Maxpedition Condor 2: Full Review

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The Condor II hydration backpack is the dramatically improved second generation of our military assault daypack that has been upgraded with the amenities of daily use in mind while not compromising the integrity of rugged battlefield construction.
A square with rounded top design, the Condor II can hold over 1950 cu. in. of gear. One removable Y-shaped top strap and four quick-release lateral compression straps secure contents and takes strain off the durable YKK #10 zips. Wide shoulder straps with high breath ability backing provides superb cooling characteristics. As with all Maxpedition backpacks, the Condor-II's loadbearing capacity can be expanded greatly with other MAXPEDITION modular pockets, added to the backpack's front or side PALS attachment points using TacTie™. Although we recommend Camelbak hydration reservoirs, our hydration compartment is compatible with most aftermarket hydration systems.
-Ten (10) major improvements that differentiate the new Condor-II from the original Condor:
1.Addition of 6 rows of PALS webbing per side for full MOLLE compatibility
2.Addition of 2 rows of PALS webbing on top front pocket for full MOLLE/ALICE compatibility
3.Addition of 2 rows of PALS webbing on lower front pocket for full MOLLE/ALICE compatibility
4.Addition of 2 quick release compression straps per side
5.Addition of internal silent keyper in lower front pocket
6.Improved hydration system pocket with zipper opening, a reservoir hang-tab, and a velcro bi-directional drink tube port
7.Hydration pocket now has more capacity (100oz new vs. 72oz old) with greatly increased comfort and ergonomics
8.Hydration pocket can accommodate a concealed firearm using our Hook & Loop Modular Accessories (e.g. #3501 Universal Modular Holster, sold separately)
9.Organizer in lower front pocket
10.High abrasion-resistance bottom
Product Features:
•Main Compartment: 17.5"(H) x 14"(W) x 6.5"(D)
•Upper Front Pouch: 5.5"(H) x 9"(W) x 2"(D)
•Lower Front Pouch: 8"(H) x 9"(W) x 2.5"(D)
•Approximate Overall Capacity: 1950 cu. in. / 32 L
•Hydration: Fits up to 100 oz / 3L Reservoir (sold separately)
•Support: 1" Sternum Strap, 1.5" Waist Strap (min 14" strap alone / max 42" strap alone; min 28" loop / max 56" loop)
•Optional accessories: Hook & Loop Modular Accessories and Grimloc Carabiner
•Empty Weight: 47.8 oz
Product Materials:
•1000-Denier water and abrasion resistant light-weight ballistic nylon fabric
•Dupont Teflon® fabric protector for grime resistance and easy maintenance
•YKK high strength zippers and zipper tracks
•UTX-Duraflex nylon buckles for low sound closures
•Triple polyurethane coated for water resistance
•High tensile strength nylon webbing
•High tensile strength composite nylon thread (stronger than ordinary industry standard nylon thread)
•#AS-100 high grade closed-cell foam padding material for superior shock protection
•Internal seams taped and finished
•Paracord zipper pulls
•Stress points double stitched, Bartacked or "Box-and-X" stitched for added strength

[@RVingLiveTheDream]

Nice review. I have had this bag for years, Ver comfortable;e on my back walking through the airport.

[@antoniobotello1903]

Great review 👏

[@GearReviewDepot]

@@antoniobotello1903 thank you! Super old video, but I believe the pack is still made the same way nowadays.

[@bugstomper4670]

I use that 'water bladder pocket' to carry my laptop in. I took off the sternum strap and the waist belt. I've overloaded the bag a few times and the 'grab handle' has never broken. One strap use, until I put a heavy weight onto two straps, has never broken either. I bought it in 2002 and have stuffed 12 full beer bottles in it, plus the usual stuff I carry, and it has never broken. That's over 200 times I've done that. The Y shaped strap at the top, if I need to roll up a thick flannel lumber shirt or winter coat at the Mall, but the bag is full, I carry around this extension that allows me to strap the rolled coat on top. I recently burned off all the loose threads and found out that the thread is plastic like, and burns down nicely, leaving a very small ball next to the strap. I shortened the bottom straps and melted the edges of strap so that they don't unravel. Finally, I recently hand washed it, rinsed it, and let it dry in the laundry sink for two days. It looks better than new.

[@GearReviewDepot]

It really was a great pack, used many many times. I don't know first hand but I hear the Maxpedition products aren't what they used to be. I've since sold all my Maxped gear and moved on to other brands. Thank you for stopping by and watching. Be well and stay safe.

[@FUBAR956]

I want one of these just for everyday use. No survival or out doors stuff, but just to get through the day taking paperwork from one office to the main office, stuff like that. It seems like a great bag.

[@GearReviewDepot]

Absolutely! Been using one for my EDC bag for several years. Works perfectly in that role.

