BERGHAUS CRUSADER CYCLOPS 90 LITRE RUCKSACK (Vintage)....bexbugoutsurvivor

[@johncrouch8988]

Hi 👋 Love my crusader cyclops. I always put my roll Matt in the main body of the ruck. Let it fill the inner circumference of the bag and then fill the inside with all the gear. It gives shape to the bag, protect your back and the gear inside and reduces your silhouette and size when pushing through bushes. 👍

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

I have filmed that method as a quick tip some time ago...

[@AndyWragg]

The original gucci bergan on which the initial run OD PLCE bergan was based. I myself had the Cyclops Roc 70L pack back in the late 80's ( I couldn't afford the Crusader at the time) but I got the Crusader pockets later and just strapped them on using the compression straps. I had that bag for years, and it went all over with me. I still have one of the side pockets after all these year. They were originally civvy expedition packs that were made in OD for military use out of 1000D Cordura. I see the elastic that runs around the lid edge has disintegrated, as did mine. Made when Berghaus was a name you could trust. BTW the Vulcan came later than the Roc (first) and Crusader which shared the same Cyclops back and harness system - We called it (Vulcan) the Vulva cos of the way the lumbar cushions looked like lady parts. Most of the guys I served with had either the Crusader, Roc or Vulcan.

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Great stuff...

[@johndoogan3712]

Hi 👋, getting that pack from a car boot sale was indeed a real steal. We have to turn the clock back almost 40 years to have a look. The Cyclops Crusader was originally marketed as a mountaineering pack in two back sizes, 2 for under 6 foot and 3 for over. It was later given an NSN stock number. Even back in the day, these packs were certainly not cheap. The webbing system in use then was the 1958 pattern. The Cyclops ROC was purely a civilian pack although a cheaper alternative, its side pouches were smaller and interchanged with the Munro 35 day sack, both of which were popular with cadets. The Munro 35 also complied with airline hand baggage requirements. These days they're iconic items from the Cold War.

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Great stuff...!!!

[@matt6477]

A lot of us bought these packs in the 80/90s before plce was issued. Far superior to the issued plce bergan. The came in 3 sizes, so there was an option of a ‘short’ back. Late 80s they were around £100. The plce was modelled on the Vulcan. They was did it in DPM too. I got one off eBay.

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

I have used the issued S90 Plce for years, and although there seems to be a massive online fan base of them (especially on youtube),I don't like them. The S90 is uncomfortable heavy, even when empty, and only holds 70 litres up to the snow collar. The crusader is less than half the weight of the S90 gives a full 90 litres and is so light and comfy when loaded with the same kit as the S90. The Crusader feels like cheating lol....thanx 4 watching...bex

[@mikel6517]

I had more back problems with the Vulcan compared to the crusader. Would love to buy a crusader again. Found the design of the crusader better, the vertical back padding ribs. Just can’t find a decent website in the UK for them only in Europe. Good find very jealous. If I remember the roc 70 litre had the exact same back padding as the crusader mark 1, at least the one I had in 1985/6

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

I hear the newer versions are quite inferior to the vintage too. I will never go back to my S90 plce again....The vintage Berghaus design makes the kit weight feel like carrying a sack of balloons...bex

[@mikel6517]

@@bexbugoutsurvivor don’t bother looking for a Vulcan Bergen. Berghaus tried to improve on a classic design, the crusader. I worked in Newcastle opposite berghaus own shop the LD mountain centre so often visited in the 80’s.

