FILBE vs MOLLE II comfort test

[@exvan3571]

With pack weight over 50 lbs. I cannot see how the MOLLE II 1603 frame with load lifters isn't the clear winner. The FILBE's 1606MC frame is a great patrol ruck, and is compatible with the ALICE pack

[@Billofthenorth1]

I had intended to repeat this a couple of times, increasing the weight a little each time but my knees have objected.

[@exvan3571]

@Billofthenorth1 I hear ya. Thanks for your work and the great channel

[@Billofthenorth1]

@@exvan3571 Thanks

[@torsten4757]

Thank you for sharing! I`ve both packs too, in my opinion, the more "ergonomic" shape of the FILBE frame is more comfortable. Also it has more flex in it, another plus. The MOLLE II pack frame reminds me to a board strapped to my back, not comfortable.....

[@Billofthenorth1]

Yeah, on me they were really close and honestly, I may redo this test again to see how it feels a second time.

[@Billofthenorth1]

I should also add, that my FILBE has a MOLLE II waist belt on it. I recently acquired another FILBE with the correct belt so...will definitely need to test it out.

[@torsten4757]

@@Billofthenorth1 Hello, yes I understand. For me too, at first I only had a MOLLE hip belt for my FILBE. Here in Germany, things from the USMC in particular are difficult to find. But one day I got lucky and got a brand new FILBE hip belt on eBay. I think the biggest difference is the block in the middle of the back on the FILBE hip belt. My understanding is that the block provides load transfer to the frame. This limits the bending of the frame in the lower area and protects against cracks. That might be the biggest difference. At least that's what I think.

[@edithwallace5821]

Please check out the channel Outdoor Gear Review. Years ago he did a very interesting videos on both packs, then a head to head comparisons. I have several mountaineer packs, which I prefer. I have several of the FILBE and Mollie ii. I've modified each one for different varieties of tasked in the environment of Florida where I reside. I find that the Mollie ii is a bit more versatile for the tasks I conduct.

[@Billofthenorth1]

I do remember his video(s) on this, I don't THINK he came out with conclusion as to which is better, not that I did either, lol.

[@CivilianAF.1483]

I've had multiple molle 2 packs and they all had cracked frames. I ordered a brand new frame and it also arrived cracked. Sold them, and just keep running my old Alice pack because it just keeps working.

[@Billofthenorth1]

Alice is rugged for sure and can be comfortable with modded suspension. I've not had any of my molle frames break yet, I don't load my packs heavily. One of my filbe frames arrived cracked but it's wired up and still works. I ordered another filbe rig and it arrived with the newer stronger frame. Haven't used it much yet but I won't be loading that up either so fingers crossed it holds up.

[@jeffrichards5106]

Thanks for the video, good to know. I have the MOLLE II, never owned a FILBE. Hate that Coyote brown color. Might be good for the desert, but I don't want to look like a big turd! 😆 Merry Christmas to you. 👍

[@Billofthenorth1]

Thanks, have a great Christmas yourself. I think you could make the coyote color work in many different environments if needed.

[@exvan3571]

Paxton Creek Supply dyes the FILBE to a foliage green-ish