USMC Improved Bivy - In-depth Look -The Outdoor Gear Review

[@johnbravo9176]

i served in the foreign legion. i was issued a gortex bivy and regular sleeping bag. while on a long march in the french alps a blizzard passed through and i slept in a hole in the snow that i dug out. the snow was 4 feet deep. i was sweating in the bivy bag and had to sleep with it unzipped. I've been a believer in gortex ever since

[@warpartyattheoutpost4987]

I had a similiar experience. I was working on crab boats up in Alaska. We went ashore at Dutch Harbor, I got drunk at the Elbow Room Bar and couldn't find my way back to the boat in a blizzard in the dark, so I made an ice cave. I was wearing a mustang suit and curled up in the cave out of the wind and weather. In the morning (brightest morning of my life with the sun glare on the snow and a hangover) I busted outta the ice cave and made my way to the ship. I've been a believer of gortex since then.

[@whatabouttheearth]

Yup. We only used bivys in my unit in the Marines, no tent, and then after I got out I was homeless for a while all over the US and did the same thing. A bivy, regular sleeping bag and pancho liner will keep you warm and dry in the snow, rain and cold and you can pack them up fast. I had/have the older BDU one, the size is good but it can get hard to breath fully zipped up. I wouldnt want it smaller.

[@ZeIsAnEnemy]

10 years after the release of this video, I'm using the old one in Ukraine during the war and it works much better because it's wider and more durable. I can put our domestic system "Riymss 2" and fit myself in with my full-size armor on.

[@PrepperTankar]

Keep safe. Are you back?

[@joesteele3159]

While serving in the marines we were issued the gortex bivy. Many many field training ops and overseas ops saw usage of this great piece of gear. I have slept very comfortably and cozily through heavy downpours and stayed dry. If given the choice I would opt for the heavier gortex bivy over nylon. I'm sure the improved bivy works great but from my experiences with sleeping outdoors, especially in wet enviroments, you really can't beat the protection that gortex provides. Great video! Awesome review of both items.

[@jennyvikgarcia9229]

Joe Steele do you still have one , can you send it to me, if you don't want it

[@joesteele3159]

Jenny Garcia I don't have the same one I was issued but I did buy one from a surplus store in Chattanooga. I think you can get them online as well. I still use mine a lot on camp outings.

[@jennyvikgarcia9229]

Joe Steele , I live in Western Ma and you can count the surplus stores with one hand, and those ones are more expensive that retail stores. I live on SSI and a small stipend my daughter gives me,,, so I try to get stuff as cheap as possible. I will just have to research and look until I find one . or just forget it. thank you and SEMPER FI

[@jennyvikgarcia9229]

Thank you

[@HvensFury]

Thanks Joe!!

[@Moroni108]

Thank you so much! Man! I just have to say, I've been following this channel for years now. What's so special is that not only do I get to see some pretty darn honest and cool reviews on gear, I get to hang out with a cool guy like Luke and enjoy his honesty and humor. Luke, thank you so much, and we sure appreciate your videos and the unique fashion in which you develop them! It's clear to see that you are a man of integrity and that you are a family man of hard work and love for life, for your family! You are easily everyone's best friend! Thank you for the years of devoted hard work! As I have worked for the Federal Government in law enforcement for over 26 years, and sooooo ready to retire, at least you can take pleasure and honor that what you do is righteous, honest and good! Your videos to some folks serve as a sanctuary or brief escape! :) Thank you Sir!

[@NavySEAL11]

I had the previous version in the Marine Corps and they were just starting to issue those new ones in 2011 to my unit. I took the older model up against both rain and bugs and I found the best tip for using it is to zip yourself as far as you can go and then grab the open area and close it tight with your hands and tuck them into your bivy sack. So bugs never got into mine and I remember a bad rain storm came through one day and I zipped myself inside it and stayed completely dry. But for the warmer part the only way to stay warm was with the extra sleeping bags with it, my feet got COLD in the goretex.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Thank you for you for sharing your views my friend and watching the video. Take care.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Thank you for you kind words. Glad I could help. I found mine on eBay but there usually isn't many of them listed. Do a search for improved 3 season sleep system and you will find 3 or four of them. Watch out though, some are used (make sure they in good shape) and some sellers list the previous generation as 'new' and 'improved' as well. I just did a search and there are 3 listed and two were used, one was new. $200 - $250. Hope that helps brother.

