Nextgen Warfighter GWA Citadel Gen 3 Backpack : The Real EDC Unicorn?

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 18 ธ.ค. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 121

  • @gearwhoresanonymous
    @gearwhoresanonymous 3 ปีที่แล้ว +30

    Front stretch panel, I designed more to toss in your beanie or gloves or really any other soft object. Heavy objects for sure will print. I hear you on the zips, I wish they had zippers that expanded too. Would be cool!
    Top handle, pack wasn’t designed to carry ruck weights like the Go Ruck.. Their design is purpose built. I also did it to match the color of the bag, looks sleeker. Webbing is also more abrasive and cuts into your hand. I had webbing on my original proto and went away from it.
    Webbing hangers inside are for an upcoming DSLR hanger, also slip a carabiner through it for your keys. I had customers custom request those loops enough times that I went ahead and included them on the Gen 3.
    Aquaguard zips, used them on original proto, went away from them because they are too difficult to use with 1 hand. They just don’t glide as easy. Color options are also another notable issue but mainly the 1 hand operation. They do look nice though.
    Shoulder straps man, I went through so many iterations to get that perfect blend of foam thickness. This is a tough area because its so much personal preference. I do use closed cell foam and is more dense than open cell. The softness likely has something to do with the tweave fabric as well, its so soft but that’s what makes it so comfortable on your shoulders.
    Price, so I get this a lot. Yes its expensive and people think that I’m making crazy margins on them, I’m not. I really make these on a micro scale which balloons my cost up really high. I’m not in the territory as larger companies where they are making 500, 1000, 2000 packs at a time. I don’t enjoy those labor price breaks. I have these manufactured by a MIL contractor in Southern California and labor rates are sky high. You should see my materials cost on these packs…I get that the price will put off some people and that’s ok, I get it but people need to understand that I’m not gouging anyone. I make nowhere near the standard industry margins.
    I get that for a lot of people the returns aspect is a tough pill to swallow but at the scale that I make these packs I just can’t accommodate them. Again, I get it. If that puts you off, I respect your decision.
    My warranty does cover factory defects but obviously not regular wear and abuse. Props to Go Ruck for what they do. Their program is great and I hope to get to that scale one day, it’s just not realistic for us right now.
    Thanks for taking the time to make this video, you did an excellent job. From someone who’s done a lot of them I can relate on the amount of work they take. -GWA

    • @GeorgeDEFINED
      @GeorgeDEFINED  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I appreciate you taking the time to shed some light.

    • @MarcShiman
      @MarcShiman 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Running a small business is incredibly difficult, but if you think customer service is something you provide once you get big enough, you may never get there.

    • @readyme
      @readyme 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for the great input and backstory.
      Can I ask who you have sew these?

  • @jasoncabreros
    @jasoncabreros ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Been going through some of your past videos and I appreciate the honesty. I just got a Citadel Micro Crew and didn't notice how the top grab handle was constructed. It was also good to point out the return/repair policy and how it compares to other companies like GORUCK. I myself got caught up in the hype and forgot to consider how that plays into the price and ownership of the bag.

  • @KennnYen
    @KennnYen ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I had a legit warranty concern for what I thought was a defect and was just told my bag is “within spec”. I owned two and the non defective one is great; it’s still the best bag I own. Just something to know before purchasing from them.

    • @chucklynn1119
      @chucklynn1119 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Care to elaborate bud?

  • @dirtdiver8504
    @dirtdiver8504 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I was the one who called it unicorn!!!! Thanks for the awesome review as usual G!!

  • @chad-ht
    @chad-ht 3 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    Great review and appreciate the call-out on the warranty. Hard to swallow spending $300 on a pack that nobody stands behind.

    • @gearwhoresanonymous
      @gearwhoresanonymous 3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      Nobody stands behind?.... I stand behind our packs, our warranty covers factory defects.

    • @chad-ht
      @chad-ht 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@gearwhoresanonymous I didn't mean to imply that it's not a quality pack. It's just that $300 is a lot to gamble on a bag that you're stuck with if it doesn't fit or meet your needs.

    • @richardsusumu2066
      @richardsusumu2066 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@chad-ht Real talk, I bought a citadel Dnc and there was a minor defect. I communicated with GWA and received a pristine citadel 2 days later. Definitely real talk, real experience. We should do a little more homework before sharing what we do not know. George could have respectfully asked GWA directly about the warranty to get a solid answer.

