I found this bag in great condition at my local good will for only $30!! It came with the the top pouch, waterproof liner, a canteen pouch, grenade pouch, and the internal radio pouch all for $30 freaking dollars.
This has probably already been stated but: The two handles on the back side of the pack are for donning the pack. That just means putting in on. With the pack resting on it’s front side you stand at the head of the pack, grab the two handles and heave it onto your back. It will take some practice so it’s best to have it unloaded at first.
Hey bro, I'm a Marine and I can vouch for the quality and strength of this pack. I beat the crap out of it for many years and when I got out of the Corp my Gunny told me I could keep it because there is a new Gen being tested. Also if buying it on ebay or something, always buy the complete set, pack, assault pack, camel pack, lid, and radio pouch because each pack is slightly different. The Gen 1 parts are interchangeable to each other but you can tell slight differences like sizes of the accessories. Same goes for Gen 2. They are issued as one set fresh in the box. I know most people may not see the little quarks but I would still advised to buy the set and not just one piece from many different sources. Thanks again for another great review.
The smaller ILBE 3 day assault pack attaches onto the back of your big pack (piggy back style). The flap on the back helps secure it. Also, a hydration carrier attaches to the larger pack in the same place. These are great packs in the cold, but they will make you sweat in the heat (non breathable), and they'll become saturated with salt, literally.
Hi, like your videos. This was a good review. I have the generation 2. I recently bought a kelty redwing 50 just to switch it up and carry something lighter. I love my big old military pack the generation 2 USMC. It’s tough. The Kelty is a nice addition. (Old guy from Arkansas)🇺🇸
I was lucky enough to use the ALICE packs in MCRD San Diego/Pendleton, ILBE in Iraq, FILBE in Afghanistan. I have the ILBE system in the garage that I use for camping now. I do miss the FILBE era bivy, with the mosquito screen! Something about sleeping on the ground, watching stars, and evading bugs.
i get one on Amazon in 80$, Used but in perfect conditions, thanks for the video, it really help me to choose the best Back pack, i am a hiking user n was thinking to buy a high sierra back pack but when i saw these one its just perfect for any kind of Trip. Thanks from Costa Rica!!
the flap on the front is for attaching the assault pack to the main pack...the assault pack is a much smaller rucksack for like a one or 2 day use when you dont need the main pack..but they do go together so you can really pack alot of weight into one of these
NICE MAN!! Thankyou so much for doing a review on this. I asked a while back if you could do one after seeing your review of the filbe. I always look forward to your reviews. You are very informative about everything. And I certainly can appreciate it. I have the Latest version of the Gen II ILBE with ALL coyote brown. No black except for the handles. I was issued this pack in the when I was in the service and deployed with it a few times. it has sentimental value to me. ;)
Great review on what is, IMO, the best "carry everything" pack. You forgot to cover the APB03 assault pack that attaches to it, a very important component of the pack and better than a lot of rucks it's size IMO. My favorite channel for reviews, keep it up ~ Cthulhu
After careful review of my pack, it is certainly a FRANKENSTEIN pack. It looks to be a gen 2 but was repaired with gen 1 parts. Someone went through a great deal of trouble to fix it up like this. I haven't seen one like it before to be honest. - Luke
Thanks for your nice Review, i got my 2 today with oversea shipping, it was a risk, but now i am absolutly happy with them. After washing in the shower and cleaning they look nice, with small defects, not a big deal. I use one for Backpacking trips and Bushcraft, as a winter BOB as well. The coolest thing, its a Gen 1, the black!!!! 47 Buggs + Shipping is nothing for this Quality . Thanks Bushbuddy.
That looks like a great pack and for 50 bucks, you can't beat that. I like the simplicity of the open bag. I like to divide my stuff up in colored nylon bags so the open structure and easy side entry would work great for me. I have a great pack already but if I didn't I would definitely take that one into consideration. Thanks for sharing.
Great review for hard corps packs, not ultralight at all. I am a retired Marine, a long way from the Alice pack and Douche gear we had then. I have one and will use it. I trust the Marine Corps to Grunt proof gear, so I trust it.
I like those side handles. Haven't seen that kind of placement before, but now that I have it makes so much more sense as far as weight distribution and fast access is concerned. Nice bag. 9lbs might be a little much for non-combat uses, but still a good bag...
Luke yet another awesome review. The best one I have seen on this pack, I know because it is my favorite and have been doing a lot of reviewing and searching for one with a good price and good condition. I am jealous you have two. Maybe for my birthday this year I will get the complete pack set up. stay safe your friend andrew
I have the ILBE Gen 2 complete: Main rucksack with original lid, Assault pack and Hydration system (Source Tactical 3 Liter hydration Carrier and Bladder). The aditional piece of fabric on the front is to attach the Assault pack to carry both as one huge rucksack......or you can attach the hydration system instead the assault pack. The capacity for the whole system is around 100 liters: 75 liters the main rucksack and 25 liters the assault pack. But the main rucksack can give a little more. One thing to note is that the original lid has webbing all over the inside too. yours doesn't, which means it's an aftermarket lid. It's very rare to find an ILBE with the original lid in good consitions anyway ;) It's a fantastic pack, great quality, the whole system is flexible and even with heavy load, the pack is very confortable. .... and it's not polymer or external frame.... hehehehehe. Yes, it's a little heavy but bomb proof I love it ... the design is awesome (thanks Arcteryx). one of the best military packs, if not the best
no webbing under the brain does not indicate aftermarket, its 2nd gen, 1st gen had the webbing. mine is second gen without webbing, but it still has the Propper milspec indication tag.
