Mission Workshop Reviews In Depth: Rambler Secrets

[@johnnynguyen3521]

I was able to snag a pretty damn rare Vandal VX21 in black from 2021. It was a massive hack to use the main compartment as a pseudo quick access pocket while in compact mode. I love this bag so much since whenever I'm taking packages to the post office / local ups, the expanded mode becomes clutch as hell. It's also versatile for groceries and trips to the laundromat. I never appreciated the rambler / vandal cargo pack lineup until now. I always felt they were barebones bags however since I now have changed my packing style to pouches, I am thriving lol.

[@MissionWorkshopReviews]

The black VX 21 Vandal is my EDC and has been now for two years. It’s crazy.

[@zeeshimon7138]

how much does the rambler with the diamond rip stop cost?

[@MissionWorkshopReviews]

It’s discontinued. They recently rereleased it last year but it sold out fast. It’s not much more then MSRP. Maybe another $50.

[@Keepwrecker]

That extra pocket space is usable. If you reach into the bottom of the bag you can tuck something you would want to keep safe such as a passport. When the bag is emptied the passport will stay put and out of sight.

[@MissionWorkshopReviews]

Japan Quest hey I checked my Rambler and didn’t understand what pocket you meant. Can describe what you meant in more detail?

[@Keepwrecker]

Sure. It's more like a secret nook like the others you pointed out in this video. If you reach your hand all the way to the bottom and then towards the front of the bag where the single external pocket is, you will notice there is a space between the pocket and the outside layer of the bag. this space extends the width of the bag. So as you mentioned there is room for a second pocket on the left side of the bag. In this area it is possible to store things that you would only want occasional access to such as passports or small bag with credit cards. I lost my cold medicine in my bag once and after a week found it there.

[@MissionWorkshopReviews]

Japan Quest Japan Quest I want to find this so bad but cannot. What version do you have? I have the x-pac Rambler which is the older design-the one in my review is the never model. When I reach into the expandable cargo area, the only thing I feel is the pouch from the large zippered pocket. It is stitched to the sides so it won’t flap around but I can reach up under Iran’s touch the back of the small external pocket. I guess I don’t know what you mean by the “external layer of the bag.” You mean how I can touch that layer from the inside? I can touch it but I just do not feel any little pocket. I’d love a pic if you can snap one down there. I know it’s dark. This would be very cool to find

[@tangjams]

@@MissionWorkshopReviews It might be different variations of the old model. Mine is exactly as described by "Japan Quest", it does indeed have the hidden space across the width of the front of the bag. It's impossible to take a picture of this without deconstructing the bag to show the gap. I def have an old "black" version with the black lining and stitched in buckle strap. It is definitely one of the first ramblers, I believe from 2010 or something to that effect. Have you heard of anyone replace the buckle on the stitched in version with a cobra buckle? Especially one not bought from MWS but from Alpin themselves?

[@MissionWorkshopReviews]

WOW--I can't picture it. Ill have to check out this Japan Quest you speak of. As for replacing stitched buckles with Cobra, yes I have seen it. A guy had a digi camo Rambler on eBay years ago. He was from Israel. I do not think he ever sold the bag but he did indeed add the Cobra buckle.

[@Terafrost]

In terms of buying the rambler on ebay, do you know what the average prices would be?

[@MissionWorkshopReviews]

You can grab one from as low as $120 upwards to $200. They don't go for more than that. eBay has some nice filters where you can actually see all the Ramblers that sold over the past few months and what they went for. Just make sure you get the version of the Rambler you want.

[@Terafrost]

Mission Workshop Reviews is there a downside to buying an older bag just like age wise besides the stated differences in the other vid? Thank you!

[@MissionWorkshopReviews]

No, definitely not. The bags are built for life, so a few years difference will make no difference whatsoever. The only concern, as with any used item, is if it was mistreated (I wouldn't even worry if it was abused, as these bags are designed to take a beating). But signs of mistreatment (rips, tears, smells, stains, etc.) should be clearly indicated in the eBay listing. If it turns out to be damaged, you can always return it through eBay claims (I've had to do that before once)

[@Terafrost]

Thanks! Much appreciated.

[@Terafrost]

I had another question about the adjustable shoulder straps on top of the straps. How are you supposed to properly adjust them? I can't tell if they do much right now.

[@patrickc8740]

I also have the rambler, and have a few gripes with the bag myself as well. Although the "expand-ability" is great, you could just get a cheap jansport bag that has virtually no structure and expands as you fill it. Tons of other companies especially the "tactical" minded ones have better options too. But the rambler is definitely on another level when it comes to looks, I always get compliments. I really don't like how the other two compartments are housed within the main compartment. The more items you have in these compartment the less room you'll have in the main compartment. The zipper for the main inner compartment should also go down to the bottom and not half way, that's just annoying. If it went to the bottom the carrying capacity would be expanded to some ridiculous and awkward sized objects, it'd be great. You would also have more accessibility to another hidden gem, there's an opening at the bottom that runs up. Lastly, that small side pocket, actually blocks you from having full access to this entire area, you could cut it out? But I enjoy the minimalist appeal and helps things be clutter free. BUT, If they were to run the zipper a little longer/higher, include a small key fob, a key fob would do wonders. I also have some small carabiners on the inner compartment pocket where the zippers end; there are some great attachment loops of webbing. I hang bike gloves and a small first aid pouch. I'm stealing that bottle trick of yours, never thought of that. I also carry inside a Maxpedition Pouch or a Lihit pencil case depending on the mission for the day. They help organize the odds and ends.

[@archie2473]

water bottle on the side... that slowly destroying the bag in the long or short term...

[@MissionWorkshopReviews]

Archie these things are built tough. I've yet to see any ill effects from this.