[@FUBAR956]

I forgot to mention a thank you for showing the details of the bag. I'm tired of reviews that turn out to be long videos of someone showing off what their EDC is loaded with.

[@GearReviewDepot]

Your welcome. I think?

[@brazenbull636]

I got a Versipack Jumbo and a Doppleduffle. If anyone's on the fence about buying a bag from this company, do it. You will be more than pleased...

[@brazenbull636]

That said i also have a 5.11 Rush 72. I wouldn't hesitate with them either. However on both bags the materials and construction are fuckin excellent. Though my favor leans towards Maxpedition

[@GearReviewDepot]

I don't use Maxpedition anymore but they're still a good brand. I'm mostly using Vanquest and 5.11 now.

[@AppalachianFreedom]

I agree that it would be great if they were manufactured in the U.S. I do like the fact that they are based here. Now I realize that you are not supposed to say this out loud BUT... If they were manufactured here, by they time they fought the Unions, and they Regulations, and the Tax Code, it would be a miracle if they didn't have to declare bankruptcy. Not to mention the fact that their prices would shoot through the roof. They are obviously not a company that outsources their manufacturing for the purpose of selling junk. It's a shame that some are forced to face this dilemma! NOTE: It all comes back to elections having serious consequences!

[@GearReviewDepot]

I agree 100%... Thank you for stopping by. be safe.

[@trevorvampran]

Great review! Sucks that your buckle broke, but at least it was from extreme conditions. I'm still on the fence between this bag and the Falcon 2. I think I would like the Falcon 2 better for everyday carry purposes.

[@Squaredawaysurplus]

Awesome review Tim!

[@paulie4x1]

This one is my fav, I have it in the digital color, it's great.

[@brdbrntrn]

Thanks کافر

[@martinadejaquiz2482]

me too.... only thing wish it was made in america. major important to all americans. make it here. buy it from here. employ our own. circulate money within our own country. america first.

[@buzzsah]

Well seeing that we are looking at property in TN, KY, NC, and some SC, I will be doing some hiking I guess it's time to buy one. You need to ask them to make you a back-pack for the little up-comer so you can hike with the family. A few more months no ?

[@GearReviewDepot]

Yup. Mason will be arriving on or before July 10th. My son Marcus will be turning two on July 12th. Already have him walking the trails (very short hikes). Good times to come for sure.

[@buzzsah]

***** July, July, days are close. As you know they grow fast, my youngest is 35 She's lives in Fla, son also in Fla 38, oldest son 40 here in CT, and my oldest daughter 42 in Moltke area in Michigan. and we are thinking of moving to TN, KY, NC, SC, not sure just started looking . Anyway kids a great most of the time, lol.

[@visTuhh]

Either Camelbak or Osprey makes a baby carrier/hydration pack. I can't remember which.

[@Ascent41]

Great video, I have the Jumbo already and am looking in getting a bigger bag for overnighters. This has given me alot of heads up in regards to the bag. atb Si

[@GearReviewDepot]

The Condor is great for EDC and a short day hike but not sure if I would use for overnight trips. It could get it done but I would feel better using my Vulture II for anything over night.

[@Ascent41]

I really dont do EDC, the only peice of EDC I use is my wallet. I hear you re size

[@marcoruiz1987]

great review man! regards!

[@GearReviewDepot]

Marco Ruiz Thank you!

[@LW-dq8pv]

Being the bag junkie that I am, I have been looking at the Falcon II and III curiously albeit you could refer to me as a 511 fanboy. I just like the "style" of the pack, and why I showed some interest in the Tactishop Assault Pack. The question that I have is ... why on earth are old Falcon II backpack still that much more expensive then comparable 511 backpacks? Its similar material, way older models, and far less organization, so I dont know how they are justifying charging more for than 511 for comparable bags.

[@GearReviewDepot]

Personally I'd go with 5.11 or Vanquest back/bag over any Maxpedition pack any day. I used to like Maxped but not any more.

[@Edogawa1117]

Great review. Many thanks!

[@GearReviewDepot]

Thank you! I appreciate you stopping by.

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah Tim, I also got the Kodiak, I like it's size and yet it's a Sling.,,.

[@jayunitedwestand1810]

just a question, i have a hatchet i like to bring on hikes/camping is there somewhere to attach a hatchet to the bag? if not do you know what max bag would be good for me sir?

[@GearReviewDepot]

The only pack that I've used that can hold an axe or hatchet (on the outside) is the All Hazards Prime from 5.11 Tactical, it has to open ended sleeves on the sides of the pack that work great holding an axe. The method that I use often is attaching the Nite Ize Rubber Gear Ties (12 inch ones) to the PALS webbing on the pack and then using them to hold the axe, they work great. With the ties you can use them for all kinds of ideas as well as move them around on your pack if you wanted to hang your axe on one said today, but then move it to the other side the next trip. Check out the rubber gear ties, I recommend the 12" ties.