Great explanation. I saw some tactical gear stores have a replica for sale of this ILBE main bag and the ILBE assault bag. The brand is called Flyye. Look it up, it looks the same shown in the video.
Luke, I appreciate your advice advising on the Savotta L over the Gen 2 ILBE from a comfort standpoint. I ultimately just pulled the trigger(no pun) on the Gen 2 yesterday due to the pass thru sleeves and the pockets which will facilitate my Sven and One Tigris tent poles on one side and my CS SF shovel on the other. BTW- I bought a BRAND NEW Propper Gen 2 off Ebay for alittle less than the Savotta would have cost me. Do I need 4 compression straps on each side? NO! But the full length zippers are killer as well as the zipper pulls.All in all I am very happy in the decision I made and the advice that helped me make my decision. THanks again! Bill Doyle from Upr Grnwd Lk, NJ!
Great review. I loved this pack while I was active and have one now. Only thing I would add to your review is that front flap you mentioned does roll in on itself and snap so you have easy access to the molle straps.
I have one I bought for $20 at a garage sale. The thing I don't like about it is there's not at least a separate compartment for the sleep system. And any additional molle pouches you want to strap on it are hard to find in marpat woodland pattern. But I do like it. I think it's pretty light weight and comfortable compared to the pos molle II the army gave me.
Looking at these. I've had the assault pack awhile; it carries construction tools. Sturdy. Yes: it rains 5 min & everything soaked. But super sturdy. Hard hat, coffee cup, water bottle, coat...all strapped outside. I want a bigger one for remote jobsites where all my sleep gear & soft clothes can swap out for the nasty construction stuff. Looks good.
The side sleeve and pouch are for long tools like an axe or similar. It can be used for short weapons like a pistol grip shotgun if needed.....preferably any weapon will be attached by molle in a covered carrier to protect the weapon from weather. In cold or mountain setting it will hold pole or ice axe easily. The flap on the back is for holding a helmet but can supplement to hold other equipment. This pack is comfortable and carries outdoor gear easily, a great pack for any condition. A lot of thought and field input from Marines went into it. Myself I use it in winter camping and outdoor stuff, but I still prefer the ALICE large for summer or hot weather. You cant go wrong with either pack. Great video, thanks.
Hey luke, I got one of these packs last week . I got the lid, shoulder straps, radio pouch, and hydration carrier off a guy thats in the Coast Guard for 65 DOLLARS !! they r very nice, i like it better than my Molly-ll pack i think....
I just got the generation 2 with assault pack and hydration system all brand new for free at a stand down for vets in Buffalo NY! a lot different than the alice packs we had when I was in the Army years ago lol
Very sweet pack indeed. I've always wanted one of those, maybe one day. It'd be cool to see you take one of those packs on a camping trip video. Keep up the good work man. -Jacko
Hey there Jacko, how are you doing my friend? As for a camping trip, it seems like I have taken one of these out already (in a video). I'll have to go back through and take a look. Be well and take care. - Luke
TheOutdoorGearReview Doing great Luke, just looking forward to see what your next video will be about. I'll search your channel for that video. Keep up the good job. -Jacko
The waist belt adjustment straps should be REVERSE PULL (toward the center). All modern backpacks have this because it is far easier to tighten. Speaking as an experienced long trail backpacker this pack looks better designed than the US Army MOLLE II rucksack.
Black Squirrel Bushcraft I thought the same thing but the Gen II he has does have the gen 2 buckles so I think it was a transition bag where they used the old and added the new changes.
I think both packs are actually Gen1 but the one he is referring to as Gen2 has a Gen2 cummerbund and new buckles. Gen2 packs have all brown zero black.
No matter what i do to my ilbe, i can not get it to fit my back comfortably. Ive literally spent hours on multiple occasions bemding the support bars and adjusting straps but still rubs my spine amd that super thick hip padding pinches the hell out of my kidney every time. These bags were definetly not designed for really skinny people. For me, the molle2 straps and hip belt on an old alice frame with pack is the lightest, most comfortable pack ive found. And i have tried all the the us issued packs made since the alice.
Just as an FYI, those are both Gen 1 packs. One of them has a Gen 2 belt and Gen 2 straps. On the Gen 2 pack, the whole section of padding on the back is also tan. These are great packs though. I have one of each myself and swapped out some buckles so that I could use accessories on both.
That pack looks cool but, honestly it sucks to walk 15 miles with when it's fully loaded. I'm a formal 0311 and the down side to the pack is when fully loaded all the weight wants to pull you down. What I mean is that the weight of the pack will sit on your hips and not so much on your back. Also that outside flap on the back is to hold the Day Pack that goes with the ILDE. Ask any USMC 03 and they will tell you that pack suck.
