A second on the ILBE. Ditch the fuel line zipper tugs to shave a few ounces.

Even the MOLLE II packs are pretty decent and go cheap in the UCP pattern. Prefer the new foliage/tan frame, but the black ones(not the 1st gen peg and socket with separate belt deal) that came with woodland camo aren't bad).

Might be worth looking at some Kelty packs too since they often sell fairly cheap.

In my experience, going with a quality used pack is much better than a not so high quality new pack. Just make sure it doesn't have the nylon delaminating from heat or chemical exposure, padded components not crushed, zips and buckles working or easy to repair, and be picky on any seam repairs.


"My message to my troops is if you see anybody carrying a gun on the streets of Milwaukee, we'll put them on the ground, take the gun away and then decide whether you have a right to carry it." - Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn