I think I need you to talk to my hubby. I cut off webbing and the clips from backpacks and also the kid's bike helmets. Hubby constantly tells me off for saving "JUNK", yet he doesn't complain when I use a bit of "junk" to fix something of his that has broken. :) I love watching the things you get up to from your camping trips to modifying haversacks etc. Keep enjoying life.
I know this is an older posting (recently discovered your channel) but just had to say I continue to be amazed at your talent, both at modding kit and making enjoyable videos.
I like the mods that you did to this and the idea of using velcro to close pouch sleeves is good really good on the map sleeve in the flap also where you had trouble with the strap in the bottom of the bag a speedy stitcher would have done the job easier. I also would have just used a bees wax and boiled linseed oil mixture to re water proof the bag it is the same stuff they use to make waxed canvase in larger quantities but they use a sprayer and then heat to impregnate it into the fabric in a factory for a small peice a paint brush and heat gun or hair dryer works perfectly. I have done the same thing on canvase haver sacks and canvase back packs and trucks for years and it lasts for about 8-10years before having to be redone again. Keep up the good work.
A really well executed job Simon. Like you, I started with a hand-me-down old sewing machine and I soon realised that it was not built to cope with multiple layers of cotton canvas, leather, cordura or nylon webbing; so I bit the bullet and invested in a cheapish heavy duty machine. Everything is now so much easier. I was inspired by your wood carved leather stamp. Fantastic. I am definitely going to try that as soon as a free afternoon comes my way.
Thanks Stephen, glad you liked it! I need a heavier duty machine really!! The patch was my first attempt at leather wet forming - it was pretty straight forward - just make sure your wooden ‘mould’ is nice and flat - sand it smooth if necessary - or you’ll have a rough/textured pattern on the leather. Good luck with it. Atb, Simon.
I like the front and back sleeves, for me one would be where I would keep a waterproofed map, local plus wide area. I notice you never carry maps or compass. For me a map is like a good book.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! It does take a bit longer to keep moving the camera and setting it up for different angles, but I think it’s worth it - makes what would be quite a boring shot into something a bit more interesting. (Hopefully!!) cheers and Atb, Simon.
Thanks Johnny! That was my first bit of leather work - thought I’d have a go before making a loop for my ferro rod! Did you have any more success with the sewing machine?
john roberts - glad you got the machine sorted- that’s half the battle to be honest - I had issues with the thread tensioning on mine - used to get a horrible birds nest of thread on the back of whatever I sewed - then I found out about the ‘bottom thread tensioner’ sorted it right out!!
It looked like you had entirely to much FUN sewing the last 2 straps on the bag. I sure do like that you made that Stamp with your logo on it and sewed it on your bag. Very Nice Work.
Cheers Danny! Yes, I did get a bit carried away with the last bit of sewing!! Lol! The patch was the first but if leather work I’ve done - been meaning to have a go for ages, so I jumped at the opportunity!! Atb buddy, Simon.
Hello. I see that this is an old post, but I have a tip for you to use a thicker needle in the sewing machine when sewing in thick fabrics, denim needles number 90/14 are fine for that. Greetings from Anne in Norway.
not sure if anyone gives a damn but if you are bored like me atm then you can watch all the new series on InstaFlixxer. Have been binge watching with my brother for the last few months =)
I love how you always want to make or amend things rather than buying. Too easy to go online these days and just buy new, but no real sense of achievement. Great work and only wish I came across your channel a couple of years ago instead of earlier this year
Simon, a bloke in the woods I used my mini fire anchor set you have from tjm, great piece of kit, so I am glad I saw it in your video. Do you have something to put yours in like a canvas bag? Thinking of the best way to keep it clean and off other stuff in my bag when going away
Thanks Pete! Be warned though - once you have a sewing machine, you’ll be swimming in bags for everything! I’ve even made bags for bags hehehe! Thanks for watching, Atb, Simon.
Cheers Martin - Yes, I definitely prefer it where it is now - I only wanted on the back originally so it was partially hidden, but yes, it would probably have been uncomfortable. Thanks mate, Atb, Simon.