    • @chad-ht
      @chad-ht 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@richardsusumu2066 good to know. Sounds like a positive experience 🍻

    • @gearwhoresanonymous
      @gearwhoresanonymous 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @@chad-ht I get it man, sorry if I came off abrasive, hard to judge tone with text. But I hear you man, I get it. I'd like to get to the point where I have more of these out there on shelves where you can check them out in person and get a feel for it before pulling the trigger and spending the $ on one.

  • @Nexar10
    @Nexar10 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thanks for your transparency and honesty. You just don’t see that that often. Big kudos.
    I picked up an alphaoneniner evade because of your review.

  • @Liberty_1776_III
    @Liberty_1776_III 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Great review, George! I have this pack and feel it is extremely well thought-out, uses quality materials and I absolutely love the fact it is an American made product!
    I agree with you relating to their warranty/refund policy or lack there of..... definitely raises red flags! As far as the grab handle, I like the material as well as the size. However, the way it is sewn in gives me pause and I feel it's a weak point and miss with this bag.
    I absolutely love the shoulder straps...... probably my favorite of all my bags.
    Overall, As much as I like the GWA Citadel and feel the price point is justified, I would not recommend it based on their refund/warranty policy.

  • @Jimbo397
    @Jimbo397 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thanks for spitting facts about the warranty.

  • @custiskids
    @custiskids 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    That “Bye Felicia” patch is a great touch. I see what you did there. At 21k subscribers, you are definitely getting the last word.

  • @MrDataton
    @MrDataton 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    This is without question the best pack I own. It does everything and it does it exceptionally well. Looking forward to what you have to say about it George.
    Edit: I'm surprised by the amount of comments complaining about the price and return policy. It's a small company and it's all made in the USA. I'm happy to pay a premium to support quality USA made gear. I'm sure if you had a problem with your pack, GWA would be willing to help within reason. Everybody so used to Amazon levels of cost and service, adjust your expectations or move on. Also, everyone is entitled to their opinion but I gotta disagree on the "tacticool" comments.

  • @avgLurk3r
    @avgLurk3r 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Im in the market for a pack and I saw the MD patch 😅. I instantly click ur vid review. Im hooked on ur channel now, great reviews, sir!

  • @in0711
    @in0711 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks for pointing out the things with the straps. Also, do I see some piling on the lumbar support at the 14:44 minute mark?!?! That is a red flag for a bag of this price. Mesh like that at a high abbrasion spot like the lower back tend to wear out rather quickly. I wonder if GWA would count that as a factory defect.

  • @dggerzz_8850
    @dggerzz_8850 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    What an improvement in your videos. Awesome

    • @GeorgeDEFINED
      @GeorgeDEFINED  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks man appreciate it..

  • @michaelwhorf4316
    @michaelwhorf4316 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    As a fellow pack and EDC enthusiast I really appreciate your reviews, the humor and passion you put in your videos!, please keep it up!

  • @lukepaulson3428
    @lukepaulson3428 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Man the exterior water bottle pouches and increased organization sorta make me rethink my GoRuck. But then I remember how bombproof the GoRuck is. I’ll stay. Thanks G!

  • @Beerdwolf
    @Beerdwolf 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    that fabric on the front bottom pocket is called tweave :)

  • @MrHomolka
    @MrHomolka 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Wow looks awesome for EDC but I’m not sure about the price with that warranty/return/exchange policy

  • @3drumsticks
    @3drumsticks 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for this review! Bag looks to check some boxes but your review highlighted small but important things I didn't realize I cared about. Thank you!

  • @scottluebke5012
    @scottluebke5012 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    How have I not seen this bag before? This thing has almost every feature I want.

    • @cuchanu
      @cuchanu ปีที่แล้ว

      I just discovered it today and I'm wondering the same. I've been searching endlessly for something like this, although in a 30l size for travel. Aside from the straps it looks perfect.

  • @andrewdeanmiller9799
    @andrewdeanmiller9799 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The intro on this video was fire. 🔥🔥🔥

  • @dazed4daze
    @dazed4daze 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    For this price point and features i think the alpha 1 niner evade is a way better buy.

