Maxpedition Xantha | Field Review

*Available in HD - Krik of Black Owl Outdoors takes a look at the Maxpedition Xantha, the first internal frame backpack from Maxpedition. On paper the Xantha should be the perfect blend of military toughness and hiking comfort, but in reality, it is a much different story.
Maxpedition Xantha - amzn.to/29OurDw
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[@IrishZombieNation]

I appreciate an honest review on this bag. Too many reviewers avoid doing negative reviews and I feel like it's a disservice to those that watch their videos. I want honesty, good or bad, not filtered content that only shines light on the good stuff. Great video gentlemen.

[@gideonstactical]

Awesome guys!! Way to be honest, agreed on all your point especially the the external water bottle pouches. I am alway look for that hybrid between lightweight hiking and heavy tactical packs. Another one bite the dust, just like the 5.11 Ignitor. I hope someone will figure it out one day!

[@jeremyg371]

thx for the straight up on this bag. about time someone just admits a product is junk and isn't so worried about the manufacturer not sending free stuff.

[@TheKurbsk8er]

Thank you for the honesty. Your video on the Condor Titan pack prompted me me to buy it. I know it doesn't have a pocket dedicated to carrying a water bottle. But as for bridging the gap for hiking and tactical, I believe it does a great job. I have been watching your videos for many years now. Keep up the good work and again thank you for all the help over the years.

[@taylordearman9758]

I am using a Piltdown, model, The Hustle.....semi tactical...almost, almost semi hiker/backpacker. The components such as zippers and webbing wrapped shock cord zipper pulls, MOLLE webbing, various Shock Cords for miscellaneous attaching, and 2 fully functioning 40+ oz. Water Bottle Pockets!! -> Amazing!! The quality of construction, so far having owned it and used it for almost 1 month, also amazing!! If I have been told correctly, these bags are handmade in Arkansas and I will say their warranty is outstanding and gives Osprey and Osprey packs, a run for their money. However....it does not fill the middle ground that a lot of us are seeking to find. The Hustle by Piltdown does not have an adequate load bearing Hip Belt, an Internal Frame, or Shoulder Straps that are worth their weight.... I want Piltdown to make a bag that not only stands out, like The Hustle does right now I believe, but I want Piltdown to also make a bag that stands up! Stands up to the needs of those seeking that holy grail of the middle ground between Tactical and Hiker/Backpacker.

[@thefishinglor6931]

Hey Krik, sorry I watched this video a long time ago but I didn’t watch it all the way through to your final conclusion til now but in response to your question about other bags that would comfortably carry 40 oz bottles, i met a guide in Alaska in 2017 who was using a Simms G4 and I was very impressed by how water resistant it is so I put it on my wishlist and got it for Christmas that year! It’s an amazing bag! Very comfortable even with all my deep sea fishing jigs that grosses around 30 lbs total the kidney belt tightened would concentrate the weight on my lower back and be comfortable for all day hiking plus it’s very water resistant enough it can take a splash no problem but it’s not waterproof so I wouldn’t recommend dunking it. It’s not a dry bag after all and speaking of that if a person needs a dry bag you should just get a real dry bag that comes with straps just like a backpack but will seal at the top and can withstand being submerged in water. Good day turtles!

[@jeffrains495]

I took this bag on the Appalachian trail for over a month with 30+ pounds in it and had no problems with it supporting the weight.

[@georgewoods2090]

If you are looking for a backpack with a good suspension system, and hip belt, large bottle pockets that has the durability of a tactical bag, I would recommend looking at the Eberlestock Halftrack. The suspension system is very good. Although the shoulder straps are not padded, but they are very comfortable and the mesh material is very breathable. The can be adjusted in height. The detachable hip belt can carry a lot of weight. The backpack has two aluminum rods which you can adjust to your back. Never had a bag that sat so snug on my back. It has a large cushion on the lower back, which keeps the backpack away from you back for ventilation. The two bottle pouches on either side are very large. Each one can hold two 32oz Nalgene bottles or e.g. a large camera pod. The strap in the middle of each pouch can used to divide the pouch (heavy bottles in the top part). The main compartment can be divided and has some extra pockets. In my opinion the bag looks not too tactical and I like the front loading very much. It gives easy access to all the equipment like cameras aso. The only drawbacks are the weight and the price.

