One of the Best Outdoor Products I Have Ever Used! - Helikon-Tex Numbat Chest Pack - 3 Year Review

After 3 years of use Luke is updating his review of the Helikon-Tex Numbat Chest Rig; find out in this episode why he feels it's one of the best outdoor products he has ever used.
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Numbat Review
Price : Retail price is $65 - which is $10 more expensive than it was 3 years ago. These go for $77 on Amazon. You may find a seller who is trying to rip people off on these too, for an example, there is one seller trying to unload these for $120 which is crazy high. Don’t get ripped off.
Weight : 17.28oz
Dimensions :
7.68 X 11 X 2.36 in
Colors : 9 Color Options - This is the Shadow Gray version - there are green variations , red, camo, black and so on.
Materials : 500D Cordura - YKK zippers
Elastic Pockets
Review Pros :
Excellent quality - top notch materials
Excellent zipper pulls
The chest rig is very adaptable - lots of pockets and is user adjustable
Wearing : Some people like to carry the Numbat higher up on the chest, I find that I prefer it a little lower - about mid-Chest level as I’m able to vent heat from the upper chest - This helps with staying a bit cooler in warm conditions.
Can be used easily with backpacks and doesn’t interfere with the way that the pack carries and I have tested this out with dozens of different packs.
Comfortable
Easy to use, easy to open and easy to access
Easy to put on and take off - TIP : undo one buckle and throw it over your shoulder and then buckle it in. I’ve seen people try to put it on in other ways - do it any other way and it can be awkward.
Capacity is very good - Can hold a lot - Great size, not too bulky.
Two front stretchy pockets
Weather Resistance
Speaking of which, the Numbat offers Excellent water resistance.
Excellent solution for Concealed Carry
You can easily attach to the pack and even to the straps - you have MOLLE on the front cent and bottom - I’ll admit that I have never felt the need to do that.
Because the pack is thin, it can be worn under a jacket if that is what you want to do. I don’t wear it that way myself but I know some who do.
Opens in the form of a tray
The main compartment has a velcro loop back panel to attach your own pouches or dividers
Shock cord on the bottom so you can attach addition items such as a rolled up poncho - you may not use this feature often, I haven’t but it’s nice to have that attachment point.
Strap keepers on all for points.
Buckles at each corner so you can easily put it on or take it off no matter what your dominant side is
Excellent price
Cons :
This is my only Real Con - Sweat
Smaller Con 1 - Laser Cut Molle
Smaller Con 2 - Can take some work to adjust to go over larger jackets/layers
Smaller Con 3 - Map Sleeve
Small Con 4 - Not the best for running
Small Con 4 - The straps are not the longest
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[@hokudadog7637]

As a woman, I LOVE this rig. It’s comfortable in the lowest position. Aside from using it in town, this is excellent for an airplane. On a plane, when I get up to the restroom, I can easily carry my phone, wallet, passport and mini IPad for security. This is an EXCELLENT product.

[@Furniture121]

I was looking at it and thinking it's a perfect option for flying.

[@w.harrison7277]

They didn’t have a problem with you wearing this on a plane?

[@jeffdur1330]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@valiantredneck]

Absolutely stupid but if you like looking like a dork…

[@valiantredneck]

Looks dorky and lame. Worse, if possible, than a fanny pack.

[@murphtahoe1]

Thanks Luke for giving people a tested piece of kit with an extremely honest non-sponsored review. It’s a great part of your channel. I have bought some great kit for Jeep camping that is strong, small, and appropriately priced that I’m very happy with due to your reviews!

[@realist7190]

I saw this chest rig on KZbin, and while being somewhat skeptical I decided to get one! You were totally right about this product, it is very good, and just the right size to hold all the survival gear we (our family) is ever going to need traveling or in the back country! It is simply the best “go to bag” to throw in the truck, ATV, backpack, climbing bag once you equip it for your next trip or adventure! Easily compatible to carry a firearm or flare pen , pepper spray and an area map that is convenient to reference upon opening the bag, if the gps isn’t working properly. Lightweight, comfortable, easy to adjust, and very functional for all people in your family! This item is great! Thank you!

