Direct Action Dragon Egg MKII - A Side by Side With the Original
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- čas přidán 16. 07. 2024
- In this video, we take a look at a side by side comparison of the Dragon Egg Original and the Dragon Egg MKII by Direct Action. I would like to thank Direct Action for making this video possible. In my opinion, this is one of the best day packs in its size range, due to the quality features, style, and overall comfort. I carried the original version for over a year as an EDC, Every Day Carry. In a previous review of the original, I had some problems with the side pocket/water bottle pouch. Now that the MKII has come out, did Direct Action make any changes to fix the design? You'll just have to watch and see.
Check out Direct Action Tactical Gear for your self.
Visit: us.directactiongear.com
On their website, you will find a variety of excellent gear, super durable products, and versatile products that serve everything from tactical applications to every day carry.
Maybe interesting for some:
Direct Action split from the parent company Helikon Tex and are now doing their own thing with the ex-Helikon Tex owned Direct Action line. That's why there's been a logo change etc. Both companies make awesome, affordable tac gear.
tambob82
I think that is very good information...if nothing else, that puts another company on the radar screen worth checking out.
Great info!
Thanks for your video. I have plan to buy that MKII and your video was a great help.
I have no problem with companies making upgrades or offering different options.
I really like the colour.
More water bottle shapes can fit now? Very smart.
I would use this everyday.
I don't mind a slight difference in the shades of grey.
This definitely does make for a great EDC. I carried my original as an EDC for a year and it was awesome. Only reason why I stopped is cause I switched to my Maxpedition shoulder bag, but I might switch back. I think I'll set this Dragon Egg up as a get home bag, but not quite sure yet. (I'm not very big into the get home thing, but I need to give it a try...might as use this as an excuse).
Thanks for your detailed reviews. I picked up a MarkII last week based on your original review.
DogWalksMe
awesome, you already get it? what color? how do you plan to use it, edc, hiking?
outer limitless Yep got it last week in shadow gray as well. I typically go black but love this new color. I'll use it for travel and edc mostly as I have a Pygmy Falcon for hiking. The only reason I didn't buy the original Dragon Egg was because of those side pockets and the water bottle issue. I'm excited to try this bag out.
Awesome, ya those bottle pockets were a mess! I think the shadow gray is a tasty color. It's really rich and has some interesting undertones. Well, great, I'm glad the Dragon Egg is working out, enjoy!!!
Im big on the accessory pouches too! Normally have 12 pouches in rows of six so two rows for EXCELLENT storage outside and looks SUPERIOR!
Mike Smith
What pouches do you use? Like the mag pouches, or other style?
This is the most detailed comparison available. Thanks!
Thanks, I take a ton of time and put a ton of thought into my reviews to make sure they are comprehensive! I appreciate you watching!
Your review really hooked me up with Direct Action, thanks for your reviews, I just received the Mk II and the foxtrot, I'm completely blown away, although my belt buckle came a bit broken, I super glued it, and I asked for a replacement buckle in their customer service, I hope they can solve my problem.
I'm completely in love with the Dragon Egg, I'd like to try the Ghost, but at the time I ordered, the black version wasn't in stock.
I'd love to see your channel grow bro!
PD: my Dragon Egg did come with the little complementary bag, I don't know if it was because of the bundle I ordered or what.
Oh, awesome...so you got the bundle! What do you think about the foxtrot? I am seriously considering the dust/foxtrot bundle. I think the Dust will be a great bag for my son...just enough smaller then the dragon egg...and of course if I'm gonna do that, I need to get something for myself!! I was hoping that the foxtrot could be worn beneath the dragon egg and make for a slightly larger system...have you tried that carried in combination?
I'm really curious to hear about your thought's on that.
And I'm sure DA will take care of your buckle issue...especially if it came broken. I'll be curious to find out how they treat you...please keep me in the loop.
The Foxtrot is a very nice waist bag overall, I just have to get used to it.
I thought the same as you, having a combination between both of the packs, however I don't know how to integrate them, having the foxtrot on my hips it's a little bit uncomfortable or unnatural given that it is a waist bag and it doesn't perform as good on the hip area, however I'm still trying, if you want to you can PM me at kik.conzuelo@gmail.com that way I can share my thoughts and pictures of the bag.
Customer service at Direct Action it's fantastic, after some mails and photographs they solved my case and they're going to send me a replacement buckle for free.
I so loved the original logo better. It was a one of a kind.
Check out Helikon-Tex. My next video will be about one of their bags. You will probably see a logo that you are familiar with!!
Díky za detailní rozbor. Rozhoduju se že batoh koupím. Trochu mě mrzí to logo, původní bylo hezčí.
Very nice and clear review, thank you so much, bro👍👍👍
Great, detailed review and comparison. Helped in my decision. Thanks and subbed.
Nice! So, what did you get??
And welcome aboard!
Heh, nothing yet. Still trying to make that determination. I like the Dragon MKII. Love the looks and the versatility of the bag, but just a wee bit nervous if it will hold-up in the long-run. Seen a few vids of issues with the bags, but those could have been one-offs. Right now, looking at this one, Vertyx Gamut, and the First Tactical Tactix 1Day Plus. Trying to branch out a bit from 5.11 and Hazard 4.
