Hazard 4 Second Front | 1 Year of Use | Field Review

[@WhispyWoods.]

There's a void in my life where your new vids used to be. Miss you guys. Hope you're well.

[@justinjeffries9248]

Currently you can get the pack for around $150 on Amazon, though on the Hazard 4 site and some others are currently listing this product for the $180 price range. Looking at buying this pack thanks for another great video guys :)

[@PrimalEdge]

I feel the same! I know many a person who feel that "if it ain't tactical it ain't practical!" but that's not me. Nothing against those companies and their products, they're great for what they're built for. But I love my traditional gear. Having said that, I'd love the look and feel if my old school stuff, built using some modern material. Great review!

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Primal Edge I'm with ya. I hope someone starts to make a mix between old school styling/materials, but with modern upgrades. The Helags is the closest thing I've found. -Krik

[@naturecallsoutdoors]

Very nice honest review. I completely agree with you about the" Tactical " bags and Molly webbing. Maybe look if Kelty has a smaller version of the Redwing 50. It has features that you are looking for plus some I think you would like. Not 1000 but some are 600 denier

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Nature Calls I've looked at Kelty before. But I'm looking for something around 20 liters. Thanks for the suggestion though.

[@BorysBT]

Just decide to order Hazard 4 Second Front like your's, but in black colour. Thanks for all the advices - now I see clearly what to look at and how to use features of this backpack.

[@Zedoutdoors]

Great review guys, interesting to see your views on the bag a year into using it and looking forward to seeing what bag you're suggested by the viewers ~Peace~

[@victorblack9006]

Good going guys. Always look forward to y'all's videos. Keep it up

[@matthewarmstrong3934]

I agree completely with your disapproval of the orientation of the admin pocket

[@ehud257]

thanks ! ... would you recommend this bag for rucking ? im on a beginner in the rucking business , and currently rucking with books and such, maybe add something like small concrete block at some point.👍

[@CedricAda]

Krik you might be keen on the 5.11 rush 72. Very modern and 'tactical' but has a lot of features you like. I just find it a bit on the ugly side, but its probably ultra practical. I'm a frost river guy myself - I have an Isle Royal pack on the way.

[@Wildsoul62]

Interesting pack, I have the rush 12 and was talking to Taro about his rush 24 and as I had guessed already, he would have preferred a waist belt. I have been looking for a while for a pack around this size, will check it out. Have a Hazard 4 messenger bag which i love.Found you via LifeFire Gear and subbed look forward to viewing your vids! Thanks a.t.b. vee

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

welcome to the channel! I hope you enjoy what you see. - stony

[@Wildsoul62]

thanks! Im sure I will! :-)

[@kynaston1474]

So nice to see an honest review for once.

[@tylerhaugen9401]

Is this bag big enough to travel internationally for 3-6mths? Would love to hear your thoughts? I'm looking for a minimal but sufficient carry-on travel tactical bag. Thanks.

[@aaron6587]

Great video, and I get to help you out a little. The reason you dont like the hip belt is you’re doing it wrong. haha :) The web keepers need to be rolled up in such a way that it jams the roll against the buckle halves and then is secured around the roll INCLUDING the belt, not loose and flopping around like that. If you do that, your belt will stay tight.

[@G1NZOU]

I like your ideas with the gear ties

[@axs017]

The only tactical bag I've ever liked is goruck, I paid for what I got. One that's made to be durable but doesn't scream "I have important things inside me steal me" pricy though

[@caman5]

The straps are difficult to adjust: 1 because of the material, it may be durable, but that does make it more rigid; and 2 it is oriented around a tactical philosophy, the more difficult a strap is to loosen means the less likely it is to back off while being worn, although a Velcro panel could offer the same security.

[@survivingkajukenbo]

I have this Sam pack because of your first video and feel overall the same way. Recently I have been checking out a new line from Voodoo called the Voodoo Tactical Discreet 3 day pack. No molle on the outside, 1000d cordora, padded back removable hipbelt simple colors. Seem to be a real slick pack. BUT no external water bottle or slip pocket. Thinking of buy it and sewing them on myself but i can't seem to find a reason why they didn't include one or both from the start. Food for thought. Thanks for the awesome videos guys.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Adam Smith I'll check out that pack. Thanks. And yea I'm not certain why they wouldn't include those outer pockets. They're pretty much a necessity for me. -Krik

[@shahirbear]

Not sure if mission workshop makes anything that will work. Had one of their bags for 2 years. Loved it for cycling. Haven't checked out their back packs at all though!