  • @RomeLJ
    @RomeLJ ปีที่แล้ว

    Really appreciate you acknowledging your concerns about the warranty in your final thoughts, how’s it held up 1yr later?

  • @RifleFlow
    @RifleFlow ปีที่แล้ว

    Good to know about that warranty on parts that wear out. $300 is in the "better last at least 5 years" category, and with your note about the grab handle construction i would worry too much that they might not fix it if it breaks. Love these bags, but definitely not trying to spend that kind of money without a no questions asked kind of warranty. Still, the other 95% of the design looks perfect! Great job GWA.

  • @11B-z3j
    @11B-z3j 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Hey buddy I enjoyed your video. But the this bag is a no go for me. That being said i was on the fence about the D. A Dust but after watching your video on that one I ordered it right after I was done with ur vid. Thx keep up the awesome reviews ✌️.

    • @kidbach
      @kidbach 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Youre going to like it. It swallows up a lot of gear being its such a small pack. I have one in the flecktarn pattern and use it as a daypack.

    • @11B-z3j
      @11B-z3j 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes I got it already and you’re right dose hold quite bit of stuff n I really do like it. Thx for your input 👍

  • @jonashanna6434
    @jonashanna6434 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    loved the city views! HU graduate here so always good to see my city! great review as always!

  • @asfsfas2435
    @asfsfas2435 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    compartment and weight looks practical but i am not sure about the price with that warranty/return/exchange policy and the look.

  • @adambyrtek
    @adambyrtek 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Awesome intro George!

  • @phillipnunya6793
    @phillipnunya6793 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I noticed you have your right sleeve up to show off those tats. Also, nice review.

  • @peteoneill
    @peteoneill 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nice addition with the drone.

    • @elioty8273
      @elioty8273 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Not a drone. Probably a 360 camera with invisible stick

  • @thatchanguy
    @thatchanguy 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Seriously sick intro for a sick pack. I view it was a more functional GR1 in a way that looks slick. I would love to get one but not sure I can justify it at this time.

  • @willburdette8065
    @willburdette8065 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Another great and fair review. And I see the editing skills are leveling up

  • @erikvanalphen5619
    @erikvanalphen5619 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    thanks for the review. Mainly its because i need something a little smaller, and thats a lot of cash to dump out.. its the size of a pack i already have that i use for groceries, pics make it look like theyre a true medium size..

  • @easygroove
    @easygroove 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Really nice made Intro - and Gooood Marketing for this pack..
    but after all, WHAT on that one is worth 300 $ ??
    NO WAY!

  • @rayjimenez7763
    @rayjimenez7763 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have two EDC bags GoRuck and Vertex Ready. Both great bags but this one could work it’s way in my rotation. I live my goruck but man the water bottles is what makes me rotate to my vertex either way great reviews and I like this bag review. 👍🏽👍🏽

  • @kokobi7482
    @kokobi7482 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    this would be the perfect backpack for me at school and other things cuz i pack a shit ton of things, and this would solve my problem, and it's also quite accessible too, great review though.

  • @ThosFett
    @ThosFett 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Another great video! A bit of disappointment about this as its been high on my list also. I'm still going to try and pick one up though. If you decide to part with yours let me know George! It seems like a big brother to our boy Elias' pack which I love but want a bit more space.

  • @Inzaneinthemembrane
    @Inzaneinthemembrane ปีที่แล้ว

    The design is very similar to the LBT 21L. Those packs can be had for a little more than $100 and are Berry compliant, battle tested brand, and have a lifetime warranty. Not as many features but a solid alternative

  • @iagodss24
    @iagodss24 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    great review and cool bag, i see this bag as a competitor to the crye precision avs 1000 and a more feature version of the lbt bag

  • @dylantodd9574
    @dylantodd9574 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    You should check out the Nomadic Research Raid.

  • @benjaminsecrist9747
    @benjaminsecrist9747 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    George, I love your reviews. Keep up the great work!

  • @kilo1449
    @kilo1449 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    great review! with shipping and taxes the bag will be way too much expensive in germany
    i will try the Tasmanian Tiger Modular Combat Pack this season

  • @tj3945
    @tj3945 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Production quality keeps getting better. Sweet bag though for sure. Price is a tad steep but it is a really nice backpack.

