday afternoon with a mug of tea and a great up load. What more do you need.
Brownies. Chocolate nut brownies. MY chocolate nut brownies.
Hmm, those old mask bags are indeed very useful. I've 4 x 90's hanging from headrests in my motor (mugs & brew kit in one, first aid in another, wet weather kit, etc - you get the picture), and a slightly modded car bag with rat pack and change of clothes in (never know when this could come in handy). And a partridge in a pear tree for good measure.
The s10 (if that is what it was) bag makes for a good, if slightly tall butt pack, for those interested in that style of carry.
And as i recognised the beginnings of a tall tale groaner i wondered if mainly british viewers had that build up smile, slightly squinted eyes, and slow groan of satisfaction or whether those from far off lands also did?
Thanks mate😏
Great video, I love the military humour, more of that please lol I'd also love to see more foraging videos, I don't know why but the way you presented the info made it easy to remember all the plants, normally I forget this stuff as soon as I look away
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Thank you, can't wait! :)
I’ve used haversack bags many times through the years. I still have the same canvas claymore bag, it’s great for my water collection gear. And I’m currently using a 5.11 haversack/ messenger bag for my EDC for work. And I still have my duty bag from my law enforcement days. Keep up the absolutely fantastic work. It’s really great what you do.
Nice to watch an honest review
I bought a maxpedition cover for the helikon bushcraft haversack. Size wise I use the bushcraft satchel more.
Thank you so much for this video!! I'm going through my (vietnam vet) uncle's estate and came across a military issue haversack respirator bag. I thought what the....? After watching this video I have an immense appreciation for the haversack bag!! Also thank you for your service :)
Good information, I recently brought a "Romanian bread bag", just what I needed for half day walks.
The back and lid are designed to lay flat against your side. I did get one with the leather strap points.
I also gave it a coat of a well known tent proofing.
I use a 7L Ribzwear front pack. It's compatible with all backpacks and doesn't flop around like a haversack. Best of both worlds.
Thanks Nick, that was brilliant. I knew what was coming with the velcro but, it still made me laugh. I have used a Haversack for years, mine is very similar to the S10 pack but a bit bigger, it has an 8 litre capacity. Never carried a lot in it i.e. small brew kit,water 1Ltr, saw, knife and maybe a bit of scoff but I have found that over the years it has done a real FUBAR job on my shoulder. As I am now 70 I have switched to a small backpack, Tasmanian Tiger Essential Pack Large at 15 Lts and the difference is amazing, I still carry pretty much the same kit with, the addition of a Poncho, in total comfort thanks to the Sternum strap taking a lot of the load off my shoulders. No way will I go back to a haversack. I hope this helps somebody.
Nick the Helikon -Tex bush craft satchel is a pretty good shout and it looks just like a messenger bag. It can hold around 18 litres. Only mentioning it as i thought you used helikon bags.
For reliability and value military gear from Ebay wins hands down but for a technical bag with a dual purpose and good capacity the bush craft satchel is worth a look in my opinion.
Timbuk2 make very good messenger bags
They sling in the small of your back for a comfortable carry
They have great internal storage, waterproof and padded sling
All things considered I prefer a pack
Excellent marine! Though as an ex-highlander, our silent Velcro trick was to sneeze ‘och,aye’ when opening…lol
Outstanding Brother. Your thoughts, experience and insights are first class, especially when it comes to tactical velcro opening!
Love the commando tactical velcro trick. Will use that the rest of my life. Great life hack....lol. 😁👍
We got Issued the Ammo bag allong with all the other MTP kit/Osprey MK4, for my last Afghan Tour (HERRICK 16). As a Combat Medic, It was my Every day carry. I wouldn't want to carry it every day for its intended purpose, loading it with 200 link, 9 Mags, 2 L109 Grenades, and 1 Red Phos, would be too unbalanced to carry that weight off set in a haversack. I would use mine to carry Med kit that I needed to get to in a hurry.
Each ammo pouch would take an FFD/ECB, CAT Tourniquet and Morphine coffin.
The 2 Grenade pouches take a Celox perfectly (there is a small space behind the grenade pouch that takes a hand full of latex gloves)
The smoke pouch, takes a Blast bandage (the space behind it takes a pair of medics Scissors on a pistol lanyard)
The main body takes Suction Easy, a few airway adjuncts, and a fluid pack with IO.