[@MrZcruzer]

nice compare vid! I like the old version, I don't sleep good in mummy bags and I like to sleep with my weapon, flashlight, a book, etc. so need a little more room. Keep making these vids, good stuff

[@boxlid214]

Older USGI 4pc FTW, it doesn't get much better than that. Only carry the patrol bag or intermediate bag alone and no more weight problem. I use the bivy, patrol bag, and air mattress tucked under the patrol bag, and to say the least everybody was very jealous when they had to set up ultralight tents in the rain while my bivy stayed super dry thanks to all rolling up together and staying in place with the snaps. Gotta love leaving camp, then coming back to find the bivy covered in puddles, yet everything is happily dry inside :)

[@152369dude]

I have never used the improved version. Actually, I didn't know about it until I saw this video. A word of caution about the Gortex one. While in the military I was issued just the bivy without a sleeping bag or pad due to a supply shortage. Gortex was brand new back then and my new command at my also new duty station didn't allow "acclimatization time". My body was used to the 108 daytime temps hauling a 140lb pack all day so it was a big change for me. I made a ranger roll with my poncho liner and bivy. That night I slept in my fox hole and became nearly hypothermic in temperatures that were in the low 50's. A quick shower left me dry in the bag but shivering and the cold night on the ground almost did me in. I was used to heat strokes being common and not the risk of hypothermia lol. I learned this quickly. Gortex will not keep you warm. It's an outer moisture shell not an insulator. A fire was a definite no go and my command didn't authorize cold weather gear for our "trip". Also, getting up and moving around in order to warm up was a definite "no go". If your used to florida weather and your going hiking in the north mountains don't get caught with a wet sleeping bag and have to rely on your bivy to keep you warm. That said...thanks for the video and keep em coming.

[@SpectrumSurvivalist]

The Bivy only adds 5 to 10 degrees of warmth, sounds like your command was a bunch of idiots. "While in the military I was issued just the bivy without a sleeping bag or pad due to a supply shortage. " What unit and year was this? I don't want to call you a liar, but this is hard to believe. They would of issued me full gear, or else I would of stayed in the rear till they could afford to deploy me. My squad leader told us no chow one evening, I looked at him and said: "No chow Seargent, no work". We got chow.

[@152369dude]

No problem man. I have a thick skin. I had left the service and moved back home to florida where I joined the national guard. My previous unit was 1/9 with the USMC stationed out of San Diego at the time of release. My new unit was the the FLANG stationed in pensacola (11B unit there). The year was right around 1999-2000 and we were in the process of moving to a new armory. I know it was before 9/11 because I was "volunteered" into the army for three years after that. If memory serves me right we were performing a field exercise out at Eglin AFB at the time and like today it was 75 degrees two days earlier and down to 28 this morning. I can't tell you the times that I missed chow, worked days with no sleep, or was shorted by supply back in the 80's while in the corp. Of course that was before the internet and before computers were common place. The few computers we had in the service were all DOS systems lol.

[@SpectrumSurvivalist]

152369dude I got about 6 inches of snow right now here in Tennessee, and it's still falling. I think you meant San Diego.

[@robbklobb6501]

If you're a millennial it might blow your mind, but the military was tough, once upon a time.

[@relikvija]

152369dude 140lb pack damn dude I did about 85-90lb for 3 days up a big ass mountain and was pretty close to dying.

[@dez410]

I've been using the MSS for a few years, and finally bought the old school bivy for it this spring. The MSS I have had in the negatives and slept perfectly (other than my nose). This summer I have used the bivy quite a bit and have had no issues either. I've had it in wind, down pouring rain from thunder storms, and even a couple snow storms this spring and fall. It kept me warm and dry, which is a success in my book. I've only used the bivy on a cot so far though, but I'm sure it'll hold up just as well "roughing it".

[@rosecarlson9012]

The new model protects from mosquitos AND random dogs trying to love on you.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Rose Carlson Haha Now that is funny! - Luke

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

I can completely understand your thoughts on bivy. I personally don't mind it but there is something nice about having full on protection.

[@WildMedGuru1]

I personally like the older bivys. I have a wider shoulder base (25" pads fit better too) and the room is a plus. I mostly use them winter camping when the bugs of all types are long gone any other time if the year I'm safe Inside my tent!

[@sterlingarcher6079]

I love new outdoor/ military tech. But I have to say, as a Marine, that the old modular sleeping system was amazing. In a time of canvas shelter half’s, ALICE packs, and canteens, the MSS was amazing. I don’t think the new/improved bivvy sac is better than the good ol gortex one. Just one marine’s opinion. Great video

[@robertherek4020]

Those old hooches were something else. I agree stay with the tried and true proven to work. It was easy enough to improvise to prevent bug issues. Mosquito netting was easy enough to come by and we all knew duct tape was the original multitool

[@whatabouttheearth]

Agreed! And those shelter halfs sucked ass!!!

