Tactical Highlights of the 5.11 Covrt18 Backpack

Updated for 2024! Grab a copy of my 40-page Full Color Digital PDF about the Green Berets No-Nonsense Bug Out Bag complete with updated gear links and a new backpack recommendation: graybeardedgreenberet.com/pro...
The Green Beret's Ultralight Bug Out System starts with the 5.11 Covrt18 Bag. This video goes further into some tactical aspects of an otherwise non-tactical bag that made me choose it over all the others.
Here are some links to items used and recommended for your reference and convenience. Some are affiliate links (Amazon) that I do receive a small portion of and that supports the channel and is appreciated. The other links I have no affiliation with. All gear, affiliate linked or not, I have used in the field and tested and am comfortable endorsing and recommending.
5.11 Covrt18 Backpack (Multiple Color Choices): amzn.to/2lMQODN
High Speed Gear Int’l (North Carolina Company):
HSGI Taco Magazine Pouch (Single Rifle) amzn.to/2lkEACe
HSGI Taco Magazine Pouch (Double Rifle) amzn.to/2kg8dnW
HSGI Taco Magazine Pouch (Triple Rifle Shingle) amzn.to/2kgaYWk
HSGI Taco Magazine Pouch (Single Pistol) amzn.to/2kgGSlA
HSGI Taco Magazine Pouch (Double Pistol) amzn.to/2jJbKL8
HSGI Taco Magazine Pouch (Triple Pistol) amzn.to/2lO7Wck
HSGI Taco Magazine Pouch (Double Decker Combination Rifle/Pistol) amzn.to/2lO6mao
HSGI Taco Magazine Pouch (Triple Combination Rifle/Pistol Shingle) amzn.to/2lhAPgx
HSGI Shot Shell Tray Version 2 (Updated version to mine) amzn.to/2lO5h2l
Please note that HSGI produces some Taco Mag Pouches that are meant for MOLLE attachment and some are meant for Belt Attachment. Pay close attention to what you are ordering so that you get the intended pouch (and don’t find have to find this out the way I did originally).
Also note that there are several color options for these pouches and the backpack as well.
My plate carrier: www.cryeprecision.com/Product...
I recommend this CrossBreed Holster as an option for this pack: www.crossbreedholsters.com/oh...
My plates are from TacProGear. I cannot provide a link to them (you are responsible for knowing and following federal, state, and local laws on body armor ownership and use).
Join my email list for instant FREE access to SEVEN of my most popular Packing List PDFs with gear recommendations in addition to receiving exclusive offers here: graybeardedgreenberet.com/pag...
I'm Joshua Enyart, former Army Ranger (Bco 1/75; Ranger Class 10-96), and Green Beret (18B, 7th SFG). To see my upcoming courses and in-person training, visit: graybeardedgreenberet.com/col...
Many of the products I use and recommend can be found on my website: graybeardedgreenberet.com/
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Follow this link to my Amazon Influencer Store where you can find many of the items I use and recommend in my videos: amzn.to/2RTimTD
As always, please Like and Subscribe here on KZbin. Click the notification bell to ensure you’re always the first to see new videos and follow me on your favorite social media channel:
/ graybeardedgreenberet
/ graybeardedgreenberet
Music used with permission under Artlist Unlimited License Number - 660361 License owner - Joshua Enyart

[@jamesbaldwin9969]

It's nice as a civilian to see what you as an operator really use and recommend for your self and family. This world is a sad place some times but it is nice to know there are people who care enough to carry and encourage others to do so.

[@drive-byguitarlessons1858]

Reviews from someone who isn’t role playing is way better. Thank you sir. That’s a solid bag and worth the $.

[@michaeljacobs5619]

Lefty here. Thank you for demonstrating and keeping us in mind.

