Maxpedition Falcon 3 Backpack - Show and Tell - TheSmokinApe

Just a quick video showing a new Maxpedition Falcon 3 (Falcon III) backpack. I traded some gear to pick this up to use as a bug out bag and a camping pack. It is a medium to large backpack that show work well in a number of cases; bug out, shtf survival, large EDC, camping to hiking. As always I am impressed with Maxpedition's designs and build quality...
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TheSmokinApe

[@kevovi8419]

I got it on Friday , and used it today. It's a fantastic pack. Lots of storage space and plenty of molle webbing for other BS. You haters are being ridiculous. This is a great pack made out of 1050 denier nylon . Durability is the most important thing.

[@TheSmokinApe]

Agreed.

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

my brother has this backpack, in the desert\sand color. i am female and 181cm and my body obviously is different than the public it is made for [males], but it was comfortable still for me when i wore it for a hike i think it a great backpack cause you have numerous partitions for organizing your items and the straps on the side you can tighten them to keep the pack collapsed and close to your back when it isnt full [i really like beckpacks with that feature] the falcon is a huge improvement over previous iterations on the shoulder straps, it is now contoured and more padded, rather than the straight and unpadded straps of the original model. most knockoffs have the straps of the previous model so it is more safe to buy and not be scammed with a fake if you buying second hand or grey market. while there are some knockoffs that have good build quality, nothing beats the legit product, i definitely recommend this backpack for those who are looking for this design

[@TheSmokinApe]

Thanks for the comments! I still love this pack 👍

[@Bob-po2st]

I got this bag with the intention of using it as a 24-hour bushcraft/camp/hiking bag. While the quality of the bag might be good and fit the needs for some, it didn't cover my needs at all and I regret buying it. I'll try to explain why, if you consider buying it for the same purposes as I did... I had a hard time adjusting the bag for my back. I couldn't make it distribute the weight evenly thru my body. If I got the weight down to my hips (which it did a poor job of doing), it felt awkward on the shoulders, and if I got weight to the shoulders it only took all the weight. I couldn't walk more than 500 meters without getting a sore neck and shoulders. Maybe I didn't adjust it probably, but it shouldn't be rocket science to do so... There wasn't room enough for sleeping gear in the bag. I got a lightweight hammock setup, and it could just barely fit in the big compartment. The second smaller compartment was pressured by the big one, and I could only fit some water and some food there. In the 2 last small compartments, there was only room for a small amount of gear, like a knife, flashlight, rope. You might have a little more room if you attach something like the sleeping bag under the bag. If I knew better I would have gotten something like the Osprey Kestrel 48. That's my fault for not doing enough research and knowing my needs, not the bags fault.

[@dangerousbeans2907]

It’s a massive design flaw of all of these otherwise excellent bags. They’re terrible for their intended purposes. Unless you’re like 5’6” the hip belts are rubbish and useless. Without a proper hip belt for weight distribution none of these packs are suitable. I’m amazed that this isn’t a more realized topic. I think these sell to folks who love gear but don’t actually use it. Let em walk even a mile with one of these loaded and see what they think. One somewhat suitable solution is to buy a maxpedition proteus ( the hip sack bag) and attach it to the bottom of the falcon, using the proteus as an extension to the length of the pack and as a proper hip belt with the weight of the Falcon resting on top of it. It does make a huge difference.

[@sidorgan969]

that is a cool colour! I like the look of the back air mesh

[@TheSmokinApe]

Thanks man, I likenthe gray too...

[@livingsurvival]

that's a sick bag and nice color. I traded my falcon and wish i hadn't. i will have to get one again and see if anyone is getting rid of one.

[@TheSmokinApe]

Thanks Ben, I am hooked on the wolf gray and maxped gear in general...

[@BungieStudios]

Good for school. Helps with the back. Especially if you have to bring a bunch a books on the same day. RIP my durable Jansport.

[@TheSmokinApe]

Thanks for the comment...

[@AROTTWEILERR]

ive got the gyfalcon bag, bit longer but pretty much same design... making mine into a 72 hour job too, work in progress but it just looks eye catching, cheers

[@TheSmokinApe]

+AROTTWEILERR I really like that gyfalcon bag...

This is the first falcon 3 review here on youtube. Thanks man

[@TheSmokinApe]

Glad you like it...

[@EDKG]

That's a bad assbag son. Free feathered hunting hawk with each one? Sign me up, falconry is so hot right now.

