GORUCK GR1: Worth It? (1-Year Review)

[@Golaso99]

I know this vid is pretty old by now but this review was perfect. No fluff, no repetition, very clear and organised and to the point. Superb.

[@stevechang5347]

I've had a GR1 since 2010. The first one lasted for 5 years until the interior pocket blew out. The I sent in for repair and SCARS basically provided me with a brand new GR1. That was in 2015, and the current one I have has gone through a couple of trips above the Arctic Circle, as well as offshore and even went through Hurricane Harvey. The stuff lasts.

[@atastyspamwich]

I had a gr1 for over 4 years, nearly daily use, and it was still going strong when i passed it on to a friend. In the long run, it saves alot of money.

[@atastyspamwich]

Paid $325 new, it was easily worth it, never even needed to use the warranty. buy the usa made version, they usually have both on their site

[@Fetucinee]

It’s odd the GR1 is often described as over-engineered. This is a bag designed to be loaded with weight-plates and put through rigorous drills and competitions; that’s why it’s engineered to its specs. It wasn’t originally intended as an EDC, ferrying a laptop and lunch to and from work, or as recreational accessory. It’s the Humvee of packs, co-opted to these more commonplace uses. It’s difficult to justify GoRuck packs unless aesthetics and/or tokenism takes precedence over functionality. They’re are a multitude of packs durable, more economical and comparably performant in the EDC tasks most use the GR1 for. Just like the Humvee driven to the office the GR1 will get you to where you’re going but that isn’t the main reason it’s chosen. After all a Toyota or Jansport can do the same.

[@FactFinderGeneral]

Old video but if anyones looking at the 21L GR1 or the Bullet, look at LBT 14L and 22L day packs or the Eagle Industries All Purpose Pack 18L. American made (Berry Compliant), more than tough enough for EDC, and way cheaper on sale than GoRuck. My 14L was $90.

[@labrunner_t4r_]

I've had my GR1 for 7 years now, and I use it every day, plus during kayaking, out on the beach, and on day hikes (plus one deployment). It really is built like a tank. I can only explain it one way: Buy something that may cost around 100 bucks 4 or 5 times (obviously depending on how much you use it) or buy this one in the 300 bucks range, and have it last for a decade without a problem. Just my opinion, and I agree that there are other bags for different people and different uses.

[@joshuamadread3678]

Gr1 is the most dependable and durable while looking badass backpack I've used it's like the landcruiser of backpacks

[@wws341234]

Great review. I'm on the fence about whether or not to get this since Goruck has them on Black Friday sale now for $199. Great aesthetics and tough build, but it doesn't fit my EDC needs as much as I would like it to.

[@j.taveras8447]

-Well this video didn't age well. Goruck is still here and so is Scars. I have more than a few GR1s and while they cost a lot, they last. I bought both my girls GR1s in High School, they later graduated college with them and still have them. I've had my first one, an og GR1 since 2009. -After numerous deployments and traveled all over the world, I still have it today. Only issue I had was a gusset blew out and Scars addressed the issue, still have it and use it. -I have Recycled Firefighter, Mystery Ranch, TAD, Evergoods, Brown Buffalo.....some don't even compare and none has such a great warranty. I honestly love the simplicity of the bag, I love it has no outside pockets and you could get a Heritage that's slick in canvas. It's expensive but this is the original and very few can compare with this track record. Want a cheap bag, go make one and of this quality and charge less....see how that works out.

[@doughboy334]

thanks for addressing some of the concerns with the switch from USA to VN

[@j.taveras8447]

That's not all the bags and they are transparent which ones are made overseas and the price delta is different. The American GR1s are still available and are priced for quality, durability, yes some branding tax, but also because it's American made.

[@CeeMKE]

VERY informative, thanks. I was debating this bag against the 24 hour Recycled Firefighter and this convinced me to go with the Firefighter. Thanks 👍🏾

[@j.taveras8447]

I have both, the quality difference is apparent. The 1000d in the Firefighter is different, feels softer and lighter. The shoulder straps are far superior on the Goruck as well. I like both but if choosing one, the GR1 easily.

[@angelvillalobos8835]

Great review. What I would really like to know is where you got the wolf patch.

[@TellurdogIsayhi]

I’ve owned every goruck bag except the 34L GR2 (which, ideally may be my goldilocks just right bag size wise, as the 26L is too small, but the 40L is too big) but ultimately I have ended up selling every single one of them. I always have such a hard time finding a system for organization for these bags. I need at least a few pockets (especially quick access pockets, which the slant zip pocket isn’t great at since it gets hard to open when the bag is full) for designated things, and the goruck bags obviously lack storage and organization in favor of modularity. I also second your point about the 1000D cordura; it chews the shit out of my shirts. I wish goruck would make a lesser denier bag, even if you opt to not get a lifetime warranty with it, that way it would be a little cheaper, less abrasive and a little lighter.

[@Airmailer]

Best review I’ve seen so far

[@amie704]

I have (3) GoRuck bullet rucks, (2) Ruckers and (2) GR1. Plain and simple if you carry a laptop or ipad every day and you give a damn about it, just get the GR1.

[@amie704]

@Tony True It will fit fine in the Rucker. And the Rucker would make a fine laptop bag if you only had the Rucker. But and I mean but , if you had the choice between Gr1 and Rucker for EDC I would go for the GR1. Heck I can carry 13" laptop in 15L bullet ruck. So........................

[@michaelsantana5781]

Love it, a true no bullshit review 👍

[@andrew3066]

Would you suggest getting the 21L or 26L also check out the new mystery ranch catalyst 26L

[@TommyLane]

I have a GR1 21L, a GR2 34L, both made in USA. I also have a GR1 26L that was made in Vietnam. It cost me less money. I would have gotten the USA made version if it were available but they stopped USA production on them unless you wanted some weird color combinations. Honestly, I don’t see any difference in quality between the USA and the Vietnam versions. If they hadn’t moved their manufacturing there, the prices would have remained high and would have gotten higher still. It’s still a great company that make high quality products.

[@Hunter357mag]

I have 2 GR1's-one 21L and one 26L. I agree with all your pro's and con's-especially the outside slash pocket being fairly useless. I've added an internal pocket to the MOLLE straps on both of mine to help keep small things contained. I got both mine on the secondary for good prices-that's why I have two almost identical packs. The thing that really grabs me about these packs is how naturally comfortable they ride on your back. First time I put one on, it just slipped into a natural place and felt perfect. I like the flat opening/loading, the the internal pockets are useful to me. Overall I'm quite happy with mine-durable, extremely comfortable, aesthetically simple and straightforward, and a good value for what I paid for mine.

[@dgaa1991]

Could you give a link to the internal bag you got? I'm receiving my gr1 26l in about a week and I really want that internal bag :D

[@Hunter357mag]

@@dgaa1991 www.ebay.com/itm/CONDOR-191178-UNIVERSAL-Compact-Multi-Purpose-Utility-Hook-and-Loop-Pouch/113781316284?var=414445135744&epid=23012723633&hash=item1a7de51abc:g:xAAAAOSwQ6FdAckL That's the one I got-I like that it has an external zippered pocket and the mesh internal divider to keep a bunch of things separate. it's also the best size-very low profile, but holds a lot.

[@kingcobra695]

great review. pros AND cons. much appreciated.

[@Losersluck_]

Good review! I have the GR2. I use it when I travel as a one-bag travel system. Instead of getting a GR1 for my daily bag, I got the Recycled Firefighter bag. I think the RF backpack is basically just as good but with slightly less internal pockets and, in my opinion, not as comfortable as the GR2.

[@jonathancain7243]

How is the Gr2 for EDC? I'm looking at one as a dual purpose EDC/backpack camping bag.