[@markearnhardt583]

Thanks man, a very thorough review! I’ve had my Numbat for a couple years and love it. I also live and hike in Grizzly country, and the bungies on the bottom make a perfect place to carry a canister of bear spray. Immediately accessible, which is what you want when you need it, but completely out of the way until you do. Brilliant!

[@DUBBLARON]

Thanks Luke! After exhaustively searching online at multiple products, I bought one of these based on your previous review. Love it and don’t ever see myself having to get anything else. Very fairly priced, solidly constructed, and very adaptable for different trips and seasons.

[@briandeiwert5911]

I bought one based on Luke's review a few years ago. I used it to carry items I want easy access to, usually a flashlight, camera, water bottle, some granola bars, and a very small first aid kit. It's not big, but it carries what I want for a few hours easily. If I'm carrying more gear in a daypack the chest pack helps with center of gravity. Having a few things up front balances out what's in the daypack on your back. Use it within it's limits and it's a fine piece of kit.

[@cullenbigd]

I purchased this a couple of months ago with my Amazon points based on this channel's recommendation. It is now my everyday EDC when working or working outside on my property or in my garden. Have a loop-style handgun holster attached to the back wall. I left the map holder in place to keep the handgun hidden even when I open it and use the shelf. It makes for very fast and easy access to that tool, if zippers are positioned right. Just pull one down, insert hand, draw. Of course, practice that. Also carry, folding knife, lighter, bandanna, zippo, pen, small flashlight, couple of zip ties, keys, few bandaids, sometimes phone and a small wallet. I usually have a lot of tools nearby so I do not weigh it down except when I am on a specific project. I hang work gloves off the bottom on occasion. Generally keeps my shorts or pants pockets empty which feels great and my pants from falling down from the weight of stuff. I get nary a glance while wearing it around other people. Highly recommend this for people that work outside but want to be comfortable while doing whatever and staying prepared for life. Can also wash it when needed. Five stars.

[@bethbowers4655]

Hey Luke, just saw a 7 month old video of yours with a water bottle and hydration hose. I wish I had seen it when you made it as 2 months later I broke BOTH my shoulders in a fall at home. One healed, but one was shattered and after 2 months, surgery and plates and screws were put in place. 10 werks after that my arm felt “squidgy”, so had xrays. The hardware failed. Needless to say early on i could have used that bottle with a hose. I had an off brand camel pak and at about 2 weeks post fracture I had enough hand function to maneuver the hose to my mouth. Im able to mostly take care of myself again, just needing help with over/head things, and buckling a seat belt. Watching your videos is an EXCELLENT diversion! Thank you!!!

[@ReasontoLiveAdventures]

I’ve had my Numbat since the original review and still love wearing it. Your reviews have never steered me wrong dude. 🤙

[@secretariat-13]

Fantastic chest bag, I actually went out and purchased one after seeing you multiple times with it, couldn’t be happier, I don’t use it for hiking trips for I live in the middle of a large city, I use this for my daily bike commute and it’s working beautifully for me, great review and thanks, keep those awesome reviews coming.

[@mannyechaluce3814]

Chest Purse

[@TylerHallHiveTech]

I love mine. Also made a “sling” strap to replace the mesh back so I can wear it as a daily sling pack when in town. Plus it can swivel to front pack mode for easy access. Switching back and forth is easy.

[@WhiskeyTango-TM]

Hey friend, can I get your notes on how to reproduce a "sling" for this?

[@TylerHallHiveTech]

@ I just attached an old shoulder strap with carabiners on the end. Hook one to top left of pack, bottom right of pack. Sling around my back. When I pull around front, it sits on my chest ok, then push around back and it stays as a "sling" of sorts just fine

[@oft2500]

I use this pack for fishing and i can comfortably say this have been one of my best purchases for my hobby! Having this as a working tablel for changing flies, while standing in waders out in the sea, (chefs kiss) perfect!

[@my_handle....]

Hi, The zipper pulls are gutted 550 paracord covered with heat shrink tubing, the type used in an auto electrical shop. Hope that helps! Great channel, thank you. 😊

[@whiskeyprepper371]

I bought the Numbat and Summit back in 2019. I love them both. I am a trim 300 pounder and have had no problems with either.

