Top 10 Special Forces Backpack Reviews

Check out our SGPT Top 10 Special Forces Backpacks  that are perfect for military professionals and functional fitness athletes alike.

These backpacks are tough, durable, and designed to endure the most demanding missions and workouts. Dive into our reviews to discover the best options that cater to your needs, and feel free to share your go-to choice in the comments below!

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Even if you’re not going out for Special Forces…

…you can use these same backpacks for a great workout or any tactical fitness training program.

#10 MYSTERY RANCH

Mark votes Mystery Ranch pack as it is dependable and meant to go the long haul.

Wes votes Mystery Ranch 2 Day Assault BVS…awesome.

If you remember Dana Designs back in the day…

…these packs have had a rebirth and are now Mystery Ranch.

The word is that the US Army Rangers are being issued these rucks. What do you expect, with its comfy padded shoulder straps and strategic design? Perfect for any rough situation.

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Do you have a good sock for endurance events that you can recommend?

Yes; I really like Darn Tough socks. I have two pairs that I rotate that they have yet to wear out.

#9 KARRIMOR SF SABER

This backpack is just so comfortable, even loaded down with all of our communications gear and extra batteries.

I have worn the Karrimor SF SABER Backpack for several years while deployed overseas. I will probably hand it down to my son for his camping trips and Boy Scout hikes.

Aside from molle webbing, it also has a waist belt and compression straps to make long hikes with gear a little more bearable.

A great pack at a good price.

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#8 MAXPEDITION FALCON II

The MAXPEDITION FALCON II tactical backpack is a strong and reliable bag, loved by outdoor enthusiasts and military personnel alike. It’s made with tough materials that can handle rough adventures and heavy use. This backpack has lots of compartments and pockets, making it easy to organize your stuff for all sorts of missions or outdoor activities.

With its comfortable straps and padded back, the FALCON II keeps you feeling good even when carrying heavy loads. It’s not too big or too small, striking a good balance for storing essentials without being too bulky.

The durable construction and smart design of this backpack make it a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile bag for their adventures or military duties.

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#7 BLACKHAWK 3

The BlackHawk 3 backpack is a real bargain coming in at around $80. This pack rides well on your back, takes abuse, and honestly looks good.

The BlackHawk 3 backpack has several compartments that are easy to get your stuff when you need it.

I would highly recommend it to any athlete that wants a good mid-size backpack to get out and explore or just a hardworking everyday carry bag.

So far I am loving this tactical backpack. It has plenty of room, has great design, and color, and feels strong right out of the box (just going to have to wait and see how strong it really is).

Recommend this product if anyone is looking for a sturdy pack.

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#6 EBERLESTOCK BANDIT PACK

The Eberlestock Bandit Backpack is a versatile and compact pack designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and adventurers. With a capacity of 750 cubic inches (12 liters), it offers enough space to carry your essentials while maintaining a sleek and low-profile design. The pack features a main compartment with internal organization pockets and a hydration sleeve, ensuring that you can keep your gear organized and stay hydrated during your outdoor pursuits. It also includes a laser-cut MOLLE panel for attaching additional accessories and gear, enhancing its versatility for different activities.

What sets the Eberlestock Bandit backpack apart is its thoughtful design, which includes comfortable padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap to distribute weight evenly. This ensures that you can wear the pack for extended periods without discomfort.

It’s a durable and reliable companion for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who need a low-profile pack with easy access to their gear. The Eberlestock Bandit Backpack offers an excellent balance of functionality and design, making it an ideal choice for those who value both style and practicality in their outdoor adventures.

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#5 KELTY RAVEN

The Kelty Raven Tactical Backpack is a formidable and versatile pack designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, backpackers, and tactical operators. With a total capacity of 51 liters, this backpack provides ample storage space for all your gear and essentials. It features a large main compartment with internal organization pockets, making it easy to keep your gear well-sorted. The MOLLE webbing on the front and sides allows for modular attachments, so you can customize your loadout to suit the mission or adventure at hand.