[@sonsofliberty1062]

As always Josh, thanks for your videos 👍 👍 Don't know how many southpaws you saw graduate for Delta school, but at Marine sniper school- weren't to many. But we still prayed for em any way. They were our brothers. Great info on this model of 5.11, I'm a big 5.11 gear man myself. Get home bags, Bug out bags, Bug in bags, Range bags, every day bags. I put their gear to work, and it all works well. So, God Speed, God Bless, God Bless our Constitution, and God Bless the Army and Marine Corps,,,,, 🇺🇸 Semper Fi

[@bradleyjohnson452]

Great review. We were all born right handed but only a few of us overcame that.

[@MrGlobalTransport]

Ordered this pack on your recommendation and like the functionality and quality of it so far, so thank you. What works for me is having combustion in the top inner mesh pouch, water filtration in the bottom inner mesh, navigation in the small outside admin pouch (along with smokes or dip...for morale purposes haha), headlamp in the little top sunglasses pouch, poncho in the other water bottle pouch and everything else in the big pouch. Switched it up a little today to use it for fishing with my kids, just to break it in more, and it was great. Actually used the CCW hidden pouch to store a small tackle box and sunscreen and it was extremely convenient to be able to access it while the pack was on a high rock shelf behind me. Can’t wait to get out in the woods and train/familiarize myself with this pack and all of its contents.

[@epiphonesj15]

Very smart, very practical application to help be prepared in a terrible situation that’s unfortunately all too common right now. Thanks for the ideas!

[@danieledmonds3855]

Awesome tactical use of plates and using pack in front during active fire scenario. Firearm and mags within reach on top of that makes this high advantage practice. Great ideas. Keep the teaching coming. Thanks.

[@ivanmichaelbalenbinmarohom6270]

Educational.Life saving techniques and equipment.And very interesting survival tips.And a very cool veteran green beret.I salute you sir.Thank you for your service and for the tips for survival matters.

[@bradfrancis9473]

As always brother deep gratitude for your generous sharing of time, talent and experience. Invaluable to me and my family’s safety and well-being.

[@talkingwithtrash8879]

I really like the large cell padding on the shoulders and back. Highly breathable and super comfy.

[@jamesgibson7114]

Bought this same bag back last year and really love it. Low keyed, lots of compartments, just the right size. Great video on a great bag.

[@Jemill13]

I posted this in your first aid video too. “Open your mind, get rid of the Hollywood preconceived notions that’s not reality “ is the best advice I’ve heard! Being prepared is good sense. Thank you.

[@genewentz9906]

Yes, let me know more about up and coming projects, thanks for what you are doing!!

[@ericcapell5062]

I bought that bag after seeing your lightweight bag video. I love it and carry it everyday. Thanks for some new ideas to try out. Great video as usual!

[@mrchiefbs]

Looking to start my first bug out bag. Glad you made a video on this. I live in the city and don’t want anything to stand out.

[@bdb1183201]

Ive found in my experience for what it's worth, you can also preload bungee cords on one side. When you transfer to chest carry simply and quickly wrap the bungee cords around your back and hook to the opposite side. Easy non permanent retention of the pack. Thank you for what you have done and for what you are doing now.

[@preppedone1006]

Great idea! 💡 I love the pack, and the idea of the ceramic plates for protection!

[@waynedaniel1427]

Great videos. After watching your videos I rethought my systems and I’m currently making adjustments. Excellent content, please keep it coming.

[@ryewhiskeyfan5946]

Had mine for a couple of years. I love it. When being worn as a regular back pack the extra magazines or gear is accessible by the wife/friend/teammate etc. behind you. Edit Thanks for the love Sir. I forgot to mention a feature I find useful when EDC'ing this bag. There is a channel on each side of the bag designed to hold zip ties or other similar items. I carry one or two of the 24 inch heavy weight ties. They can be reached when the back in worn, standard or reverse. The ties do coil in the hydration area but do not interfere with hydration bladder or a plate.

[@rclee3]

Well done as usual sir. I had the same pack for several years. It is well made and held up well. I went to a different pack when I started spending more time in different locations and needed a different look. I passed the pack on to another and they are still using in 5 years later.