[@alexanderweaver7066]

This is an excellent chest pouch system for travelers to keep your documents, cell phone, wallet and other valuables including food items like energy bars. I love mine and as a a van lifer I use it constantly.

[@greggorter]

Hi Luke Great review mate 👍 The numbat - Native to Australia (Myrmecobius fasciatus), also known as the noombat or walpurti, is an insectivorous marsupial. It is diurnal and its diet consists almost exclusively of termites. The species was once widespread across southern Australia, but is now restricted to several small colonies in Western Australia. It is therefore considered an endangered species and protected by conservation programs. Numbats were recently re-introduced to fenced reserves in South Australia and New South Wales. The numbat is the faunal emblem of Western Australia. I have one and can vouch that it’s fantastic !

[@CertifiedSunset]

You can use the molle webbing to secure signalling chem lights and tourniquets along the outside since they are super lightweight and easily attached. It's also a way to attack a knife if you find yourself reaching for one often depending on terrain.

[@ivanalban5037]

Your comments on the "zipper pulls" shows your attention to details. Super channel. Thanks again.

[@SC-cd3sz]

I have had this for about 3 years. I've used it in the backcountry and as a diaper bag. Versatile and I love it.

[@MrRobbiearto]

Almost ordered this, but ended up going with The Hill People Gear SAR kit bag. Main reason being that it has a separate compartment for concealed carry. Definitely went back and forth on the pricing a bit, but I’m happy to support a company that makes products in the USA.

[@SoloHiker1]

HPG is great. I like thier suspension system.

[@chappie7523]

Same reasons I love my HPG kit bag 🤙. Plus if you ever get a chance to talk to one of the Hill brothers or their staff you’ll find that they are great people.

[@missingremote4388]

Made in America

[@skywardsoul1178]

Thanks for the product recommendation. Think I might have a go at making something similar. I like how it's something accessible without being awkward on a belt or dangling around like a sling bag.

[@KR-bn4bg]

The HPG kit bags are more expensive for sure but you have to consider that they're handmade in the USA. That right there is the main reason for the price disparity. Plus, the HPG kit bags at least have a separate sleeve for a firearm. They're actually made for concealed carry first and a utility bag second. The Numbat just happens to be capable of carrying a gun as well if needed. I have two HPG kit bags, their largest one and the small runners one. I like their zipper design for the handgun sleeve because, with practice, drawing from the bag is smooth and consistent. I like that the HPG bags also have a slightly thicker shoulder and chest webbing to spread out weight better. I mostly use the runners kit bag because it's small and slim and can easily carry a G19 with my phone, trail wallet, and chapstick. I run with it and it doesn't bounce around much. I use the larger kit bag as extra pack space for backpacking or hunting and it works great. The Numbat is nice but I would highly recommend the HPG bags over it if you plan on always carrying a firearm with it. If you just want it as a utility bag then save the money and get the Numbat but for actually carrying and drawing a firearm, the HPG kit bags are superior.

[@webwildcatting]

Get a shower cap for when it rains....

[@KR-bn4bg]

@@billradley well the one I use when I run or cycle... which I do every other day. But ok

[@KR-bn4bg]

@billradley they're also hand made in the USA compared to the China special. The USA label doesn't do anything special for me, but it explains the price increase considering they're paying a seamstress 10x more than the Chinese teenager is getting paid to make the Numbat.

[@dvcer11boo8]

That thing is made in China? No. Please choose who you pimp better.

[@SOS-School_Of_Survival]

​@@billradley you're talking about a $120 piece of American made kit?

[@thumperthumper5322]

After watching this video maybe 4 times. I finally pulled the trigger and bought A chestbag ..unfortunately these were out of stock when ordering, so I purchased a WYNEX chestbag . and I absolutely love it. It does everything I ask of it and even more..

[@RoryLynott]

Picked one up 3 yrs ago as well. Price was right and more importantly, it definitely serves me well. Great review!

[@johnwetta9385]

You are the reason I knew this existed. One of the gear purchases I don’t regret and I use it for every single hike.

