Backpack guides and reviews
Find the right backpack
We look at how backpacks fit, what they’re made from, and how well they hold up so you know what you’re buying.
What we look at
The details that matter
We pay attention to the parts that usually cause trouble: shoulder straps, seams, zippers, frames, and fit.
Start Here
Tactical backpack essentials
How to Pack a Tactical Backpack for Balanced Weight
Pack a tactical backpack for balance, access, stability, and weather protection while keeping dense equipment close to the body.
Assault Pack vs. 3-Day Pack vs. Rucksack
Compare assault packs, three-day packs, and rucksacks by capacity, suspension, access, intended load, and movement requirements.
Tactical Backpack Size Guide
Compare tactical backpack sizes for daily, 12-hour, 24-hour, three-day, and sustainment loads without choosing more capacity than you need.
What Is MOLLE? MOLLE vs. PALS Webbing Explained
Understand the difference between MOLLE and PALS, how the attachment grid works, and how to mount pouches without loose bridging.
Backpack Knowledge
Practical guides for choosing and using a pack
How to Pack a Tactical Backpack for Balanced Weight
Pack a tactical backpack for balance, access, stability, and weather protection while keeping dense equipment close to the body.
Assault Pack vs. 3-Day Pack vs. Rucksack
Compare assault packs, three-day packs, and rucksacks by capacity, suspension, access, intended load, and movement requirements.
Tactical Backpack Size Guide
Compare tactical backpack sizes for daily, 12-hour, 24-hour, three-day, and sustainment loads without choosing more capacity than you need.
How Much Does It Cost to Manufacture a Backpack?
Learn what determines backpack manufacturing cost, including materials, labor, complexity, MOQ, sampling, tooling, testing, packaging, freight, duties, and quality.
How to Make a Backpack Tech Pack for a Manufacturer
Learn what a backpack tech pack should include: drawings, dimensions, bill of materials, stitching, hardware, colors, labels, tolerances, testing, and packaging.
Custom vs. Private-Label Backpacks: Cost, Control, and Minimum Orders
Compare custom, private-label, and white-label backpacks by development time, design control, tooling, minimum orders, cost, differentiation, and risk.
Field Tested
Reviews based on real use
Gerber Armbar Review - Do Not Buy
I ordered this tool thinking it would be a good pocket screwdriver, but I was sorely mistaken.
Osprey Porter 46 Review - Why I Returned It
My thoughts on the Porter 46 carry on after using it on several trips. Why did I send it back?
Kelty Redwing Traveler Review: Why I Returned It
I pre-ordered this backpack, but once I got it, it did not meet my expectations. I had to return it, and here's why.
Spiderco Manix 2 Review - Best Knife Made
This knife is possibly the best folding knife ever made. Forget the cost and just buy one; it is worth every penny.