[@bushcrafttasmaniaisnowsnow374]

Well done Krik for being truly honest regarding a product! Massive, massive respect. So often we see "KZbinrs" selling out. I guess that's why we keep coming back to Black Owl Outdoors. :)

[@rafalk5709]

I was going through number of backpacks, from big to small, urban tactical and outdoor, and all the big brands, my final (at least for now) backpack which is perfect sweet spot between all i mentioned is condor solveig gen2 - no ykk zippers, no big brand buckles, but for now it holds perfectly. Ohh, and its less then half price of this maxcrappition bag

[@dylanblack537]

You should absolutely check out the bags from Sabra Gear. They have essentially the exact same features (tactical/hiking) of this maxpedition bag but works like it's supposed to. If you get the waist belt it basically holds the bag, zero wait on your shoulders. For real

[@aphillips1987]

REI Lookout 40...an entirely decent, very comfortable pack.I know everybody is fantasizing about their pack getting dragged on the ground behind a jeep on a gravel road and surviving, but short of that this pack is pretty good. Perfect size, xlnt comfort. Just bring a 1-ounce sewing kit if you're worried, for cryin out loud.

[@kynaston1474]

I love good honest reviews like this. Keep being honest, don't sell out.

[@MSato123]

I like Maxp rucksack but you are right, the back system is the one thing that stopped me from buying them. I love all the pouches.

[@cyphersuit1]

i have three backpacks in its size range and i like my xantha the most. the water bottle pockets are a must for me. i can fit all my stuff in the xantha and feel it carries it all well even if heavy loaded. at first i thought wow it does not carry the weight well but i then managed to adjust everything so well that i know have to say about my personal xantha that it is my dream pack. i have a slightly newer version where the problem with the belt strap was fixed.

[@I_am_Jeff]

I prefer side pockets too for water bottles over bladders just because you can monitor your water intake and know how much fluids you have left. I'm a big fan of Osprey and Patagonia packs myself. Tactical packs tend to be heavy, but if you want to look into one try "GreyGhost Gear." I own one of their products called the "Stealth Operator," but it doesn't have side pockets. If you want side pockets try looking at their "Sabre Delta 25." Great video!

[@jesselucero8695]

I have experienced a couple of badly designed packs from them too. I have been buying packs since 04 and I am hunting down the same thing your looking for. I have a 5.11 tactical rush loan 10 sling bag that is in my opinion, the best design for me. but a single sling hurts if you have more that 10lbs in it. I have recently modified it to a regular back pack and it is now perfect for a 3/4 to full day pack. pouches can be added if need be and now that I have two straps on it it can handle the weight fine. BUT, I have my eye on the First Tactical one day pluss pack. being that it has a similar design as my loan 10 and its a 30 litre pack, I feel it is perfect. it has all the requirements you just mentioned you look for minus the bottle pocket, but has ample attachment points for adding a bottle pouch like thr hazard 4 jelly roll. it is priced at $190.00 U.S. so im saving my pennies but with all of the research I have done, I am super confident that it is the pack of my dreams since I look for the same mix of edc, outdoor use and tactical capability. you may want to look into it. thanks for the cool videos and honest reviews. keep up the awesome work. Much love from SoCal.

[@MichaelTravis12c27]

Thanks for the heads up. You are right. The pack has some great features but the inability to perform its core function is a real deal breaker.

[@mikehawton805]

Fantastic honest but fair review, please keep doing bag reviews they are a great resource to all👍

[@PiperV0315]

Honesty and bluntness are a good thing. I for none appreciate it, maybe more so than some. Maxpedition is extra proud of their stuff as far as price goes, and you are absolutely spot on for how a bag for that kind of money should perform. It really is too bad they didn't consult a the Internet reviews for what is needed in an internal frame bag for comfort and carry ability...

[@DavidSJ_DAP]

I think the Wisport Woodcraft you reviewed awhile back is a much better example of the "in between" pack Maxpedition is trying to make here...I bought one based on your review and love it...

[@dougLinker]

Fair review but I actually love mine -I chucked the waist belt day one same as their Vulture pack as they ride too high for me but I actually like how it rides otherwise.My only complaint would be I would love to see the water bottle pockets a hair larger so I don't have to fight with my nesting cup.All that said it is not really a backpacking pack either at 32l.i wonder if there is an ideal body type size they are geared for as I like how it carries but not with the waist belt -keep it up fellas ,always look forward to your vids

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Good point about nesting a cup with the bottle. I forgot to mention it was tight fit! Thanks for the support buddy.

[@garreswe]

I'm so impressed by your video's thumbnails! They look really awesome, like small pieces of art. The graphics in the outro is also really nice, your graphic artist is great :)

[@ricstormwolf]

Having never used a water bladder before, I didn't know that they end up making the water taste like plastic. I'll definitely take that into consideration 👍

[@thorsbeat]

the camelback BFM can carry the water bottles and a bladder. its a 42L pack. also the true spec elite 3 day pack can carry both, its 36L. I just got those packs but haven't been out with them yet. my reason for getting them is because of water bottle and bladder carrying features.

[@admadama7009]

I know you mentioned Mystery Ranch, have you tried their 3 day assault pack? With the optional wings it carries a lot of weight well for its size and doesn't look to tactical. It isn't cheap but it is actually made in the US.

[@phillipdelaney2989]

I've got a Mammut pro neon 40 or something like that, it's a hiking/climbing oriented bag. made of canvas, so I figured it would be durable, and it has been. the only thing is that it doesn't have water bottle pouches. (so I have to stop and open the bag each time for water. a little bit of a hassle, but at the same time, i can freeze some of my water, kind of tuck it in a thin winter jacket, and then I've got insulation so my water stays colder for longer-which I love in the summer. I have to set designated water breaks, and i always have one water bottle at the top for 'easy' access.) The pack is better for climbing and keeping your range of motion open, but i use it for general hiking, camping, and it doesn't look too odd out in the city either. Just check out Mammut, it's a brand I've been happy with, and they do have other models with water bottle pouches.

[@phillipdelaney2989]

Marmot Eiger 42 seems good, as well as Marmot Graviton 38, both of those have water bottle pouches. More on the hiking side of backpacks but Marmot is another good company and I would expect good support and design. Dyneema is a new type of material weaved in the fabric to make it much stronger than just the nylon, not sure how it is with abrasion though, like I said, I went with good old canvas myself

[@LionheartSJZ]

good bag for summer overnighters. Too large for a daypack. I like it though. Big side bags are the most important features for me on a backpack!

[@chrisbroder9562]

Hey fellas- You should take a look at the Mountain Hardwear Splitter 40L. It's made of bomber nylon, has 2 large water bottle pockets, and can carry weight comfortably. It can also open clamshell style, which is nice for packing or finding gear buried inside of it. Plus it comes with a sweet tarp included! Long time fan, keep up the good work!

[@Gunni1972]

If you overbuild, like Maxpedition does, i think, this Critique is justified. And yes, i would check out some Savotta Backpacks too, but fair warning, they go more towards tactical, than hiking backpacks. good materials. but not fiddling a lot with Mesh , or lots of compartments.

[@brad2king]

Check out the "Expandable Pack" by "Propper". It has everything you want in a tacticool style pack. 40oz Kleen Kanteen compatible. Great zippers and comfortable!!!

[@mreinecker]

Yes please, more bags for big water bottles. I always wonder, do they even test these things? Not talking about any bag in specific, but my bag from direct action would be so much better if the water bottle pouches could actually fit a water bottle. What's the point?

[@michaelmorris1802]

What you said is exactly what I'm looking for as well, and I can't find anything either. I have an eberlestock pack, and it's honestly an excellent pack... if you need a 30 liter + bag. I'm look for that quality, and weight carrying capability in an 18 - 20 liter bag... sure wish someone would bring one to market!!!