  • @elopez1882
    @elopez1882 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I wish more bag makers made the compression straps stowable when you’re not using them. So far I’ve only seen it on the Osprey Nebula. Unless you’re really packing it out, I don’t really see a need for straps for a bag that size.

  • @sng2225
    @sng2225 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    George again the review is perfect - the bag looks feature rich although the laptop should suspend off the bottom or pad it at least - that is a sad omission. And the return policy was a great pickup! I have an original Northface Borealis which is really good and is yet to expire or fail (I am looking for an excuse to replace it so I can buy another pack) but it does the job and I can't fault it for my purposes - It has its faults as well but durability I have to say it has held up to all sorts of abuse. From a features point this pack almost looks like it could be the one. But the laptop protection and warranty are big flaws. But we'll see once my current pack stops functioning. Also by the way I really love the items in the bag as well - maybe the torch not so much but the Maxpedition pouches look great and the Moleskine notebook. By the way the portrait you took looks grear. Keep up the fantastic reviews!

    • @GeorgeDEFINED
      @GeorgeDEFINED  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for the comment!! Appreciate it

  • @markeefoster9448
    @markeefoster9448 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    George Defined...I gotta ask about one piece of equipment not listed. What type of desk is that you are using to do your review on? Also the Maxpedition pouch is a big favorite of mine. Big Thanks!

    • @GeorgeDEFINED
      @GeorgeDEFINED  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Electric Height Adjustable Computer Desk: amzn.to/3w52eBN

  • @Computerlegacy
    @Computerlegacy 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love the Maryland flag!

  • @EnriqueSupreme
    @EnriqueSupreme 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Dope intro bro! GoPro Max?

  • @david78212
    @david78212 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I’m not going to spend $300 on a bag and can’t send it back if I have issues. I spent $70 on a Timbuk2 messenger, and they repaired it (zipper issue). At least they stood behind $70, they want $300 for a bag and see ya later...I’ll pass, thanks.

    • @gearwhoresanonymous
      @gearwhoresanonymous 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      We're a micro shop and can't operate like Amazon and take returns on what is essentially custom made bag runs. We do have a warranty against defects.

  • @jcpalermo2576
    @jcpalermo2576 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I dig this pack. Yes it’s pricey, but I’m all for spending some extra bucks on a made in USA item. No return policies = I’m out at this price point.
    Editor George, loving the new lighting scheme. I see you investing in your hobby and I like it. Keep it up buddy!,

  • @johnnynguyen3521
    @johnnynguyen3521 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I don't think this bag is worth it without a decent warranty. The handle also does not inspire confidence at all. Got the Alpha One Niner Evade 2.0 30L in black multicam, an amazing bag and looks clean after taking out the bungie and compression straps. I swapped out the zipper pulls and replaced the default sternum strap with a defy cobra buckle chest strap. Helmie stands behind his products with 5 years support. I feel like GWA is going off the hype beast EDC carry community instead of making something they stand behind.

  • @maxlibz
    @maxlibz 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow... love it!

  • @nicklim9299
    @nicklim9299 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Sick Intro!

  • @readyme
    @readyme 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    DNC is so underrated.

  • @angrymike493
    @angrymike493 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Seems very comparable to the gorucks. How does it compare in your opinion?

    • @GeorgeDEFINED
      @GeorgeDEFINED  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      The organization is better in the gwa however far as quality GoRuck is better imho

  • @mollygarza3812
    @mollygarza3812 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    George- what pack has the best harness system in you opinion?

    • @GeorgeDEFINED
      @GeorgeDEFINED  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Probably Mystery Ranch 3DAP..

    • @richardsusumu2066
      @richardsusumu2066 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@GeorgeDEFINED Would the CPL be a close second to the Mystery Ranch 😬?

    • @GeorgeDEFINED
      @GeorgeDEFINED  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@richardsusumu2066 it's up there... The shoulder straps are excellent and the curve of the back panel but the venting I think holds it back some.

  • @mollygarza3812
    @mollygarza3812 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    George- has your wife ever borrowed the vanquest addax? I want to get one for my hubby and I to share. I was inquiring the comfort level from a female perspective.

    • @GeorgeDEFINED
      @GeorgeDEFINED  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      The Addax is comfortable.. I think he would like it.

