I was heading out for a three-day class when I realized I was in need of a sturdy backpack. Blackhawk's Ultralight 3 Day Assault Pack proved to be just about the perfect size for this excursion.
The pack is constructed of 210/330 denier nylon and 210 denier ripstop nylon, with a shallow front compartment for papers and writing implements, a small outer compartment and a cavernous main compartment. The system is compatible with Blackhawk's hydration system and contains the company's S.T.R.I.K.E. webbing on the front and sides of the pack. It features four exterior compression straps, five interior tie-down loops and padded shoulder straps with multiple D-rings for quick attachment of accessories. There's even a waist belt that can be removed if not needed. Hook-and-loop sections for nametags or other patches grace the front of the pack.
Weighing 2.65 pounds and offering 2,000 cubic inches of storage (an impressive 37L for our metric-savvy friends), the Ultralight 3 Day Assault Pack is well-suited for carrying a hefty load of gear without adding significantly to the overall weight. It's tough, useful and doesn't mind being stuffed under an airplane seat or thrown in the back of an ATV and jostled in the back country.
MSRP: $159.99