Weighs alot less than Ammo, but important to have to hand for a Combat Medic/Marine MA
A simple piece of kit I (re)discover here, I have one when I've done my formation in 1987-1988 and it was one far older than the most older here (in fact it was more something you had in the WWII ^^ I think it was British ones) , I used also these sort of bag just to go to school in the eighties. Simple, impossible to break ... jesus, I feel older and older now ;)
I have one from Helikon Tex but not the Haversack but something similar, the Satchel
Hi Nick, another great presentation, I have an older respirator bag, as new old stock £10, cut off the strap and some internals, makes a great bag when going on a half day walk, flask, water proof and lunch, and a camera, any more and it's a small rucksack,
Cheers Nick, take care 👍👍☕
That gas mask bag fits the field ration packs perfectly.
In the 20s you can buy a fairly cheap chinese molle harness. Add a few round maxpedition style round waterbottle pouches. You got 2 room for 2 Nalgenes a nesting cup, gas, stove coffee, and a pack of 2min noodles. Put a GSR respirater bag in between as your bumbpack.
Or the other use on a GSR bage I do is molle a few waterbottle pouches on the side. Theres my 2lt cup brews ets. In spring summer enough room in middle to turn a hike into a spontaneous overnighter.
I intend to customise it a bit. The gas mask case would greatly benifit from a few nylex buckles straps to close the lid
Wow!! I really couldn't hear the Velcro opening👍🏻😁
Brilliant, I'm literally bag hunting and your excellent video has helped, thanks Nick.
I have a dump pouch that I like to use just as a "belt bin" of course I carry proper binliners with me but for the moments where you're eating or whatever then have to tear down a camp, chuck it in the belt bin then add it to the collection as I go. Always try and leave areas cleaner than when I arrive.
thanks for the vid and the advice about the Kelly ketle im definetly buying one for all the reasons you talked about so thanks now i only have to make a bag that will hold all the my kit without keeping me from walking!!
I have a C95 DPM respirator bag PLCE - a bit square but still a decent haversack. I've seen people use them as camera bags. Also goes onto a PLCE webbing too.
I love the look of the Helikon, I have been tempted by it many many times...
But I have a polish bread bag haversack and I can't keep much in it before it pulls my shoulder and makes it ache or it impedes my right arm function and gets in the way so I have to push it out of the way etc.
I find a back pack keeps everything bette, spreads load better and if I need quick access to anything, chuck a chest rig in.
I recently bought a brand new 90 pattern DPM haversack/respirator bag to use in conjunction with a 58 bottle + pouch on a plce belt, great as a little good weather/day hiking kit
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 still trying to get the "army storage smell" out of the water bottle, it's been airing for the last 3 months , and it's still there
I use what I think is Dutch army ammo bag for my edc. It cost me £8 years ago and has never let me down.
I knew what was coming (silent Velcro opening) their Royal 🤣🤣🤣 👏👏👏
excellent overview of a useful bit of kit. a couple of these were new to me so well worth the view. 👍👍
Great discussion and review. I am not a fan of the haversack, but have started messing about with a couple of home-sewn "snap sacks". These are 17th century high tech--just cloth tubes tied at each end and slung over the shoulder or back. I think these bags ride a bit better across the back. Less convenient than a haversack in terms of ready access, but don't have that annoying habit of slapping one on the side every other step.
Still, I may keep my eye open for a surplus mil bag suitable as a day-hike bag. Thanks for the overview.
Oddly I was only looking at the UK military respirator haversacks just a couple of days ago on Ebay. You can pick up the version between your two for about £13.00 new. That is a lot of bag for the money. I fancied one just to carry my pocket Rocket and cylinder, a simple Chinese tarp, and drinking equipment. They sound ideal, and I have also seen someone alter the strapping, to make a simple backpack, should it be so desired.