[@roberthix]

I absolutely LOVE my Numbat. I got it based on your previous review. I carry my wallet, keys, phone, and a field notebook and pen in mine at a minimum. I left the map pouch in and use it as a vertical divider. Awesome piece of kit.

[@amerphoto1]

I bought my Numbat last year and have found it to be very useful for my wildlife photography. I carry a Sony A7RIV with a 200-600mm lens and use the tripod mount of the lens to hook my camera over the top of the Numbat keeping the camera in place while using my binoculars. Very useful product and also great for concealed carry.

[@ShieldWolf1]

I just received my Numbat. While it is totally as described, I have run into an issue. The straps are way too short to fit my chest measurements. I have tried contacting Helikon-Tex; however, they have not retuned an answer either by email or phone. I have traced the buckle manufacturer to a Korean company and have sent an email to them. They probably do not detail in retail amounts, so I may be out of luck. Just a little information for those whose chest measurements would not allow it to be useful, especially with jackets or coats on. Really appreciate your reviews, I have purchased quite a bit of equipment based upon your reviews and other than this one, have been totally impressed with the quality and usefulness of them. Great work.

[@MKlukowski]

I guess the easiest would be to cut the buckles from the back harness and sew on longer straps

[@Mosodak48-fp4pv]

@@MKlukowski just what i had to do and did.

[@janehardi1580]

Thanks!

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Thank you very much Jane, I really appreciate the support my friend. S&H - Luke

[@bornepatrol]

I place my radio for SAR in one of those front pockets. The antennae, external speaker/mic for the radio and the dials are accessible. The other one I run my gps. While it’s not as cool looking as some using tactical plate carriers and full Molle rigs it works and it doesn’t stand out when go for a small walk. I keep all the same kit inside for anything in the bush I just slip the radio in for SAR and training days.

[@alanc4264]

Hi Luke I agree that is a great product at a great price. I clipped a waterproof cover over the top of mine when it raIned, just hanging from the straps. It worked most of the time and when it was really windy it wasn't so good. Eventually I changed the cover to use a see through A4 m,ap case that hung of over the front. The additional weight stopped it from blowing around in strong winds. It wasn't 100% much better than not having one.

[@ib3bear]

The numbat is a great chest rig and I take it backpacking for easy access to edc. It works for those small items you don't want to pocket carry when wearing a pack. Another advantage is you can drop your pack but you still have the essential with you

[@BOOSTEDLASER]

HPG FULL KIT AND RECON ARE MUCH NICER

[@amfearliathmor9747]

I keep a Helikon-Tex Numbat for keeping a Fire Making Kit and a Navigation kit (with Garmin Foretrex 601 GPS) in Maxpedition Micro Organisers, a Fenix HM65R Head torch with protective case, spare AAA RC123a and 18650 low temperature Batteries, a SwissTool Spirit X Plus Ratchet, a Brunton Solaris 2W solar panel with an Olight USB cell charger and an addition 6'' Ferro rod. Under the Numbat I have a cheap Hultafors RFR GH Stainless steel knife and a Map Case and map Grimlocked on the Molle Webbing. Down the Centre Molle I have an old Fenix T1 torch in a torch molle pouch.

[@stalwart263]

WJ is WooJin plastic. They make the best buckles available, as used on Mystery Ranch, Fjallraven etc etc.

[@swnorcraft7971]

Nothing wrong with a good product that you can heartily endorse. Thank you, Luke. Be well......

[@warder1701d]

I've been looking for a chest pack for about a week and had found the Numbat on their site but I've been procrastinating about getting one. Then, as if by some algorithm your video pops up, and not just any review of the Numbat, but a brand new video with an awesome review. Tell me sir, are you some kind of wizard? ;) Thanks for the review!

[@cynthiajarrell9640]

I've been enjoying my Ribz Front Pack. Was so glad to see they are back selling them! Love that I can open the middle and get some air inside!

[@andrewgable7273]

The pull cords are 550 cord with the center cordage removed. I like that feature. Good review Luke, thanks brother!!!!

[@bigmarkymark9669]

One day while hunting , I carefully cut the stitching down the center of front pocket to make on big pocket ..works way way better..now my phone fits. (Lmk want pics) Only thing left to do is sew Velcro on back for my holster to hide it behind and easier to access.