  • @TimScott1111
    @TimScott1111 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Shout out to Maryland!!

  • @siouxbe1
    @siouxbe1 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I like this EDC bag

  • @auntkaz422
    @auntkaz422 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Maryland pride!

  • @01cthompson
    @01cthompson 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice cargo bag

  • @P.Hightower
    @P.Hightower 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great review.
    Pack's got some good ideas, but not worth the gamble.

  • @mikeallen537
    @mikeallen537 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hey George. Way I can reach out to you. Couldn’t find an email for you. Love your videos. Been watching since the og days. Wanted to talk to you about couple things and get your opinion!! Mike

  • @MrRyushinn
    @MrRyushinn 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    i like the bag and GWA is a small team i believe its like 1 dude doing all this. still would take this over goruck

  • @kidbach
    @kidbach 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Too many cons to justify price. Like the old folks say, "if you have nothing nice to say, don't say anything." Thanks for sharing. One.

  • @raul-oc5sp
    @raul-oc5sp 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Love mine

  • @0bserver416
    @0bserver416 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Love DNC!

  • @dylantodd9574
    @dylantodd9574 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    That construction looks substandard for hard use. I take my bags overseas, pack them out with serious gear and use it through diverse environments. Someone that won’t stand behind their bag worries me.

  • @derek3154
    @derek3154 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Nice bag in the $200 price range, not $300.

    • @gearwhoresanonymous
      @gearwhoresanonymous 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I have to disagree, if you saw our cost on the bag you would too.

    • @derek3154
      @derek3154 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@gearwhoresanonymous that why you don’t warranty it🧐?
      It may be worth it, but unless I could try it I wouldn’t spend $300 on it. I love having different bags, just didn’t see enough to justify the price from this 1 video at least.
      Could be wrong about it though 🍻

  • @spoke1183
    @spoke1183 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    any other bag like this but cheaper, wtf $400 for piece of nylon.

  • @MattyRut2922
    @MattyRut2922 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Clamshell with Waterbottle Pockets = Unicorn Bag. Seriously, the list of clamshell bags, with waterbottle pockets (stretchy no less), is seriously short. I can stomach the price for a USA-made bag. I don't love the stretchy front pocket, it's too revealing of my contents, and I wish it was a bit 'cleaner' looking, and a little less tactical. ALL THAT BEING SAID, it's on my list of bags I want to get. Warranty? Don't care, I have never used it on a premium bag.

    • @scottluebke5012
      @scottluebke5012 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      If a person can afford a $300-400 backpack, they’ll probably survive losing the bag to a non warranty issue. IMO, no big deal.

  • @Outcome_Agent
    @Outcome_Agent 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    The true unicorn

  • @warpaint4381
    @warpaint4381 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I had jumped on the pre-order of this bag last year in sept. They said it would start shipping in nov. and I didn’t get it until Jan. Last time I order something that isn’t even made yet lol. Gwa and qilo stuff are definitely cool and use materials/patterns that are quality and unique but definitely for ppl with a higher end budget and love to look tacticoool.

    • @gearwhoresanonymous
      @gearwhoresanonymous 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Our bag has nothing to do with looking "tacticool".... The wait definitely sucked. The severe labor and materials shortages were not something we anticipated as we were initially reassured that it wouldn't happen. Covid really hurt last run. Next run however we will be doing a full release, no preorder.

  • @segawalker3302
    @segawalker3302 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    DMV!

  • @southpole76
    @southpole76 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    yeah there's a difference between neccessity to pay upfront and no possibility to cancel order, an NO WARRANTY after you actually bought the product...

  • @kasper_429
    @kasper_429 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Looks like a slightly larger rip-off of the LBT Day Pack, but I like it. Lol.

    • @warpaint4381
      @warpaint4381 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      It’s actually the other way around

    • @DocDigg
      @DocDigg 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      This pack actually has structure, the LBT just looks like a saggy ball sack when packed out

    • @richardsusumu2066
      @richardsusumu2066 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @Kyle White Yeah dude its completely the other way around 🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️

  • @Hohmies86
    @Hohmies86 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    EDC unicorn..... hmmm

  • @strangebrew321
    @strangebrew321 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    damn im this early..

  • @norfy
    @norfy 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    $280? woof. I feel like it should be under $100 lol