[@TheSmokinApe]

Right. In this case the name is actually cooler than the bag son...

[@dennispoley6005]

Oh...that's great...I just bought a Maxpedition Falcon 2. I thought, it would be perfect if it was a little bigger, and now they come out with the Falcon 3 which is just that. Well, now I know what to put on my list for Santa.

[@TheSmokinApe]

Haha, thanks for the comment...

[@01cthompson]

+dennis poley I *think* the bags are about the same size. I believe they just added velcro to the middle compartment.

[@AvoidingChores]

That's not a bad looking pack it's not quite my thing with the current design but it looks very versatile

[@TheSmokinApe]

Its a bit tactical but its really well built...

[@exellas1497]

I love the wolf grey color I just wish they would make more pouches in that color like the combat admin pouch.

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Exella S Totally agree... thanks for the comment.

[@deviant1330]

Thank you so much for making a great video. Excellent detail and look-through in the bag, you nailed it. Also, thank you for NOT making us viewers watch you run through water, hide behind trees, or stomping in a wooded area like a douche! Well done brother!

[@TheSmokinApe]

LOL, thanks man! Glad you liked it 👍

[@AQGYM]

would be interested to see follow up packed with gear, many thanks great review

[@TheSmokinApe]

+AQGYM Thanks man, I have a trip coming up where I plan to use this pack. I will get something posted.

[@richardfitzwell5708]

Why does Maxpedition say this is a 35 liter bag? From their website: Overall size: 10"(L) x 12"(W) x 18"(H) Main compartment: 10"(L) x 6"(W) x 18"(H) Middle compartment: 10"(L) x 3.5"(W) x 17"(H) Top front pocket: 8"(L) x 2.25"(W) x 5.25"(H) Bottom front pocket: 8"(L) x 2.25"(W) x 10.5"(H) Overall volume: 2160 cu. in. / 35L

[@ssrknivesandguns8741]

VERY COOL BAG!

[@TheSmokinApe]

Thanks man!

[@squad5111]

great back man

[@TheSmokinApe]

@@squad5111 thanks!

[@nathanialroy3624]

looks like the only difference is the ccw section and the water bladder spot was moved from the very back zipper compartment to the middle base interesting

[@DeanO]

That is the perfect size hunting bag

[@TheSmokinApe]

So far I am happy with it, I traded a 5.11 bag and some knives to get this one, hopefully I can try it out soon.

[@SUFFICIENTSURVIVAL]

Great looking pack!!

[@TheSmokinApe]

+SUFFICIENT SURVIVAL Thanks man, can't wait to put it to some use...

[@evgenyg2697]

Nice review! Thx for sharing.

[@TheSmokinApe]

Thanks, glad you liked it...

[@DeepSouthExperience]

I have all of the frameless Maxpedition bags. The Falcon is a top 3 favorite The only difference I see between the Falcon 2 and 3 is the back and strap mesh and the concealed carry pocket is reconfigured. Anything else that you know of?

[@TheSmokinApe]

No, I don't have much experience with the Falcon 2. I have carried the pygmy falcon for about 2 years now and I love that bag. I wanted something a bit larger and more capable for a camp / bug out bag...

[@omar1s1]

Nice review... try in on next time.

[@TheSmokinApe]

Omar Coston Thanks man!

[@silva27]

great review, thank you!

[@TheSmokinApe]

Glad you liked it...

[@druinjun5668]

@2:52 let me guess.... "it was the bag?!?" lol

[@TheSmokinApe]

lol

[@ucduy3414]

Hello Sir. Can i carry about 15-20 kilogram and still feel comfortable at my shoulders in under 20 miles hiking? Thank you so much.

[@yu9234]

Awesome review, I have been waiting forever for someone to review it and to see the bag in "real". Question : is it much larger or just a bit larger than the falcon 2? Edit: nevermind, answer was already in the comments... my bad -_-

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Yu-Lung Man Cool, hope you liked the video...

[@antoniobotello4996]

Keep me updated and how is working.

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Antonio Botello Will do, I just did a video comparing it to the Vanquest Falconer 27...

[@LowcountryMan]

can we get an update? I have not seen any other reviews for this bag

[@TheSmokinApe]

It's comfortable, I haven't used it much... it will get more use as it warms up...

[@ritesideofthefence5857]

Thanks for the video . will it fit a broken down M-4 ?