[@Flexaret]

Nice, you got it at a good price and it looks in pretty good condition. I have an old Cyclops (pretty sure it's a "Cyclops Crusader", not the "Roc" which was a 70l version) which looks very similar but it didn't come with side pockets and like you I found the PLCE pouches don't fit, also unfortunately one of the lid buckles is broken. The long back wasn't an issue really when those packs were designed as the only part of 58 patt that got in the way was the kidney pouches/poncho roll so they were removed and the kit transferred to the bergan. The Roc 70l and the Cyclops Roc weren't made specifically for the army, they were available to purchase from normal suppliers and were listed in the Berghaus brochures at the time. Berghaus did make some of the issue PLCE packs, probably only the OD Green version, mine has a Berghaus factory lable sewn into the main seam inside the pack. Re the waist buckle, most packs, civilian included had that style buckle, my Karrimor packs from the late 80's/early 90's operate the same way and to be honest I prefer that style over the modern fastex type. I had a Berghaus Munro back in the day same lid buckles as the Cyclops but TBH I never saw much difference between them and any other quick release buckle. As for Berghaus in general, if they work for you great, I always preferred Karrimor as although they were heavier than the Berghaus equivilent they had a back system/suspension that suited me better. The Karrimor Condor 60-100 was a nice pack but I also have a Condor 80-130 which was a mil contract only and isn't listed in any of the Karrimor brochures from the time. On the subject of packs, I was out last weekend and used the external frame SAS Bergan from the 80's, when I kneel down with it on I can't be seen from behind LOL, at 5'10" and 64kg I could hide behind a Berghaus Munro ;-) Anyway, interesting to hear your take on the Berghaus, enjoy and I hope you can get the pouches. Cheers

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

That good intel thanx. I seen the issue Roc in woodland camo, but it was in terrible condition, and he wanted too much for it. I believe the updated modern versions of these rucks, are quite inferior to these older vintage packs regarding its comfort and stitching. For multi night weekend wild camps this cyclops fits the bill. My S90 plce although more durable it is too uncomfortable and heavy for such such simple pass times.....thanx 4 watching...bex

[@Flexaret]

@@bexbugoutsurvivor I'll double check my Berghaus today, it's in storage but I'll keep an eye out for side pouches for you and let you know as I'm not wanting a set for myself. Cheers Edit, Checked out my pack, it's the same as yours, "Cyclops Crusader" turns out it wasn't missing a main buckle, it's actually missing the load lifter on one side and has a broken side compression buckle as well as a few holes so basically scrap, probably why I had it in storage. The labels are still present though, Contract No. SL32a/3702, YEAR 1987, NATO Stock No. 8465-99-775-3039 "Made in Great Britain" The main body on mine is a Cordura fabric, (I put a lighter to an internal seam and it melted like para cord) but the back panel definitely looks like cotton canvas as the colour is faded out. I can see why you like it though, a bit smaller and lighter than the PLCE but still a simple design which IMO is a good thing. I have a recent Karrimor SF Sabre 75, a good enough pack although they're rarely mentioned on KZbin, it's vastly better than the Sabre 45 (which is a very average pack and way, way over-rated on KZbin) but like most modern packs almost too much going on and all the extra features add weight, less is more. Enjoy the Cyclops Crusader, Cheers.

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Thanx, let me know if you find the relevant rocket pockets/pouches, it would be appreciated very much...b

[@Flexaret]

@@bexbugoutsurvivor Will do, no problem. I'll ask around, if anyone has a set , if I get them for free you'll get them for free. Cheers

[@Flexaret]

@@bexbugoutsurvivor Hi Bex, got a bit more info for you, maybe you know already but the zips on the Berghaus are YKK Vislon 8V, the PLCE ones are chunkier YKK Vislon 10V, the pullers are marked on the back (on the Crusader a small circle with 8V) and they're available in green in different lengths online. Assuming they haven't changed over the years you could sew them on the PLCE pouches, they should work on the Crusader but obviously I haven't tried them. Also, you mentioned liking the waist belt buckle, I've been looking for that type for ages to swap onto my modern packs as I prefer them over fastex type. Just found them, they're more rounded than the Crusader buckle and only in black but same function. I'm going to get some to swap out the buckles on my PLCE and Karrimor SF packs. Zips - YKK Vislon 8v 14" - £2.20 each Jaycotts co uk Q/R Buckle - Berg Buckle 50mm - £3.99 each ebay (Kit Monkey) Thought I'd share that, maybe useful, maybe not, Cheers

[@limmaanka]

Just bought one ! got a bergen already but this is more robust and i really like it! i put cords on the lid and sewn it on both sides looks much better.