[@2naturesownplace]

Quick FYI: not many people know outside the military. But it's actually recommended that you do not roll up the bivy or the sleeping system in the old style. The stuff sack really means stuff it in there. If you try to roll all three pieces, bivy, light sleeping bag, heavy sleeping bag. They will not fit in the stuff sack. I still have my original issue and the one thing I love about it over the new style you can take the two sleeping bags and button them together to make one big sleeping bag.

[@riceburnr2005]

bringing back some memories here..i had the old system back in early 2000's. I remember my first time using in the field it was 2 degrees that night. fell asleep with the bivy completely over my head. I woke up the next morning soo light headed hahaha.....

[@GruntProof]

Great review man. The military and their modern velcro....sure it is lighter than snaps, but it never holds up in our rough field environments.

[@kramerrarebreed509]

I'm 6 foot 2, and I use the old style. I've slept in it with my boots on just fine. You can't stretch out like your in a lounge chair, but it works. I usually end up with plenty of extra head room. The only exception is if youre using the 2 layer sleeping bag system. It's tight for me at that point. I take a wool blanket and just sleep in dry clothes when it gets super cold. I bought 2 on amazon for $40. Can't beat it

[@jamesgraham828]

I like the integrated bug net in the one bag. I have one of the older gortex bags and love it. I use it when winter hammock camping as a wind break and extra layer for sleep system.

[@johncrouch8988]

I love the old one. Bomb proof and nothing but the zipper can go wrong with it. Had mine go 10 years now with no problems and lots of warm dry nights out!

[@whiskeyriver4322]

Old Model: Proven and versatile. New Improved Model: Not an improvement at all if you're out in the roughest stuff Mother Nature can throw at you. Gortex vs 100% Nylon: A No-Brainer! Find a tailor and have he or she sew a swath of mosquito netting into the Old Model, and you have the "REAL" improved model. If Gortex is too expensive, save your money up and buy it anyway; the only reason the military changed this item, was to save money, not to protect it's soldiers or marines from the environment.

[@paulshewchuk3016]

damn straight.

[@Thee-_-Outlier]

You have no idea what you're talking about, Armchair expert. As someone else stated this is 100% nylon with ptfe core which is gortex you dope. It's the contractors not using trademarked manufactured products is all. For example the military instead of using DuPont trademarked nomex on the the flight suits they use generic meta aramid fabric. Which is the same as nomex just like the nylon ptfe is same as gortex. Another example is kevlar = para aramid fabric. You're welcome

[@ajtaylor560]

Prefer the old model, anyone with any claustrophobic issues will go nuts in the new one. A bug net keeps the mosquitoes out of mine easily. A 100% nylon, how does it breath? I've coated the inside of my tent with moisture in the fall and winter. Good living room review, need to see them in action next.

[@skrewdreyever]

Maybe this was already mentioned, but I don't have the time to scroll all the way and read every comment. Either way, just wanted to add that it might be interesting to note that the previous gen bivy was designed to work with TWO sleeping bags combined if so needed, thus the increased size. I was lucky to have been issued the entire system one time

[@ross_al_ghul]

I've used both of them, and personally i like the older one a lot better. great review keep them coming

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Ross Erbacher I have to say that I like both of them but the 'Improved' version is small (even for me) and I find it restrictive depending on how I am sleeping. Cheers. - Luke

[@excelephant]

Yep, I'm the same, the goretex one seems better in every regard except insect mesh. I just bought a cheap insect screen and run that over the top of the head opening - problem solved :) I'm in Australia and can use the goretex all year, no problem. In the wet season I usually string up a light weight tarp (hootchie) over the top to allow me to keep the top of the bivvy open for ventilation. Works great!

[@e.s.l5861]

I’m sure this has already been covered but one serious advantage I’ve found with the original for camping is room for all the stuff that needs to share your bag winter camping. Like water filter, butane, hot water nalgene, clothes you want warm in the morning, and your items with batteries.

[@551taylor]

I was lucky to be among the first British servicemen to be issued Goretex foul weather gear, so I have 3 observations: firstly Goretex is the trade name for the first semi-permeable fabric, and there are now a number of similar fabrics that cannot use the same name, but may be as good or better. Secondly, the extreme length allows you to store your boots or top clothes inside to prevent them getting wet or freezing. Thirdly, Goretex benefits from washing occasionally to clean and tighten the fibres, which clog and stretch over time. Hope this helps.

[@551taylor]

Also not a good idea to be totally sealed in as most condensation comes from your breath, and it will freeze on the inside of the bag. Ultimately you could suffocate without adequate ventilation.

[@dgoutdoorschannel]

Luke thanks for all the information you give I've learned alot about tents and military surplus and I can't stop watching your videos the first one I watched of yours was about your gen 1 destert gortex jacket and pants. Keep up the great work

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Thank you for the input and correction Dennis.

