Ham Radio Tactical Backpack: An Alternative to The GigaParts Explorer Backpack? Rundown.

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

Bag dimensions: Dimensions of each bag: The GP bag dimensions are - 21.25in H x 12in W x 7in D and the Ali Express are 20.47x11x6.2

[@kd5inm]

I found a "stranger things" backpack at walmart and I keep my 1970's vintage walkie talkies in it. It was only $17. Seriously I gave it to my 10 year old. He's a fan. I can't make up my mind on backpacks. I did find one that is pretty good made by örben. Its still has not torn and zippers have stood up and I've had it about 5 years. I used to carry a complete FT817 station in it. Radio, tuner, amplifier, antenna(s), baluns, switching power supply, laptop, batteries, soundcard interface, another tuner, everything redundant. The bag weighed over 50 lbs plus a change of clothes, extra socks, water, snacks, knife, gun... yeah I was set to hide in the woods. I moved to a range bag to carry the station now, but I've got other ideas I plan to try. I also like the idea of an external frame hiking backpack so I bought one. An external frame can haul much more weight and is better on your back because the waist belt is thicker and padded and allows the load to rest on your hips and not on your shoulders. The latest one I have I can take a tent and sleeping bag in addition to all my gear.

[@_onthemike_]

As a trauma nurse who keeps a trauma/med bag in the truck, this is perfect for a replacement to my current bag. I can get one as a replacement to my trauma bag AND another one for my HF kit for less than the Gigaparts bag. Thanks for this review Dude.

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

That's a great idea! Thanks!

[@BungHoleCamper]

Thanks for the share. Just ordered one, with a bunch of accessories.

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

Enjoy! I'd love to hear your thoughts, when you get it!

[@Mike_M_KI4MRC]

I appreciate the review. It does make me more informed and I appreciate those not beholden to sponsors or personal relationships and etc.. I just want good info non-biased personal experience with a product is always good and I think you nailed it here.

[@stearshetfield]

you’re literally my comfort person i love you kislux !

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

I love you too, bot. Most people call me Dude, though.

[@cavdvr99]

Thanks for the video, it gives people a 2nd option, As you may want a 2nd bag doe your 2nd radio setup. It's a plus with 4 options of color the Ali Express bag offers.

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

My pleasure. Cheers and enjoy

[@timel64]

Dude, Great review, you stayed unbiased & focused on key points. Get ready for the backlash from the fanboys. I could be wrong but GP probably outsourced to same factory with some modifications.

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

Thanks for the feedback. I am happy to receive this as, I made a lot of effort and a lot of takes to ensure my ADHD didn't overtake the episode. Definitely realize some people wont like the video, even though I did point out ways I may buy the GP bag again. Not to mention, all the people who buy the Amazon bag (in the link), may see this video and decide they will go with the GP bag. I appreciate it!.

[@timel64]

@@HAMRADIODUDE My grandson now 18 has ADHD. His outlet is video games, and actually helps him focus. If reviews and videos are your jam, then don’t let it stop you. How’s Chuck doing after the tick bite? Which bag does he prefer?😆

[@taz9075]

Thank you for another great video and review. It’s very well done, informative and covers a of great features and differences. Stay safe and keep up the great work.

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

Thanks for watching, taz! Hope you're doing well and are staying safe as well.

[@davidbrennan5]

best review I have watched in a long time, great job.

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

Wow, thanks! I appreciate the kind words!

[@GoetheCronshaw]

kay, I’ve always scratched my head about the obsession around the kislux book totes and their practicality, but this one is adorable!! Congratulations

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

I just looked those up. Looks like they got some LV's and Guccis for my radio :D

[@WECB640]

WOW! This was an extremely comprehensive review. I think you covered everything quite nicely Dude. I think I'd go for the more expensive bag based on "you get what you pay for" scenario. Only a true real workout in the field for a year will prove which bag stands up best. Keep up the great work. 73 OM

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

Buy once cry once. Thanks for the input and glad I could make an extensive/comprehensive review.

[@K1NGA-EM74]

The stitches and glue normally are what is different on mil molly velcro. My Captain sent me a new ruck when i left LRSD 30 years ago. I was so impressed. Computer was my haul for 20 years with that puppy. It now holds rope. 😊👍🏽

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

Nice!

[@WHNorthcote]

One thing I noticed about this medic bag was space. The Ali Express bag is better as you get those three internal bags. Also if you put them side by side on the top you get space below which is a nice cavity for other things. SWR meter in those bags for checking but space for holding other things (external batteries for example). Although I would have wanted some padding on the belt clip so that it may not cut into you when walking. Like the idea of paracord for the zips and heat shrink to keep it tight. That is where the other one is a plus. But for cheap backpack that is modular and is batter than a standard bag, the Ali Express wins by a fair bit. Double stitching is always good. For the internal pocket things, single is okay. But it is a given the Ali Express one is the better for price, amenities of storage and how well it can be used. Lets hope the price does not go up after this video as some sites like to do.