Haha I love these packs but they are way to heavy for me to consider them for anything other than bugging out or short distance trip. A sort of staying low, going slow sort of situation. Cheers my friend, - Luke
Thanks for the comparison and details. How about sizing for the person wearing them? Most backpacking backpacks are sized. IE: S, M, L.... Size mostly relates to the size of a person's torso. You need the waist belt to line up right. Usually each size has maybe a 2" variation. Some packs do have adjustable waist or shoulder straps to but they are usually cheaper models. How does this pack handle person size?
Good review. Getting into Rucking would you recommend one of these over the GoRucks? Clearly nobody Rucks more than our military and hopefully they've got the best.
Not going to lie I am definitely getting one when the chance presents itself to me, granted I am not 100 a fan of the times of the digital woodland camo since I am more of a lover of either the regular woodland camo or love green but when I look at it can I can honestly say it looks lovely if not truly beautiful, and just like you I am not too inclined with having a large bunch of pockets on my backpack/rucksack, the simplicity does help in this regard with this one. Definitely will go for the gen2 has more more color to my liking,
Yea that is most definitely been Frankensteined together. I like the pack by itself but remember the dead arms and bite in the lower back when worn over body armor. Even then I am currently waiting for my purchase of the pack to get here. Highly recommended.
:49 min mark: I bought mine 3 years ago at 29 a 29 Palms 2nd hand store in Ca. Its near the marine base there. Idont have a black portion against the back. Its tans like the waist belt. It has a Tan plastic frame for the back. I dont recall if it was Gen1 or 2, and as I explained mines different. .Ill continue to listen and see if anything later on makes it clearer for me From your buckle comparison I do have the nexus buckle it appears. Oh btw my pack is completely tan ,not the green sections on the tan field of the bag. Oh now I see,Im missing the black padding!
Great military bag my friend. I've always loved U.S military stuffs, got a U.S Army UCP pattern camouflage 3-day assault pack myself Luke for my day hikes. Love your this bag too. Take care, be well! :)
@@TheOutdoorGearReview Give me 1st gen any day. The assault pack is worth it to have. I have 2 backpacks for SHTF, the best I found, after much research, were the MARPAT ILBE for "haul as much as you can", and Rush 72 for a mid sized pack. I also make extensive use of all MOLLE, which I'm amazed that most people seem to ignore when their backpack has plenty of MOLLE. Kinda defeats the MOLLE concept IMO
Nice vid Luke! I might have to pick me up one of these! I'm only 14 and want to get into backpacking, and an inexpensive gear item is always looked at. So glad I subscribed, how bout another overnight adventure showing off your springtime gear? Keep doin what you're doin, obviously people like it, good luck with the channel
i just picked up 3, gen 1 packs for 125$. only one had cover and belt. but what a great pack. store all your gear. over built and made for the long haul.
Matrix moment = realising I have the exact same couch and I'm sitting on it now watching this. Great review btw. Do one of the UK forces backpack. Its called a Bergen. I have 2 and they really are fantastic. Like to see what you think 🤔
Looks like a nice pack(s)! All the guys who spent years packing cans of Spam into Alice Packs (which I personally find to be absolutely miserable when heavily loaded) are looking at that and thinking, "Damn, wish I had had a pack like that!"
I spent 70.00 on this ILBE pack and it is awesome huge with tons of external straps for attaching anything you could ever need.....BUT....empty weight is over 12 pounds....EMPTY....now I am 6-2 and 195 lbs and accept weight is purely a matter of how comfortable you want to be.....but to start with nothing but container at 12 pounds is freaking ridiculous waste of pounds. First, material is heavy fabric and frame must be made of lead or steel....if this pack could be made of rip-stop and frame of carbon fiber or aluminum and start at under 4-5 lbs it would be hard to beat. Personally, I set my ILBE to side and use smaller pack as 72 hr get home and clothes, shelter pack to go with my LBE web belt with 4x4, 4x6 and 6x6 molle pouches designated for different needs from medical, ammo, tools, and bino's, a fanny pack with food and cooking needs, etc with holster on right and knife on left by canteen. Total weight is under 17 lbs and I could survive rural for 10 days or more.....wouldn't be Hyatt style, but have tarp for shelter with a poncho with liner for sleeping pad, 2X emergency bivy with space blanket, .22 pistol with 300 rounds and snares/fishing kit, redundant fire starters, water filter system, With LBE web belt and chest rig that has additional pockets I can still carry my smaller pack that came with ILBE that has clothes, additional food and other "comfort" items. Total weight of LBE chest rig loaded, LBE web belt loaded and smaller ILBE back pack loaded is 26 pounds...is close to body and easily maneuvered in....even run.....with this set up I can also carry my 5.56 with 4/30 clips and 200 rounds in addition to the .22 Ruger auto....and can go up to 4 weeks easily as long as I can find a few fish, squirrels...a deer here and there. Now just need to determine best bug out locale and cache tent/sleeping bag and other back ups and I could go indefinitely. I tried the whole bug out ILBE pack idea and honestly....even with adrenaline pumping how far are you gonna get with 75+pounds let alone 100+? It is ridiculous. With my 26-30 pound set up I have everything I need PLUS some creature comforts and can walk 10+ miles in a few hours.....maybe 20 in a day. Anyone wanna buy a like new ILBE in multi cam?