[@AudioVisualResources]

I have a Kelty Redwing 44. It fits my 32 oz Kleen Canteen nested in one of those Pathfinder steel cups pretty well, so it might do a 40oz. The side pockets are nicely sized. There's some decent organization in the front pocket. Nice sized main. It doesn't feel as sturdy as a tactical bag, but the reviews online say it's pretty tough. It's also half the price of the Maxpedition (I actually got mine for $75!). It's right in between a day bag and backpacking bag. The hip belt is comfortable and takes the load alright. I like it a lot. I'd also like your take on Joe Robinet's YNOT bag. It's got some huge side pockets and very simplistic...but looks rugged AF. It reminds me of the Swiss bag MCQ uses, but without an external frame. Might be worth a look and create some inter-channel bonding :) I appreciate the honesty. I've not been that impressed with Maxpedition myself. They make tough stuff, but very overpriced, and at times not completely thought out. Great review, gents. Thank you.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

I had a Redwing a while ago and loved it (they have since changed the design). The only thing I didn't like about it was the "water bottle" pockets. They were made of mesh. And after time, that mesh starts to sag a lot. And that YNOT pack looks really great. Thanks for suggestions.

[@brianh7856]

I recently bought a Kelty Redwing 50 and love it. 2 large water bottle holders on the side and very comfortable loaded up. I have 3 Maxpeditions packs and found they were heavy, pricey and not very comfortable. Even though I love the look and quality of tactical bags, I'm moving away from them and going towards the hiking/backpacking style.

[@flindersadventures9410]

Check out the Hill People Gear Umlindi. I've been testing one out for a couple months. It's a great pack and has water bottle sleeves on both sides that fit my heavycover canteen and kit in one. Great honest review 👍

[@MrAdamaftershock]

You should look at the new Doorgunner from Kifaru, looks like it's right up this alley. Although I haven't seen one yet.

[@SarumSabre]

Cheers for the review. I've been using a brown Wisport 55l Reindeer for a little while. A tad on the tactical side, but no MOLLE and has an internal frame. Pretty comfy too with a full load. This Xantha looks nice, but I'd feel bad slinging it around the woods at that price!

[@MrStropparo]

People will trust you when you are honest with them. Money is damn hard to get these days. Not gonna waste it just for a name. If it isn't good ,it isn't good. Thanks krik.

[@cchung8001]

I have the LA Police Gear Operator Backpack SKU #: LAPG-BG-LARGEPACK. The side pockets are zipper pockets. When unzipped, my 40 oz KleanKanteen fits inside. I usually just leave it open with the water bottle sticking out of the top.

[@amgolfer3591]

I find it to be uncomfortable with slightly heavier load outs. Many have echoed that as well. IMHO...

[@antoniobotello4996]

I really like your review and you made some good points there, I was going to buy a MAXPEDITION Zentha backpack, but not enough pockets instead I going for VERTX GAMUT EDC BACLPACK.

[@amgolfer3591]

Krik--great video buddy and thanks for the candidness. I have never liked this backpack---interesting:) I have also seen a few field reviews on the pack and it wasn't encouraging to say the least. Try Sabra Gear--boys of in Israel have figured it out...great packs and I think they might fit the bill--excellent quality and I'm pretty sure I have mentioned this to you in the past. The Sabra Gear bags are a no thrill bag, only two color options, slightly tactical but well made...They just added a new pack to their line totaling 3 options. They also have a drop leg bag which as received great reviews. Direct Action makes a great bag as well. Thanks again buddy for the pack. Still waiting for the review of the Stubben pack--just received mine and looking forward to using it for simple hikes and bushcrafting activities--I will never load it out with heavy weight. Thanks buddy. - Shane

[@midamort]

Have you looked at the REI traverse? I don't have one but they look like pretty good packs and I want to say they're typically less than $150. I got an osprey 38 on a sale for like $80 and I'm extremely impressed with its durability. I guess it just depends on your personal preferences for stylistic design past that point.

[@sedricmalonejr]

How do you pack your clothing/undergarments? Most videos are usually with "pouches or small packs" on the inside of the bag. Also, where would you place papers, maps or small books for purpose of travel?

[@adamk1846]

Dude, look into osprey packs. they are straight up Top top-tier hiking packs hiking packs. they use mesh water bottle pouches but I put 40 ounce Klean kanteen bottles in both of them they're awesome.

[@MooseTracks77]

I bought this pack and agree 100 percent with your review. I was so disappointed in this pack.