[@elliottdmann]

Interesting product. I appreciate your talking points; concise, yet thoughtful and thorough.

[@cjerowe]

I own one and use it pretty regularly. Not as much as you, honestly, but quite a bit. It's my EDC truck pouch with a small first aid kit, some emergency items, and a Skeletool with attachments. I also take it camping / hiking. Overall, it's a great piece of kit, and it is worth the money if you have it.

[@gar351]

Thanks for the updated review! Mine arrived today! So excited to get out in the woods with it! I watched many reviews on this chest pack, I would have to say yours was the most comprehensive and of course not sponsored!

[@tv92taylor]

I love this pack. I have a kydex holster velcroed into the pack to carry a Glock 19, and it still has room for a few smaller items of gear without getting to heavy or bulky.

[@tedspirakis627]

Love your reviews, and the places you camp and hike. I always try to figure out where you are outdoors by your filming and drone footage, but you have me stumped as I too hike and camp in your "neighborhood". My wife is convinced that you are my younger brother, from another mother as I too love the outdoors. Keep up the great site work with the excellent content. Be safe out there. Cheers! Burnsville, NC

[@lukewesson44]

Good update, Luke. I bought the Numbat last year, mostly in part to your earlier comparison video. I prefer the Numbat over HPG, although it is also a good piece of kit. I have wore it often, and it is very comfortable. With a Maxpedition holster, I carry a S&W Shield Plus and an extra mag and some other gear, and I really appreciate how secure the pack stays to your chest. No bouncing or swaying around, and fast access if needed. Hope to see some more awesome adventures, gear reviews, and adventures with you and Suzy Q.😎 If you watch Amazon, you can sometimes find the Numbat for $68.90. I chose the adaptive green color, and love it. When going into a store, a light windbreaker covers it up nicely and doesn't draw any unwanted attention.

[@DIYDad1]

Thinking about doing the same thing, it seems like a great little pouch for firearm storage, wondering if you're able to wear a backpack over this as well? Do the straps get in the way at all?

[@lukewesson44]

@@DIYDad1 I've worn it with 3 different backpacks and had no issues with interference

[@djschultz1502]

I have had mine for 2 years and I love it. When it is very humid I don't use on my chest I attach it to my pack because I would get soaking wet with sweat and not a fan of that 😂. Thanks for review I bought it after watching one of your videos

[@nidfest]

I love this bit of kit. I have a coyote one and a green one, duplicated the contents for winter and summer so I just grab the one for the appropriate season without having to swap bits out. Mora knife fits the underside loops/bungee, and I mounted a Armytek light to the horizontal molle on the front so when it's getting dark I just switch on the light without having to stop and get out my headlight. I keep all my small gear in it from sunblock& lip balm, paracord, first aid, drugs (antihistamine/anti inflammatory) snacks, to long handle spoon and fire starting kit. If I want anything other than my drink bottle, it's in there. So no more having to go look for bits inside your pack. ALSO........ There is the ability to attach a hand warmer/muff for winter use! (Use the snap clips from the internal map pouch) and it hangs in the perfect position. (Yes, map pouch not used so removed for more space and recycle the clips ). Great review.

[@Arizona.Ranger]

I bought mine after your first review, it's the best way I've found for carrying my CCW in a Maxpedition hook and loop holster. Of course I had to remove the map pouch.

[@jeffsoutdoorsadventures8842]

Mine will be waiting for me to get home today. Can’t wait to use it. Hiking, backpacking, mountain bike riding and much more.

[@nathanj9354]

Awesome, thank you. Great review. Keep them coming. 🔥💯✊👍🙏😍

[@ChumTheOgryn]

I have absolutely no interest in buying this or any need for it, however I watched the entire video because the explanations and cinematography are on point! Damn good quality video mate.

[@arkadiuszchlebowicz9504]

Excellent piece of kit. I bought it two years ago based on your previous review and I'm in love with using it. I agree with you abut sweating but this is the case related to every chest pack. However, in hot summer days I carry a lot less equipment so chest pack is not essential.

[@spirits_]

I have one, use it for ATV trips. Great to have all the things handy when stopping.

