Big and Tall friendly Tactical back pack

[xdoomsongx]

So my 15 year old 40L back pack that I purchased while going to college has blown out. Thought I'd pick up a bag with a molle system to replace it. The biggest issues is that despite trying some on, I have felt like a giant putting on something that was made for Dora the explorer. I'm 6'6" and pushing 3 bills, and a lot of them have felt like I had a small purse size bag on, or the straps lacked enough adjustment options with the straps typically maxed out, and the bag still not fitting properly.

I would like something in the 40-50 liter range, and the options are enough to make my head spin. I've also exhausted all the local options, and would like to minimize returning items that don't work.

Some of the bags I am interested in and haven't been able to try are the following:

5.11 Rush 72
Condor 3 Day Assault
3v Gear Paratus
and the LAPG Atlas (this appears to be a knockoff of the 5.11 but with the "laser molle"?)

Just wondering if anyone in the big and tall category is familiar with how these fit. I will be using the bag everyday for work, travel, hunting/camping, and the occasional short backpacking trip, so features like a belt are nice, but not a requirement.

I haven't ever purchased tactical bags before, so if there is a brand that I should be looking at instead, I'm certainly open to it. I would prefer to spend less than $200. Thanks for any of your thoughts.

 

[Scott321]

Just my 2 cents... I have a couple bags with molle, but wouldn't trade in my Osprey for any of them (although the Osprey is much larger, has a mesh back, and a frame). In all honesty, I rarely use the Molle, and if I was to load up on them it would offset the balance for long hikes or other activities (I mostly used the Osprey for out of state motorcycle treks). If you look at different models from reputable backpacking companies, you should be able to find something with w/e pockets you want, a couple attachment points for the odd accessory bag, and with multiple fits for different sized people. I can't remember the names of the other high quality brands though. Stores like REI should have sales people that can help you find the right fit. Cabelas might also be an option.

As a side note, sometimes Molle/tactical backpacks show up on the cheap at Ross, TJMaxx, Marshalls, and you might even get lucky at Goodwill. I picked up a nice 75L Kathmandu backpack for a backup to my Osprey for around $15 at a local Goodwill.

 

[MatthewSB]

I've noticed that cheap import brands tend to run smaller. Lots of US companies sew great gear for our 6'+ soldiers. Military bags are typically sized for big dudes wearing armor or not.

For $200 I highly recommend the ATS RAID II. Lots of room for adjustment and the load lifters on the shoulder straps magically hold the bag tight to your back. Side straps allow the bag to be cinched down when under-filled so the weight is always against you.

I'd skip the cheap import tactical airsoft clone bags, they are known for falling apart with little notice.

 

[KnifeRep]

USGI MOLLE II 3-Day Assault Pack, they come in colors and multicam/digicam, you can find them on eBay for $40-250. Not a lot of pockets, but a good amount of MOLLE loops and cinch down straps, very adjustable, comfortable contoured shoulder straps and waist belt. I'm 6'-3" 245# and it fits me great.

Good kit, real deal 'tactical' and battle proven...

Here's one of mine in multicam, I sewed on a map pouch with Velcro loop over the US stamp, got a M11 EOD knife fashioned to the side.

 

[TOMBSTONE]

I've seen Spec-ops brand run sales on t.h.e. pack for $75.00 on the company website. I've used them, currently using the ultimate pack and eagle industries both brands with the optional internal frame