[@michaelstraka1428]

Also you should check out the eagle industries FILBE day pack. Its standard issued my the Marine Corps, I have one for a daypack and I think you would like it. It is a little smaller but still has features such as the bottom straps for tarp and compression straps on the sides.

[@nickcalderone75]

Always great reviews! I have this same pack, and agree with you on the admin panel, but then, it IS a tactical pack so I could see how it would be useful in a fast paced tactical situation. Overall, I am happy with it. I paid around $180 for mine and for that price, wish it would have included a hydration bladder. (it has the opening for it) It is a very solid pack...built VERY well. I have not had the same issue with the straps that you were demonstrating. I wonder if the buckles on yours are stiff? What I would really like to see are some dividers for the main compartment of this pack. I know they make them for the Plan B, but its much skinnier than this pack, so they would not work. Great review as always!

[@lallaboy1]

Great Video. Wht brand is the carabiner? Cud u provide a link to it. Thks.

[@TacticalHealth]

hello-any updates on the J-tech heracles pack and the condor venture that you reviewed more than a year ago? You seemed to reaaly like the heracles...

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

TacticalHealth I don't have the Heracles any longer. It was a fine pack. Just not suiting my personal needs.The Venture is currently being used by a friend. -Krik

[@FrederickReddie]

Hey Krik, did you take a look at the Vertx EDC Gamut Plus? If not, can you reach out to them to get a bag, so you can review it? I really enjoy your honesty and thoroughness in your reviews. Thanks!

[@FrederickReddie]

Also, what do you think about the Hazard 4 Patrol Pack?

[@SubunitProductions]

Are you guys building some sort of teepee structure in the background? It just seemed like an odd way all of the logs were laying.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Not us. Someone put that up some years ago and hasn't been back to use it.

[@andrewauman40]

I have the sling pack model and they lack nalgene or 40oz kleen kanteen sized pockets on the sides. The rocket bag is great because they add the pockets and they are perfectly sized. If they made this pack a tad bit bigger and with pockets i would love it.

[@Terminator_T-X3]

I don't see the admin panel being a problem for me because if the ground is wet, I don't want to be on the ground if I don't have to.

[@woodlandsnorth]

Nice Review. How has it held up?

[@snowpuppy77]

Good video update. This Hazard 4 pack seems to have potential. A similar pack I have seen that has pockets on each side for water bottles or like items is the new Maxpedition internal frame backpacks Zafar or Xantha. They also have straps on the bottom for your tarp or wool blanket. By the way I recently got a Maxpedition Typhoon just to have something small and more nimble for day hikes. I have possibly the same OD Green Military wool blanket and it fits really nice rolled up in the straps at the bottom of the pack. Very comfortable this way even with the rest of the pack fully loaded. I suppose that is an advantage of the smaller size. My Bacho Laplander and Mora Companion slide securely in the front molle opening up room inside the pack.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

snowpuppy77 My brother has been using one of those newer Maxpedition packs. It's larger than the pack I'm trying to replace. Thanks for watching. -Krik

[@ohiovalleyoutdoors3062]

You could try putting thinner straps through those buckles. They appear to be too thick.

[@suckmywookie]

I'm looking to buy a new pack, and the Hazard 4 Switchback (the sling-style version of the Second Front) is near the top of my list. A very important feature for any pack I buy is adequate hydration pocket space and ease of access. Does the Second Front easily accept a 3L/100 oz hydration bladder? And is it easy to access to refill? I'm currently using a Source Military WXP low profile 3L bladder, which I couldn't recommend more highly. Thanks in advance for your response, and keep putting out awesome videos!

[@Rivierars]

I'm curious to see what you think of the Maxpedition gryfalcon

[@azndude265]

I got a good budget pack called the Kelty Redwing 32, I think you might the bigger version quite a bit. It has all the features you like but with less bulk, probably less durability than a dedicated tactical pack but definitely worth a look!

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

azndude265 I had an old Kelty Redwing. I replaced that with the Helags 40. I'm looking for a day pack, around 20 liters. Thanks for the suggestion! But one thing I've noticed with Kelty... on my old Redwing seemed to be a heavier duty construction than their new packs. -Krik

[@mikehawton805]

A great honest review, I currently own the switchback which is the sling pack version and find that many of the features of this bag seem to work so much better in the sling bag style. How comfortable are the straps while wearing the pack all day with a decent load?

