Manbag blues: 5.11 vs maxpedition

mrdabble

mrdabble

Joined
Jan 23, 2014
Messages
928
So I've accumulated a few packs now, and it's come down to this.

I love how the Maxpedition gearslingers wear on your back, the straps are comfortable, you have the third strap to keep it in place on longer journeys so on and so forth. But I don't like the organization inside... Speaking of the Sitka in particular the front pocket doesn't organize small things like pens, penlights, and other things, just a couple of flappy pockets that don't retain anything very well. The smaller front pocket isn't tall enough to take advantage of the elastic retainers, and the large pocket has the large divider that is almost in the way more than anything, followed by the slim zipper pockets and wide open pockets toward the back. It's alright, but onto 5.11...

To be specific, I have the MOAB 6 and the Rush tactical 24, and the pocket designs are much better...the front pockets have slots for whatever small stuff you have while the large pockets also allow you to organize smaller stuff while leaving room for bigger things like hoodies and changes of clothes. However, the gearslinger style on 5.11 tactical just doesn't seem to be as comfortable, I use the MOAB six for work but I could not imagine carrying it for an extended period of time. And I've looked pretty extensively into the MOAB 10 and it seems like it would be the same way....the third strap on the maxpedition eliminates any sliding around and the strap being designated left or right makes it more comfortable because it's designed for one or the other.

I know this thread is rambling a bit but I wanted to be specific, otherwise it would belong in the original man bag blues thread...

I want a pack that combines the comfort and carry ability of Maxpedition and the organization of 5.11 tactical, and I can't afford to keep buying to try. Please help!

Thanks
 
I put organizers in my Maxpedition Kodiak. Like the Neat Freak and the FR-1.
 
My Maxpedition packs and products are the only gear bags I've found to be completely satisfying.
The Maxped Lunada, for example, has numerous, easily accessible pockets, plenty of elastic straps inside to secure pens/knives/lights/etc., and it's just the right size for an EDC or a weekend getaway. The main back pouch is also perfect for everything from handguns to paperwork. NTM the plethora of MOLLY attachments to add extra pouches, bottle holders, sheaths, etc.
I have never had a single torn stitch, zipper issue, or significant wear and I've been rough with the Lunada for about 5 years.
The smaller Maxped Proteus is another very versatile pack that has just enough space to carry your daily junk but it takes up hardly any space at all.
I also have several of their smaller attachment pouches and they make great containers for specific gear.
I've had them covered in all kindsa crap, and a water hose rinse followed by a cycle in the washing machine brings em back to new.
 
I've had bags from both companies and I've been satisfied with my 5.11 bags due to their built in organization. Both are good bags but the maxpedition stuff requires more add on stuff to match the 5.11 stuff.
 
I think you would have some good success with making sub-loads for your bigger packs. The Remora organizes very well, but its mostly because of the small size. I found when carrying larger bags, that smaller pouches or cases were needed to keep things in order. But this also means that you can customize how you carry your gear. Even small mesh bags or zip pouches are useful. You can also use the loop velcro patches either with maxped inserts or make your own if you want. Small pencil cases, or other little things like that can be cheaper (and lighter) than buying a whole bunch of pocket organizers, and easier to color code.
 
I have been using a maxpedition sabercat for about 2 months, and I have been loving this pack. I have had to many bigger packs and I stuff to much crap that I don't need in there. The sabercat is the perfect size for all my EDC gear and my lunch for the day. For day to day it's perfect for me, if I go on a day hike I use my rush 24 pack.
 
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