[@WatchmanNiel]

Appreciate your honest review, but it should be said that this bag is not a "current" offering. Advanced Gear Research is the new thing from Maxpedition and in this line the Riftcore makes for a great day pack that is really well thought out. I use a Camelbak bottle holder with it, the bag meets all my expectations and it is also very comfortable for day hikes. For anything more, get the expensive Mystery Ranch 3 Day Assault Pack and don't ever look back.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

It's still for sale, so I consider it current.

[@WatchmanNiel]

My point is that it is worth your audience knowing that there are newer offerings from the same manufacturer using vastly improved manufacturing processes. Anyhow, I do not mean to be argumentative at all and it is hard to convey this as a comment, but I certainly appreciate your insights so thank you for your hard work to make these videos.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

So you're saying the Riftcore is much better than the Xantha? I'd like to try it, but at that price, I'm a little weary of anything brand new from Maxpedition. No argument here.

[@WatchmanNiel]

No, but I am a fan of the new AGR manufacturing concepts. The Riftcore is awesome, but it is smaller than the Xantha and I strictly use it as a day pack and for urban use. I suspect that you might strongly prefer bags with side pockets for water bottles, and this would rule out the Riftcore. For the outdoors I greatly prefer the Mystery Ranch 3DAP, and I discovered it through the enthusiasm of many others - it is simply terrific in terms of design (load bearing) & quality. If I could only ever buy a single pack that had to cater for an overnight experience, the 3DAP would be it.

[@MatzeTriemer]

Hey there. Did you check out the Millican backpacks? I've got a Fraser which handles loads nicely and has enough organization for my needs and two bottle pockets on the sides. Cheaper too!

[@kbbjedi]

All their new stuff from only a couple years ago seems like it's being phased out. Maxpedition appears to be putting their focus on the new AGR line which has a much more luggage/urban look to it in my opinion. I think MCQ wasn't too stoked on this pack too. Checkout Hill People Gear if you haven't already, really like the stuff their putting out.

[@kbbjedi]

That being said I still like Maxpedition gear and the build quality, but not everything they make is to my taste. The Falcon ll is a classic and still serves me well, and their organizer pouches too.

[@johnp505]

Someone definitely dropped the ball at Maxpedition. Try the Wilderness Scout pack from YNOT. It's expensive, but looks interesting. From what I see of it, it's a bushcraft pack that's made mill spec. I'd be interested it seeing your take on it, because I value your opinion. Keep up the great work!

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Yea it looks like a great, well thought out pack!

[@StarDarkAshes]

I wonder if since the hip belt that came with the bag is removable anyway that there is some other hip belt from another company or even Maxpedition that you could substitute in place of the other one that would support the weight well and do whatever one would need. If anyone has any thoughts please let us know. Thanks. Great video.

[@MK12MOD_POOR]

Here are some better alternatives for a pack. The Kifaru "Urban Zippy", the Tactical Tailor "Three Day Plus Assault Pack", or the Tactical Tailor "Bantam Pack". They are 24, 46, and 13 liters and cost 299$, 252$, and 165-174$ respectively. All come with pouches to place a water bottle and use at least 500 D cordura. The Assault pack is the only one to offer a waist belt.

[@CedricAda]

I think the pack might be for people who intend to use it but never do! I am having success with my antique trappers frame with a cotopaxi bag attached and Just swapped to a frost river Summit Expedition. I would suggest buying a wooden or metal framef first and having a look at the Summit Expedition pack from frost river. Or the Isle Royale if you have more moneys. You can wear it floppy as a daypack without the frame but when hiking attach it to a canvas frame. I have a video on my frame on my channel and I'll do an update on the new rig once I've tested it further. The other main one which comes to mind which I'm sure you are aware of is the pack Mike at MCQ bushcraft runs, although you kinda have to build it over a few purchases and do some modsz

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

I don't mind modding or building things. You should know that! But seriously, I'm rethinking my bag purchases/preferences as time goes on. I'll be curious to see your video on the FS and frame.

[@EverythingThereIs]

Thanks for the honest review. You really need to get your hands on the Eberlestock G1Little Brother. You and I have almost exactly the same things we're looking for in packs. If you have a minute check out my review of the G1 Little Brother. My production quality and channel size is nowhere near yours, and it would be nice if you did a review of it to raise its profile.