I need the attached outer “beaver tail” flap. I only have the recon Beavertail. Is there a part number on yours I can look up? I’m referencing the piece. You called the “additional piece of fabric”.
According to people who should know, the sleeve and pocket hold an 81mm mortar round. Every Marine in the platoon carries 2 rounds, one on each side of the ILBE.
I hate to be the bearer of bad news. The person who sold you the "gen 2" pack, sold you infack a gen 1 pack. I have both gen 1 and 2. My gen 2 has coyote brown sides, coyote brown buckles, coyote brown hippbelt, coyote brown backplate and coyote brown shoulder straps. But as you mention there is little difference between gen 1 and 2. Take care bro:-)
I dont want to say what i paid for mine from Hero Outdoors. I wanted to be sure I'd get one that was in good condition. It is, but also very expensive these days
Can you tell me if the waist belt from the Gen 1 will fit the Gen 2? I have a Gen 2 pack that I need a large waist strap for. The only one of Ebay I can find is for a Gen 1. Any help with this would be great. Thanks for your time!!
1MrInc I honestly don't know my friend. I know that the general accessories and buckles are not interchangeable. When have a moment I will go and check. Cheers. - Luke
I found this bag in great condition at my local good will for only $30!! It came with the the top pouch, waterproof liner, a canteen pouch, grenade pouch, and the internal radio pouch all for $30 freaking dollars.
Johnathon H. If it has black on it, it's gen 1 :(
Lucky, I love good will.
even still, all that for 30 bucks? hell of a deal
You lucky summbitch.
Lucky find!
This has probably already been stated but: The two handles on the back side of the pack are for donning the pack. That just means putting in on. With the pack resting on it’s front side you stand at the head of the pack, grab the two handles and heave it onto your back. It will take some practice so it’s best to have it unloaded at first.
Hey bro, I'm a Marine and I can vouch for the quality and strength of this pack. I beat the crap out of it for many years and when I got out of the Corp my Gunny told me I could keep it because there is a new Gen being tested. Also if buying it on ebay or something, always buy the complete set, pack, assault pack, camel pack, lid, and radio pouch because each pack is slightly different. The Gen 1 parts are interchangeable to each other but you can tell slight differences like sizes of the accessories. Same goes for Gen 2. They are issued as one set fresh in the box. I know most people may not see the little quarks but I would still advised to buy the set and not just one piece from many different sources. Thanks again for another great review.
I think those handles are for bending down and flipping over your head like an alice pack.
You are correct. Can't believe the amount of people who do not know that.
You are correct...those handles are for donning the pack over the head. Looks painful!
@@dironahlquist8159 its not
These packs brings back bad memories lol
ChestyMD thank you for your time and service
We got our son one of these and they are huge, wonderful packs. We got ours from midway usa for $75. Thanks Luke for the vid!
I have 2 of these Great BOB's
I've been looking for one of these...however, every one that I find is $200 or more. You got lucky with that price...
Richard Lincoln Hey Richard, where are you looking brother? I just did a search on ebay and found plenty of complete systems for $50 - $60.
- Luke
The smaller ILBE 3 day assault pack attaches onto the back of your big pack (piggy back style). The flap on the back helps secure it. Also, a hydration carrier attaches to the larger pack in the same place. These are great packs in the cold, but they will make you sweat in the heat (non breathable), and they'll become saturated with salt, literally.
Thank you brother.
Be well.
- Luke
Hi, like your videos. This was a good review. I have the generation 2. I recently bought a kelty redwing 50 just to switch it up and carry something lighter. I love my big old military pack the generation 2 USMC. It’s tough. The Kelty is a nice addition. (Old guy from Arkansas)🇺🇸
I was lucky enough to use the ALICE packs in MCRD San Diego/Pendleton, ILBE in Iraq, FILBE in Afghanistan. I have the ILBE system in the garage that I use for camping now. I do miss the FILBE era bivy, with the mosquito screen! Something about sleeping on the ground, watching stars, and evading bugs.
i get one on Amazon in 80$, Used but in perfect conditions, thanks for the video, it really help me to choose the best Back pack, i am a hiking user n was thinking to buy a high sierra back pack but when i saw these one its just perfect for any kind of Trip.
Thanks from Costa Rica!!
isaac otoya Score! Enjoy your new pack my friend.- Luke
In 2021 they are all $300+ plus on Amazon...
the flap on the front is for attaching the assault pack to the main pack...the assault pack is a much smaller rucksack for like a one or 2 day use when you dont need the main pack..but they do go together so you can really pack alot of weight into one of these
Man you do some good reviews. Trying to make my mind up on a pack, glad I found your channel.
NICE MAN!! Thankyou so much for doing a review on this. I asked a while back if you could do one after seeing your review of the filbe. I always look forward to your reviews. You are very informative about everything. And I certainly can appreciate it.
I have the Latest version of the Gen II ILBE with ALL coyote brown. No black except for the handles. I was issued this pack in the when I was in the service and deployed with it a few times. it has sentimental value to me. ;)
Great review on what is, IMO, the best "carry everything" pack. You forgot to cover the APB03 assault pack that attaches to it, a very important component of the pack and better than a lot of rucks it's size IMO. My favorite channel for reviews, keep it up ~ Cthulhu
I think you might have a gen1 pack with gen2 shoulder pads and belt.. gen 2 has all tan padding and no black anywhere I believe.