[@TheSmokinApe]

Lol, I haven't tried... I guess it would depend on barrel length.

[@KK6USYHamRadioAdventures]

Looks like a nice back Ape! Would this be about the right size for z 891 in the main compartment?

[@TheSmokinApe]

The main compartment should easily hold one, I don't have one to test though.

[@antoniobotello4996]

Great review and what size can a laptop will be able to fit in on the second carpartment?

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Antonio Botello I carry a 15', thanks for the comment...

[@rogersurez9120]

Hello, how much it weight empty?and how about the weight distribution when full?

[@RagingSovereign]

Thanks for the review! I would love to buy this pack but for $200 i think its too much -_- No water bottle compartment... eh.....

[@TheSmokinApe]

A water bottle compartment would have been great...

[@abc456f]

What is the price? To me if it's anywhere close to the Vanquest Falconer 27, I'd go with that bag instead. Thanks.

[@TheSmokinApe]

Its slightly less, I was looking at both and believe the Vanquest is a great bag but at the end of the day I am a fan of Maxped gear and went with the Falcon 3... Thanks for the comment.

[@cyphersuit1]

Do you know if the falconer 27 is smaller or bigger? Thx a lot

[@TheSmokinApe]

+cyphersuit1 The Falconier is slightly smaller...

[@sasquatchman0012]

I just recently bought the falcon iii and was wondering what the dimensions of the hydration bladder pocket is. Right now I have a 2L camelbak in it but was wondering how much larger I could go. I am currently looking into getting a source tactical hydration bladder for this pack and am deciding between the WLPS low pro 3L system or the WXP 3L hydration bladder.

[@amgolfer3591]

SmokinApe--have you tested out the Falcon III? I have a lot of Maxpedition gear but I haven't been sold on their backpacks--I have friends who say their backpacks are very rigid (500D is all I need) and that the layout could be better. They all agree the packs are "tanks" and very tough. Let me know your thoughts. No water bottle holder on the side is a deal breaker for me personally. Do you prefer the tactical look? The bag is good looking, but stands out a little too much for may taste I think..... I prefer some tactical appearance but not over the top--I absolutely love Direct Actions line (Ghost and the Dragon Egg)----GREAT bags and I love the configuration--I own the Dragon Egg and it's a great pack altogether. They are significantly cheaper option as well. Just excellent quality. I also have Sabra Gear backpacks--I have found that the Mono 48 is a great "extended" BOB along with the Solo 21 (only 21 L but seems to hold a lot more gear).... own both as well and also built rock solid. I love great packs. Again, thanks for the review as I love your station my friend.

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Shane G No, I have just tried to load it out a few different ways, I just got it a little over a week ago. Hopefully I can try it soon. Yes I liking the tactical look, I think that it's not a big deal for camp and bug out bags... in a survival situation any 28L bag will standout regardless of what the Internet Rambo's say... This one is 1000d so its a little thick and heavy. Also I will be adding a MaxPed bottle holder, which add weight too :( Thanks for the comments and the tips about the other bags...

[@amgolfer3591]

+TheSmokinApe I appreciate the response back. You're right regarding the what will standout and what won't---we are ALL targets no matter what. I sure wish the Maxpediction Falcon III had water bottle holders--not a deal breaker but close. I really appreciate your videos brotha--keep them coming and I will definitely let my friends know about your channel. Again, thanks for everything and enjoy your new bag....Maxpedition makes great gear indeed.

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Shane G Thanks man, I appriciate the views and comments...

[@tyronewalker5764]

I could use something bigger than a medium ALICE pack, is this?

[@TheSmokinApe]

It’s 28 liters. Not quite sure the size of the medium Alice.

[@zerofivetwelve]

Is this bag good (suitable enough) for everyday use? Like go-to bag? I am worried will attract too much attention cause like military bag? (But i like it) thanks!

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Yono Sastra Its very well built and durable, probably a little big for edc carry though...

[@zerofivetwelve]

TheSmokinApe thanks for the reply. I finally decided and just bought Maxped Riftcore and Mongo. These two is gonna be my 1st Maxpedition bags 😊 i have seen so many reviews saying good and very durable about this brand. Hopefully i like it...

[@TheSmokinApe]

I am sure you will... good luck!

[@tomKZ8TOM]

Is the bag you shared on CAHR on 11-11-23?