[@EverythingThereIs]

I should clarify: review the bag, not my channel.

[@CursiveDragon]

If money isn't an issue, what bag would you recommend for me? I go on 20+ mile hikes.

[@snowpuppy77]

Excellent review. Hopefully Maxpedition will listen. Seems to me that they have been loosing their way. They are even phasing out the OD Green color. I bought a couple of the OD Green items to go with my Typhoon pack before they are gone. I know Maxpedition could make a real top notch bushcraft/trail pack if they truly applied themselves to it and beta tested with key customers. Like you mention they need to complete the R&D work. Sounds like this bag is half baked.

[@edwardbarton1962]

Snugpack sleeka force 35. I keep2 heavy cover canteens in side pockets

[@MSato123]

Very nice detailed and honest review. Thanks again.

[@1970351C2V]

You said it: Mystery Ranch. Only negative is price, but it's still cheaper than this Maxpedition pack (ouch).

[@J2FcM]

Got that same hat in black annnnnnnnnnnnd its the best. breath it on yer head, fold it in yer pocket

[@robertbernal24]

You should check out the kifaru packs

[@WisconsinEric]

Packs need to be sized correctly for the user, and the tacticool pack manufactures rarely even list the torso size their packs will fit. I sold my 5.11 Rush 72 over 3yrs ago because it did not fit me correctly. Re: packs with water bottle holders.... I too do not like water bladders. I have a 2015 Kelty Redwing that transfers weight to my hips correctly, and it holds two 38oz Stainless Nalgenes and a small 16oz kid size Nalgene while still having room for an axe in the slip pocket behind the bottle pouches.

[@jwchoidx]

Thank you for your review. Between Maxpedition Xantha and Fjallraven 40L backpack, what do you recommend for hiking and bushcraft backpacking camp of 1 night (or 2 nights)? Or is there any other packpacking system you recommend?

[@JeffDavis73]

Would like to see your thoughts on the new Prometheus Design Werx SHADO pack. They just released it. Looks like it fits this middle ground you are looking for.

[@snowontheweb]

Guess I'll just stick with my trusty Hazard 4 Second Front pack. It's a shame the Xantha is a failure.... Thanks for the review!!!!!

[@amgolfer3591]

Krik, hey buddy I forgot to mention that you should check out YNOT's new Wildland Scout backpack--old school/vintage bag with all the updated technology one would expect--right up your ally buddy as we both appreciated the "old school" style. I reminds me of something I would have had back when I was 12 y/o on a scouting expedition. They (Joe Robinet is backing this--check out his channel) are doing a kickstarter program and although the bag is a little expensive, it blows away a lot of packs due to the genius design of the pack (rucksack). I can't believe I forgot to tell you that. I love packs and own several such as the Fjallraven Stubben, Direct Action Dragon Egg, YNOT (Tony spelled backwards is the owner of YNOT out of Canada--really cool guy), Wildland Scout (should have next month), Sabra Mono and Solo packs and many more that I probably need to get rid of. The ones I mentioned are all great and very functional, well built packs that won't disappoint.

[@ryansgr8]

As usual thanks for the honest review.

[@StarDarkAshes]

Are there any bags of similar capacity and style you'd suggest? Anybody?

[@EagleTrue]

Totally agree with you

[@created4design]

why don't you carry the rush series out with you instead of this thing?

[@secretsquirrell13]

Oh yeah and for etc osprey a the way......good stuff

[@henrikpehrsson1883]

Have you checked out the Tasmanian Tiger trooper pack? About 45L and have the sidepockets (not sure of the seize). To me thats the closest I have seen being able to combine tactical and hiking.

[@Maskltl]

Great review

[@bernardoh90]

Hey stony and krik I have a pack recommendation. It's from a company called sabra-gear. They have a day pack called the solo 21 Currently their site states they will not be taking in orders until August 11th. I am unsure as to why this is but few people have reviewed this pack and I feel that this pack might suit your needs. I hope this information has helped.

[@danielsantiago2419]

Thanks for vid. Enjoying the bottle sling btw!

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

That's great Daniel! I hope it serves you well for years to come.