[@jerdog333]

Best review of this bag I've seen. Thank you

[@robertw1081]

Really great piece of gear, one pack for many different missions , adaptable to the max !

[@therealdatwungai]

Well done. I like the hydration swap idea, thanks!

[@matthurd991]

Great review. Loving the channel. Keep up the good work.

[@HM-qf8ml]

Very creative I loved this! Thanks for sharing, truly.

[@macsbrotherhood9179]

I’ve had this pack for over a year now. I use it as my get home bag as well as my edc bag. One of the things I have done is put my poncho in the hydration area.

[@agnosjr]

Thank you for sharing the review and informations about the bag. Cheers!

[@CunoWiederhold]

Great video! I have the same pack in wolf grey. You always have the best tips. For me, that zippered hide-away (where you can stow a pistol) makes a great "pass-through" for a light hoodie, or anorak raincoat too. After watching your other video on "light weight bug out" I'm likely going to do that. I've learned a long time ago that light travel is the best way! I've definitely liked & subscribed your content. Thanks!

[@mathewhenderson5757]

Solid video. Valuable content for the community. Well thought out

[@namesecondname4548]

Thank you. Excellent content as usual.

[@MrByTheMile]

i have owned this bag for close to a year now and didnt realize it had the ability to fold and lock down like that thanks josh. i actually keep my ridgeline shelter set up in the area where you suggested to conceal carry. i use it as my get home safe bag. im in california so the firearm stays in my trunk. i carry the 10 c's of survival plus a firearm and trauma kit when im knocking about in the mountains with the family.

[@LeopoldVDH]

Great setup and very adaptable pack, thanks Josh

[@philiptruitt]

Thank you, Josh!!

[@nathankeel4308]

Genius with the plate & swapping pack around!

[@ScottyM1959]

Looks like a great EDC bag. You gave me something to think about. Thanks!

[@TheDarkestOne37]

I've had this back pack for my EDC for the last five years and love it! Depending on where I go, I will switch out a level IIIa soft armor (2.5lbs) with a level III+ (10.5lbs) armor in the hydration pack. The only issue I have had with the pack is that the handle has started to fray and is breaking loose at the seam. Other than that, it has held up incredibly well.

[@LarryLyman]

Thanks for your time, much appreciated. Very good info. God bless

[@sniper12121991]

It is a well made backpack. I've had mine since 2013. Used it in college and am still using it as an EDC backpack for work. Had some wear in the shoulder straps but some light sewing and you're good to go. You can actually see it on the floor in the clip from the bushcraft first aid class.

[@cantstartafire]

I love 5.11 packs and products (I really like the yoke style harness) but I ended up with a Stone Glacier Avail 2200 for my wife and an Eberlestock switch blade for myself (the hip belt was extra). It came down to a good, well padded hip belt. We both work 10 miles or more from home and after a few hikes in the hills we found we needed the hip belt. I have been looking at Mystery Ranch for a more feminine anatomy friendly pack for my wife. Just my perspective. Kuiu also has a nice 1800 pack with a great hip belt. Great channel, great info. Thanks!

[@marlenelampard6791]

Nice little bag..we can't get too tactical here in Canada but i like the double access feature..btw us lefty,s do have a tougher time with somethings( i blow zippers so often. I'm almost a tailor from replacing them.).. Lefty,s are the best for bush walking with righty,s. We even out the lateral drift.↔ lol..

[@jasonbolin7025]

Excellent review.

[@365survivalist]

Great bag Gray beard👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@stevenwilder5461]

Hauling that pack around to cover your chest; I never considered that! Great vid, and thanks for covering us lefties. 👍

[@hutchofthenorth5322]

I have soft armor in mine. I carry it as a work/laptop bag. Good kit!

[@sergiofutbol123]

Man I was looking for a new edc bag and just general stuff, and I liked the looks of this bag, but thanks to your buy video I'm sold! Lol and its on sale too! Thanks for the video man. Now I cant wait to get mine 😁

[@brandone7183]

Great video! Thanks for sharing!