Hello Simon love the channel, and how you present yourself,and also your the father and son video i wish my daughter would be interested like your son was all the best and keep it going mate brilliant 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks Jim, really glad you like the videos! It had been a long time since Tom wanted to join me, so naturally I jumped at the chance!! Both he and my elder daughter used to come on camps and trips when they were younger, but sadly, as they get older, their interest has dwindled. Bribery might help! Lol!! Atb and good luck! Simon.
Great job. Your right my sewing machine would have thrown out smoke in refusal to go through that many layers. It doesn't even like 2 layers of Jean material. It would be nice to have an Industrial machine. You must have an excellent ability to visualize the way you want it to turn out before you start. Thank you Simon for the video.
Many thanks Simon for all your vids that you shared with us ! Personally you really inspired me to make my own pouches and accesories for my outdoor gear. I started useing the speedy sticher sewing owl and it works great. Cheers mate !
I would enjoy seeing what modifications you would make to your homemade baker cooking tent now that you have used it a few times. Would you make changes or not?
Thanks Peter - it’s worth the effort - it’s a great bag anyway - but so much better with straps you can fasten and unfasten easily - even with gloves on! Cheers and Atb, Simon.
Cheers Alb! That was my first go a leather work - wasn’t sure how well it would come out so I was pleasantly surprised! I’m going to make a video on making a leather patch soon. 👍 Atb, Simon.
Very professional job. I love mil surp gear. I mod mine but it never turned out this nice. I'll just have to aim higher. Thanks for the vid, very encouraging.
Cheers - glad you liked it! Not all the stuff I’ve done has turned out so well - the quick-unpick is definitely my friend!! Thanks for watching, Atb, Simon.
Cheers Doug! Those respirator cases are really good bags, I’ve got one of the newer, rubberised ones - love it and they don’t cost a lot, which is a bonus! Atb, Simon
That looks great Simon, good effort I’m new to finding your channel and I’m glad I did. Keep up the good work. I have a machine I was given so might give it a go
Thanks Lee, glad you found the channel and thanks for watching! Give it a go - once you’ve got the hang of using the machine - you’ll be finding all sorts of projects to get into!! 👍 Atb, Simon.
Nice video, Simon. Looked like a tough job, but well worth the effort. Looks amazing, mate. Got me wanting to make my own haversack. May buy some waxed canvas and have a crack. Soooooooooo... I guess we'll be seeing you do an over-nighter out of it, soon??? ;-) Thanks for sharing, bud. Take care.
Cheers Andy! It was definitely worth it - the alterations have improved it and I like how it looks. As for an overnighted - watch this space mate!! 😉 Atb, Simon.
Nice overhaul. Like the change with the ax. Is it more comfortable on the side? Leather logo is beautiful...!! Recycling is a good idea. Would brass loops be stronger? The plastic clasps is used in grocery carts here for the young kids.. I think they don't last as long on the carts... A new brand coming soon? Thanks
Wow, you did an amazing job on this pack! I do not own a haversack but would like to some day. I do not have a sewing machine or the skills so I may have to send it to you for the modifications lol Thanks for sharing you did a great job.
North Country Adventures - Thank you - glad you like it! It turned out well - I’m really happy with it! The other option is to get one that doesn’t need any modification - like the ‘Hidden Woodsmen’ haversack - pricey, but really good!! Atb, Simon.
Hi Rob, cheers! Harder to find these days, although I believe there is still stock available in surplus stores in Germany. Check online ‘Bundeswehr Kampftasche’ 👍
Actually, I found what I think is the same pack (as an EAST German) at hessenantique.com. They’re in the US, Atlanta area. Look under Military Surplus... Bags - Rucksacks. It’s listed as an East German Combat Pack w/suspenders.Price was $9.99 US
Simon.... again, beautiful work! I have a pack or haversack similar to yours that I would like to modify along the same lines as you have. However, I fear my skills are less than yours and I']] have to find someone to help with the stitching. In any case, nice work and thanks for sharing. Best wishes... Ax
Thanks Jeffrey, I just use regular polyester thread - I like the stuff made by Gutterman - comes in every colour imaginable and is good and strong. Cheers and Atb, Simon.