[@johnathan485]

great honest review. I wanted the GR1 21L so bad and ended up going with the Wolf Grey GR2 26L instead lol. I will buy the 21L next

[@edwardyu8902]

very objective, nice analysis

[@AndyGarcia-ch1ci]

I move goruck for what they are as a company, the things they do, the man that founded it, I like that they are local to me in Jax, FL, but I think their bags are way overpriced and over rated. I like the bags, don’t get me wrong, but the same simple design isn’t for everyone. I wish they offered a more practical and useful tactical style bag, or even a hiking style bag. I need my front pockets- they get the most use. The front pockets is where you go for all your quick access items. So price and practicality are my only complaints. Otherwise I love the build quality and the company itself.

[@kennethboehnen271]

Any alternative suggestions?

[@Precogvision]

Recycled firefighter makes a good alternative for much less

[@AndyGarcia-ch1ci]

@@kennethboehnen271 I settled on first tactical tactix half day pack. Their tactix line is on another level!!!!!

[@conorwatters3474]

I've had mine for 4 years. It looks brand new, except for imbedded red dirt dust (Kauai stays with me).

[@714SNF]

thx for the video! hows your bag holding up today?

[@Mrjohndoe2986]

Thanks for all the research and editing if your well made video review. No bullshit give it to us straight

[@Precogvision]

Let me know in the comments your thoughts on this bag if you own/have owned it. Thanks for watching!

[@mattvalade2609]

I've owned a GR1 and GR2 for 6 years now and they have been all over the country with me, from the city streets to the Colorado Rockies. If the price scares people and not being made in the USA isn't an issue for people they can pick up the ones made in Vietnam for a lower price. If made in the USA is a must then those are still offered and will continue to be offered. The choice to move some production overseas was to get a lower price point so they could reach a larger customer base. Goruck is a small company and sells out their product quickly. they have a huge fan base that buy their new gear up faster than a sponge soaks up water.(I may be one of those fans) Hence the coming and going of gear. Also they have sales all year long and that's why the costs fluctuate so much(also now you have to pay attention to if its made in the US or not. that'll change the cost of one GR1 to another)

[@bobhaeffner]

Great review. Thorough and balanced. Great organization of thought and use of graphics and use of transcription throughout. BTW - where do you go to college? I own a LOT of GoRuck products. I have an early (2010) USA built GR-1 and recently got a GR-1 Heritage (waxed canvas). I have an original Rucker and a Kit Bag. Also have their ballistic training shoes and their MACV-1 boots. Everything they make is rock solid and built to last (including the Vietnam stuff). Pretty expensive, but in my opinion a good value. The expression “The cheap man pays twice” comes to mind regarding GoRuck products. GoRuck is tough as nails and add SCARS to it - you have a ruck that takes a beating and lasts. BTW - GoRuck has been around more than a decade and from people I have talked to it seems they honor their Scars promise (unless you melt you bag w open flame). With regards to my GR-1 bags the Heritage is my EDC now and is mainly a laptop/office bag. Agreed the laptop compartment is incredible! I call it a “fortress of solitude” for my laptop(s). Never considered the theft deterrent you mentioned, but it makes sense. My original GR-1 has been used very hard and is still strong. I used it as an EDC for six+ years, traveled with it, have day hiked with it, and used it for numerous weighted rucks (bricks, plates). I have put this bag through the ringer and this bag has never let me down. Bad ass strong. Built to perform and built to last. Cons, the bottom of the bag has a different type of nylon material on it. That material has burred. Have to trim those off from time to time. Also, as you mention, the fabric is somewhat rough. It makes my untucked t-shirts ride up and expose the small of my back. Also, any nylon/dry fit shirts I’ve worn on multiple hikes have developed burrs on the shirts from the friction with the pack. I think a slick fabric where it contacts the back would help.

[@Balconetti]

Thanks for being honest about the pros and cons. I love the low-key aesthetic and BIFL quality, but I have doubts about the practicality of this design due to the lack of dedicated water bottle pocket and the inaccessible front zipper compartment. I much prefer the design of the Filson Dryden backpack, which is also 1000D Cordura and around the same price point or lower ($225). If I could find that on sale or used, that would be my go-to.