[@bonniesplace3937]

I love the covert 18. I have had mine for about 6 months. And have it set up as my get home bag. If the poop really hits the fan I am going home. I really like the two water bottle holders on the side.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Great review Josh! I’m pretty picky about stuff I buy too. I tend to use what I have available even if later on down the road I may want to replace it-don’t want to break the bank. But you did a great job of bringing up some good tips!

[@Eric-ew8jt]

Liked and commented for the grey beard! That pack is the bees knees, I use the OSPREY hikelite 26 for a GHB. Thanks Josh

[@centexpatriot2709]

I bought one of these when your first video came out. This color was very difficult to find, but I went to the local 5.11 store and they got me one shipped to TX from Hawaii (the last one they had in stock). I agree, the bag is awesome.

[@polimorfosnuclear8320]

Excellent. Thanks 🙏🏻😎

[@NearlyNativeNursery]

Great review and show us your choice Pack. The true problem is there are tooooooo many people on the earth. That's is why people have such short temper and loose the mind going crazy. If there where only 1-3 billion folks we would be more happy to see each other when things go bad. We could help each other. With too many people one has to fear everyone as people come unglued way to fast today it seems. we saw fight when Covid-19 started last year over toilet paper. I could not believe people are attached to toilet paper. It totally blew me way. I also saw two fight at two different gas station when the criminals struck the gas company. I sure wish people were more friendly but there are simply too many aholes out there. Superb video and I always enjoy your channel. keep up the great work. we all benefit for it for sure.

[@smudgey1kenobey]

You’re the first person I’ve heard giving the real reason for modern issues. Too many people on earth. Congrats on your vision. It’s a rare trait.

[@ronaldcoleman1323]

Great information. Thank you.

[@mlsknnr]

Excellent, good info on the bag.

[@MichaelR58]

Joshua, thanks for sharing, great setup and tips ,atvb brother 👍

[@ramonfarr]

Nice tips and perspective I use the 511Rush12 for camping and hiking

[@joshmoses5607]

Great information!

[@kwhitney6238]

Awesome ideas 👍 still the best. Im having a problem with my bug out bag, I keep putting to much crap into them so I got different bags now.

[@DF4Trap]

I really like it, complete tactical, and totally grey.

[@georgescat1491]

Got this one for my dad. Great pack

[@larryharlson8490]

Great info thank you.

[@TroyMcKenzie-qk3eo]

I love the idea of a holster there. But me personally, I keep my pistol on my belt. So I keep a velcro ifak there. It's really handy, it keeps it secure and I can easily remove it and access it with ether hand if the need arises.

[@AngerBangFtG]

I have 2 of these and a COVRT Z.A.P. 6. That Z.A.P6 has been with me for years now and it's my favorite bag for off body carry. I can keep all of my daily essentials as well as several other good-to-have items an organized bag that's easy to carry and doesn't make me look like I'm about to invade Poland.

[@jukothrow]

I have been keeping plates in my pack the same way, glad I am on the same page. Been thinking about getting plates to put in my kids school bags, sad to think like that but Active Shooters are becoming more and more prevalent.

[@nickgervaisusa]

Suggestion: Keep one armor plate loaded in carrier and one loose in the bag. That way you could throw on the carrier in a hurry either with it in front or rear and put backpack with plate it in opposite of it. That way you have both front and rear protection.

[@timwaldroup9654]

Great review..

[@thehouseofronin9209]

Great review. I find 5.11 product to be well made and practical for everyday use as well

[@junowilson4992]

Nice video, I like the covrt18 so much that I bought 4 of them in all the different colors because I couldn't decide which color I wanted

[@toddgibson9861]

great job...!!

[@MSMcKenzieJr]

Nice and well presented. Regards, Mandeep

[@cd4playa1245]

Oh that is really smart!

[@brandanb9735]

Thanks for putting out this video. I have been in the market for a general purpose bag which could be, god forbid pressed into service as a sustainment pack. The covrt18 fits the bill.

[@bmakIIX]

Great info. I'm looking forward to what you come up with on the 1 on 1 family or group superlight tactics and scenarios you mentioned in the email.

[@gregcain6634]

Great review as usual! There is an old saw that goes Right-handed persons predominently use the left side of the brain and left-handed persons predominently use the right side of the brain, so the persons in their right minds are left-thanded persons. ;^) Keep up the good work Josh!

[@donnawallace5810]

Your videos have explained a lot . My original bob was sadly lacking

[@drive-byguitarlessons1858]

I really need to stop watching your videos - you sell me on everything, I swear. Kidding. I would love to see more reviews from someone like yourself. The internet world needs more people like you and fewer people role playing.

[@rustinstardust2094]

Yes, he's for real. A lot of guys in other survivalist videos seem like little boys playing army-man. They're having fun with it, so I say live and let live. ...This guy's just more credible.

[@GRSM000]

id love to live in a country crazy enough to be able to give this amazing backpack some great use.

[@jordy703]

I am from the Netherlands and i really like youre video's and information! Sadly the law in the Netherlands doesn't let you protect youre self what so ever in comparrison with the USA.. but still thanks for the lessons en i whish you were my teacher when i was in the army infanterie! We have a lot of terrorist attacks the last few years in europe and also sourrounding the Netherlands, like in Belgium and Germany and in France. So youre tips are really useful. Thanks you..

[@toadallyepic9653]

I know it's a old video, unfortunately 5.11 discontinued this pack. But I was lucky enough to find it for 50$ online. Looked at this pack for a long time, glad I finally got it.

[@runninblue9415]

Interesting thank you. I've had the bag a couple of years now, works really well, bit sweaty in the summer and uncomfortable fully laden on a long day but otherwise perfect. Fascinating that "active shooters" are so common that it shapes everyday behaviour. Sad as well. Cheers

[@jamesbaldwin9969]

I would like to see more on tactical applications for me and my wife.

[@amypeterson4615]

I like this back pack primarily due to the two side pockets which allow for two water bottle carry.

[@jamesmcnamara7484]

I have been using a Jansport bag with Molle pouches inside to organize it for use as a Grey gethome bag. I also have a 5.11 Rush72 bag that is a tank. Well built, but heavy. I need to streamline it, but I have everything for my family in one bag. This might be a good one for my wife so I can pare down mine.

[@kendicus4518]

Nice

[@Sy79cmt]

Really enjoying your videos, working my way through your back catalogue. I’ve noticed in some of your videos you’ve been using the fjallraven stubben rucksack, would really appreciate you option on it as I’m just about to pull the trigger on one. Cheers.

[@GrayBeardedGreenBeret]

You won’t be sorry, it’s excellent if it’s in your budget

[@chadhenry5128]

And those XL zip tie secret-squirrel holder spots on the shoulder strap velcro for when that door absolutely needs to keep the zombies in/out...or your shoelace blows out, again. 😉👌

[@douganderson3804]

Attaching shock cord to the outside, and weaving it thru the loops, allows you to stuff a raincoat/rainsuit, and securing it, without sacrificing internal space.

[@thebishop4773]

Weird left handers? I have you know I resemble that remark. LOL!

[@Lycan683]

So am I.. LOL

[@lisamitchell7070]

As a rightie married to a leftie I have to say I love lefties!

[@robertmartinez1645]

Leftie here!!! God Bless 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@madscientist4578]

Watching this video, I just had one of those " damn, why didn't I think of that!? " moments with the plates.

[@tylersimplot13]

I think its a pretty good bag, I have one for tactical situations and one for when I travel. I do wish it was a little bigger as I used it on a 3 week trip to the Philippines in Jan-Feb and its good but a little bigger would be great. I like the ability to adapt it and its grey man appeal.