Durability is a hallmark of the Kelty Raven Tactical Backpack, with its rugged 500D Cordura fabric construction. This material is known for its resistance to abrasion, ensuring that the backpack can endure the harshest conditions. Comfort is not overlooked either, thanks to the padded shoulder straps, adjustable sternum strap, and padded back panel that provide support and ease of carry, even on long treks.

I like that this backpack features a hydration-compatible design, keeping you hydrated during your adventures. Whether you’re heading into the wilderness or embarking on a tactical mission, the Kelty Raven Tactical Backpack is a reliable and durable choice that meets the demands of your outdoor or tactical pursuits.

I also like the Kelty Redwing 50 as another option.

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#4 EBERLESTOCK G2 GUNSLINGER

This pack brings something a little different to the table. The benefit is that you can easily carry your rifle along with you on the next hunt. The Eberlestock G2 Gunslinger II Pack is a mid-sized tactical pack with a full-width scabbard that accommodates larger cross-sections or bulky optics. Perfect as a laptop or military radio compartment, it fits short-barreled rifles when scabbard is folded up.

It has ample capacity with with 2100 cubic inch capacity and a tubular Intex-II frame system and adjustable shoulder harness. I like the padded hip belt when you are humping a heavier load. Overall this pack offers comfort and plenty of space for gear.

The G2 Gunslinger II is ideal for multiple uses and is recommended for range shooting, law enforcement operations, and competitive shooting.
You have the ability to customize your pack with recommended add-ons like a small rain cover, A2MP MultiPack Accessory Pouch, pack-mounted shooting rest, and triple wedge shooting rest. I like having the rain cover for sure as nothing worse than getting your gear wet when your out in the field.

You can transport your weapon securely with a scabbard volume of 600 cubic inches.  The GSTC cover allows you to carry your rifle up to 60 inches long. The scabbard dimensions are  34″L x 10″W x 3″D, with 26″ circumference opening.
Size: 2700 cubic inches/34 liters

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#3 511 TACTICAL RUSH 12 PACK

The 5.11 Tactical Rush 12 backpack is a versatile and durable pack designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts, law enforcement professionals, and everyday adventurers. With a capacity of 24 liters and a weight of 2.6 pounds, it strikes a perfect balance between storage space and portability. The backpack features a water-resistant 1050D nylon construction, ensuring excellent durability and weather resistance.

The main compartment and front admin pocket offer ample organization options, while the MOLLE webbing on the front and sides allows for modular attachment of additional gear. The contoured shoulder straps and adjustable sternum strap provide a comfortable and secure fit, while the compression straps allow for load stabilization.

The Rush 12 also incorporates a hydration pocket with a pass-through port, making it compatible with most hydration systems. Whether you’re on a day hike, a tactical mission, or commuting to work, the 5.11 Tactical Rush 12 backpack delivers the durability, organization, and versatility needed for any adventure. The 5.11 pack is a go-to bag for many Spec Ops guys that we know out there getting the job done.

Note – The 5.11 Tactical Rush 12 Backpack does have a chest strap, padded shoulder straps, sternum strap, and waist strap that make it the best tactical backpack for missions if you ask me.

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#2 ALICE PACK

The Rothco Alice pack is a classic and reliable backpack that has been a staple for outdoor enthusiasts and military personnel for decades. With a capacity of 34 liters, it offers ample storage space for gear and supplies. The pack is constructed with rugged and durable heavyweight canvas material, ensuring exceptional durability in tough conditions. It features a large main compartment with a drawstring closure and a flap top with quick-release buckles for easy access.

The outside has lots of pockets to keep smaller things organized. You can change the shoulder straps and waist belt to fit you better, and the metal frame helps support heavier stuff. This pack also has places to attach more gear. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or doing military stuff, the Rothco Alice pack is dependable, tough, and useful. That’s why lots of outdoor fans and pros trust it.

The ALICE pack is still used today in Navy SEAL BUDS training. Once the candidates get to SQT they are issued a more modern pack (see notes below). I personally used this pack in BUDS training and still own one today that I use for rucking and trail work.