[@AndrewDeJoseph]

Hey Tim. Great video. I just bought this pack. It's my first Maxpedition pack. I notice that the material it's made out of is very stiff, much more so than any other pack I've owned. Is it supposed to be like that? Does it soften up over time?

[@GearReviewDepot]

Yes it will over time soften a little. It will always be stiffer than most but it does soften a little. I know a few guys that hunt and they all at one time tried using a Maxpedition pack but they stopped because they felt it was too loud, too loud for hunting I guess. It's strong and will take a ton of punishment but yes it is a bit stiff. I find if you buy a pack/bag/pouch made out of Cordura nylon it seems to be softer, still strong but definitely softer and more pliable. If you can live with the stiffness of your pack you'll have it for many years to come.

[@helderlomba9439]

Between this bag and rush 24, What you choose?

[@GearReviewDepot]

Helder Lomba RUSH24 every day all day. I'm no longer a Maxpedition fan like I was in years past for reasons I'd rather not mention here, but the truth is I'd pick a 5.11 pack/product over a Maxpedition product any day. Maxpedition back in the day served me well, served me very well but unfortunately that is no longer the case.

[@zomgzomg123]

TheTacticalDefender i was just going to Ask you this question. I was set on buying the condor 2.....

[@andyatoph]

is the front buckle broken ?

[@GearReviewDepot]

andyatoph It was.

[@Joker-ms4iu]

I love Maxpedition products ...5.11 is the second place

[@GearReviewDepot]

Vanquest is at the top of the list for me... 511 second. Maxpedition isn't really even on my list anymore.

[@Joker-ms4iu]

@@GearReviewDepot what is happening ?

[@bkkrantz]

have you found a 'made in the USA' comparable pack or suggestions on where I should look?

[@GearReviewDepot]

bkkrantz Check out BDS Tactical. VERY tough gear, made in the USA and everything on their site is custom, you want it a certain way, they'll do it.

[@MostlyDayHiking]

Hey Tim do you still use this bag at all?

[@GearReviewDepot]

Mostly Day Hiking Sorry my friend, that bag was sold a long time ago.

[@MostlyDayHiking]

I have one. It must be close to 10 years old. I forgot I had it till I saw this video. I think I'll start using it again!

[@cyphersuit1]

What is the biggest bag maxpedition has on offer? Thanks

[@GearReviewDepot]

For backpacks I would have to say it's the XANTHA™ INTERNAL FRAME BACKPACK (Large) and for a large travel type bag I would have to guess it's the UNTERDUFFEL™ ADVENTURE BAG.

[@Rabixter]

The thing about Maxpedition bags is that they are mostly designed mostly for gear and not for looks. I'm a university student, and I want a high quality bag which I can attach and detach pouches to using MOLLE webbing according to the situation. However, I don't want to be seen carrying these tactical looking bags. Otherwise it looks like a brilliant bag in terms of build quality.

[@GearReviewDepot]

I understand your concern. I feel if you get any of the Maxpedition bags in black or any other color other than Tan, brown and/or OD green they look far less "Tactical".

[@Rabixter]

I was looking at the Typhoon, and that seems to be really cool looking and its relatively small. The size is perfect for me, since I live in a city, and I dont really go hiking. It doesn't look too tactical and it's relatively low profile, which is perfect for me! Now I just have to man up and buy it.

[@GearReviewDepot]

Great pack! The Sitka, Typhoon and Malaga are all great packs. Still get the black so it looks less "Tactical". I'm sure it will blend in well in the city.

[@Rabixter]

Thanks! Yes, I think the black looks pretty neutral. Great video by the way. Very informative :)

[@blackhatch46]

Rabi Ahmad Look at the grey ghost gear packs. Specifically the stealth operator.

[@Yeshua-d2t]

were could get replacement straps at

[@GearReviewDepot]

+George Green Maxpedition should take care of you. Give em a call. Let me know what happens.

[@sidorgan969]

Would it fit someone about 5 ft cheers

[@GearReviewDepot]

Absolutely. Perfect for edc but maybe too small for hiking. This of course depends on how much gear you need to carry on your hike.

[@sidorgan969]

Cool I would like this as a BOB after decided against the rush 12 and 72

[@BubbaFett3333]

the audio is compressed too much...super tinny!

[@eccoshoe1]

Tactical gear has new condor 2 maxped on sale for 79 bucks....seems very cheap...as pposed to msrp.

[@trooper2221]

this pack is ok, a bit small though.

[@al1engreyassh0le4]

"HE UH. WE HAVE A LODGE EH WE UH"....jk bro nice bag

[@GearReviewDepot]

Umm? Sure. Thanks for stopping by.