[@docg8979]

had one as a FMF Doc, never used it, just a Ranger roll. (poncho-poncho liner). boots never came off and had to be ready for stand to. now I'm in the civdiv and somehow ended up w both and I like my gortex better. I get to use stuff now like a sleeping pad and sleeping bag!!! so comfy,....... still don't take my boots off though

[@JJ-si4qh]

That's the opposite of what Docs are always preaching. Change your socks and take some drink some water

[@tbrew8222]

I use the older one. Instead of a sleeping bag I used a midweight twin size wool comforter. not blanket, comforter. Way better loft than a blanket rather than one dense layer in the same weight (of your choice) and the wool makes fantastic moisture management.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

I agree with you 100%. Definitely relative. Some of the design choices are smart and I like it overall but it is SMALL. Pros and Cons brother, Pros and Cons.

[@tboy221]

hi, first I want to say that you have a nice house. next im going to say that I served 11+ years in the Marine Corps. I had the old sleep system issued to me and the old alice and newer molle equipment issued to me. I never ran into a problem with bugs while in the field environment but you never know. if you remember im in the market of buying hiking and camping gear. I saw people with 40 F sleep systems rolled up very small. my military sleep systems didn't roll up all that small and was heavy

[@nuhnyobiznaz8025]

I have the gortex bivy. I use it with an equinox mantis bug net and sleep pad in Florida. Never had a problem. I always carry an all weather space blanket to fold around me on colder nights, just have to be on lookout for risk of becoming a soft taco for bears.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Thank you Melissa! Much appreciated. I will have to look into making a playlist. No idea how to do that. :)

[@myevilplans]

I just found the older model, perfect shape at a thrift store $14, just needed laundering (following the manufacturer's label) .

[@jackflash6670]

Luke, I'd like to see them tested in pouring down rain. Come on Man be the first !!!

[@whatabouttheearth]

The Gortex works well in a down pour. I used it in the Marines and when I was homeless all around the US. I swear by having it, a 20° sleeping bag and a pancho liner stuffed into a compression sack.

[@condaryt]

the little wire support and the net on the head is a great improvement. But I still prefer the ACU Bivy from previous gen. The 3 seasons system is great and lighter but the RFI Modular Sleep System 5 pieces is IMHO a more flexible system. nice channel and great review. thanks for sharing your time with us

[@phillipjacobson4498]

My us army military Gortex jacket after many hours in the rain would slowly start to become saturated with water. It takes a long time. But Gortex will eventually leak. Not in snow or below freezing! But in 35 deg f temps and up it will take on water until its saturated. And layers under the Gortex will start getting wet. Has Ben my experience. Yet it drys fast. In warm air. I tried spray on silicone treatments that help. I never relied on the bivy in a rain storm always spread out my rain poncho over the bivy as it is rubberized. In good condition 100% water proff Sleep in cab of truck or in tents. In - 20 deg f temps did this a lot and multiple nights with 2 wool blankets tucked into the 3 PCs system. And fully dressed with polypropylene long johns. True only slept a few hours and was up and at it again. Had to pull gard duty bla bla bla.

[@kramerrarebreed509]

I'm not familiar with the new generation. It's not goretex? have you tested it in the rain yet? I like the mosquito net. They use to make one for the old generation, it velcroed in, but I havn't seen them in years. . . Just a tip from a hillbilly, if you have beech trees near your camp, pile the leaves up in a big bed to lay your bivy on. Beech leaves are a natural bug repellent. Something about the tannins.

[@dennisbushcraft7599]

You said the USMC bivy is 100% Nylon, but that's not right. The outer and the inner shell is 100% Nylon but between these shells there is a PTFE core, so it's just as Gore-Tex or a fabric with the same characteristics.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Yes you can but all pads are different so some many have some issues.

[@taylorw3801]

I have the older one, the bug issue is a problem, but a $5 bug net for my head that I keep rolled up inside it fixed that problem.Bugs don't crawl in though, using it in the grassy fields in the snow though I had to use the pull cords to close up the hole by my head a lot to keep the mice from coming in. I made the hole smaller than a baseball in diameter and kept my face by it to avoid condensation from breathing from forming inside and to keep the mice out, which worked great for me. I had to turn around a bit in it to keep the zipper side up so the hole by my head was not on the ground so it was not so easy for mice to access it. The other guys in the group in my group kept it wide open and one of them woke up with a new mouse friend who was looking to get warm.Haven't tried the new one but I'd really like to it looks alright, maybe too small to get your boots in with you though. I will have to try it and find out if I can pick one up at a decent price.