Thanks Craig, glad you enjoyed it. I bought the reels of Velcro from eBay, I think it is made by a company called ‘Sam’ but there is loads available - just make sure it is the sew-on stuff and not the self adhesive type. Cheers, Simon.
Very nice fascinating film Simon, I always said you are a multi talented man. The haversack looked brand new at the end and I really liked the leather logo. Found the sewing machine hypnotic, would liked to have seen more. Cheap as chips, you seen the price of a bag of chips from the chippie? Cheers. ⛺️🏕🏔👍
Hahaha! Yes I have - extortion!!! Actually we are quite lucky in that respect - in my local town, we have a chip van that visits the market place on a Saturday - only sells chips or chip butties, £1 a portion - a big portion, damned fine chips and served in newspaper how they used to be!!! Glad you liked the bag, there were hours of sewing machine clips!! I’ll include more next time!!! Atb Mike.
Hi Simon, love the mods on this pack. Great vid very informative. It has inspired me to have a go myself. Just one question what is the rolled up canvas item you have strapped under the lid in the opening sequence, just curious? Cheers Steve
chazfoster325 - Cheers Steve, glad you like, and glad you’ve been inspired! The rolled up thing is my dogs blanket - also a homemade job, it was to hand and fits well under the lid! Atb, Simon.
I like what you are doing on this bag , though it would be bigger than the one I use , I have a L.A.P.D. larger bug out bag , I go on longer trips to my doctor appointments, sometimes to the state east of here or state south of here , most times my tribe takes me there and bring me home , sometimes different drivers , so I have to take all my things in and back in with who brings me home , ive room for water on one end iced tea on opposite end. Enough exterior pockets to have , what i need , and here in the states , we are able to carry a consealed weapon, plus I carry 2 extra quarts of iced tea 1 iced water inside , because I'm not paying 1 us dollar for 12 oz cold or hot drinks , I also carry slightly over 2 quarts of hot coffee. I seen one unbranded for 25.00 us dollars on e bay just like mine , these do not have a rain flap over the top though. But for my use they're almost big enough. Between the inner storage , each side has a velcro side release to kinda hide things you might need in a hurry . I'm disabled now , the bag takes up my whole walker seat , and I'm a large person. I was hoping I'd find something else where I'd not have to carry my tablet , and chargers and headset in another bag . But I'll make do till I find something bigger
Cheers Michael!! Glad you liked it! Well, it took about 6 hours of actual work, but a lot of that is setting up the camera, adjusting shots, moving the camera for different angles, retaking crap shots etc etc, so I’d probably say it took half that time really!!! The lengths we go to to get the shot!!! Lol!! I’m really pleased with the patch too - it was my first bit of leather work - looks good on the bag. 😀
Thank you! Yes, it’s still in frequent use as my day bag. The only modification I’m not so happy with is the internal straps to hold a blanket - these tend to get in the way when they are not in use. Other than that - really happy still!
Simon, a bloke in the woods Actually, I found what I think is the same pack (as an EAST German) at hessenantique.com. They’re in the US, Atlanta area. Look under Military Surplus... Bags - Rucksacks. It’s listed as an East German Combat Pack w/suspenders. Price was $9.99 US. I’m looking for an LK35. I prefer it over the a medium ALICE. I have two sources in Sweden I’ll enlist to look for it over there for me. Safe travels!!
😂😂😂😂😂. And a shaking head in disbelief! And I sew! You'd never catch me doing all this work. Even with an industrial machine! Oh, maybe if someone gave it to me. But I have my doubts. Oh, boy, you do like a challenge, don't you. Now be honest, how often have you used this in the last 2yrs? Was it worth the effort?
Hahaha - it was definitely worth the effort - it gets used quite a bit - when I only need a few things for filming or doing whatever I’m doing. It’s a good day bag. 👍
Dude! I had that bag all through middle school - wild! Being intimately familiar with its ins and outs, I couldn’t agree with your alterations more.
Very nice work, and it's all dried out now! 😀
I’ve just bought a Brother sewing machine because of you!