Nice show and tell there Nick I once carried a book 📕 bag 💼 for log books 📖 while I was a driver in the US army someone told me one time nice purse 👜😡 , then I found another use for it SNACKs beef 🥩 jerky, chips, sub sandwich 🥪, and the claymore bag 💼 used for my flashlights 🔦 eye 👁 protection and so on, 😂👍👌✌️🇺🇸
Love the old velcro trick lol 😆, I have the original helikon-tex bushcraft haversack, better than the newer version for sure, got a cracking little haversack off 3treesproducts (ranger haversack), about £18, brilliant little haversack, my son uses a 90's British gas mask bag as a haversack, serves him well, if you want a traditional canvas haversack, poole bay bushcraft haversack is the nuts, Steven is a legend with canvas, excellent quality, really enjoy your videos ,good health and safe travels, cheers craig
I use the new respirator bag, iv taken the side pockets off of mine and replaced them with an mtp water bottle pouch and an osprey first aid pouch. also guess you are probably aware but the frame to hold the respirator is attached with poppers and can be easily removed for a little extra space
I just received from an on-line supply the British Armed Forces respirator case, (your "old school" but in DPM camouflage). New unissued $10 U.S. I bought as a first aid/trauma kit to be attached to the outside of my ruck. But it would also serve perfectly as a simple overnight haversack. A second one with some added exterior straps for a woobie, would carry enough gear to serve as a bug out system
Do you know any reputable online military surplus stores that you can recommend to me? I also live in the US, but i usually order it off eBay. There are so many online surplus stores that i’m not sure which ones are legit. Thanks
@@1mataleo1 sorry for the late reply... My first choice is Coleman's in Pennsylvania. They have a great selection of Euro & US military gear. What I consider very fair prices, and very good customer service. Second choice is Midway sports in Missouri. There's Charlie's in Chicago, Just Keep Shooting in PA, ... avoid a company in Minnesota, who is deceptive and overcharges big time on S&H. Good luck
I have the MTP bag @ 14:17 and would love to attach it to the Brit Osrey molle/pals vest along with some well selected pouches and you can "wear" close to 25L of kit (Brit speak for gear😊)
@@baronedipiemonte3990 Thanks for the advice. I live in PA so these recommendations are very helpful.
I just ordered the military osprey face mask bag. Looking so forward to receiving it!!! Looks useful and adaptable.
Ace! Congratulations on your anniversary. You seem much more comfortable with the camera these days and your dits are good. I’ve got a load of that stuff in the loft, inspired to get up there and see what I can use now.
I think I probably have the resp' bag your missing, it cost me £5 in the local market.
I use a haversack on every trip even with a backpack. If you put your head and arms through the loop to rest it on your stomach the weight is on the pack, excellent for putting water and snacks in to eat without stopping and my camera gear in my case...easy carry, easy access, can be a pain to get off, but then nobody is shooting at me.
Hey Nick
Another great vid , gotta say thanks , that Velcro trick will stick with me the rest of my life 😂😂😂..
Have a good one brother
Cheers from 🇨🇦
I like the Back ZIP (Pocket) from the Helikon there U can (stealth) wear a Glock Pepper Spray Knife etc. and If U need it U can reach it quickly 👍
Awesome haversacks and a super technique of opening velcro :)
Awesome video Nick, and thanks for sharing some of your own history and the stories behind these items. Who knew there was so much to think about with a Haversack!
I have one of the respirator packs, a slightly later model, darker green. I really love it- £10 brand new, so solid, no water is going to ingress, really handy size, I can fix so much in.😁 From what you said on the video, I’m thinking it’s the 1990 version.
I also use the East German rucksacks, but as a haversack, two types, one has a roll top waterproof insert under the lid, they are rather cool looking with the Strichtarn camo, built like a tank!
i usually only use a possibles pouch when i'm sporting a big pack for multiple days. it goes to camp inside the pack and is then used to carry stuff on little scouts or to hold tools while constructing or w/e.
i would never have thought about a pp as main-lbe and tbh, i don't think anybody else would have if dave had not started to promote them so heavily.
Lol, liked the ending. Great information. Thanks 👍
My new favourite channel. Great content.
I currently have two Pathfinder haversacks. While I seldom carry a tarp or other such bulky items, I find that doing so is much easier by dividing the load between two bags, one on each side. The only downside is my tendency to pack unneeded items until both bags are overweight, a bad habit. A commonly mentioned problem with such a system is the constriction and chafing around the neck, which I solve by always wearing a thick, but lightweight scarf.
Thanks, very interesting. Meanwhile, Helikon Tex has introduced a modern version of the claymore bag, FYI. PS: Too bad you do not produce videos anymore, but I enjoyed your collaboration with TA Outdoors. Stay safe and have a good time! :-) Regards from Germany
Bought one of the mtp haversacks at the Bushcraft show a few years ago for £10 like new, perfect for carrying beers around :) Just ordered a DPM minimi bag to see how well it'll fit on the front of a bergen.
I have one very similar to the 1990 model except it is in DPM camo. Unfortunately some one removed the strap before I received it, however it has been handy for organizing extra outdoors equipment.