[@hockeyteacher61]

Taylor Wilkins

[@henryliu1046]

This might be the wrong video, but I heard the FILBE frame breaks after usage. A Marine on a survival forum said he was issued this and after 9 days it broke.

[@paulrudd1063]

I definitely prefer the old bivvy. If the new one isn't breathable you may as well sleep in a garbage bag. If you are sealed up in the bag how do you breathe? I assume there is a vent in the new bivvy?

[@martinadejaquiz2482]

great review as always from you, luke! thank you very much!

[@DanoLXF]

I'll stick with the MSS

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

You sure can my friend. It would be tight but it would hold two people.

[@a45456565]

Thank you Luke😺

[@BigfootWRL]

As a "bigger" guy is the older model the best bet? I have a camo head net that I could use for bugs. Would this be the best bet for someone my size that needs protection from water and light weight? Thanks.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

BigfootWRL Brother I would go with the older model since you are a bigger guy. I'm small and the newer one is very tight even for me. When it comes to bivy's there are lighter makes and models out there from other companies but when it comes to value for the money I don't think you can go wrong with the older USMC model. Hope that helps. - Luke

[@BigfootWRL]

TheOutdoorGearReview Thank you!

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

BigfootWRL Sure thing my friend. - Luke

[@njcranes]

I ordered one and I'm a big guy. 6'1" and 265lbs, 38 waist and 54 chest. It's like a small sleeping bag. Too bad, I really wanted it to work, it is nice.

[@silenceofthelance]

... I think the nylon one has a Gore-Tex laminate as well like a titanium version you may say? I think also includes the gore tape no?

[@larrysaenz1297]

Just curious if you have a specific source to find the new version system you can share? I watched the USMC training video on the new system and was very impressed. Also wondering if the overall weight of the complete new system is less than the 10lbs most folks report the original to be. Many thanks!

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

I read your Morse Code loud and clear. I shall reply with a series of winks, nods, points and jerking motions. Haha

[@conedprepper]

luv the fact its a family things with you,luv the doggies. bivy is good too

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

James Regnier Thanks James! Be well brother. - Luke

[@conedprepper]

look forward to see whats next with you

[@casper3130]

There's now a video out that shows how a guy sewed a screen into the MSS Camo Sleeping bivy that makes it very seasonal

[@SalvationInChristAlone]

Cogs were turning in my head......If you could find a tailor and have that previous generation USMC Bivy modified to hold a pole that is fed through a hoop like on the dutch bivy bag, Tabs on all corners to peg it down and maybe have a mosquito net incorporated into the design also that would be awesome.

[@chrisE815]

Hey TOGR, how do you feel this Bivy system compares to the Outdoor Research Advanced Bivy you reviewed? Do you believe it is more durable? I have the Army Gortex Bivy and it's an exceptional product, but I would like some protection from bugs. Please let me know how you feel the USMC bivy compares to other Bivys on the market. I should also let you know that this is the first video of yours that I watched about a two weeks ago and I am now addicted. Great work... You have done an outstanding job with your reviews and documenting incredible backpacking trips.

[@gregvance]

Thanks for the comparison, kind of annoying that they didn't just modify the original one to have the bug net in though, it seems perfect in every other way. Any update on how the newer one is 1 year on, as in breathability and waterproofness compared to the original?

[@boxlid214]

gregvance Thought the same exact thing, since the buttons work great at keeping everything together. The patrol bag keeps a neoair mattress perfectly underneath it, thanks to the lower buttons. When the air mattress is underneath the patrol bag, it also raises the sides of the bivy up so that no water ever leaks into the zipper/head area through the opening :) The only problem with weight on the old kit was carrying both sleeping bags at once, otherwise the bivy + 1of2 bags + air mattress is considerably light.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

No sir, I sure haven't. She is trained very, very well and won't even leave the yard unless she is on a leash. Now the Husky will BOLT if she isn't on a runner.

[@high5en]

I used the new sleeping system in Afghanistan and froze my ass off during the winter months.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

high5en I bet you did my friend. How cold did it get there? - Luke

[@high5en]

I was operating out of a little 9 man patrol base in the Helmand Province near the border of Pakistan. We were not in the mountains so I don't think it got too crazy. Probably into the teens on some nights though. Colder than what this bag is meant for though! Keep up the great work with your channel. Take care!

[@high5en]

darius savory I was there from Oct. 2010 - May 2011. Not sure where you are going with your comment though.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

I bet you could come up with something pretty easily. If you do, I'd like to see it.