After careful review of my pack, it is certainly a FRANKENSTEIN pack. It looks to be a gen 2 but was repaired with gen 1 parts. Someone went through a great deal of trouble to fix it up like this. I haven't seen one like it before to be honest.
- Luke
haha I gotcha! I mean an ILBE's an ILBE, gen 1 and 2 are very similar I was just really confused when i saw black AND tan O_o lol
NEPA Outdoors I agre
Gen2 ILBE has zero black all brown.
Great video, i went thru about 3 or 4 rucksacks before I got this the Generation 2 and absolutely love it.
The side handles are for standing over the pack with it upside down on the ground so you can go up and over your head to put it on
Thank you the one video only said it was for bladder , thanks again for info
Thanks for your nice Review, i got my 2 today with oversea shipping, it was a risk, but now i am absolutly happy with them. After washing in the shower and cleaning they look nice, with small defects, not a big deal. I use one for Backpacking trips and Bushcraft, as a winter BOB as well. The coolest thing, its a Gen 1, the black!!!! 47 Buggs + Shipping is nothing for this Quality . Thanks Bushbuddy.
That looks like a great pack and for 50 bucks, you can't beat that. I like the simplicity of the open bag. I like to divide my stuff up in colored nylon bags so the open structure and easy side entry would work great for me. I have a great pack already but if I didn't I would definitely take that one into consideration. Thanks for sharing.
No doubt my friend.
What is your pack these days Primal?
Be well brother.
- Luke
TheOutdoorGearReview Its a modified Oregon Pack Works Orion.
I just found one gen 2 very good condition, complete in my goodwill store. I visit about once a month always surprised by what you can find there. $50
Great review for hard corps packs, not ultralight at all. I am a retired Marine, a long way from the Alice pack and Douche gear we had then. I have one and will use it. I trust the Marine Corps to Grunt proof gear, so I trust it.
I like those side handles. Haven't seen that kind of placement before, but now that I have it makes so much more sense as far as weight distribution and fast access is concerned. Nice bag. 9lbs might be a little much for non-combat uses, but still a good bag...
I agree 100% about the weight. For a long hike, it's simply out of the question for me.
Be well my friend.
- Luke
Luke yet another awesome review. The best one I have seen on this pack, I know because it is my favorite and have been doing a lot of reviewing and searching for one with a good price and good condition. I am jealous you have two. Maybe for my birthday this year I will get the complete pack set up. stay safe your friend andrew
Sounds like a plan Andrew.
Be well my friend.
- Luke
Given the audience who might be interested in this pack, it might be worth noting that it is NOT actually Bullet Proof, or Bomb Proof. Happy hiking!
My favorite point of this pack is his light-weight. I have the Canadian military rucksack (last gen.) and he is really heavy EVEN when empty.
Thanks Bud,Been looking at these for awhile now, You gave me the best look so far Thanks Again
Thank you brother.
- Luke
The two side handles are actually for hefting the pack up over your head to slip on when at full weight
Nice, in-depth look at a great pack. Thanks for sharing!
hello . thanks for your time . you should do a review on the British army Bergen . 120 . great kit . ATB Andy
I have the ILBE Gen 2 complete: Main rucksack with original lid, Assault pack and Hydration system (Source Tactical 3 Liter hydration Carrier and Bladder). The aditional piece of fabric on the front is to attach the Assault pack to carry both as one huge rucksack......or you can attach the hydration system instead the assault pack. The capacity for the whole system is around 100 liters: 75 liters the main rucksack and 25 liters the assault pack. But the main rucksack can give a little more.
One thing to note is that the original lid has webbing all over the inside too. yours doesn't, which means it's an aftermarket lid. It's very rare to find an ILBE with the original lid in good consitions anyway ;)
It's a fantastic pack, great quality, the whole system is flexible and even with heavy load, the pack is very confortable.
.... and it's not polymer or external frame.... hehehehehe. Yes, it's a little heavy but bomb proof
I love it ... the design is awesome (thanks Arcteryx). one of the best military packs, if not the best
no webbing under the brain does not indicate aftermarket, its 2nd gen, 1st gen had the webbing. mine is second gen without webbing, but it still has the Propper milspec indication tag.
Great explanation. I saw some tactical gear stores have a replica for sale of this ILBE main bag and the ILBE assault bag. The brand is called Flyye. Look it up, it looks the same shown in the video.
When you said "you can get them for about 50 bucks just for the pack itself", I said "Whaaaaaaaaaaat? Whaaaaaaaat? WHAAAAAAAAT!?!?!"
Luke, I appreciate your advice advising on the Savotta L over the Gen 2 ILBE from a comfort standpoint. I ultimately just pulled the trigger(no pun) on the Gen 2 yesterday due to the pass thru sleeves and the pockets which will facilitate my Sven and One Tigris tent poles on one side and my CS SF shovel on the other. BTW- I bought a BRAND NEW Propper Gen 2 off Ebay for alittle less than the Savotta would have cost me. Do I need 4 compression straps on each side? NO! But the full length zippers are killer as well as the zipper pulls.All in all I am very happy in the decision I made and the advice that helped me make my decision. THanks again! Bill Doyle from Upr Grnwd Lk, NJ!