I am NOT happy with Hazard 4. I would not suggest it...
I am very intrigued by the Vertyx Gamut and it's organizer. I think that could be amazing if the quality is there. I can say, the Dragon Egg is wonderful. It's a superb bag...no quality or durability issues...if you can wear that bag out you're really into some heavy duty stuff and need to consider regular replacements anyway.
5.11 has not progressed enough for me...it's like the same old tactical bag...give me some innovation already. The closest they've come is with their Ignitor, but that might not be quite right for you.
Good luck...if you get that Vertyx, I'd be interested to hear how you like it.
Hey, Thank you very much for your detailed review - very much appreciated as I am going for one myself.
Regarding the ventilation on the original Dragon Egg they are running top down and on the MK2 bottom up to the center. Might be a very small detail, but do you have experience carrying heavy loads?
Edit: Dang, paused too early XD
Martin Sten
I have used this primarily as an EDC and with a good amount of gear, but nothing significantly heavy...maybe like 15 lbs or so.
How heavy you thinking you'll need to carry?
Nice review! Thanks. Do you think its possible to mount the Mosquito Modular Belt on this Rucksack?
I'm sorry, I'm not too familiar with that belt. I will take a look at it and try to figure that out. If I get any info, I'll write back.
Thanks for watching, and good question.
If I had to guess I would say the direction change in the back panel would be for rain channeling. The original way would have had any water or rain channeled down the center of your back, soaking your back and butt.
Very interesting...that's a smart theory...first time anyone has mentioned that idea, and it makes perfect sense...great thinking!
$129 was a decent price for this bag but today it’s $169 which is too much for a 25L bag. It’s a shame. I really wanted to get one but not at this price.
First Tactical Specialist is listed at $74 in tan/brown color now.
Nice review man :)
Cheers
Thank you! I appreciate you checking it out!
Thanks for stopping by!
Direct Action Gear No reply on the Urban Gray color?
Hi, can you specify your question?
Direct Action Gear Is Shadow Gray the same as Urban Gray? Your accessory pouches only come in Urban Gray but I want to match the pouch color to the new Shadow Gray of the Mark II.
DogWalksMe
I wrote to DA about that question. they got back to me and said they might be releasing shadow gray in 2017 and the urban gray is the same as their ranger green was.
So the buckles still rattle. Was looking for this detail. Thank you very much. I was wondering if I should replace my 4 year old dragon egg. Thanks a lot!
Well...my honest opinion...you're 4 year old dragon egg is still probably sweet...i wouldn't "upgrade" cause it's not much of an upgrade. In fact...some of it is a downgrade...
Very nice bag.
Thanks...they're a great company. Seem very responsive and have been putting out some nice gear.
Hello! Do you still have access to the bag and would you recommend it? I'm wondering about the drainage hole at the bottom of the main compartment. Is it covered by a fabric inside or is there just plain hole in the middle? I'm worried of getting my stuff moist if I need to lay down the backpack in moist grass or asfalt
I am not sure...but yes I would recommend this bag for sure, and I wouldn't be worried about your stuff getting wet.
Direct Action make some nice gear. I have their new plate carrier setups and ton of other gear. Quality is top notch and most of it made in Poland.
Direct Action and Helikon-Tex...both great companies. I have really enjoyed my Dragon Egg!
Great review buddy! Just ordered one(:
You will definitely like it...it's a great backpack. Of all my bags I use that the most...it has held up perfectly. The company Helikon Tex has some great bags too which is the parent company to Direct Action.
Excellent review of a very well made bag. I own the original for years and considering the MK 2. Keep up the great work.
Nice! Honestly, if the original is working for you, there's no true real advantage to the MK-2...unless you want a color change?
Had the Shadow Gray and always wanted the Black. Seems Black is always out of stock. Cheers.
The downside of using elastics in any textile product is that the the "rubber" material will break down in 3-5 years, depending on usage and environment, and you'll have a floppy piece of material there.
Hi Eric, do you have any experience with the direct action Ghost? I am thinking about going the ghost route for the extra area. PS my knife collection is growing rapidly. Thanks for all you do!
I have never seen or held the ghost. I bet it would be great though. Overall I think it's not going to be too large...but it gains you the additional capacity of the exterior pouch over the Dragon Egg. Quality wise...I love these bags. The Dragon Egg is still my go-to for a day pack or quick trips. What are your newest blades??
outer limitless awesome!!! I will let you know thoughts on the Ghost when and if. I recently got these fixed blades
BK7
Mora Bushcraft Black
Mora Gerberg
Mora Kansbol
Barkriver Bushcrafter II (beautiful!)
Gerber LMF II
Tops BOB in 154cm
Love them all!!
Next on list are:
BK2
And something by LT Wright
I'm curious how you will like the BK2. I can see why you're drawn to it, but for me it was over built. There is a BK2 and BK22...different sheath options is the only difference.