[@yovanleonardo9135]

i believe WJ buckle is woojing plastic, and a lot of my packs using this plastic hardware, and they are very durable, up to the quality with duraflex in my opinion. thank you for long term review, Luke!

[@markyoungman7267]

I bought this after your first review. Great piece of gear. It goes with me every trip.

[@beatbasher]

I use the Osprey Archeon chest pack and it's a brilliant piece of kit. I think the numbat probably has the slight edge because the sheer number of features on that thing, it's brilliant. But the Archeon is also very good, it has a similar size, identical strap arrangement, but the fewer features, as you said I wouldn't use half of them myself, I don't want too much weight in a chest pack to reduce bouncing. It's about as waterproof as the numbat is (or isn't) and does have numerous pockets but the standout thing for me is the quality. It feels tougher than some military gear. I've used it on camping and hiking trips with a sizeable backpack. And it is also one of the best things I've ever bought. I can take all the crap out of my trouser pockets. And you're certainly right about the sweating, if it's hot it's unavoidable but if I start to get really sweaty I take the chest rig off and put it on my backpack. Props for a great review.

[@alexanderslee]

It appears that the Osprey Archeon is sold in the UK but unfortunately not in the US.

[@drewgraybushcraft]

Mine has held up to similar abuse wonderfully as well and goes on every trip too! Such an incredible product, and enjoyed your follow up review, thanks! For me it functions as a perfect little scout bag with survival essentials (and a few comforts) when I wander off from camp or such.

[@vlbh8991]

WJ buckles are by Woojinplastic. Kinda less popular version of YKK, but it is fine.

[@danyoung399]

I love mine. I bought it by your recommendation, andtion a few years ago.I use the front pockets for energy bars or Mars bars or a compass. Great for some basic snack. Main compartment, phone, water filter.

[@waynepugh7844]

Hey Luke, I have this exact product and love it! the zipper ties look to be paracord that has had the core removed and then a electrical heat shrink applied. Keep up the great work!

[@crattis]

I've got one of these. I carry my adventure camera, extra batteries, and some other things in it. I also have a velcro-backed holster for my concealed carry. The hook and loop work great on the inside back (closest to the chest)

[@quillionaire]

What do you use for a holster and how does it fair in the pack? Does it move around a lot? I'm worried that I may need to pull quickly and reach in to find that my EDC is upside down or something like that. Thanks.

[@crattis]

@@quillionaire look up alien gear

[@crattis]

Shapeshift hook and loop holster. It doesn't move at all. Hooks on to the inside Velcro panel on the chest side. There are videos of how to quick draw with the chest rig online.

[@KirstenBayes]

I have been looking forward to this review, as occasionally do scrambling which makes a pack unfun. Um, if Mrs Outdoor Gear Review has thoughts on fit, that would also be appreciated.

[@azclaimjumper]

Good one - "Mrs Outdoor Gear Review" I can't ever remember seeing any female wearing an "external" chest pack. Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada

[@audgester]

Yes, thank you! Love the pack but am wondering how this would work with chestral protuberances!🤣

[@KirstenBayes]

@@audgester hope we find out!

[@RogerWarszawa]

I had a slightly surreal moment the other day when this video was released. I'd been watching and re-watching Luke's previous Helikon-Tex Numbat 'update' video, comparing it with another video of someone reviewing a Osprey chest pack, going back and forth between the two, trying to decide; watching, pausing, rewinding; for 2 days. So I had the previous video open as I was closing everything down to go out, at that moment I got an update saying there's a new TOGR video about the Helikon-Tex Numbat - "eh?! But I'm already watching that, and it's not new it's from 2 years ago?!". Then I realised that it's another update on this piece of gear... but I was confused for far longer than I should've been. Oops. Anyway, I've now bought one (partly because the Osprey one is out-of-stock and possibly discontinued). I paid the equivalent of $65USD, so not bad, although I was slightly hoping to get it a little cheaper considering I'm in Poland and Helikon-Tex are based, and manufacturing, here. It arrives tomorrow, can't wait to try it out.

[@fordprefect6797]

Thanks for that info at the end about your friend that is a 3X. I'm a 4X and was thinking about getting one of those but not now. Need bigger/more adjustment.

