Top 10 Special Forces Backpack Reviews:
“You’ve used so many tactical backpacks, so what is your favorite Special Forces tactical backpack?”
We get this question weekly “What backpack do Special Forces use and which one is the best?”.
SGPT has put together a list of top brands voted on by our members from around the world.
Check out this list of Top 10 Special Forces tactical backpacks and don’t forget to post up your favorite pack in the comments below.
And this isn’t just a simple list. Most of these are ones we’ve used for a long time and stood many tests on different missions.
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.
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#10 MYSTERY RANCH
Mark votes Mystery Ranch pack as it is dependable and meant to go the long haul.
Wes votes Mystery Ranch 3 Day Assault BVS…awesome. US Army Rangers are now being issued Mystery Ranch backpacks.
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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Question: What is the best backpack to use for the GORUCK Challenge?
Answer: We definitely recommend the GORUCK GR-1 backpack for the event. If you cant spend that much money then check out the Kelty Pack.
#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
Aside from molle webbing, it also has a waist belt and compression straps to make long walks a breeze.
A great pack at a good price.
#8 MAXPEDITION FALCON II
It is narrow enough to ride right on your back without getting in your arms’ way for drawing a bow.
One of the best tactical backpacks in terms of durability…
…it holds plenty enough gear for 1-3 days, and it has plenty of external tie-downs to strap on extra gear or clothing.
I’m sure it would do well for rucking since that’s what my wilderness country bowhunting amounts to.
Video – Maxpedition Falcon II reviews
#7 BLACKHAWK 3
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.
#6 COAXSHER
It has awesome packs and interchangeable compartments along with the spacious main compartment.
Coaxsher makes some of the better first responder packs, tactical bag, 
Video – Wildland packs by Coaxsher
Check out the Drago Gear Tracker Backpack @ Amazon.com
#5 BDS Tactical Pack
Chris votes for the BDS Tactical bag thanks to its ultimate strength:
I know some people have had problems with them, but I like BDS Tactical 3 Day Pack
In case you still don’t know…
Their stuff is bombproof, relatively inexpensive, and made in America.
Plus, if you call or email them, they will do custom mods with little to no hassle.
I want a GoRuck, just haven’t laid eyes on one in order to justify the price.
But this day assault pack, it has pretty durable zipper pockets too, which are surprisingly spacious inside as well, while giving convenient and easy access, especially if you’re on the move.
Video – BDS Tactical backpacks
Check out the Berghaus Centurio 30 Backpack @ Amazon.com
#4 KELTY
“I love my Kelty Tactical Raven Backpack
It’s a great fit, its size is good and it’s built to last for a really good while, all at a decent price.
I have been using this pack for 2 plus years and it is good to go for several more.
I like the molle straps on the outside to add another small compartment pouch if needed. The straps are noticeably thicker and better quality than most tactical bags.”
Video – Kelty tactical Falcon 4000
Check out the Kelty Map 3500 @ Amazon.com
#3 511 TACTICAL RUSH 12
Merrick voted the 5.11 Tactical –
“5.11 rush 12 or 24 either one I use both a lot!!
Awesome packs.
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
#2 ALICE PACK
“Old Alice Pack is the only way to go.
I have rucked up to 5 miles this year several times with 110 lbs in it, but most of the time keep it at 75 lbs, because of the knees at our age.
Good times sir! Have a great week everyone.
You can modify the ALICE Pack w/frame
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).
It’s also great if you’re looking for a good everyday carry bag that will last long.
Video – Alice Pack
Check out the Karrimor SF Sabre 35 Backpack @ Amazon.com
#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.
DCrews votes for the Goruck GR2.
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 GoRuck Bullet Review here
Video – GoRuck 1 review
Grab your buddies and check out the GoRuck Challenge @ GoRuck.com
RUNNER UPS
There are so many great backpacks out there that we had to include a few more that SGPT ahletes have used in the past.
- Bergen Rucksack with Rain Cover Tactical Hiking Patrol Backpack
- Pro-Force Army Waterproof Rucksack New Forces Combat Backpack
- Granite Gear/Catoma C.H.I.E.F. Patrol Pack
- FILBE Assault & Main packs. I have a medic’s pack ( one of my numerous packs…) pack in Coyote which has more pouches, pockets, and sections to put things in than any other pack I’ve seen yet!
Check out these questions from SGPT athletes.
Question: What about the 511 rush 24 vs rush 12? What do you think?
Answer: We like the 511 backpacks as they are well made and will stand the test of time.