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

I think belt clip padding is a great point and thing missed on both bags. Nice call and thanks for the input.

[@WHNorthcote]

@@HAMRADIODUDE It is things like that which is always a most needed thing. Maybe they can include it in a revision at some point.

[@AA5MC]

nice video, the only thing I don't like ( and I do understand why ) there is no place for a hydration pack for, me that a must.

[@Scout75PortableRadio]

Fantastic side by side comparison, Dude! Very informative and useful. Thanks! AND... put me down for a Little Dude when available! I'm good for prepaying for one.

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

Thanks for the video feedback. I had a good time, trying to make a clear and concise video. I'll definitely keep you updated!

[@timel64]

I would add a 1/4” sheet of dense packing foam maybe with cutout relief for knobs on the radio. As that outer pocket will take most of the wear & abuse. Laptop bags always have liners to protect them.

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

That's a really good idea, thanks!

[@AngeloFranzone]

Thanks for the detailed backpack review. I am still keeping an eye out for new pota backpack. My current pack came from the school supply isle of my local Walmart. 73 Angelo

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

@user-rj4bo1ix8i I just got a killer REI multi day pack at savers for 6.99 or so. They're definitely a lot of great alternative options out there. Cheers bud

[@AngeloFranzone]

@@HAMRADIODUDE you find all the cool stuff at thrift stores.

[@mohawk14616]

You said half way through, just be cool on this review. There is no reasons to be "cool" because this video as all your videos are insightful, concise and "very" informational. You "always" do a great job DUDE! Any one who could find fault with this video is a total asshat and not worth your time. We are lucky to have another HAM that is willing to do these videos for us to learn. Isn't that the whole background of being a HAM, by experimenting and testing things? No one has any right to criticize any of your videos unless they get off their ass and make their own. I seriously look forward to all your videos and thay are done awesomely with great video and audio and always teach. I once again thank you for what you do for our hobby and community. You rock.

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

I greatly appreciate hearing some positivity and thank you for making my day! I appreciate it and am thankful for the good vibes. Take care!

[@rrittenhouse]

I just won the explorer backpack on Frank's 10k stream. I love it! It's listed at 59.99 but yeah it's without the bags. It's going to be a radio and fpv drone backpack for me! Good comparison though. It's always wise to check out the alternatives. Now I wonder how cheap the bags are from Ali. Lol

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

Congrats! Yeah , Ali bags don't seem cheap, as shown in the video. I have seen cases where they were super cheap though. 73!

[@the_mad_swimbaiter455]

Thanks for the very thorough review!

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

My pleasure!

[@Me-ch9qc]

Will the rear/outside section on the Ali Express bag (where you store your FT-891) fit a radio that's 9" x 3.5" x 13" deep? (FT-450D + room for connectors) Thanks for putting this video together!

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

In short;' No, probably not. my radio with rails is about 11 inches long, and I don't think the radio could fit much larger in there (with height and length).

[@StephanBlanchard13]

Basically both are the same but Al-eye’s sack is the best

[@MrKholcombe]

Sean, question for you. On the side wings that zip out, will they hold a 29” collapsed vertical? I’m looking for something of an appropriate size for my MPAS 2.0

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

It will not, most likely. The GP bag dimensions are - 21.25in H x 12in W x 7in D and the Ali Express are 20.47x11x6.2. Thanks for asking, I should have included that. Cheers. .

[@K3JRZOnTheAir]

The differences are interesting... 73!

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

True!

[@WeedyCreek]

Great video - thank you for the comparison between these two bags. I'm assuming the answer is China but is the country of origin known for both bags? Thanks!

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

I bought form Ali Express, so I assume China. The GP Bag is marked made in china. Cheers.

[@N5BSB]

Nice review Dude!

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

Thanks!

[@N5BSB]

Will the x-6100 fit in one of those pouches?

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

It appears so, without rails or an external case. I do not have one to confirm, however.

[@mickeyred]

Just followed the link but no mention of the three (3) little bags

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

@@mickeyred The blocky design and the reasonable design of multiple pockets keep the project independent and orderly.There are three detachable YKK zipper nylon bags in the main bag, with different handles, four mesh compartments, some elastic band slots and a nylon webbing bracket. The front appearance is divided into two parts, neatly showing the cutting effect.. best of luck

[@mickeyred]

@@HAMRADIODUDE Cheers Mr Dude. Strange the nylon zipper bags arn't mentioned in the description but I can see them in a photo. Ordered from AE

[@noimnotarobotcanubeleiveit7024]

What makes it tactical?

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

Good question. It's pretty Tacticool. I would say it meets some tactical requirements with the material it is made out of, the molle and velcro options for switching out, or adding on pouches, the overall durability (at this point) and of course style.

[@timel64]

Tacticool- an overused term meaning anything modular or military looking. And comes in field green, desert tan or black. Other features are Mollie straps, lots of Velcro, several pockets and a thick fabric.

[@jannelytina]

I don’t miss a day a week kislux This show..

[@HAMRADIODUDE]

That's good. I miss every day of the week, bot, this show.