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Mike Hawton The straps are pretty comfortable. I just wish I could tighten the hip belt more accurately. That would help so much, I believe. Thanks for watching. -Krik

[@amgolfer3591]

Krik, I would love for you to get your hands on the Mystery Ranch 3 day Assault backpack. This thing is amazing and built to last a lifetime. It's also made in the good ole US of A and you can't beat that. I am 99% sure the Hazard 4 is not made in the US but could be wrong. The Mystery Ranch in foliage green/gray color will not stand out and it doesn't look as tactical. It has ONLY what you need and no more. You CAN'T beat the 3 way zip system--it's awesome. My two very small complaints are it's on the heavier side, 5 pounds, give or take and it's pricey (I think it's well worth the cost due to the construction of the bag IMHO). However, once you have the MR on it's very, very comfortable. Equip 2 Endure did a review on this bag and this was helpful info. There are many other cool features I haven't mentioned. The maker is out of Montana I believe. If you are able to land one please do a review on it. Thanks Krik and keep the videos coming buddy. Your "old school" look is inspiring and I appreciate all the insight you bring to your audience. Because of you and a few other channels I have been back in the outdoors and loving every minute of it.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Shane G We've been looking at MR packs for a while now. That and other "high end" packs. At some point I'm sure we'll purchase one. And I'm glad our videos could inspire you to get back outdoors! That's why we're doing this. -Krik

[@michaelstraka1428]

The hipbelt situation....reverse the way the web belt feeds into the buckle. Doing so will make it to where. if you try to tighten the right side, rather than pulling it right. You will pull it left. Do the same with the other buckle.

[@liodroid]

How is the bag holding up? Still using it?

[@tritongamer2190]

There is only on issue with this video towards his opinion. Tactical bags are created and designed for a tactical type situations. They are not designed for comfort they are designed to carry the gear necessary for the task. But on that note i do agree that some more attention could be brought to the fact of being more comfortable for use on the non-tactical side of consumers willing to buy their products as an every day use item. Other than that this was a very helpful video. Thank you for taking the time to review this bag.

[@simonloteria]

Thank you!

[@djdettlinger5527]

Kirk, Love the videos. How does this pack compare size wise with the vanquest trident 20? I'm torn between one of these as a truck/edc bag.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

DJ Dettlinger They're shaped different. But they're roughly the same volume. The trident "feels" smaller. And obviously they both have their pros and cons. Did that help at all? I know it's always a challenge when purchasing gear that you've never touched or saw in person. -Krik

[@djdettlinger5527]

Yes thanks. Kinda leaning toward the trident. Just wish the waist strap was removable on the hazard 4

[@tidings5215]

DJ Dettlinger I'm pretty much leaning between these two as well. Krik didn't sound TOO happy with the Second Front but I like the capacity of it... What did you go with? Any recommendations?

[@seeeagull1157]

I have heard pretty great things about the Camelbak Motherlode and the Camelbak BFM, They are both expensive ($250 +) but I haven't heard a bad review on them. Plus they are both hydration packs which I am super in too, just seems practical. I unfortunately haven't been able to purchase one because of the price but Id be interested to see what you think of them. Cheers!

[@kan-zee]

Nice show and tell on your pack. Loving the option of an adjustable water side pouch. A lot of Tactic bags, I buy, tear at that shoulder straps..still looking for a bag that will have tougher shoulder straps. $190 plus tax over $200.oo that's some serious frog skins..lol. ;-)

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Kanzee Yes, it is expensive. But I haven't had ANY issues with it. And I've used it a lot. Sometimes, you get what you pay for. Thanks for watching. -Krik

[@HuhWhatHuhwhatHuh]

There’s this company Hazard 4...that has a sling pack called the Blastwall and the backpack called the Pillbox.;)

[@LionheartSJZ]

I don't know if you can get your hands on this stuff but there's a Polish company called Wisport. They produce stuff for the Polish military and it's becoming really popular in Europe. It's similar to Tasmanian Tiger stuff only slightly more practical and slightly cheaper. Check them out if you can :)

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

LionheartSJZ I just recently learned about that company. They do have a few nice packs in the size I'm looking for. I think Direct Action is a company I saw some cool packs from. Have you heard of them? -Krik

[@LionheartSJZ]

BlackOwlOutdoors Hey, haven't heard of them before. Looks like some nice tactical gear. Their messenger bag looks like something I could use. Thanks for pointing it out.

[@93xZam]

Right heeya, right cheeya ❤

[@joeywright2186]

Have you thought of the maxpedition pygmy falcon 2?