[@markusschaffer9712]

1st gen.....gore tex, size and lack of velcro. Tougher access,though. Improved.....weight,ventilation and smaller pack size. Lack of waterproof could be a concern,but ease of entry and exit is better. Personally,I would buy the original and get someone to pit some bug mesh over the head for me. I like extra room for a sleeping bag and some gear at night. To each their own. Dogs seem to love you lots,Luke. Good sign,right there.😁

[@saucywings]

The improved bivy is made of goretex pro. It’s named something different on the label though

[@jmcastillo2004]

Great review like always! You always manage to answer every question possible during your review and I really appreciate the time it takes for you to make all these videos. I wanted to ask, where were you able to find the new USMC sleep system? I haven't had any luck in my search. I keep coming across the older style system. I would greatly appreciate your help. As always thank you for your help and great honest reviews.

[@Thee-_-Outlier]

You really need to update this old video because it's the most popular one when searching for the USMC bivvy on youtube and you make it sound like the new one is a coated nylon and it isn't. It is gortex without the trademark. It is 100% nylon ptfe core not simply 100% nylon. Nylon ptfe core is literally goretex just not manufactured by Dupont. The military contractors do this all the time and it is not lesser quality. Another example is the flight suits don't use nomex which is a DuPont trademark they often use meta aramid which is nomex. Para aramid is generic kevlar. The suits are a blend of those. Anyways the USMC is gortex in every meaningful way. I also think a video is warranted to clarify many other misunderstood things about the USMC sleep system. For example they say it isn't as warm but it is if you also got issued the ecw bag which is not stand issue with the USMC sleep system. They only gave that bag to ppl deployed in environment that called for it where everyone gets all the bags for the mmss version. It's not as easy to find or even be aware of the ecw bag that fits this usmc bivvy. I have the whole thing. I have the icw and ecw bags and the bivvy. It all zips together. The ecw bag alone is rated -20 with appropriate level clothing. In conjunction with bivvy and the icw bag it is basically a -40 system like the mmss, again with proper level ecwcs clothing on. Given the USMC system packs slightly smaller weighs slightly less and has the bug mesh with hooped head I think it's the better system in almost every way. I believe it is also more fail proof because it doesn't zip far down. That's all solider material the bottom 3/4 of the bicvy

[@ghostofreality1222]

I think the new sleep system was just the military's way of cutting costs. Think about it they came out with the new system right around the time they were cutting military budgets. From my experience the MSS system is the bomb! Much warmer than the new sleep system there pushing on our troops, honestly I get it they were trying to cut some weight and costs but I would rather carry a little extra weight and be warm, so much so that when packing any bag to go on a hike my MSS is the go to sleeping bag. I have friends still in the military that have been issued the new system and they will all say the same they have gotten cold while using the newer system, they all still swear by the old MSS system. It's modular so you can adjust it to the current temps for your destination so your not humping extra weight for nothing and its just sooooo warm. Never have I gotten wet in my MSS. I was researching Bags for planning an upcoming thru hike and honestly I feel like since I already own the warmest sleeping bag I have ever used why would I buy another. Especially when its modular and I can leave the cold weather bag at home if its going to be warm, or even send the cold weather bag home after getting through the cold, then the bag becomes exceptionally lighter and more pack-able. Of course this coming from a VET who still packs my S.P.E.A.R. ruck sack for all my hikes (50-60 LBS when loaded with food) which is light considering I used to hump upwards of 100 - 120 LBS on a regular while I was serving. I guess old habits are hard to break especially when it's never failed me in the field in the harshest conditions I have ever been in. Which is another point I see, all these Ultra Light backpackers on you tube nowadays swearing that you NEED a light base weight to be able to complete a thru hike. I don't know about you but I sure do like the comfort of knowing I can handle just about anything Mother Nature throws my way and come out on top, as well as KNOWING my gear will withstand it as well. Bears are a whole different story though... ;)...lol oh brings me to my final point, My son will be able to use my equipment when he is older cause you just cant destroy military gear, there is a reason us VET's stand behind our equipment... well all except the shitty M-16A2 and M4 Carbine which jams all the time. Great weapon but it is flawed in that sense. That's why you just grab an AK off the first enemy and use it until you have no more ammo for it. Also same sound signature as the enemy when fired so they have no idea your shooting at them LMAO, I know I'm evil!!! ;) ~ Just the Tip, I Promise ~

[@Eric-ew8jt]

You are awesome Luke! Love all you vids , I have the Camo Gortex bivy, and bought the Intermediate black Bag. I opted out on the patrol bag, and went with a 100% Wool blanket. Got that idea from Dave Canterbury. Cant wait to test this system out when she goes down to -20 Celsius Cheers from Yellowknife Canada

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

+Eric Rosbottom That awesome Eric! Let me know what you think about the wool blanket. Some people like this sort of set up, some don't. I'd be interested in hearing your thoughts on it. - Luke

[@Eric-ew8jt]

+TheOutdoorGearReview Hey Luke A quick update for you, I went out 2 nights ago just for a quick overnighter I had a cheap 8x8 tarp, set up in a diamond fashion with a mylar blanket set up. Pine Bows with a sleeping mat and my sleep system it was about -15 Celsius or 5F for you hahah.. and there was little to no wind and the sky was clear. I found at sometimes I was too warm. But not to the point where I was sweating...I'm thinking It has to be a little colder. And it's a Merino wool blanket so the itch factor wasn't an issue Cheers again!