[@mateodeleon1185]

good review. i agree on the pricing. 400 is too much. more than a decade ago i reached out to a company that makes backpacks for special mission units only, which clearly means that they stick to proven designs, and their packs shares many features with the GR1 like many other good bags out there, ie 1000D cordura, clam shell, triple stitching, bartacking etc etc blah blah blah. the bag was just a tad bit over 100 US dollars. the company doesnt sell to the public and i had to wait for a year. so again its been more than 10 years now and not a single scratch or fray. zipper pulls are still good. the seams do not stretch away under heavy loads. good stuff for 100 bucks.

[@misterllemos]

Some on sale now for $170 and $200.

[@KarlHeindel]

thanks for your review. I'm about to buy one, because there are a few for sale for 199. I think it's worth it.

[@flebrax]

I like the bag, but I am a bit concerned the missing padding on the back. I am used to have a back that has extra padding exactly on the the muscles the back sits on and that will lift it always a bit up. I ran through more then one summer with it and never realy had any issues regarding sweat. The GR1 however looks like it provides literaly no ventilation at all. Do you have experience with sewat issues carrying this back in the summer or in a bus? Is this back comfortable riding a bicycle?

[@Precogvision]

Any backpack is going to make your back sweat regardless of ventilation. If it’s just a brief stint that might make a difference, though. I ride my bike around campus everyday to get to class. Never had a problem with sweat in this regard, nor when I’m on the bus. It definitely builds up when I’m hiking, but the same is true for any other pack I’ve used. YMMV of course, everyone swears differently lol. Hope this helps.

[@amie704]

Yeah, you are gonna have sweaty back with this one. No doubt!

[@joshczerpak8669]

Great review. I am actually looking to buy a GR1 ithin the next few days possibly with the holiday sale that they have going on. I was also debating between the GR1, or the TAD Fastpack EDC. Seeing as you're wearing a TAD shirt, care to provide any input? Thanks!

[@Precogvision]

Hey, I’ve owned a TAD Litespeed as well, and have looked at the Fastpack albeit briefly. Quality-wise they’re pretty comparable. It’s mostly going to be about the look you’re going for; the Fastpack has a more tacticool look. That said, accessories integrate a lot better on TAD’s stuff and they have more options (when they’re in-stock). GR1 is probably a better deal right now, especially if you have Earned Service Discount, as TAD rarely runs sales on their packs.

[@JP-qn4uo]

I've got both. TAD Litespeed is much more technical (looks much more tactical, has more ability for organisation, probably not as good for urban carry). TAD Litespeed is a great bag all in all. The GR1 is built like a tank, it's in my opinion more durable than the TAD Litespeed (not that the Litespeed isn't durable, just that the GR1 is just sooooo well built!) I find the GR1 a bit more comfortable than the TAD Litespeed, but it's not as narrow form factor.

[@buckwild5369]

Pretty damn good video my dude. Seems justifiable your right if you can find it at 200-250 dollars. But you know what they say Cool shit ain’t cheap and cheap shit ain’t cool.

[@jameseprice]

Dude - I am forever going to use that quote :)

[@misterllemos]

You’re in luck-currently on sale for $170 and $200

[@vickichen648]

That is a sweet bag! Even sweeter if it can carry around a big tv box!

[@lyftny]

what color is your bag?

[@TheBigRott]

I believe the color he has is called steel.

[@Precogvision]

It’s Wolf Grey. Although I can see the Steel discoloring like this over time :)

[@AllThingsZz]

Very good review thank you, you might have saved me some money

[@spacepenguin22]

Is this the gun metal color?

[@Precogvision]

Wolf grey

[@paulrose47]

Good Review, I love their gear but would prefer it be made in USA. If its USA made on their website its so expensive.