Great review. I loved this pack while I was active and have one now. Only thing I would add to your review is that front flap you mentioned does roll in on itself and snap so you have easy access to the molle straps.
Thank you for pointing that out my friend.
- Luke
I have one I bought for $20 at a garage sale. The thing I don't like about it is there's not at least a separate compartment for the sleep system. And any additional molle pouches you want to strap on it are hard to find in marpat woodland pattern. But I do like it. I think it's pretty light weight and comfortable compared to the pos molle II the army gave me.
Looking at these. I've had the assault pack awhile; it carries construction tools. Sturdy. Yes: it rains 5 min & everything soaked. But super sturdy. Hard hat, coffee cup, water bottle, coat...all strapped outside. I want a bigger one for remote jobsites where all my sleep gear & soft clothes can swap out for the nasty construction stuff. Looks good.
Still an awesome system. Looking forward to more gear in this line. Thanks.
Agreed Opal. Definitely some cool stuff coming soon! :) Civilian ILBE???
Maybe so! Haha
- Luke
The side sleeve and pouch are for long tools like an axe or similar. It can be used for short weapons like a pistol grip shotgun if needed.....preferably any weapon will be attached by molle in a covered carrier to protect the weapon from weather. In cold or mountain setting it will hold pole or ice axe easily. The flap on the back is for holding a helmet but can supplement to hold other equipment. This pack is comfortable and carries outdoor gear easily, a great pack for any condition. A lot of thought and field input from Marines went into it. Myself I use it in winter camping and outdoor stuff, but I still prefer the ALICE large for summer or hot weather. You cant go wrong with either pack. Great video, thanks.
MrAzrancher Thank you for your input brother.
Much appreciated.
Cheers.
- Luke
For a hundred bucks that's amazing. Great value.
Hey luke,
I got one of these packs last week . I got the lid, shoulder straps, radio pouch, and hydration carrier off a guy thats in the Coast Guard for 65 DOLLARS !! they r very nice, i like it better than my Molly-ll pack i think....
I just got the generation 2 with assault pack and hydration system all brand new for free at a stand down for vets in Buffalo NY! a lot different than the alice packs we had when I was in the Army years ago lol
Cheapest I've found here in California was 99.00 plus another 20 from another place to get the lid
Very sweet pack indeed. I've always wanted one of those, maybe one day. It'd be cool to see you take one of those packs on a camping trip video. Keep up the good work man.
-Jacko
Hey there Jacko,
how are you doing my friend?
As for a camping trip, it seems like I have taken one of these out already (in a video). I'll have to go back through and take a look.
Be well and take care.
- Luke
TheOutdoorGearReview
Doing great Luke, just looking forward to see what your next video will be about. I'll search your channel for that video. Keep up the good job.
-Jacko
That sounds like a awesome rucksack thanks for the review
Sure thing my friend.
Be well.
- Luke
The waist belt adjustment straps should be REVERSE PULL (toward the center). All modern backpacks have this because it is far easier to tighten.
Speaking as an experienced long trail backpacker this pack looks better designed than the US Army MOLLE II rucksack.
Does your Gen II pack have some Gen I padding? I ask because my Gen II pack has ALL coyote color padding.
Black Squirrel Bushcraft I thought the same thing but the Gen II he has does have the gen 2 buckles so I think it was a transition bag where they used the old and added the new changes.
I think both packs are actually Gen1 but the one he is referring to as Gen2 has a Gen2 cummerbund and new buckles. Gen2 packs have all brown zero black.
No matter what i do to my ilbe, i can not get it to fit my back comfortably. Ive literally spent hours on multiple occasions bemding the support bars and adjusting straps but still rubs my spine amd that super thick hip padding pinches the hell out of my kidney every time. These bags were definetly not designed for really skinny people. For me, the molle2 straps and hip belt on an old alice frame with pack is the lightest, most comfortable pack ive found. And i have tried all the the us issued packs made since the alice.
Just as an FYI, those are both Gen 1 packs. One of them has a Gen 2 belt and Gen 2 straps. On the Gen 2 pack, the whole section of padding on the back is also tan. These are great packs though. I have one of each myself and swapped out some buckles so that I could use accessories on both.
Brother you're absolutely right. It's a gen 1 with gen 2 parts. AKA Franken-Pack. :)
Be well my friend.
- Luke
I think the lid is aftermarket too. The real ones on the gen II have the zipper on the outside and more mille on the inside.
Actually Edward after closer inspection of the pack this morning, it's a Gen 2 but with Gen 1 repairs. It also has an aftermarket lid.
- Luke
Jason Beylerian I believe you are right Jason.
- Luke
That pack looks cool but, honestly it sucks to walk 15 miles with when it's fully loaded. I'm a formal 0311 and the down side to the pack is when fully loaded all the weight wants to pull you down. What I mean is that the weight of the pack will sit on your hips and not so much on your back. Also that outside flap on the back is to hold the Day Pack that goes with the ILDE. Ask any USMC 03 and they will tell you that pack suck.
Haha I love these packs but they are way to heavy for me to consider them for anything other than bugging out or short distance trip. A sort of staying low, going slow sort of situation.