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Joey Wright I have. I'm not really sold on any of the their bags. They're great bags, don't get me wrong. But not what I'm looking for. Thanks for the suggestion, though. -Krik

[@opalprestonshirley1700]

Good video. Overall it is a nice pack I don't mind a pack being tactical but as you say those damn straps will drive you crazy. I have an Alice pack and the straps work great but for best operation I have a Kelty Red Cloud where the hip belt straps are pulled inward instead of outward to cinch the hip belt tighter, much easier. Thanks for sharing. atb

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Opal Preston Shirley I definitely prefer that style of hip belt as well. You're welcome, and thanks for watching. -Krik

[@harrisonc2152]

What do you guys do for work?

[@yugiohwarriortype]

this bag was made to hold a hand gun In that center holder thus the rotation to open bag while on being able to grab your gun quickly that is what I belive it's true intention is

[@stephenc5087]

Great Video! Can you send the link to the stool? I must have missed it. Thanks @blackowloutdoors

[@JVega_Reno]

Might invest in something like this

[@pickledbologna]

Looking for fuxed blade edc knife 3inch blade any ideas ?

[@556forlunch]

Esee 3

[@pickledbologna]

556forlunch thanks .. looks like a great knife but I'm looking for something under $50 like cold steel double agent 2 ... i just dont like the handle

[@CedricAda]

If you have money the Esee 3 is the best. If you dont have a whole lot of cash, (and I may get shouted down for this haha) the Gerber Bear Grylls Paracord knife is a great low cost bit of kit. The sheath can be swapped over to cover the ugly branding and you can swap the orange paracord out for something else a bit more modest. Just a thought for the budget conscious. I main a mora companion myself, in a brilliant leather sheath :)

[@BushRat253]

Mora all day. They have plenty of different options that can last you years, check em out.

[@pickledbologna]

CedricAda Gear Reviews this would be a bag knife that probably won't see a lot of use .. but must be at least semi capable 3in to comply with MI knife law

[@jacekzembrzycki3865]

Hey man! Try Helikon-Tex Raider or Racoon Mk2.

[@gumbi8989]

If the bag tips to the left everything in the front pocket will come out of its storage. It’s super annoying. I would just buy the Patrol pack.

[@linchpin20]

Check out the Kifaru Urban Zippy it is a little pricey like the Mystery Ranch stuff but it maybe more what you are looking for there isn't any external pouches but it is a cleaner looking pack

[@ericspeeder20226789]

I prefer my straps to remain tight then have them come loose all the time it's more peace of mind knowing you will notice if things come loose.. at least that's my opinion

[@ragemidnight]

Hill people gear umlindi pack sounds sorta like what you are after

[@vettepilot427]

Great review. I'm really enjoying your channel. If it's in the budget, check out the Mystery Ranch 3 Day assault pack. This is my late-season hunting/winter EDC pack. There's NOTHING like the fit of a MR pack and it doesn't have MOLLE web everywhere (just the lower sides). It does have proper compression straps, lower lashing straps, side bottle pockets, and even a pass-thru behind each bottle pocket for long items like axes, trekking poles, or even skis. I LOVE the 3-zip design, you get the best of both top-loading and front loading. It's expensive, but worth it IMHO, and made in the USA which your Hazard is not. Check out reviews on KZbin.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

vettepilot427 I've been checking out the bag for a while now. Expensive, yes. But cost isn't that important to me when I know what I want, and I know I'll use it a lot. Thanks for the suggestion. -Krik

[@gilcox9933]

Camelbak BFM. Please check this out.

[@ilovedragons]

How old is old Joe? :(

[@gumbi8989]

I just think this backpack is more built around military use, that's why its design feels so odd.

[@FertileKnave]

Not seen anyone else mention this before, you might want to look at this bag www.tombihn.com/backpacks/guidespack.html the Tom Bihn Guide's Pack, you can add the side pockets etc to fit your needs and is a modern style as well. I have the Synapse 19 and have had it since 2013 and is still in very good nick, very thick materials and nice overall construction. I'd love to see what you think about it, really like your vids, S

[@samwatson3588]

cut the buckle off attach two large s biners

[@joash480]

they just cant beat the 5.11 rush back packs

[@ddunnable1]

hey Krik great review check out kifaru or mystery ranch just a couple of really good pack companys keep the reviews coming

[@calebb7012]

2020 and hazard 4 still makes overpriced gear. I'll never forget their 140 dollar poncho that's not even waterproof.

[@PoopFartsFarts]

Honestlly i think you were riped off. 190 dollars for a pack that bas multiple problems and 20 L.Wow must wow