I think I need you to talk to my hubby. I cut off webbing and the clips from backpacks and also the kid's bike helmets. Hubby constantly tells me off for saving "JUNK", yet he doesn't complain when I use a bit of "junk" to fix something of his that has broken. :) I love watching the things you get up to from your camping trips to modifying haversacks etc. Keep enjoying life.
We have the same Bag in 1992 when i was in the Bundeswehr.
I know this is an older posting (recently discovered your channel) but just had to say I continue to be amazed at your talent, both at modding kit and making enjoyable videos.
Thank you!! 👍
Nice modern upgrades. 👍
wow thats some very skilled modifications.... making a good bag great :D
A good modification. Almost like how it should have been!
I like the mods that you did to this and the idea of using velcro to close pouch sleeves is good really good on the map sleeve in the flap also where you had trouble with the strap in the bottom of the bag a speedy stitcher would have done the job easier. I also would have just used a bees wax and boiled linseed oil mixture to re water proof the bag it is the same stuff they use to make waxed canvase in larger quantities but they use a sprayer and then heat to impregnate it into the fabric in a factory for a small peice a paint brush and heat gun or hair dryer works perfectly. I have done the same thing on canvase haver sacks and canvase back packs and trucks for years and it lasts for about 8-10years before having to be redone again. Keep up the good work.
Really nice! You’re a wizard with the seams!
Great idea for your makers mark
Not just bushcraft, gearcraft! absolute treat this! very inspiring
Hahaha - gearcraft! Thanks, glad you liked it! Love making/ modifying gear. Atb, Simon.
Quality craftmanship 👍🔥
Great video! Very interesting. Good job modifying the bag. It looks good,
Nice craftmanship!
Great job. Really impressed. I'm with you on the "strap obsession". Everything can (and probably should) become something else.
LoaferXcursions - Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! Definitely, there’s too much landfill as it is, plus - it’s free!!!! (Or at least cheaper). Atb, Simon.
Simon, the work you do is amazing. You're so inspiring!! Love your videos. I watch you and Andy from Kent Survival more than anyone on You Tube!!!
A really well executed job Simon. Like you, I started with a hand-me-down old sewing machine and I soon realised that it was not built to cope with multiple layers of cotton canvas, leather, cordura or nylon webbing; so I bit the bullet and invested in a cheapish heavy duty machine. Everything is now so much easier. I was inspired by your wood carved leather stamp. Fantastic. I am definitely going to try that as soon as a free afternoon comes my way.
Thanks Stephen, glad you liked it! I need a heavier duty machine really!! The patch was my first attempt at leather wet forming - it was pretty straight forward - just make sure your wooden ‘mould’ is nice and flat - sand it smooth if necessary - or you’ll have a rough/textured pattern on the leather. Good luck with it. Atb, Simon.
Really cool! Take a bag and make it your own 🔥
Great modification!
I like the front and back sleeves, for me one would be where I would keep a waterproofed map, local plus wide area. I notice you never carry maps or compass. For me a map is like a good book.
Great inspiration thanks. My canvas backpack is in bits before me as we speak!
6 months on - how did it turn out?
It looks like its indeed very durable. A awesome video, i can see that you are putting a lot of effort in the camera shots. Well done!🖒
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! It does take a bit longer to keep moving the camera and setting it up for different angles, but I think it’s worth it - makes what would be quite a boring shot into something a bit more interesting. (Hopefully!!) cheers and Atb, Simon.
Good effort mate, well thought out and looks the business, especially the leather logo, nice touch
Thanks Johnny! That was my first bit of leather work - thought I’d have a go before making a loop for my ferro rod! Did you have any more success with the sewing machine?
Simon, a bloke in the woods machine all sorted but will buzz you for some tips go tied up at the weekend with the kids.
john roberts - glad you got the machine sorted- that’s half the battle to be honest - I had issues with the thread tensioning on mine - used to get a horrible birds nest of thread on the back of whatever I sewed - then I found out about the ‘bottom thread tensioner’ sorted it right out!!