[@barryhossin2000]

How much weight can it hold

[@misterllemos]

400 lbs

[@elsizzle2000]

Wow what a great and honest review. BTW I had a Goruck and a whole formed from melting. I sent it in for SCARS repair. They said they couldn't repair it because it was on the seam and it's not normal wear. There SCARS warranty is BS and they'll try to get out of it. They look cool as hell but I don't need heavy ass bomb proof.

[@user-jt5vm3mi1w]

Need water bottle holder on side

[@TellurdogIsayhi]

Glad I’m not the only one who thinks gorucks infrastructure is absolutely a hot mess currently. I dunno wtf is going on with their company regarding pricing and product availability and such. It’s insane how awful and discombobulated they are :l

[@Dave_Outside]

sterling archer And how do you know what’s going on inside the company? You know someone that works for them?

[@TellurdogIsayhi]

David Church it’s pretty obvious if you know goruck from a few years ago vs goruck now, and how much they’ve changed. I’ve followed goruck for a looooooong time man. They used to be on top of their game in EVERY aspect. They no longer are.

[@Blingoose]

Well that's because of hard competition. A bad example would be Apple, they are not the top anymore and blabla.. I think everything will be fine with time and a few tweaks here and there.

[@JP-qn4uo]

I agree Goruck seems all over the shop with their stocking and colourways. It's like they have someone with ADHD in charge of their warehouse/manufacturing/stocking. I totally hope they don't stop their USA manufacturing. I will definitely not buy their Made in Vietnam stuff. Don't care what they say about the quality, it ain't happening!

[@Blingoose]

@@JP-qn4uo Btw, I just ordered a brown coyote+navy 21l gr1 from the USA line. But can we even be sure it's really made over there? It's a stupid question I guess.. hope they are not cheating 😅

[@theaarongarcia]

Scars no more in a few years?

[@FactsTrumpFeelings.]

Great review

[@PocketBeemRocket]

Well, I'm glad I got mine on sale. That battalion back pack would fit my needs just as well as my GR1. Discrete design, open flat main compartment, and packing space for a weekend getaway.

[@MrFroggy29]

Ok but 250 EUR for synthétique backpack ... Nylon doesnt cost so much!

[@aeipee13]

The bulk of the cost is from manufacturing in the USA, not the nylon.

[@JP-qn4uo]

Goruck is built like nothing out there. Until you've owned one, you can't appreciate just how well the Made In USA Gorucks are. Wouldn't touch the Made In Vietnam ones. I've managed to collect a GR1 26L, GR1 21L, Echo 16L, Bullet 15L, Bullet 10L, Kit Bag 32L, along with a number of other accessories such as Field Pockets.

[@aeipee13]

Great review and insight to a small company I've always followed. Unfortunately, USA made is a manufacturing fantasy. We (Americans) handed over manufacturing decades ago and it's hard change that for small companies. The only answer is to support quality USA made brands.

[@mattvalade2609]

they still make bags here in the USA, but due to the high price point they offer the same bags made in Vietnam for a lower cost. So this way they can reach a larger customer base.

[@boredandagitated]

Here for the weeb patch

[@Precogvision]

boredandagitated My man 😁

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

My problem with GOruck is that the bag has two different versions.....one made in USA and with better zippers,straps,mesh and one made overseas. When you order from their site its a crapshoot as to which one you will get and mine wasnt returnable and surprise it was from overseas. Ive read the fat straps are very comfortable but thats not the case with mine and the zipper isnt great and ive read many reviews saying it wont break in. I contacted GO ruck several times with zero responses and Im not even general public. The bag wasnt even designed well....why would you have molle straps so low where all the weight sits at the bottom?. Yeah Id pass on these snake oil salesman.

[@wayned3137]

When I bought it was $500, never buy anything from this company again. Such a rip off

[@TommyLane]

Maybe you bought the special edition, 10 year anniversary model. It’s made of cotton canvas with some leather parts. That was 500.00. Is that the one you have?

[@drewh4988]

Well you're an idiot for buying a backpack for $500.