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The bag arrived the day after I ordered it. I was surprised by the size. It
seemed larger than the old 35 litre rucksack that it was bought to replace.
The choice of materials suggests that the manufacturer is keenly aware of
environmental concerns. Whilst metal buckles are unsuitable for arctic
environments in winter, they work well in typical British conditions. So far I
have had three long walks with the bag. On the second occasion I loaded it
quite heavily. By chance there were heavy showers. The bag proved fine in all
respects. The comfort was particularly good. The closures are achieved with
metal g-hooks. It takes a little practice to use them easily. There are two
loops near the bottom of the bag which can be stowed from the inside of the
open side pockets when not in use. One such open pocket can accommodate a 1.2
litre vacuum flask. The anchor points for the compression straps feature
double slots from which it is possible to pull out a loop of strap. The handle
of a small forest axe will fit through this and one of the lower loops. The
strap on the axe sheath can then be taken around the compression strap in the
same way that it would be done on a belt to prevent the axe from accidentally
lifting out. Of course I can take no responsibility for the safety of anyone
trying this or any other method. There is also a double slot arrangement at
the anchor point of the strap for the main lid. However that strap is attached
in such a way that it cannot be used to form a similar loop with those slots.
If they were to be used, another strap would be required. In that case the
duty would need to be light, otherwise the leather might tear. Immediately
outside and adjacent to the open side pockets are two side pockets with lids.
These side pockets can take a variety of other items and protect them from
rain. Inside the main compartment there is a loop at the top with a pop button
fastener. It can be used to retain any straps of items requiring immediate
identification. There is a security pocket which I have yet to use at the top
of the bag immediately next to the back. There are two compartments in the
main belt for small items requiring occasional rapid access. The belt reduces
the load on the shoulder straps and helps to avoid interference between the
user's back and that of the bag. As supplied, closure for the main compartment
was done via the provided sliding collar on the draw strings and a slipped
overhand knot formed in both strings simultaneously. The lid was secured with
a metal g-hook. The bag has a haul loop at the top, which works well for
hanging it up, and there is also a small carrying handle on the lid. My first
few trials with this rucksack went well, and I expect that it will become a
regular companion for day walks and occasional overnight stops.
Steve Smith
20th October, 2018Rated: 5/5
