what military-style hydration system do you use?

11x11x said:
I heard these style packs (motherlode/BFM) are popular with the younger Joes on deployment. I've done it all in the past concerning straight-up bladders, and attaching them to larger packs in various fashions. Was hoping to get something more directly tailored to the task.
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Yeah, there are a lot of "3-day" packs (Blackhawk, Camelbak and others) which are popular. But don't forget, most of these packs have no type of frame for heavy loads and extended carry. A lot of the joes travel via vehicle and helo, so about the only time they get carried is too and from the mode of transportation and thier hootch.

ROCK6
 
I have a couple older 2 and 3 liter Unbottles (basically the same as the current Camelbak HotShot 3L) that I have used with various non-military packs. About a year ago I bought a Pakteen, and I have found it to be very handy. The Apkteen is small enough to be used with a lumbar/small pack for day hikes, and it can be attached to the waistbelt of a larger pack. The 50 0z capacity is more than a Nalgene or a big Klean Kanteen, and the fact that isn't rigid makes for easier stowing and comfortable carry.

A note about the Camelbak packs: I was at one time keenly interested in obtaining a Motherlode. Upon trying it on, I found that it didn't fit me at all. I have a long torso, and the waistbelt landed high above my waist. Sure, I could make it work if I had to, but the idea of carrying a loaded pack like that didn't appeal to me. If you really want a Camelbak pack that is designed to hold more tha 1500 ci of gear, I highly recommend trying it on first. If you need to buy online, make sure you know the merchant's retrun policy. Camelbak, IMHO, makes top-quality gear. However, some of their mid- to bigger packs have no adjustment for how they ride other than via the shoulder straps.
 
ROCK6 said:
Yeah, there are a lot of "3-day" packs (Blackhawk, Camelbak and others) which are popular. But don't forget, most of these packs have no type of frame for heavy loads and extended carry. A lot of the joes travel via vehicle and helo, so about the only time they get carried is too and from the mode of transportation and thier hootch.

ROCK6
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I already have the standard style 3 day assault pack by LBT. And understand what you mean. But again, I'm looking for something somewhat smaller, and the heaviest item I'll be humping in this pack... Is the water bladder. Besides, I put plenty of miles under my feet and knees, jumping and walking for Uncle Sugar. So weight and comfort aren't always a huge factor in my choice ( I know not the smartest way to operate).

Thats why I'm talking with you guys here. Intially I thought the Camelbak BFM was smaller until I researched it further. Its too big for what I'd like. LOL Glad I didn't impluse purchase it and go "WTF" when it arrives LOL.
 
I have had a blackhawk cyclone that I have used everyday for probably 2 years. It is pretty much in between an eagle 3-day and a hawg. It is the older style without all the molle but I bought it off of ebay for around 30 dollars when it was being closed out. It has held up amazingly well. It came with a water bladder that I rarely use but keep in the internal pocket. When full it takes up some of the internal space. There is also a pocket that would hold a couple more bladders. The back padding is stiff enough that I have never wanted a frame in it. When stuffed, and I mean stuffed, it rounds out the back a bit. It has a wide waist belt and sternum strap. The only thing that has gone wrong with it is the little plastic thing on the bottom that is used to strap a sleeping bag on broke part way but is still usable. It is also compatable with the blackhawk side pouches that you asked about a while back. So if you bought them it might be worth a look.

Another pack worth looking at is the R.A.I.D. pack from ATS tatical. Its a little bigger then the cyclone, american made and was on sale for about 70 dollars in ACU. It has a less rigid back and I would suggest a frome sheet. For 80 bucks total its a good deal.

I think both backs have a lifetime guarantee. If I recall correctly you are in NorCal so if you want to check out either pack let me know.

Matt
 
Matt, I give the ATS RAID pack a P for potential. I'm not sure I dig the webbing, but I like that style pack. Meaning one large cargo area, vs. multiple smaller pockets, etc.

Does it come with a water bladder? Any more info? I guess its a no brainer that its heavy, but how much? I'm def. going to check it out more when I get back home. Ya, I live in Butte county. You?
 
I am in Mendo. No water bladder included. I doesnt seem very heavy. It is about the same as the cyclone but is has more room. There is a pocket for a bladder and hose ports but you would have to remove the contents of the pack to get the bladder out. The cyclone is a better design for hydration. It has a seperate pocket between the back padding and the cargo area. There are two long side pockets on the RAID that could also hold bladders. I really like the clam shell design. I am in and out of my day pack all day and this makes it more convenient. I figured I could add the out pockets that I want. I havent really tested it to much as I just got it. I thought it had a waist belt but it didnt come with one. There is however built in places to attach one.

Matt
 
Sorry for forgetting to reply.

Thank you Matt for the information, I'll take that into consideration. I'm going to send you a PM also.
 
Nalgene now makes Bladders, I just ordered 2 of them.

I gave up on camelbak, there quality has gone down hill, now that they are made overseas, although the government models seem to still be well made.
 
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