Cheers my friend,
- Luke
Buck waine put heaviest stuff on top, duh.
Thanks for the comparison and details. How about sizing for the person wearing them? Most backpacking backpacks are sized. IE: S, M, L.... Size mostly relates to the size of a person's torso. You need the waist belt to line up right. Usually each size has maybe a 2" variation. Some packs do have adjustable waist or shoulder straps to but they are usually cheaper models. How does this pack handle person size?
Good review. Getting into Rucking would you recommend one of these over the GoRucks? Clearly nobody Rucks more than our military and hopefully they've got the best.
I want one now thanks a lot for making me spend money. Great review and God Bless
great info and yet another great video
Not going to lie I am definitely getting one when the chance presents itself to me, granted I am not 100 a fan of the times of the digital woodland camo since I am more of a lover of either the regular woodland camo or love green but when I look at it can I can honestly say it looks lovely if not truly beautiful, and just like you I am not too inclined with having a large bunch of pockets on my backpack/rucksack, the simplicity does help in this regard with this one.
Definitely will go for the gen2 has more more color to my liking,
Yea that is most definitely been Frankensteined together. I like the pack by itself but remember the dead arms and bite in the lower back when worn over body armor. Even then I am currently waiting for my purchase of the pack to get here. Highly recommended.
Jason my friend, thank you for your service my friend.
Be well and take care.
- Luke
:49 min mark: I bought mine 3 years ago at 29 a 29 Palms 2nd hand store in Ca. Its near the marine base there. Idont have a black portion against the back. Its tans like the waist belt. It has a Tan plastic frame for the back. I dont recall if it was Gen1 or 2, and as I explained mines different. .Ill continue to listen and see if anything later on makes it clearer for me
From your buckle comparison I do have the nexus buckle it appears. Oh btw my pack is completely tan ,not the green sections on the tan field of the bag.
Oh now I see,Im missing the black padding!
Great military bag my friend. I've always loved U.S military stuffs, got a U.S Army UCP pattern camouflage 3-day assault pack myself Luke for my day hikes. Love your this bag too. Take care, be well! :)
Take care my good friend.
Be well.
- Luke
These are based on the Arcteryx Bora 80..the most bomb proof pack ever made.
These are great packs for an excellent price off Amazon or Ebay. The black on camo really stands out in comparison to nature.
For the money, incredible value!
Take care my friend.
- Luke
@@TheOutdoorGearReview Give me 1st gen any day. The assault pack is worth it to have. I have 2 backpacks for SHTF, the best I found, after much research, were the MARPAT ILBE for "haul as much as you can", and Rush 72 for a mid sized pack. I also make extensive use of all MOLLE, which I'm amazed that most people seem to ignore when their backpack has plenty of MOLLE. Kinda defeats the MOLLE concept IMO
Thank you Luke as always excellent review. BubbaL.
Thank you Bubba.
-Luke
Nice pack.. just bought one after watching this vid.. thanks
Nice vid Luke! I might have to pick me up one of these! I'm only 14 and want to get into backpacking, and an inexpensive gear item is always looked at. So glad I subscribed, how bout another overnight adventure showing off your springtime gear?
Keep doin what you're doin, obviously people like it, good luck with the channel
Thank you very, very much MNOutdoors.
Spring related gear coming soon and an overnighter. :)
- Luke
That shit looks way better then the Army MOLLE rucksack.
I have 8 or 10 packs all kinds. the ilbe gen2 is the best built pack i have.
ant mann I'd love to know what the other packs are.
Take care and be well my friend
- Luke
Great video. Thanks for making.
i just picked up 3, gen 1 packs for 125$. only one had cover and belt. but what a great pack. store all your gear. over built and made for the long haul.
Matrix moment = realising I have the exact same couch and I'm sitting on it now watching this. Great review btw. Do one of the UK forces backpack. Its called a Bergen. I have 2 and they really are fantastic. Like to see what you think 🤔
Did you know that the 5.11 24 RUSH assault backpack is compatible with that? I find it as a really nice feature.
I haven't heard that they are Vitalyos! - Luke
TheOutdoorGearReview It's a cool feature,I tought you should know it,it can come handy someday
Your gen 2 is like gen 1.5.lol. The newer gen2s have a coyote back panel. Good review.
Agreed my friend. It's a 'Franken-Pack.'
- Luke
They need Molly straps on the waistbelt.
Other than that looks like a great pack.
Where would you recommend buying one from?
Looks well big for airline travel. But great for pursuits!
Very nice review! Thank you!
What is your opinion of the GI issue CFP-90 ruck?
Thanks again!
Hey man! Nice vid. New sub here. Can I ask where you got both bags? Do you have a link for both? THank you!
i love your reviews and i love your dog
I wish I'd have gotten on these when they were $50. I can't find one now for less than $200 complete, $300 new
I found it. yay! Your review.
Camping/Hiking gear...winters get cold in Illinois...Cold weather gear!
Looks like a nice pack(s)! All the guys who spent years packing cans of Spam into Alice Packs (which I personally find to be absolutely miserable when heavily loaded) are looking at that and thinking, "Damn, wish I had had a pack like that!"