[@P3T3RXIII]

I would definitely consider in investing in one of these chest rigs. Thanks for the review.

[@iPwnedproductions]

I've loved the Numbat for hiking and fishing. It works well on top of waders and it fits a smaller tackle case. I highly recommend it.

[@davidcann6021]

I've just got a cheap Chinese unbranded chest rig and it's fantastic. I attach a compass and Ortleib map case to it and slide the map case behind it. Save so much piddling around having to stop for things. No mesh though so certainly sweaty in the summer, you can see the salt deposits 🤣

[@richardc4280]

Thanks for the review on this particular chest rig, however, after a review of the Hill People chest rig, years ago, I purchased it and have been happy with it. The Hill people chest rig is a little larger than this one, however it has two zippered main pockets, so that I can dedicate the zippered pouch closest to my chest for my firearm, the front pocket for all other things. I do like the 90 deg shelf your chest rig unfolds to, however I can achieve the same shelf by zippering down about 80% on zipper. Since the Hill People chest rig is larger and would hold more weight, it appeared the webbing and plastic buckles are a little more heavy duty, tho must admit my rig, most likely, is significantly heavier than yours. If I had purchased this one, I’m sure I would have been happy with it also, as I carry my firearm always when I’m hiking, ATV riding or Ebike riding in the mountains…….Strength and Honor Luke…….

[@thorvaldtorgrimson5651]

Great timing Luke. I've been beating this up in my head to pull the trigger.

[@MrTryphodemos]

You could use strap extenders wilth an elastic strap to make the fit both larger and or tighter.

[@darknation242]

Thank you. I was trying g to remember that chest rig and the same day you posted a re review!

[@majoroverkill1376]

I just ordered mine. I have the Hazard 4 chest rig and do not like it. It is very stiff and thin making it hard to load out. Looking forward to my new Numbat and thank you for your second review on this chest rig. Great video's as always, thumbs up!!

[@dianneporter542]

Looking forward to seeing another adventure with Suzie!

[@voraciousblackstn]

While I don't have the Numbat, I do have a cheapo from Amazon that I like. I use it as a bag organizer every day and a chest rig / shoulder bag on hikes. I've worn it over an LBV while wearing an ALICE pack and it was plenty comfy. I like chest rigs for keeping what I need close to my fingertips and visible, unlike belt rigs / fanny packs.

[@ericjw78]

Thanks Luke. I just went online and bought one. Appreciate the good review.

[@ghost762]

Bought mine after your first review Luke. Love the hell out of it. I have mine set uo with my survival gear in case I get separated from my main pack. Also have it set up to carry my Sig P229. And ESSE Izula.

[@MrWipex]

Interesting indeed. Im getting one right away. Be great when I packraft. Absolutely great. Many thanks for this one Luke! You are awesome.

[@scottseverythingoutdoors462]

I have a bunch of different brand chest packs and I agree Luke! This is my favorite!!

[@savageg4594]

Luke, awesome review as always, I am a larger person, and I own this chest rig. It does fit very tight, but for a few extra bucks and a little time I made 4 adjustable extension straps that also allow me to wear it over a heavier coat.

[@backpacker7000]

Do you find that 4:22 introduction about this part is easy to broken. My chest pack about this part was already broken. It is no longer durable for this separt part. I use this pack about 1 year but WJ jmaterials is lower quailty than before. Can you see 4:22 this buckle was broken?

[@jamieedwards6721]

I had one of these, you mentioned it not looking over militant but here in the UK I think it does, I used to get looks from other hikers as if to say dude you're on a hike not a special forces mission. I did have it in adaptive green I believe its called so that probably made it look more military. You guys in the states tend to dress more tactical looking in general but honestly I felt like a berk wearing it here so I sold it on, the exact same thing with the Helikon foxtrot 2 that I once owned.

[@kinguin7]

Yeah I could wear it in camo and not get that much attention here, but, I still do wish the least tactical looking color, crimson, was in stock.

[@GUnit2214]

I don't know why that matters and why would the user care if it gets looks. If we need it and it's good quality we use it.