What a gem! Finally I am in to the secret of tactical Velcro opening....
Got back today after my first trip. I now completely understand you have to learn by failure. The diamond tarp is amazing. The hammock… I need practice getting in and out, though it made for an entertaining show! The best sleep for a long time. Thanks for this channel.
Great video again. I did think that the gas mask bag was cool. I don’t know how it would feel, but maybe using the clips to attach it to another bag could be used to strap it to your belt, along with the shoulder strap to keep it close to the body?
In lieu of a haversack, may I suggest something like a Mountainsmith lumbar pack? Their Tour and Day models allow the user to carry it like a haversack. Since it is also a fanny pack, you can strap it to your waist to prevent the pack from swaying from side to side. While they do have their 2020 version, I prefer the older 2016 version, which has MOLLE on it.
I had a Helikon bag similar to the one shown passed on to me a while back. It's not quite the same, lacking the flap, perhaps they changed the design. I appreciate the shortcomings described but have found it a good bit of kit. I have a bottle pouch molled to what I consider the back end and another pouch on the front for smaller stuff : mobile, power-pack, specs, shades, kfs, slide rule, pens, etc.
This leaves the actual bag itself cavernously free for whatever and giving the advantage that the whole thing can be swung in front for an easy two-handed rummage without the need to be taken off only to be put down in the mud, or hung up in order to be accessed.
When empty, being soft, it all sort of concertinas up nice and compact because the residual weight is at the ends. Works for me very nicely.
The bushcraft satchel, it’s a larger bag but you can still buy them
I went and bought one of their Bushcraft Satchels a few years ago after they came out and we started seeing TH-cam reviews. It’s a simpler version of the one you showed but does have a few molle points to attach small pouches. As it’s been noted it’s lightweight and can roll up quite small as it’s soft. Can get quite a lot in but of course too much weight can drag on your shoulder. I now tend to use it as my work day bag but will have a go again to use it for dog walking and day hikes. A great video (and I am off to find a knife to remove the pouches off my desert camp ammo/grab bag)
Look in to the Blackbird haversack from Blackie Thomas, made from an oiled canvas. GREAT video as usual.
Outstanding video. I always carry my haversack when I leave camp.
The gun bag is really good. Might have to make myself one
I like using a british 37pattern small pack as a haversack
I like a pistol belt with my hips weighted up as opposed to a backpack sweating on my back a pistol belt that’s properly adjusted can handle a lot
I have that HT haversack and find it ideal as my everyday work bag. Enough room for laptop, water bottle and with the addition of the HT velcro inserts for pens, multi tool, torch etc. is ideal for an urban environment. I didn't know that the catch was quick release, but now I do, I keep playing with it. I don't think this bag is really made for the bush, however it's great around town.
Bravo 👍. Wish I would have seen this before I purchased a commercial haversack.
Hope your all well 👍 As always Awesome content great options really enjoyed listen about your time in the commandos Thank You for what you were doing over in Afghanistan I always show my love and appreciation. Have a very Blessed day to you all 🙏👍😎👍
Really liked the secret you shared at the end.
I've started making my own bits of gear, this reminds me I should get off to my local army surplus for some inspiration and materials! Don't think a haversack would be my preference over a rucksack unless I was concentrating on one particular task that needed repeated access to a couple of items of kit. I did have a look at that Helikon one and given it looks decent quality it wasn't as expensive as I was expecting. Thanks for another great vid 👍
Try the Helikon Bushcraft satchel, its alot better and simpler and offers much more practical room for gear.
At 10:32 that looks like a gas mask bag with a space for a decon kit and atropine injectiors.
ETA and after watching the video to the end I realized that's exactly what it was and that in the UK a gas mask is a respirator.
The string on the gass bag dates back to 1915 it forms the method of wearing the bag on your chest normally there's a circular disc like a wheel rim on one side you please the bag using the shoulder strap over your head pull the string out of its pouch left side on a mk six and eight pass it under your right arm thread it through the sling then bring it down under your left arm then adjust and tightenthe bag by winding it around the circular teacher point it looks a bit like a wheel rim finish with half hitch and loop using this method you can put your Web gear back on even a burgan or day pack and there's very little discomfort as the shoulder strap lays flat and string is string if it's too tight you will feel the string on your ribbs just slaken off if needed
Where did you buy the Norwegian military roll top bag? I can't seem to find any in America.