Check out this video as both of those ruck sacks are compared.
Question: “Coach, where can we find a good value Special Forces rucksack?”.
Answer: You can get a good Alice pack used for under $40. That would be a good start.
Question: “What is a good Assault rucksack for Navy SEAL training?”.
Answer: Check out the Kelty Map 3500 backpack
Question: Is the GR1 the best rucksack for the GoRuck challenge?
Answer: Check out the reviews above and you will see that many athletes recommend this type of backpack for the Challenge.
Question: Does the Maxpedition Falcon II have a rain cover?
Answer: Yes, you can order one separately like this one Black nylon backpack rain cover for hiking
Question: I am heading to Special Forces camp —what is a good packing list for a large ruck?
Answer: You will need your basic gear like an extra set of BDUs, a poncho, lightweight sleeping bag, and extra socks and t-shirts for starters.
Question: What is the top Navy SEAL backpack?
Answer: There are many but the Kelty Map 3500 backpack
Question: What are ALICE pack modifications for the go ruck challenge?
Answer: If you want to use the Alice pack, make sure you get a frame.
Don’t put anything in your outside pockets as it will fall out when you’re doing bear crawls. Make sure all of your bricks are taped together – don’t leave them loose or they will be at the bottom of your pack and edges of bricks in your back.
Wrap bubble wrap around all of the bricks in one long piece.
Question: How do you rate the 5.11 Rush 72 vs Mystery ranch backpack?
Answer: The Mystery Ranch is a higher-end pack with more bells and whistles and the Rush is more basic and no-frills get-it-done pack. You can check out more reviews on the 5.11 Rush Backpack here
Question: What do you know about BDS tactical gear—any tactical backpack reviews?
Answer: BDS makes good tactical equipment – check out reviews here for the BDS Tactical Three Day Pack
Question: What about the Kelty Falcon backpack? How does it rate out and where can I find it for sale?
Answer: Check out reviews on the Kelty Tactical Falcon 4000 Backpack here
Question: Do you have any reviews for the 5.11 Tactical Backpack
Answer: The Alice pack is a very basic pack that can get the job done. The Rush 72 has a lot more bells and whistles – check out 5.11 Tactical reviews here
Question: Do you have any reviews for the GORUCK vs Mystery Ranch?
Answer: Yes; right here:
Question: Do you have any Alice pack mark 2 reviews?
Answer: Yes; check here for Alice Pack reviews
Question: Do you have any reviews for the 5.11 rush 72 vs pro force?
Answer: Yes; check out reviews for the Proforce Snugpak here
Question: Do you have any reviews for the 5.11 Rush 72 tactical vs GORUCK G2 pack?
Answer: Yes; check out the 5.11 1 Day Rush Backpack
Question: Coach, what do you know about the 5.11 kit bag for Special Forces?
Answer: Check out reviews of the 5.11 Kit Bag
Question: What is the best backpack for a GORUCK event?
Answer: We recommend the GR1 for a GORuck challenge or GoRuck light.
Question: What backpack is issued to the US Army Rangers?
Answer: The Rangers are issued ALICE packs and Mystery Ranch packs.
Question: Where can I find a good tactical backpack comparison list?
Answer: Check out the reviews and comparisons of tactical backpacks above.
Answer: It depends on the team and mission but recently they are issued ALICE packs and Granite Tactical Gear Chief Patrol Pack
Question: Do you have any reviews for Karrimor vs Kelty backpacks?
Answer: Yes; check out the reviews above and more info on Karrimor SF Sabre 45 Backpack here
Question: Do you have any reviews for the BDS Tactical pack?
Answer: Yes; check out this video on the BDS scorpion.
Question: How have you seen athletes customize their Goruck GR1?
Answer: Several guys have added a hip belt or a thin iron plate to add weight instead of bricks. You also see athletes add a foam block in the bottom to keep the weight higher up on the back.
Question: What is a good rain cover for the 5.11 tactical rush backpack?
Answer: Check out the Mountainsmith Rain Cover
Question: Do you have a Drago gear tracker review?
Answer: Yes; go here.
Question: What do you use for everyday carry EDC bags?
Answer: I use the GORUCK bullet as my every day carry bag as it is just big enough to get the job done.
Question: Where can I find more info and sign up for the Army Special Forces?
Answer: Check out the Army website.
Conclusion: Top 10 Special Forces Backpack Reviews
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, paddedd 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.
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5.11 Tactical Backpack reviews
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