It looked like you had entirely to much FUN sewing the last 2 straps on the bag. I sure do like that you made that Stamp with your logo on it and sewed it on your bag. Very Nice Work.
Cheers Danny! Yes, I did get a bit carried away with the last bit of sewing!! Lol! The patch was the first but if leather work I’ve done - been meaning to have a go for ages, so I jumped at the opportunity!! Atb buddy, Simon.
Hello. I see that this is an old post, but I have a tip for you to use a thicker needle in the sewing machine when sewing in thick fabrics, denim needles number 90/14 are fine for that. Greetings from Anne in Norway.
Absolutely loved this * Your attention to detail is a thing of beauty. No wonder you are chuffed to bits with the way it turned out :-)
not sure if anyone gives a damn but if you are bored like me atm then you can watch all the new series on InstaFlixxer. Have been binge watching with my brother for the last few months =)
@Kamryn Louis yea, been watching on InstaFlixxer for years myself =)
Great. U should do more of them and Design some. Well done. Beautifull job. Great
Excellent craftsmanship!!! Very nicely done.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it, I’m really pleased with how it came out. Atb, Simon.
I'm impressed very good my friend
Cheers Ric, glad you liked it mate! Atb, Simon.
I love how you always want to make or amend things rather than buying. Too easy to go online these days and just buy new, but no real sense of achievement. Great work and only wish I came across your channel a couple of years ago instead of earlier this year
Always nice to make or modify your own gear - you can make it to your own specific spec and much more enjoyable to use! 😁👍
Simon, a bloke in the woods I used my mini fire anchor set you have from tjm, great piece of kit, so I am glad I saw it in your video. Do you have something to put yours in like a canvas bag? Thinking of the best way to keep it clean and off other stuff in my bag when going away
WOW! You did an amazing job on that bag, I save all the straps and buckles off from my old bags also, I need to get myself a sewing machine!
Thanks Pete! Be warned though - once you have a sewing machine, you’ll be swimming in bags for everything! I’ve even made bags for bags hehehe! Thanks for watching, Atb, Simon.
very nice done. so tasteful modifications, so useful and looks as they have been there since the bag was designed. "Snyggt jobbat" atb Jonas
Thanks Jonas, glad you liked it! I’m really happy with it - much more useful and hopefully more waterproof!! Atb, Simon.
Good call on changing the axe sleeve as I think the axe handle would have got uncomfortable knocking against your side as you walked. Great bag.
Cheers Martin - Yes, I definitely prefer it where it is now - I only wanted on the back originally so it was partially hidden, but yes, it would probably have been uncomfortable. Thanks mate, Atb, Simon.
Grand job, looks like a completely new pack. Very nice Simon.
Excellent project
Hello Simon love the channel, and how you present yourself,and also your the father and son video i wish my daughter would be interested like your son was all the best and keep it going mate brilliant 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks Jim, really glad you like the videos! It had been a long time since Tom wanted to join me, so naturally I jumped at the chance!! Both he and my elder daughter used to come on camps and trips when they were younger, but sadly, as they get older, their interest has dwindled. Bribery might help! Lol!! Atb and good luck! Simon.
Spot on. Inspired me to do some mods to my polish bread bag. Cheers Sel
Great job. Your right my sewing machine would have thrown out smoke in refusal to go through that many layers. It doesn't even like 2 layers of Jean material. It would be nice to have an Industrial machine. You must have an excellent ability to visualize the way you want it to turn out before you start. Thank you Simon for the video.
Thank you! Try using denim needles - makes a big difference. 👍
Nicely done Simon! I hope you get another twenty five years out of it. :-)
All the best,
Al
Cheers Al, I hope so! It’s now modernised for the 21st century. Atb, Simon.
Many thanks Simon for all your vids that you shared with us ! Personally you really inspired me to make my own pouches and accesories for my outdoor gear. I started useing the speedy sticher sewing owl and it works great.
Cheers mate !
Cheers Alex - glad you’ve been inspired! I’ve not used the speedy stitcher - I’ll have to have a look at one! Thanks and Atb, Simon.
