Maxpedition bags - which one is best BOB?

[rstl99]

Hi all,

Saw the review in the expedition vehicle magazine of the Maxpedition MPB (multi-purpose bag). I know Maxpedition also sell a similar bag called "Last Resort Tactical Attache", which is referred to as an ultimate kind of bug-out-bag.

Here's a link to both bags:
http://www.maxpedition.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=13&idproduct=62

http://www.maxpedition.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=13&idproduct=66

Has anyone seen both up close and could recommend me which one you'd get if you would want an all-purpose bag to hold all your stuff, in or out of the vehicle? I don't have a dealer near me so would need to mail-order.

Thanks!

p.s. I don't have a need to carry a gun! Just the odd assortment of tools, flashlight, emergency gear, books, water, and other miscellaneous supplies that could be useful to have all in one place in a tough and versatile bag.

 

[teotwaki]

Hi all,

Saw the review in the expedition vehicle magazine of the Maxpedition MPB (multi-purpose bag). I know Maxpedition also sell a similar bag called "Last Resort Tactical Attache", which is referred to as an ultimate kind of bug-out-bag.

Here's a link to both bags:
http://www.maxpedition.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=13&idproduct=62

http://www.maxpedition.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=13&idproduct=66

Has anyone seen both up close and could recommend me which one you'd get if you would want an all-purpose bag to hold all your stuff, in or out of the vehicle? I don't have a dealer near me so would need to mail-order.

Thanks!

p.s. I don't have a need to carry a gun! Just the odd assortment of tools, flashlight, emergency gear, books, water, and other miscellaneous supplies that could be useful to have all in one place in a tough and versatile bag.

for a Bug Out Bag you really want a back pack;

easier load carrying, leaves both hands free, etc.

 

[erin]

When their products were new, I was impressed with the quality, especially considering the price, and I have heard that the quality has only increased since then.
Other sources for similar bags would be Blackhawk Industries or Eagle, both are tactically oriented, but also have good gear besides just weapon oriented gear.

 

[Green Ganesha]

Has anyone seen both up close and could recommend me which one you'd get if you would want an all-purpose bag to hold all your stuff, in or out of the vehicle?

I have the Multi-Purpose Bag, but I think I would have preferred the Operator Tactical Attaché, which has more small pockets.

It depends a lot on what you're carrying: larger items like books, maps, pads, magazines, a laptop ... or a bunch of smaller stuff like knives, electronics, headlamps, etc.

I use my bag to carry all the stuff I'd want in my pockets or on my belt while on an expedition, but that I might forget to pack. In the bag, it's already gathered together in one place.

Just for kicks, here's how I have my MPB packed:

1. Rickety old digital camera, charger, extra battery, extra memory
2. Even-ricketier GPS
3. Scanner
4. Surefire M3 flashlight, holster, extra batteries
5. Black Diamond Soliras headlamp, charger, lenses
6. Hip flask of bourbon
7. SIGG water bottle and cup
8. Power bars and other snacks
9. Some essential meds
10. Sunglasses, reading glasses, goggles
11. Gloves
12. GMRS walkie-talkie
13. Waterproof notebook, pen/pencil, measuring tape
14. Tilley T3 hat
15. Benchmade 5000 AXIS folder
16. Brunton Helios storm-proof lighter
17. Snow Peak three-piece silverware set and carry-on chopsticks
18. A couple of books, whatever I'm reading

 

[gary in ohio]

My only suggestion is to find a local dealer and take a look at the product.
They are made VERY strong and I love what the pack and bags I have. The only issue I have had is the ads make everything look 4X larger than they really area. Even with the size listed it, the product just never seems to be as big as the one the web site shows.

 

[rstl99]

Hi and thanks to all for your thoughts and recommendations.

Indeed, a backpack would make a better true "bug out bag", but I'm just looking for something I can carry like a briefcase or sling over my shoulder, so one of those bags from Maxpedition will be fine (they also make nice looking backpacks too).

Thanks to Terry for posting an informative detailed list (with links to product pages to boot!) of some of the stuff you carry in _your_ bag. You have some very interesting and quality gear there! I take your point about limitations of the MPB. One thing the expedition vehicle magazine review found lacking in it was a place to carry a water bottle on the outside of the bag, which I think is a must. So I'll likely go with the Operator Tactical Attache, or more likely the Last Resort Tactical Attache.

I'm leaning toward the Khaki colour (I find the green a little too military-looking).

Cheers, all!
--Robert

 

[rstl99]

P.S. Sorry, Trevor, I referred to you as "Terry" in my reply. Fingers too quick for the brain... Again, neat stuff you carry in that bag, which I'm sure you don't let out of your sight, because I'd hate to lose all the nice gear you have in there! Cheers.

 

[BajaTaco]

Trevor, cool list you have there for your MPB.

Robert, for the use you are describing, I think you'll be impressed with it. I agree that the khaki is a good choice for color

While you would need more space for a complete BOB with sleeping bag, clothing, etc. it sounds like you just want a grab-n-go type of bag for smaller equipment and supplies, which this would be perfect for.

 

[rstl99]

Thanks for the recommendation, Chris. By the way, congratulations to you and the other Overland Journal folks. I greatly enjoyed reading the first issue, and look forward to the next one! Cheers!

 

[Green Ganesha]

I'm leaning toward the Khaki colour (I find the green a little too military-looking).

I love my bag, but I'd probably choose khaki too, if I was doing it over. Mine is black, and what I don't like is that the stitching is a slightly lighter color than the bag itself. It's a minor point, but something about that contrast looks more Jordache than GI Joe....

Also, to supplement the lack of individual pockets, I bought a selection of Maxpedition's small pouches, and have them attached to the shoulder strap and carry handles.

 

[rstl99]

Hi again,
I ordered a Khaki operator tactical attache today, and should have it in a week or so. Look forward to using the bag! Thanks for the tips and recommendations. Best regards,
--Robert
(jordache vs GI Joe, LOL!!):wings:

 

[BajaTaco]

Thanks for the recommendation, Chris. By the way, congratulations to you and the other Overland Journal folks. I greatly enjoyed reading the first issue, and look forward to the next one! Cheers!

Thanks Robert! So did the bag show up yet? How about the magazine? :jumping:

 

[rstl99]

Hi Chris,
THe bag was delivered late last week and it's great. I got the kakhi "operator tactical attache" and find it just the right size, big enough to hold everything I'd want in there, with external pockets and place to have a water bottle etc. Very well manufactured, I'm impressed with the quality of the materials and construction.
If anyone is considering these Maxpedition bags I would strongly recommend them. Built to last and well worth the money! Glad I saw them reviewed in the magazine.

As far as the magazine, am looking forward to the Summer issue! (and the hat!

Cheers,
--Robert

 

[xcmountain80]

Just ordered a OPERATOR™ TACTICAL ATTACHÉ in digi camo.

Aaron

 

[BajaTaco]

Cool You guys are getting the good stuff. By the way, you might consider adding some embroidery or cool patches to them. They do well with that sort of modification.

Robert - the Journal should be showing up any day now and then you will be...