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Tactical Assault Packs

Ever wondered about the real meaning of the term 'Tactical Assault Pack' and its use? This article provides a brief history of the assault pack and guides you […]

What is a tactical assault pack?

Assault packs are backpacks designed specifically for military use. Their design caters to shorter missions, carrying only necessary items like ammo, tools, rations, and first aid supplies. In comparison to a regular backpack, an assault pack is smaller, more compact, and crafted for increased durability and ruggedness. They usually feature MOLLE webbing on the exterior for attaching additional gear and pouches. The designs incorporate reinforced stitching, heavy-duty zippers, and abrasion-resistant materials, enhancing durability and ensuring soldiers can move swiftly and effortlessly while maintaining functionality and comfort.

In contrast, regular backpacks are usually larger and roomier, designed for everyday use.

Soldier walking away from the camera in camouflage uniform carrying an assault pack.

What’s the difference between an assault pack and regular backpacks?

Overall, the main difference between an assault pack and a regular backpack is their intended use. While both may look similar, an assault pack is designed for short-term, high-intensity use, while a regular backpack is meant for everyday use.

A regular backpack is a type of bag that is designed for general-purpose use, such as carrying books, laptops, and other personal items. They usually come in various sizes and styles and can be made of different materials. Regular backpacks are not specifically designed for military or tactical use and do not have the unique features that an assault pack has, such as MOLLE webbing, the ability to hold a water system, and quick-release buckles. They are often used for everyday activities like school, work, travel, or outdoor recreation.

Contrastingly, soldiers or outdoor enthusiasts typically use an assault pack, a smaller and more compact backpack designed to carry essential gear for a short duration of time. The packs are usually smaller in size than a regular backpack, with a capacity of 20 to 35 liters.

Looking for tactical backpacks and larger packs? Check out our assortment here.

Important things to consider when choosing the right backpack

Material

Prioritize durability when selecting a backpack and choose a backpack crafted from proven long-lasting materials. The two most commonly military-tested fabrics for durability are Ballistic nylon and Cordura nylon.

Determine fabric strength by checking the nylon denier, represented by a number followed by the letter D. A higher number indicates denser and stronger nylon. Ballistic and Cordura nylon fabrics typically boast a denier of around 500D. While polyester can share the same denier, it is heavier than nylon and lacks strength in a weight-to-weight comparison.

Color

Choose a color for your tactical assault pack that allows it to blend in with your surroundings and matches your mission. Popular colors include black, coyote brown, ranger green, and foliage green. However, the color you choose will depend on the environment you will be operating in. In an urban area, consider black as the best choice, while coyote brown or ranger green may be better for a desert environment. The ultimate goal is to avoid standing out and drawing unnecessary attention to yourself, unless intentional.

MOLLE system

MOLLE is an acronym that stands for “Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment.” It’s a web-like system that was initially designed for military use to attach gear to a pack or to be used as a system of support for large packs.

Tactical backpacks that feature MOLLE webbing are designed to allow for the attachment of external gear and pouches. This standard is followed worldwide, so if you have a MOLLE backpack, you can easily add accessories from different brands that also support MOLLE. One of the advantages of MOLLE is that it allows you to customize your pack based on your needs. You can modify your bag by adding extra accessories to it without needing to adjust the system.

Moreover, MOLLE webbing can also be on the inside of a pack, making it useful for organizing less used gear or expensive gear that you want to keep on the interior.

In addition, MOLLE is especially useful when added to the design of smaller bags, such as a medical kit or toiletry bag. The webbing on the exterior of the kit can hold instruments or other items firmly in place but allow for quick access when needed.

Three assault packs hanging on blue bars. All the packs have lots of molle on the outside.

What to put in an assault pack

Determine the contents of your tactical assault pack based on the mission, whether it’s a shorter hike or a longer operation. Some common items you might want to include in your pack are:

  • Fast energy and food for the duration of your mission
  • Water
  • Thermos – your body absorbs warm liquid a lot easier than cold, keeping you hydrated is key
  • Compass and map
  • Warm clothing and/or rain wear, e.g the packable poncho, which provides excellent rain protection and can also be used as shelter
  • Pack extra clothing, such as a warm sweater and extra socks.
  • Include smaller tools, like multi-tools that combine several functions in one unit.
  • Fire-steel
  • Spare batteries for your electronic gear
  • Flashlight
  • Gloves
Loadout showing the contents of a military backpack.