Great video. You’re ingenuity & persistence is inspirational. Cheers, safe travels & God bless 🙏🏼⛺️😎
Ah, you found it! 👍👍 Thanks Roland.
I would enjoy seeing what modifications you would make to your homemade baker cooking tent now that you have used it a few times. Would you make changes or not?
Dang, you're good. great job!
good looking little pack !! well done :)
Cheers Chris - a pair of them would make awesome panniers for yer postie bike!! 😀 glad you liked it mate. Atb, Simon.
That is very impressive... Top job my friend..
I look forward to trying out my own.
Thank you
Thank you! It was worth the effort - the bag is definitely improved- much simpler to fasten etc. Good luck with your own project. Atb, Simon.
Fantastic! That bag is the dog's b.....!
DHf1champ - Cheers, glad you like it - I’m pretty pleased with it - needs testing, but definitely an improvement! Atb, Simon.
It was a great job, now i know what to do with my old and never usable BW Kampftasche!
Thanks Peter - it’s worth the effort - it’s a great bag anyway - but so much better with straps you can fasten and unfasten easily - even with gloves on! Cheers and Atb, Simon.
Very enjoyable to watch and your wood leather stamp is Awesome .
most excellent revamp simon i also like you made your own logo at the end often wondered how they did that atb alb
Cheers Alb! That was my first go a leather work - wasn’t sure how well it would come out so I was pleasantly surprised! I’m going to make a video on making a leather patch soon. 👍 Atb, Simon.
Great Video! Some awesome ideas and handycraft! Thanks!
Excellent job.
Very professional job. I love mil surp gear. I mod mine but it never turned out this nice. I'll just have to aim higher.
Thanks for the vid, very encouraging.
Cheers - glad you liked it! Not all the stuff I’ve done has turned out so well - the quick-unpick is definitely my friend!! Thanks for watching, Atb, Simon.
Simon, a bloke in the woods
I understand.
I think my mother called it a seam ripper. Funny how we call something by differing names.
Atb, John.
You say potato and I say potato -or something like that! Lol! It’s a very useful little tool whatever it’s called! 😀
Brilliant work Simon. Some great mods there.
Cheers. It’s a bit more user-friendly now. Atb, Simon.
Really cool video! Wish I could sew like that....so many modifications that I wish I could make to my packs. Great ideas here!
Thank you David. I just bought a second hand sewing machine and taught myself - have a go! Atb, Simon
Beautiful work! I have an original MKVII British gas mask bag that I’ve always wanted to modify. Thanks for the inspiration!
Cheers Doug! Those respirator cases are really good bags, I’ve got one of the newer, rubberised ones - love it and they don’t cost a lot, which is a bonus! Atb, Simon
Top notch work matey
nicely thought out & modded
atb
Barry
Thanks Barry, glad you liked it mate, Atb, Simon.
That looks great Simon, good effort I’m new to finding your channel and I’m glad I did. Keep up the good work. I have a machine I was given so might give it a go
Thanks Lee, glad you found the channel and thanks for watching! Give it a go - once you’ve got the hang of using the machine - you’ll be finding all sorts of projects to get into!! 👍 Atb, Simon.
Looks good buddy
Thanks mate! Glad you like it. Atb, Simon.
A very inspiring work, as many of your videos! Thank you!
Exceptional work
Great mods Simon.
Very skilled stay safe
Thanks John! Happy Christmas! 🎄
Nice mods and more adaptable more useful ;-)
Cheers Michael, it’s definitely better for my needs now! Atb, Simon.
Another nice modification.
Nice work.👏👏
Amazing Job, now I have to overwork my own haversack ;)
Awesome job! Great old pack!
Cheers! Glad you enjoyed it! They don’t make gear like that any more! Atb, Simon.
Nice video, Simon. Looked like a tough job, but well worth the effort. Looks amazing, mate. Got me wanting to make my own haversack. May buy some waxed canvas and have a crack. Soooooooooo... I guess we'll be seeing you do an over-nighter out of it, soon??? ;-) Thanks for sharing, bud. Take care.
Cheers Andy! It was definitely worth it - the alterations have improved it and I like how it looks. As for an overnighted - watch this space mate!! 😉 Atb, Simon.