[@crowman8914]

I always considered 5.11 on the expensive side like other sf style packs. Ive always bought a cheap back pack and had my wife modify my backpacks or tennis racket bags since shes good at using a sewing machine.

[@piccolosan19]

In massachusets certain kevlar vests and bulletproof cars and gear is illegal or regulated and they have whole lists of people who are licensed for that gear and/or firearms

[@ErnieB573]

My ghb is a covrt 18. Have my shield 9mm in a kydex holster inside. A little too small for bug out bag for me.

[@IamUke]

I am just wrapping up building my BOB based on your recommendations. I pretty much followed exactly what you specified in the UL bugout video, including this pack. Right now I'm trying to figure out the best way to pack everything inside. If you could do a video showing how you stow everything, that would be helpful. I have the pack almost completely loaded. I stuck a pistol in a holster into the secret compartment to check access and fit. I'm a little concerned about the surrounding pockets (being full of BOB Stuff) pressing against the holster and causing problems with a rapid retrieval of the weapon. I plan to practice drawing until it is seamless every time but if you have any insights about that I'd love to hear them. What goes into which pocket would be interesting to see. What's your tactically-minded thought process? Great videos, you are a great asset to the community. I love your zero-BS knowledge transfer. Thank you for sharing!

[@GrayBeardedGreenBeret]

Depending on the situation, I would be running an OWB holster on my belt along with a rifle in my hands. The concealed holster would be a second option for times when that isn’t appropriate (either in the pack or IWB) . When a pistol is in the pack, it would be on your back and behind zippers, it is not exactly set up for quick draw. If it has gotten to that level, the pistol should not be in the pack any longer and should be in an OWB, IWB, or at the ready. Some exceptions would apply of course.

[@IamUke]

@@GrayBeardedGreenBeret Thanks, Joshua. Makes sense. I guess I was thinking that it would be like a CCW scenario or something. I see what you're saying-- If it was that bad I'd be OWB.

[@reginaldderiso1037]

@@GrayBeardedGreenBeret I would like to see how you pack yours as well, would make a good follow up to your why so many bags vid

[@JOHNFMKN]

It does look like a nice pack. I hope 5.11 sees this and gives you a sponsor or some gear.

[@GrayBeardedGreenBeret]

I'm probably still too small a fish for them to notice. Would be cool, though! I love this bag and I love their Stryke pants.

[@Huarachesverdes]

Thank you for the video! Just subscribed. Have you tried 511 LV18 backpack? Or what are your thoughts. Thanks!

[@douganderson3804]

I have the pack in gray and black. I love it. I've done a lot of what you're suggesting, and I attached a belt on as well. There are other Covrt 18 videos with links for the belt, and now that you recommended armor, having the belt may help secure the pack even further if you have to do a "hasty vest." Do you have links for the armor and molle carrier? Thanks.

[@GrayBeardedGreenBeret]

All the links are in the description

[@GAUROCH2]

...nice mocassins, Joshua!

[@TheDobbermn]

I wish you could still get this version instead of the 2.0

[@JohnDoe-ff2fc]

only thing missing are hip pads. I really like the more discrete colors. camo draws too much attention in urban areas in my opinion

[@deltadogification]

It goes without saying, man, another solid video. I am so excited to see what you do for more videos on the preparedness side. For this video did you still have all your bug out gear in there or did you take it out for demonstration purposes? Also not sure if I have missed it, is your wife going to be doing more videos on preparedness as well? My wife and I were discussing bags and scenarios and she feels like I don't understand the woman's side of things. I trust your opinion, so just wanted to know more on a woman's perspective to correct myself in case that I am wrong. God Bless you and your family as well as all your subscribers.

[@GrayBeardedGreenBeret]

My wife has the same bag and the same skillset to support the use of that bag to provide for her needs should we get separated. It really comes down to Skills/Knowledge and Resources and the bag plus the wilderness are the resources, the skills don't change in my opinion. Core temperature control, hydration, calorie consumption, medical, navigation, and tools to facilitate I don't feel are gender-specific.