[@TheSmokinApe]

It's not, the one I showed was the Pygmy Falcon II

[@mustafalang]

I hear that the mesh that sits against the back does not wick water away, so if it gets wet, or if you are sweating it gets absorbed. does anyone have info about this?

[@mattishuseth408]

I guess you hear that from one review on Amazon? In my experience its no problem at all, and I tend to sweat much.

[@otis-xk6ib]

maxpedition website says its 1950 cu in or 32 liters. I think the falcon 2 is 27 liters. just stating/asking because I'm very interested in one. which 5.11 did you trade? 24?. good vid

[@TheSmokinApe]

Thanks man, it was a 72...

[@Jack3dBrett]

Do you know the weight of this pack? It doesnt say on Maxs site.

[@TheSmokinApe]

+BAHiker Sorry bro, I have not idea... it is a bit heavy...

[@antoniobotello4996]

keep me posted on the FALCON 3.......I'm planning to buy one and is it the same size as the 511 covrt box backpack?

[@TheSmokinApe]

Not sure I have seen that 5.11 bag yet..

[@weaponkid6656]

is this Maxpedition's reply to the Vanquest Falconer 27?

[@weaponkid6656]

size is different but there still similar

[@AROTTWEILERR]

you know size matters

[@TheSmokinApe]

+AROTTWEILERR Right!

[@gabrielbuenviaje4499]

I purchased falcon 3 but i found out that it is made in vietnam. Is it authentic?

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Gabriel Buenviaje Nope, should have been made in Taiwan

[@gabrielbuenviaje4499]

+TheSmokinApe aw so i bought a fake one? It priced for more than 200 bucks

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Gabriel Buenviaje Are you sure its Vietnam? On the maxped website it says all nylon gear in made in Taiwan. Where did you get it?

[@gabrielbuenviaje4499]

+TheSmokinApe just bought it from a person. maxpedition is not available locally on our country. Yes it says made in vietnam.

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Gabriel Buenviaje Mine says made in Taiwan, I would be suspect if it said Vietnam. Does it look authentic?

[@MattyDante]

What's the difference between the 3 and the 2?

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Matty Dante I have never handled the 2, or at least I don't remember. It my understanding the big difference is the CCW compartment the mesh on the back and straps...

[@MattyDante]

+TheSmokinApe Thanks for the quick reply. I looked into them quite a bit more, have decided on the F3. I wanted to ask you though, do you feel like the two (slots, pouches? not sure what else to call them) that are inside the main pocket, is each one big enough to fit say a 13 inch MacBook pro? How about a armor plate?

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Matty Dante I will try to remember to check when I get home... I am pretty sure it will...

[@MattyDante]

+TheSmokinApe thanks man, just let me know

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Matty Dante hey man, I was able to get one in both sleeves. Its a bit of a tight fit in the front one...

[@knowledgelibrary1141]

How comfortable is this for long hikes/all day hunting trips?

[@TheSmokinApe]

I'd say it's pretty comfortable but that's going to be variable based off how much stuff is in it...

[@knowledgelibrary1141]

@@TheSmokinApe Got it, thanks for the reply. Definitely want to get this, only concern is that a few reviews online have said that the Vietnam-made packs aren't as good as the older Taiwan-made packs. Any thoughts?

[@TheSmokinApe]

I have gear from both places, there's no difference.

[@rossauce12]

This or a 511 rush 2.0?

[@TheSmokinApe]

I think it’s a toss up, both are great bags 👍

[@marksandoval3027]

28 liters

[@CryptoChristopher]

Love Maxpedition, but this model is TERRIBLE. I love Maxpedition. I love my Condor II and Vulture. I've bought tons of pouches and accessories from them too and customized each backpack to my liking. This particular model, the new Falcon III, is terrible. Every generation comes new "upgrades". Most of them are great. This model has mesh shoulder straps and a layer of mesh on the back. Why the hell would they do that? The backpacks were comfortable enough. The mesh ABSORBS and RETAINS WATER, SWEAT, DIRT, and BACTERIA. You can't just squeeze it out or pat it dry with a paper towel. It smells disgusting after a few uses. You're not supposed to use detergent either. Yeah, I get pretty sweaty and nasty after a day of hiking. I am extremely disappointed with Maxpedition.

[@TheSmokinApe]

+Dr Void I throw my stuff in the washer...thanks for the comment.

[@shelbyrodriguez560]

wish these tactical gear Co. will actually make useful gear....this is bad for a C. medic need those zipped inner pouches...