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Imho this vintage Berghaus is for superior to the S90 plce, and 100% more comfortable when carting the same contents as the S90 for recreational use.....bex

[@neilcastell6951]

i just got home today from a 4 day trip using the berghaus cyclops ROC, its slightly smaller and had no side zips, ... so i added plce side zips myself, .... Berghaus made the first plce bergens too circa 1985/86, they were OD, smaller than later models and had upside down plce zips.

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

I think from memory the zips are a different size too, because I was going to modify the zips to fit the plce rockets. I guess some one in the comments will find me a set of mmps rockets though...I know there is a massive youtube cult following of the S90 Plce bergen, I personally will never go back to them again, but make good wall hangers in my man cave...lol

[@anthonymauger9388]

Carried it in 87 , with heavy loads , used with chest webbing ok , plce was a copy not as good , mtp version is slightly better but not by much , prefer airborne assult pack with 6 outer pockets very wide high , great with webbing but now wrong pattern

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

The Cyclops is best used a a stand alone unit without webbing, which suits me just fine. When I use webbing I only max out at 50 litres....

[@gastramp]

Just got a French Army Bergen. Good bit of kit and quite rare over here. Really good straps and padding.

[@gastramp]

Will do a film on it at some point.

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

The F2 looks ideal. How ever with me having a slim hip bone/pelvis & the F2 having a hip belts rather than a kidney pad, means it would slip down to my toes...lol

[@horatiodreamt]

Excellent vid. I'm impressed with the Cyclops shoulder straps. My PLCE shoulder straps "pinch" a bit when my bergan is fully loaded.

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

My S90 bergen is just a wall hanger now, since discovering the Berghaus....soooo comfy with the same kit that went into my bergen.....b

[@guerrillashadowman]

Great find Bex! Looks like a fantastic Bergen, hope you find some rocket pouches soon

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

I hope so too! I have awled on a couple of olive drab utility pouches for now, and it looks the bees knees. I took me 4 years to find the external frame for my Royal Marine Arctic Bergen from the Falkland era, so I don't give up easy...lol

[@je710817]

Nice ..my first berghaus was the same...got it in the UK ..now i jusing my old Dutch army Berghaus Vulcan and Dutch army Lowe Alpine's

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

I have a vintage Lower Alpine civvy ruck. May look into the sting ray too....

[@je710817]

@@bexbugoutsurvivor also nice stuff...at the moment i 'm verry interested in the vintage Karrimor Bergens ..they used diverend types during the Falklands conflict..and that is what I find interesting

[@andyventures6574]

Great pack bex. I'm looking to downsize my monster pack soon (120 litre bergen) as my gear slims down (plus I'm sadly down to 1 dog, so less dog stuff to haul) Looking for recommendations. 50-75 litres. Surplus.

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Sorry to hear about your little pal, I too am a dog owner. The idea behind any Bergen is the sleeping bag is loose fed into the bottom for a fast bug out. If you change the thinking, from loading the sleeping bag into a bergen to using a compression sack for the sleeping bag, and strapping it to the (outside) on top of the pack, you could easily down size to a 30 litre, with the only down side it takes a little longer to strike down. I did a vid on this topic, don't know if you seen it or not but will throw in a link below. The inner chamber of a Brit bergen is only 70 litres. The snow collar is 20 litres, unusable without a floating lid modification, and the remaining 10 litres is divided between the top lid and front pocket, totaling 100 litres (with out side rockets). So for the reasons given above I think a simple Northen Ireland 30 litre patrol sack would suit your needs....A tent can be bungeed vertical on the front using the daisy chain webbing. The inner chamber easily stows a full change of clothes, my softie suit, and my rain gear and gaitors. side pocket basha kit other side stove set. top lid rations, and brew kit...Ahhhhh brew....lol Give it a try, trust me you will never go back to a bergen ever agian. Secret to it is "Don't over think it, don't over load" (shelter, insulation & cook set) anything else consider it a luxury item. Also watch my compact sundries kit video for ideas... kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYO8daJpf7yja9E Best of luck bex

[@davidholstrom2008]

What size 1, 2 or 3 ???? I have a h20 size 1 I am 5' 10" ............Does the size really matter ?