Brother I agree with you 100% about the Alice pack and heavy weight. I never cared for it either with a heavy load.
Be well my friend.
- Luke
Very helpful. Thanks!
Those are both a gen 1 ILBE, the one you cal a gen #2 is still a gen 1 with gen 2 waist belt and shoulder straps
I spent 70.00 on this ILBE pack and it is awesome huge with tons of external straps for attaching anything you could ever need.....BUT....empty weight is over 12 pounds....EMPTY....now I am 6-2 and 195 lbs and accept weight is purely a matter of how comfortable you want to be.....but to start with nothing but container at 12 pounds is freaking ridiculous waste of pounds. First, material is heavy fabric and frame must be made of lead or steel....if this pack could be made of rip-stop and frame of carbon fiber or aluminum and start at under 4-5 lbs it would be hard to beat. Personally, I set my ILBE to side and use smaller pack as 72 hr get home and clothes, shelter pack to go with my LBE web belt with 4x4, 4x6 and 6x6 molle pouches designated for different needs from medical, ammo, tools, and bino's, a fanny pack with food and cooking needs, etc with holster on right and knife on left by canteen. Total weight is under 17 lbs and I could survive rural for 10 days or more.....wouldn't be Hyatt style, but have tarp for shelter with a poncho with liner for sleeping pad, 2X emergency bivy with space blanket, .22 pistol with 300 rounds and snares/fishing kit, redundant fire starters, water filter system, With LBE web belt and chest rig that has additional pockets I can still carry my smaller pack that came with ILBE that has clothes, additional food and other "comfort" items. Total weight of LBE chest rig loaded, LBE web belt loaded and smaller ILBE back pack loaded is 26 pounds...is close to body and easily maneuvered in....even run.....with this set up I can also carry my 5.56 with 4/30 clips and 200 rounds in addition to the .22 Ruger auto....and can go up to 4 weeks easily as long as I can find a few fish, squirrels...a deer here and there. Now just need to determine best bug out locale and cache tent/sleeping bag and other back ups and I could go indefinitely. I tried the whole bug out ILBE pack idea and honestly....even with adrenaline pumping how far are you gonna get with 75+pounds let alone 100+? It is ridiculous. With my 26-30 pound set up I have everything I need PLUS some creature comforts and can walk 10+ miles in a few hours.....maybe 20 in a day. Anyone wanna buy a like new ILBE in multi cam?
Would love to have was looking for one till I got laid off work so don't know where I will be able to get one keep up the good work man
DpKxREVO Keep your head up brother.
Everything will work out.
Cheers.
- Luke
You can find the Gen 2 at blackstarsurplus for about $150.00 with top and radio kit. They have great customer service. Just bough mine.
I need the attached outer “beaver tail” flap. I only have the recon Beavertail. Is there a part number on yours I can look up? I’m referencing the piece. You called the “additional piece of fabric”.
Great review and a great pack.
Thank you sir!
- Luke
Sos un genio, gracias por tus videos.
I think that sleeve and shallow pocket at the bottom are meant to hold a long gun.
Caleb Whittington Possibly my friend. I haven't heard/seen that before but it's definitely possible.
Cheers.
- Luke
According to people who should know, the sleeve and pocket hold an 81mm mortar round. Every Marine in the platoon carries 2 rounds, one on each side of the ILBE.
David Atherton Why?
Because if you're in a war,you're gonna want a god damn mortar.
u wot m8 I seriously doubt every marine in the platoon carries a mortar. That's ridiculous.
Good review. Unlike my ILBE gen 2 The hip belt is nice and live the handles on side of pack for throwing that baby on.
+trooper2221 Thanks trooper. Have a good one brother. - Luke
I hate to be the bearer of bad news. The person who sold you the "gen 2" pack, sold you infack a gen 1 pack. I have both gen 1 and 2. My gen 2 has coyote brown sides, coyote brown buckles, coyote brown hippbelt, coyote brown backplate and coyote brown shoulder straps. But as you mention there is little difference between gen 1 and 2. Take care bro:-)
I dont want to say what i paid for mine from Hero Outdoors. I wanted to be sure I'd get one that was in good condition. It is, but also very expensive these days
this is exactly what I'm looking for. You have a link to the website where I can buy one?
I enjoy ur video's..looks like ur a much younger man in this video
Why did the Marines stop using them? I’m assuming they did because there’s so many new ones for sale on surplus, thanks.
Not trying to sound rude or anything but on my gen 2 pack the entire back is the coyote tan.
Not being rude at all my friend, my pack is an odd assortment of parts. I believe that it may be a prototype gen 2.
Cheers.
- Luke
Never saw a marpat one while I was in everyone I saw and knew all were issued a tan coyote no marpat I only ever heard rumors of the luxurious marpat
Can you tell me if the waist belt from the Gen 1 will fit the Gen 2? I have a Gen 2 pack that I need a large waist strap for. The only one of Ebay I can find is for a Gen 1. Any help with this would be great. Thanks for your time!!
1MrInc I honestly don't know my friend. I know that the general accessories and buckles are not interchangeable. When have a moment I will go and check.
Cheers.
- Luke
I still have two I picked up in Afghanistan, the corps changed to a coyote pack (mystery ranch?)
impressive pack