[@jamieedwards6721]

@@GUnit2214 Yeah not in the UK and Europe. If you dress tactical for a hike it just screams out that you're a bellend. I don't make the rules it's just a fact here. I think tactical works in the US but its like many aspects of American culture compared to European, its a culture thing. Here we go for style and practicality, so it looks good and it works.

[@redbarronreviews2429]

Just the review I’ve been waiting for! Thank you.

[@NadesikoRose]

Something like this in a normal color would be good for the elderly/disabled/handicapped in replacement of their purses or handbags. I have seen a lot of them over the years struggle to lift their purses/handbags up off the ground and onto their shoulders for carrying. Granted it might not suit everyone in those category but it would help most. Just seeing Luke manoeuvre it around makes me think it would be easier for those category to do so as well, but I guess it all depends on the person and situation

[@john0270]

This is what I should have brought for a flight/holiday to Mexico coming up this week being carry on luggage is a charge now unless it's about this size and you can stick it under the seat.

[@neonsamurai1348]

You should look at Hill People Gear Chest Rigs as well, as they have a good range of different designs for different purposes. I wish the Helikon-Tex either had zippered front pockets or or all molly front and a second zippered pouch on top. The downside with the HPG options is they don't have strap clips all around (some only one side, others one side and the 2 tops). For me it is important that the rig rides fairly low as I tend to use one with a 70L backpack with sternum strap.

[@thomasoverton7131]

I got one love it. BTW you're looking good. The workout is working. Keep up the good work. Thanks for sharing

[@lauriebloggs8391]

Excellent idea, thank you for the review. Hard to find in the UK, but Amazon had them at inflated pricing......but I had loads of vouchers: look forward to using this in the canoe

[@adventureoutdoors2022]

I bought it on your say so but I find it is kind of small storage wise. I took a 5-mile day hike with it last week and with FN reflex handgun and a few go pro batteries + a small baggy of trail mix it was full and would hold no more. The Chinese knockoff you reviewed holds my Glock 20 and a lot more. Still overall decent for conceal carry and a few mags

[@ragequitpro9284]

It looks good and handy for plane tickets and other important documents.

[@rjstewart]

Thanks to your first review I bought this rig. I like the Velcro inside because I use it hunting with shotgun shell cards stuck to the inside. For the most part it holds kit I’d want if I was lost or need quickly like a compass or GPS.

[@dansmith1695]

I wear mine when I ride my motorbike as it’s more compact than a backpack, I love mine it’s a brilliant bit of kit 👌🏻👌🏻

[@SilverBullet93GT]

they considered a few other names in the beginning, like the Bro, or the Mansiere

[@jrf6989]

Great review. Well explained, solid motivation, no BS. Great vid!

[@steveb6444]

Wow this is random. I actually searched your review on this product and watched it yesterday. Now today you posted another.

[@mjfalcon007]

Thanks for the thorough review it was very helpful. I’ve had this product in my Wishlist for a while and I’m going to pull the trigger. I was going to go with Coyote Brown but the points you made about the Shadow Grey not drawing a lot of attention makes sense. The Earth Brown might be another alternative. At $109 AUD it’s a bit steep but I can’t find it any cheaper.

[@DrDennis]

Got one for Xmas. Very comfortable without weapon but doable with.

[@RossDixonTeaching]

Thanks I recently returned a chest rig- this one might just meet my needs.

[@yourhighness81]

Just got one and I love it.

[@johnschmalbach8243]

Just a little confused about your size issue. I wear a medium to large and regularly wear this on top of a base layer, then a fleece mid-layer, then a down puffy insulation layer, finally topped not only at times by a Gore-Tex hard shell, but a Garphyttan Original Anorak as my hardshell/ wind layer. The only PITA is getting it on and off when wearing the anorak because the hood has a wire rim to give it shape and fur trim for insulation. I still have excess strap so I would suspect an XL gent could wear it comfortably as well.

[@Shoelessjoe667]

Thx for posting this again. I was waiting on you to mention it so I’d know where to buy. To lazy I guess to go back and look for it lol but no hurry either. And again thx and it is ordered as we speak. Amazon $77 and I have free shipping. Thx Luke