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Mine is a 2, I am 5'9" fits good. Fit guide is on Berghaus web sit. I find back length is crucial for a good fit, not the persons height. I have a 19.5 inch spine (long) for a short arse like me. Tall people can have a short back length. If unsure split the difference with a number 2

[@MichaelR58]

Bex , great review and car boot find , I hope this finds you well my friend , thanks for sharing , God bless !

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Thanks 👍God bless...bex

[@Capellix0001]

Great review of a vintage Bergen

[@DMAC1966]

Had one years ago but gave it away when I left. Saw the number on the back and nearly died as mine stars with 247...

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

spooky....Imagine if it was yours....Don't worry I am taking exceptional care of it, and am very much in love with it now...lol

[@danh8726]

Bex do you have a Web link to where you get your sleeping bags from please mate ?

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

www.varusteleka.com/en/product/british-modular-defence-4-sleeping-bag-surplus/61174 Link is for the UK Modular system. The price can go down too if you wait a while, but the price shown is very competitive imho. They are brand new with labels and un-issued.....

[@danh8726]

@@bexbugoutsurvivor cheers bex much appreciated I got a brand new 1 last year went to use it this and as its a medium its a bit to snug when done up for me I blame lockdown 🤣🤣🤣

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

I have the large and the medium. I like to put my air pad inside the large bag, rather the under it, and the warming affect below freezing is outstanding, and I am a clod sleeper...bex

[@MrUllysses1975]

New to the channel mate, but really appreciating your approach 👍

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Welcome aboard! 👍

[@cpt_dpm]

Недавно приобрел себе точно такой же рюкзак,спасибо за информацию

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

нет проблем. Я надеюсь, вам действительно понравится.

[@cpt_dpm]

@@bexbugoutsurvivor скажите пожалуйста, редкий ли точно такой же рюкзак на территории Великобритании, в камуфляже DPM

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Версия DPM называется (The Roc), иногда они появляются в продаже, если вы наберетесь терпения. Мой русский не так хорош, извините....

[@cpt_dpm]

@@bexbugoutsurvivor Ваш русский прекрасен,я отлично всё понимаю👍. Кстати я себе ещё приобрел рюкзак редкий от фирмы Arktis в камуфляже DPM, очень рад этому, очень крутая вещь. P.S. Извините пожалуйста,что я вас отвлекаю.

[@jamesbailand4311]

I've a mint condition Berghaus Crusader 2 for sale.

[@jamesbailand4311]

Not at car boot prices though!

[@SonofChurchill]

@@jamesbailand4311 🤣

[@BeercanBushcraft]

Really enjoyed that - Great presentation. All the very best to you and yours Bex 👍 👍 👍 🍻

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Thank you kindly. Mrs bex is quite envious of this pack, as I spend all my time with it now. But she draws the line on me wearing it to bed....lol

[@BeercanBushcraft]

@@bexbugoutsurvivor careful Bex, if I know anything about women, she'll be sabotaging it - itching powder? You'll have to pretend that you're a bit iffy with it 😂😂😂 Buy more kit, that should throw her off the track 🤣

[@AK-kd4os]

Mate ,old school works for me too!

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Folk like you and me are in a minority group group now. Haven't used my army s90 bergen for a long time now...bex

[@deandunbar8856]

Your happy with that that Ruck I can see that a nice bit of padding for back comfort good to go Bex ...ATVBB ✌🤝

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

My British Bergen is just a wall hanger now, the Berghaus knocks spots off it...Although Mrs Bex has drawn the line of me wearing in bed....lol bex

[@stumpymacgabhann]

Ya jammy bugger, Nice find.🧐

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Its a real game changer for me, given I have used the S90 Brit Bergen for years....bex