Nice overhaul. Like the change with the ax. Is it more comfortable on the side? Leather logo is beautiful...!! Recycling is a good idea. Would brass loops be stronger? The plastic clasps is used in grocery carts here for the young kids.. I think they don't last as long on the carts... A new brand coming soon? Thanks
Thanks Julie! Definitely more comfortable on the side. It’s a work in progress - I’m sure it will evolve. 😂
Wow, you did an amazing job on this pack! I do not own a haversack but would like to some day. I do not have a sewing machine or the skills so I may have to send it to you for the modifications lol Thanks for sharing you did a great job.
North Country Adventures - Thank you - glad you like it! It turned out well - I’m really happy with it! The other option is to get one that doesn’t need any modification - like the ‘Hidden Woodsmen’ haversack - pricey, but really good!! Atb, Simon.
Nice work Simon Thank you
Thanks Steve!
looks good. good job.
Thanks Joe - glad you liked it! Atb, Simon.
great video - never seen this pack and want one
Try Ebay
Much larger than it appears. I used mine for my camera, brass rubbing supplies, and a change of clothes for short hitching trips.
Incredible work Simon! Possible to point us towards a supplier of these bags?
Hi Rob, cheers! Harder to find these days, although I believe there is still stock available in surplus stores in Germany. Check online ‘Bundeswehr Kampftasche’ 👍
Actually, I found what I think is the same pack (as an EAST German) at hessenantique.com. They’re in the US, Atlanta area. Look under Military Surplus... Bags - Rucksacks. It’s listed as an East German Combat Pack w/suspenders.Price was $9.99 US
Hi Simon!
You should start making some for sale
I wish I had the time! 👍
Simon.... again, beautiful work! I have a pack or haversack similar to yours that I would like to modify along the same lines as you have. However, I fear my skills are less than yours and I']] have to find someone to help with the stitching. In any case, nice work and thanks for sharing. Best wishes... Ax
Thanks Ax! Give it a go / you might surprise yourself! If I can do it, I’m sure you can! 😁👍
Really enjoy watching your work and craftsmanship. Please keep up the good work and the videos.... Nice work. Ax
Awesome video, Simon! What kind of thread do you prefer for you outdoor gear mods?
Thanks Jeffrey, I just use regular polyester thread - I like the stuff made by Gutterman - comes in every colour imaginable and is good and strong. Cheers and Atb, Simon.
Awesome job Simon, looks amazing, what's the name of the velcro/and where did you find it please, really enjoy your videos, cheers craig
Thanks Craig, glad you enjoyed it. I bought the reels of Velcro from eBay, I think it is made by a company called ‘Sam’ but there is loads available - just make sure it is the sew-on stuff and not the self adhesive type. Cheers, Simon.
Very nice fascinating film Simon, I always said you are a multi talented man. The haversack looked brand new at the end and I really liked the leather logo. Found the sewing machine hypnotic, would liked to have seen more. Cheap as chips, you seen the price of a bag of chips from the chippie? Cheers. ⛺️🏕🏔👍
Hahaha! Yes I have - extortion!!! Actually we are quite lucky in that respect - in my local town, we have a chip van that visits the market place on a Saturday - only sells chips or chip butties, £1 a portion - a big portion, damned fine chips and served in newspaper how they used to be!!! Glad you liked the bag, there were hours of sewing machine clips!! I’ll include more next time!!! Atb Mike.
Brilliant
Cheers Abe! Atb.
Hi Simon, love the mods on this pack. Great vid very informative. It has inspired me to have a go myself. Just one question what is the rolled up canvas item you have strapped under the lid in the opening sequence, just curious? Cheers Steve
chazfoster325 - Cheers Steve, glad you like, and glad you’ve been inspired! The rolled up thing is my dogs blanket - also a homemade job, it was to hand and fits well under the lid! Atb, Simon.