[@relyk90]

Just recently subscribed and enjoy your content. Good review on the Xantha. I was thinking about picking one up but definitely not now. Thanks! Quick question. A lot of your videos it seems like the color is off? Kind of a yellowish hew I guess? Is it because of the sunlight filtering through the tree canopy?

[@relyk90]

Check out the mystery ranch 3 Day assault. IIRC it has the bottle pockets on the sides. Can't beat MR load carrying capabilities!

[@nicholasmusico5151]

@BlackOwlOutdoors Great video! Curious if you have found a bag that meets the middle ground between tactical and hiking while being less conspicuous, since you've made this video? if so what would you recommend. Thanks :)

[@RobertFireLionBlueHawkWinkler]

I like the pack, but $220.00???? C'mon Maxpedition, that thing ain't worth more than $50.00...

[@timshull59]

Yeah think I paid 160.00 for my Rush 72 which seems to have more features.Just wish it had the water bottle holder.

[@circedge]

Doesn't the 72 come with zippered side pockets though, which are big enough for water bottles and superior to the exposed ones on most packs. This does come with some kind of straps though which most companies ignore too.

[@danstrasberger8381]

nice review which camera did you use?

[@sgbradley]

I've never liked their products, so over priced for something made in Asia. Condor makes a better bag for its price range, sure some maybe cheap looking but not everyone makes above min wage. Thanks for your views.

[@eliastorres3547]

Thats a nice bag

[@razileVelizar]

You have it already = Fjallraven Helags 40L!

[@4mazingP3anut]

Do you mind doing a review on the Cannae Legion Backpack?

[@caoweiye1372]

great video, thank you so much!!

[@brianmiller909]

what's the best 72hr bag that you like that you have ?

[@FishFind3000]

Where's the review on the wisport pack

[@seizEarNEo]

Appreciate the review

[@eachday9538]

Fyi Krik, that bag does look super "tactical"!

[@Ceetvair]

Why don't you wear your Helags 40 anymore?

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

I do. But it's too big for a daypack. Unless it's winter and I'm carrying more gear for the cold.

[@christophermcconnell8946]

Military started the framed pack. Not sure how that's unique.

[@Purifactor]

There are others The original Spec ops T.H.E pack 2x stays internal frame. Never a single return...ever Check it out. Its indestructible Its tactical more than hiking..so not comfortable

[@mangamike6855]

I'm confused. did you even research the pack at all before you bought it you seem surprised about some wtuff I figure you would know before you got it

[@secretsquirrell13]

I'm done with tacticool.......I bought a ula catalyst and never looked back.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

I sleep in a hammock! I mean, not every night, but while camping.

[@secretsquirrell13]

+ᴊᴏʀɪᴄ I tried sleeping in a hammock.....I just can't "hang" lol see what I did there.....I have a six moons designs lunar solo le, jacks r better old rag mtn. down quilt, and big agnes six pad.....so no hammock for me.....buy the vintage camera does sound cool, but where would you get the film?

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

+ᴊᴏʀɪᴄ I'm an everything sleeper in bed. Side, stomach, back. But if you have the hammock setup correctly, you can sleep on your side. And your back of course.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

+ᴊᴏʀɪᴄ But definitely no tummy!

[@rileycoppicus1128]

Anyone got.a xantha for trade?

[@Winchparts]

Look at a Kelty Map 3500

[@THCone]

Seconded.

[@FarEastSurvival]

I thought it was going to be another sponsored review but I am glad to see you giving an honest review. You may not win friends at Maxpedition but giving them proper feedback is good for them as they should improve their testing and quality. Since you asked, have you heard of the Swedish Army LK35? It's an external frame backpack that can have extra pockets sewn on them. MBQ Bushcraft does a really nice review of back pack options and 32 minutes into his video he talks about this pack and his modifications. The link is: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZDJm4iBoZl1abc I hope this helps. Nice review and thanks for sharing

[@martinhawrylkiewicz2025]

Did he just say $220???

[@RaindanceBushcraft]

Seems weird that a company like Maxpedition would let a dud like this out the door. I'd be pissed about the bag, too.

[@NoTrail]

Military/Tactical should not cross over into the realm of recreational backpacking

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

I go back and forth with it. But I believe there definitely is a good hybrid with components from both.