How to pack your assault pack

Pack your assault pack in an order that is logical. Frequently used items should be easily accessible and heavier items should be placed near your back, ideally in the middle of the pack. Proper weight distribution is crucial when packing your pack. Placing heavier items, such as a tent, near your back will help you maintain balance and prevent the feeling of your pack pulling you backwards. Placing heavy items on just one side of the bag can cause undue stress on one knee or hip, leading to potential pain or injury over time.

When packing your tactical backpack, it’s crucial to consider waterproofing your gear. There are several ways to do this, but one of the safest methods is to pack your items in separate dry bags, though this can be expensive. Alternatively, you can use a few dry bags to arrange your gear in a logic way. Another option is to use a large dry bag that fits into the main compartment of your backpack. No matter which method you choose, it’s vital to keep your gear as dry as possible.

How to attach an assault pack to your rucksack

Attaching a tactical assault pack to your larger rucksack might seem a bit tricky but it’s actually a fairly simple task. Although it’s not complicated, it’s important to do it correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Empty both bags to simplify the attaching process.
  2. Arrange the bags. Position the assault pack on top of the rucksack, ensuring alignment and straight stacking. Align the bags according to the buckles and straps.
  3. Attach the straps to the buckles. Both the rucksack and assault pack will have straps and buckles. Secure the assault pack straps to the rucksack buckles, starting from the bottom and progressing to the top and side buckles. Avoid tightening the straps while the bags are still empty.
  4. Fill the bags by packing the rucksack with all the necessary tools, gear, and items first, followed by the assault pack.
  5. Tighten the straps. Now that both bags are filled, secure all the straps. Tighten the straps until you feel the assault pack is firmly attached to the rucksack. When you feel it’s secure enough, you’re ready to go.
Green assault pack with molle standing on a black bag in front of a white car.

Cleaning your assault pack

Maintain the longevity and optimize the performance of your tactical pack by regularly cleaning it. Frequent use of your backpack can lead to the collection of dirt and mud, causing the material to erode and develop odors. Wiping it down after every use is not enough; a thorough wash is necessary to remove any build-up of dirt and dust. Neglecting to clean your bag can compromise its durability and reduce its effectiveness.

Dirty backpack standing on the ground in the forest.

To ensure your pack is cleaned thoroughly, you can either opt for hand washing or use a washing machine – depending on the pack’s care instructions, of course! Prepare the necessary supplies listed below and follow a step-by-step guide to properly wash your pack.

  • Mild soap
  • Toothbrush
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Small brush
  • Water
  • Baking soda
  • Towel and cloth
  1. Wipe off loose dirt and debris from the outside of the backpack with a wet cloth.
  2. Remove all items from the pack, including detachable pockets and straps, and vacuum the inside.
  3. Find the care instructions and follow them closely, especially if using a washing machine.
  4. Hand wash by pretreating stains, filling a sink or bathtub with water and a gentle cleanser, scrubbing the bag with a soft brush, and rinsing thoroughly.
  5. For machine washing, put the backpack in a laundry bag or turn it inside out. Wash on the gentle cycle with cool water and laundry detergent. Avoid using a dryer; instead, lay the backpack out to dry upside down, unzipping the pockets for the best results.

By following these steps, your tactical backpack will last for several years, making it a worthwhile investment.

Want to learn more about taking care of your tactical gear? Check out this article

Conclusion

In summary, tactical assault packs are purpose-built backpacks or sling packs that provide functional and durable solutions for carrying essential gear during shorter missions, whether you’re in the military, an adventurer, or just going for a hike. These packs are smaller, more compact, featuring reinforced stitching, heavy-duty zippers, and abrasion-resistant materials. The inclusion of MOLLE webbing allows for customization and attachment of additional gear. Consider factors such as durability, material quality, capacity, and compatibility when selecting a tactical backpack. Proper packing techniques, gear selection, and maintenance are crucial for optimizing performance and longevity. Understanding these aspects enables you to make an informed decision when choosing an assault pack that meets your specific needs and requirements.

Soldiers sitting on a car going home from or to a mission

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