It’s also great if you’re looking for a good everyday carry bag that will last long.

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#1 GORUCK

Bulletproof build, made in the USA, and no questions asked SCARS program.

You break it, they fix or replace it.

They just want the back story, especially if sent in with bullet holes or embedded frags. You can modify the pack if need be but mostly good to go.

GoRuck also makes a Bullet Pack which is smaller and lightweight.

The pockets are great to hold a Standard Source Hydration Bladder.

The 10 L (10 liters) and 15 L work well at GORUCK Light and double as day rucks.

The GoRuck 5 L is best when all you need is a bladder and some small stuff.

The GoRuck bullet 15 is also great for travel without a laptop.

Check out the SGPT GoRuck Bullet Review here

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RUNNER UP LIST:

These did not quite make the list but are worth taking a look at for the value.

#11 MARDINTOP MOLLE

For military, tactical, and outdoor adventure enthusiasts, the Mardintop Molle 70 liter backpack is an indispensable companion for any mission or excursion. Crafted from high-quality tear-resistant 600D Polyester fabric and equipped with YKK zippers and buckles, this backpack is built to withstand the rigors of rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions. Complete with a rain cover, it ensures your gear stays dry and protected even in inclement weather, making it ideal for extended outdoor ventures where reliability is paramount. With its customizable comfort features including multi-position torso adjustment, adjustable padded sternum strap, and hip belt, this backpack ensures a secure and comfortable fit for individuals of all body sizes, essential for long hours of wear during demanding missions or adventures.

Featuring a generous 4272 cubic inches of storage capacity spread across multiple compartments and pockets, the Mardintop Molle backpack offers ample space to organize and carry all your essential gear for extended outdoor excursions. The main compartment includes a grid zipper bag, a water bladder compartment, and two inner pockets, providing easy access to hydration systems and essential items while on the move.

Additionally, the molle system allows for the attachment of extra hiking gear, ensuring you have everything you need within reach. With its large zipped access at the front, the backpack facilitates quick and convenient access to the main compartment, enabling swift retrieval of gear when time is of the essence. Whether embarking on multi-day travel, backpacking expeditions, mountaineering, hiking, camping, or exploring remote wilderness areas, the Mardintop Molle 70 liter backpack is the perfect outdoor gear companion, combining durability, functionality, and versatility to meet the demands of any adventure.

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#12 Granite Gear/Catoma C.H.I.E.F. Patrol Pack

FILBE Assault & Main packs
Condor Outdoor 3-Day Assault Pack
Spec.-Ops. T.H.E. Tactical Pack
Direct Action Dragon Egg Tactical Backpack
Triple Aught Design FAST Pack Litespeed
Reebow Gear Tactical Backpack
SOG Ninja
Drago Gear Tactical Backpack
BDS Scorpion
DD Hammocks Bergen Rucksack
Pro-Force Combat Backpack

Bottom Line:

A good tactical backpack is one of your assets on the field, as it literally holds your whole life whenever you’re away from home.

And that is why choosing your own could be quite tricky.

You should make sure that it doesn’t only have a padded shoulder strap but also a comfortable one so you could carry your bag even across long distances.

You’ll also tend to run a lot, an excellent tactical backpack with sternum straps, padded straps, and even a good material such as Cordura nylon is a big steal as it can definitely save your life.

So do your research and read more reviews from people who have gone through many tactical bags over the years to be able to gauge what works for you.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Brad McLeod is married with two kids and an all around average family guy. He grew up in Tallahassee, Florida and despite training all the wrong ways – made it to Navy SEAL training in Coronado, California.

He flunked out of Navy SEAL BUD/S training after making it over half way through (6 months of grueling training). After a year in the Fleet Navy on the USS Cleveland (LPD-7) he came back to graduate BUDS and serve on SEAL Team Four.

His story is simple–Don’t Ever Quit on your Dream! Put one foot in front of the other and fall forward.

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