[@kyle83kg89]

+TheOutdoorGearReview witch one is good for hammocks

[@barnaclebill1615]

Thanks for showing us the differences in both. 😁

[@SalvationInChristAlone]

Thank you for showing us the comparison - Ive tried a hammock and found that extremely comfortable. Im not sure if i would like ground dwelling or not but i do like the look of the "Dutch Army Hooped Goretex Bivy Bag" because i like the idea of the bivy being away from my face, also you have a little storage room above your head...... Is that "Previous generation USMC model Bivy" included in your Military Surplus Giveaway ?...... Hint Hint Nudge Nudge Wink Wink (That was morse code)

[@AgileWoodsman]

I just looked at ebay, I can't believe how cheap a complete MSS system has gotten! I might have to get myself a 2nd one while I can.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

I know what you mean. The price has really fallen!

[@exotika1301]

I would be interested to learn what your recommendation would be to solve the lack of insect netting on the woodland camo version. I have a sense it would involve something that completely covers the ILBE bivy. Your newer version, which I suspect is your favorite, would be greatly helped by using flexible tubing that half-moons around the top of you to create an air space exactly like the OR Alpine bivy. Surprisingly, so many items, including military surplus, seem to have a half-baked approach. I scooped up the camo ILBE 'cause they're flooding the market for some years now but I wonder if I could even use the Gore-tex bivy only in the heat of summer.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Hey Tony, As for the bivys, actually I like the older version better. It's much, MUCH larger. Both can be used in all four seasons but it would take some practice especially with the improved version (small). I've used the Goretex version multiple times last winter and it works very, very well. Cheers.

[@WarriorHut]

First and foremost, appreciate for making another great vid on outdoor gears. Feel like getting one for my next outdoor trip. Hope that i could find on online. Cheers buddy.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Wish I had the time for such a challenge. Feel free to set up the scenario though. With what gear/supplies? What time of year?

[@markusschaffer9712]

Fall......minimal equipment. Tarp shelter. I did it with my siltarp and a Mountain Hardwear ethereal bivy sack. Carried my bugout bag,so not a lot of luxury items. With a medium size fire,I was toasty at -15 Celcius. We had a cold front blow in and the wind was gusting at 25 mph.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

5 foot 4 inches amigo.

[@melissapeterson1423]

Really enjoy watching up videos. Now I'm new to this channel but I think it would really help to have videos in playlists.

[@stealthandy638]

morning Luke . never seen this one before . I like the camouflage one . seen em on utube . looking good . thanks for sharing . ATB Andy

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Thank you sir!

[@DustySquitoNM]

I don't know why they would skip the bug netting on the "improved" model. That seems like an awesome feature the new one should have brought over.

[@lyricderbin1169]

the bug netting was on the improved version. haha

[@scottwhite5732]

Love that husky, she's pretty. good vid also.

[@DrDennis]

Great vid Luke. keep 'em coming.

[@ChesapeakeHammockandOutdoors]

Hey Luke, I've got a question : I'm debating whether to get either the USMC or one of the 2 Snugpak bivys for use in winter.. Depending.on the temp/ weather conditions I would be using an inflatable, winter sleeping pad , and my goose down -10° Hammock Gear Burrow top quilt that's roughly 12" thick at the footbox or my synthetic Snugpak Base Camp Expedition sleeping bag So, out of the 2 bivys, which .would fit the combo of pad.+ TQ or pad + bag the best? I'm about the same size and build as you. I'd hate to buy the smaller one and it crush the massive amount of loft in the TQ or bag. 90% of the time I use a hammock, but am building a system to use when that's not an option.

[@toddhayslett8269]

Real USGI gear is usually bombproof but it is always heavier. That's the trade off either something that wont fail or if it does fail can be improvised to work or lighter commercial stuff. The military gear is always extensively tested before it is issued. The commercial gear simply can't be tested like that because it cost's too much. I always look to surplus gear first and see if I can make it work with the heavier weights.

[@SpectrumSurvivalist]

I got the Gortex Bivy, it's superior to that new one he showed, and I don't know what he is talking about, because I can close my bivy up about 98 percent, that's more than the new one he showed, because I don't count netting, that don't keep you dry. I have some netting, I will just Velcro it on or summer to keep bugs out, problem solved.