I like what you are doing on this bag , though it would be bigger than the one I use , I have a L.A.P.D. larger bug out bag , I go on longer trips to my doctor appointments, sometimes to the state east of here or state south of here , most times my tribe takes me there and bring me home , sometimes different drivers , so I have to take all my things in and back in with who brings me home , ive room for water on one end iced tea on opposite end. Enough exterior pockets to have , what i need , and here in the states , we are able to carry a consealed weapon, plus I carry 2 extra quarts of iced tea 1 iced water inside , because I'm not paying 1 us dollar for 12 oz cold or hot drinks , I also carry slightly over 2 quarts of hot coffee. I seen one unbranded for 25.00 us dollars on e bay just like mine , these do not have a rain flap over the top though. But for my use they're almost big enough. Between the inner storage , each side has a velcro side release to kinda hide things you might need in a hurry . I'm disabled now , the bag takes up my whole walker seat , and I'm a large person. I was hoping I'd find something else where I'd not have to carry my tablet , and chargers and headset in another bag . But I'll make do till I find something bigger
how long did it take from start to finish to complete the bag? love the logo its wicked! cheers Simon
Cheers Michael!! Glad you liked it! Well, it took about 6 hours of actual work, but a lot of that is setting up the camera, adjusting shots, moving the camera for different angles, retaking crap shots etc etc, so I’d probably say it took half that time really!!! The lengths we go to to get the shot!!! Lol!! I’m really pleased with the patch too - it was my first bit of leather work - looks good on the bag. 😀
Great mods!!!!!!
An awesome mod! Is it still going strong?
Thank you! Yes, it’s still in frequent use as my day bag. The only modification I’m not so happy with is the internal straps to hold a blanket - these tend to get in the way when they are not in use. Other than that - really happy still!
Found it!! As always, great mod and video!! How has that sleeve for the axe held up?? Does the weight of it stress the top, or did you reinforce it.
Thanks! It’s been fine, I don’t use the loop that often to be honest, but it is reinforced with bar-tacks.
Simon, a bloke in the woods Actually, I found what I think is the same pack (as an EAST German) at hessenantique.com. They’re in the US, Atlanta area. Look under Military Surplus... Bags - Rucksacks. It’s listed as an East German Combat Pack w/suspenders. Price was $9.99 US. I’m looking for an LK35. I prefer it over the a medium ALICE. I have two sources in Sweden I’ll enlist to look for it over there for me. Safe travels!!
The end pockets on the bag would carry your Nalgene bottle in either end . Los Angeles Police gear , Is how to look it up
Hi mate, are you doing this shelter building thing with the kids tomorrow. Sorry for contacting you here didn't know how else too
Hi Carl! No, I’m not mate, it’s not something Sarah’s involved with through work and Tom’s got other plans! Hope you have a great time!!
Simon, a bloke in the woods no worries mate. Just thought it would be you all over.
What have You done with my Kampftasche??? It was so heavy but quite robust in the 80ties...👍👍
HAhaha - great bags! 👍
With the types of sewing you do...try to find an old Upholstery Machine.
One person had the dodgy strap obsession.
Awesome job. Check out Wisconsin Woodsman.
's channel.Makes a lot of haversacks
Thank you! I’ll do that - I’ve seen some of his videos, but not on his haversacks - always nice to see what others are doing! Cheers and Atb, Simon
😂😂😂😂😂. And a shaking head in disbelief! And I sew! You'd never catch me doing all this work. Even with an industrial machine! Oh, maybe if someone gave it to me. But I have my doubts. Oh, boy, you do like a challenge, don't you. Now be honest, how often have you used this in the last 2yrs? Was it worth the effort?
Hahaha - it was definitely worth the effort - it gets used quite a bit - when I only need a few things for filming or doing whatever I’m doing. It’s a good day bag. 👍
Literally can’t find this bag anyway, can I buy yours? :p
Haha, try surplus stores in Germany (online) 👍
Simon, a bloke in the woods But, Nein spenk ze germen.
I'm sorry Simon. The internet connection is playing up. Once was more than enough, wasn't it. Oh well. My punishment for being cheeky! Cheers.
😂😂😂😂
At first.... I thought you were insane
🤪
@@simonablokeinthewoods I love it. I showed my wife. She liked it too
this dude is the fucking shit