[@NorthwestMariner]

So much better than the Army bivy

[@bobbyharper8710]

I found the training video for this USMC system and it appears there are two sizes regular and long. Long is for 5'11'' and up.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Bobby Harper Thank you for sharing those details. Cheers. - Luke

[@taneilman]

Nice demo of both bags.

[@andy_1776]

Can you fit a standard 20 inflatable pad in there improved model and still have room one you’re in there with your sleeping bag?

[@randybradley7427]

Could you tell me where to get the gortex high plus the sleeping bags and stuff sack at for $200 or less. I'm disabled and this could really help me out to extend camp options. Thanks in advance

[@perfectweather]

Great video, thanks 👍

[@claverhouse1]

Improved is a relative term. The new one is too narrow, inferior material and has velcro - noisy stuff for those who need to be quiet. My summer sleeping bag has a built in bug net and at 6'5'' there is no way I could fit my shoulders and chest into that new bag. They've forgotten a bivy is a weather shelter and not just a tight sleeve cover for a sleeping bag.

[@CPRebels21]

The new bivy is most definitely gortex.

[@worsertrash1222]

Adam Holm it’s actually made of nylon and probably has some sort of waterproofing on it to make it waterproof.

[@jeremya6739]

So how did the 'New & Improved' bivvy work out? As much as I like the idea of being able to seal out the bugs it's not much of a benefit if I have to leave the bivvy open in order to avoid sleeping in a sauna! This is the first of your videos that I've seen. I'm going to watch a few more, and, if they're all as good as this one, you've got yourself a new subscriber!

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Hey there Jeremy, how are you my friend? As for the 'Improved' bivy it actually did very well but I have to say that even for me it was a tight fit. If you're a big guy it might be a bit too tight. No issues with moisture during the summer months but I haven't gotten around to testing it during the winter. Be well and take care. - Luke

[@futuresonex]

TheOutdoorGearReview Thanks! I like the idea of being able to seal out the bugs. They're the main reason I often opt for a tent in the summer time rather than just a tarp, but I'm also 6'2" & 200lbs, not huge but not exactly tiny either! I've been looking at possible going with a commercial bivvy, but I'll likely end up with the tried & true MMS System. I checked out several of your other videos. They're pretty good! So you got a new subscriber. :)

[@futuresonex]

TheOutdoorGearReview I just realized that I replied to you with a different screen name than I used originally. This is the account that I've always used on KZbin and the one everyone knows me by, but YT won't let me use it on any of the pay channels. So I have to switch to my other account in order to see those channels, and then I forget to switch back. It's a pain in the butt! Jeremy A

[@ozdavemcgee2079]

I got a Dutch bivi. Old old maybe 20yr OD kahki. Velcros up center like my Brit down Arctic sleep bag. Packs down way smaller than these two. Not really a fan of these netted style bivis. Prefer middle open sleep bag and bivi. Hangover from my time in the Army, more tactical easier to be out in seconds sitting straigt up with rifle on top of you and be in firing position. Late 80s, Australian Army never even issued bivis, buy your own lol. East coast NSW camping between coast and 200km inland. I actually rarely have the need for it. I still camp under a hootchie and 90 percent of time thats enough

[@saraskold9631]

Do you have the complete Military Modular Sleep System

[@jamesborek8125]

Having followed your previous advice I've been rocking a snugpak ionsphere and carthina defence 1 but I'd like something a little smaller then the snugpak for certain usage. Here's my issue, I walk around at 6'7, 310lb.. I fit in both of the previous products but I'm curious about adding a bivvy for certain cases. Any opinion on "big dude" usage? Thanks man! 👍

[@roboutdoors1860]

British army goretex bivvy is a great option if you can get hold of one, they are very large and incredibly hard-waring.

[@A7Guitar]

Just a suggestion for the spiders carry a rubber mallet with you. Spiders suck.

[@chawnslopoke2619]

Are the woodland camo bivy and the acu bivy the same size? Or are they different too?

[@TeoMaragakis]

In the summer, do you use the bivy with the patrol bag or on its own?

[@oakrdgang]

I believe Gore-Tex is a treatment to the fabric not actually a fabric its self. I still love the older system best.

[@P0stmodernentr0pyBlogspot]

www.gore-tex.com/technology/what-is-gore-tex

[@shcmoly]

I like spiders, they eat bugs! I think I will get one of these for next years fall/winter camping season.

[@poisoncobra7]

i don't like bivi's i get claustrophobic and if it rains for a long time, i don't like that you don't have as much room as an ordinary tent but if i wanna go ultra light i might go with a tarp or a bivi.. just my opinion