Whatcha thinking for the LT Wright? I have a beautiful Genesis that I should use more, but never really do. It's A2 with snakeskin micarta. I would consider selling it...maybe. Dunno.
outer limitless
Yeah BK2 I am excited about seeing the thickness in person.
LT Wright’s look awesome on video. I like the Mantis outdoors Sospes and the GNS. Most likely will go Sabre grind either way. The Genesis is ultra nice as well. Prob be my third choice from LT’s catalog. Love your vids brother. Keep it up!
Dave Zito I have the original Ghost and it's still a very impressive bag. Highly versatile (hip belt turns into a load bearing belt w Y suspenders. The front admin pouch can be removed (attached on the sides w shock cord and bottom with webbing and SRBs. I think the stated capacity is 31.5L? I feel like this pack seems bigger. It's certainly a bigger pack, and unless you remove the front admin pouch, it's not exactly low profile. Plenty of organization, zip pockets, water bottle pockets(!!) that other bags like this don't have. I like the laser cut molle. If the dragon egg isn't quite big enough, I think you would find the Ghost to be a good choice and you can always remove the admin pouch and slim the pack down, while adding your own molle pouches. Just my 2c!
The overall build quality seems to be pretty good and is made with great materials and hardware. There is one issue though the laptop sleeve in the main compartment seems to be attached higher on one side. This doesn't affect how it works but it is a little disappointing to see that in a bag this expensive. Quality control definitely could have been better.
Hmmm...very interesting! I'll take a closer look at mine to see if it has the same problem. I'm curious now! Very interesting find...
hey nice review! what is the color of the old dragon egg? is that urban grey or adaptive green?
That's the original urban grey
Good review
Thanks...glad you stopped by!
I agree, disappointing to not see the logo on the pack, and buckles...
It's like they forgot that the details on the first version were excellent. Why move into a version 2 and skimp? Doesn't make sense to me.
the new one has less ventilation ribs?
Red Fox Guides
I don't think less, but just a different pattern.
The only complaint I ever had about my dragon egg was that my nalgene would somehow push its way out of the side pocket after some time. I'm glad to see a company that works on improving even the little things, rather than just saying "good enough."
Yes, for sure!!! Interesting how they really locked onto that improvement and released this new version with basically only one functional change...simply being that side pocket. The other changes were merely cosmetic, such as the logo and the color selection.
Great point...and thanks for the comment. Thanks for watching!!
Prefere the old logo.
I kinda do too. It was very unique. The new one is growing on me though...but yes...the old is better!
Is new bag still holding up ?
It's holding up great. I have had no problems and the bag is awesome. I don't use it extremely hard though...so my stuff usually lasts a long time.
I have the original and like it. But didn't get the version II because they should have made the shoulder strap longer and made the buckles quieter. A big fail having the same rattling buckles. and short shoulder straps, that are even shorter when wearing a plate carrier.
The rattling buckles are ridiculous. I don't mind the straps, but I don't use mine for military purpose or armor underneath.
So is the bag almost a dark grayish green?
Justin P
yes, exactly. more gray than green, but it's not straight gray. there's a color underneath it...a very interesting color.
Awesome. That is exactly what I needed to know.
Thank you!!! Great video by the way.
i prefer the urban grey, the shadow grey is darker. They offer the dragon egg in both urban grey and shadow grey and they also offer a mix of both
The urban grey is a gorgeous color...I always like foliage variations, and Direct Action did nice with the Urban Grey. They don't offer the MKII in Urban, and the MK1 is getting hard to come by.
Hi, those backpacks are made from Helikon Tex, i guess direct action is like a new subbrand for them. They are big in europe because its a polish company and they do offer it in urban grey, in shadow grey and alot ox combinations. Maybe they dont offer them in the US. eu.directactiongear.com/en/packs-and-bags/backpacks/dragon-egg-mkii-backpack.html#UGS
is it big enough for school binders?
What grade of school will it be used for? That might make a difference depending on how much stuff you need to keep in there. It will not be large enough for a full day's worth of school, but you will certainly have enough space for a multi-class binder. I am able to fit rather large binders with a book or two in the main compartment. Plus the laptop, rear portion, could also probably hold a book as well. Thinner notebooks or binders will allow for more books. The mid-compartment is the admin section, which is ideal for your school supplies, calculator, etc. In my opinion this might be a touch small for a school bag, but if you can make it work it will be amazingly organized.
Good luck!!
outer limitless I'm in high school and searching for a tactical bag that I can use for hiking as well with the water bottle holders. Thanks for the help!
Ok, then if you can rely on your locker you might be ok...and also depending on how you need to get your books and papers home at the end of the day. You will need to be careful, but it can work because of your ability to go to your locker. This also will likely come with that soft auxiliary bag that I showed from my MKI version if you buy it from Direct Action...maybe you can supplement if you need to by keeping that in your locker so if you have too much stuff you can load it into that as well. I'll think a little bit about what bags would definitely work...like for example probably the 5.11 rush 72. Possibly even the All Hazard Prime...but I don't have either of those bags to test them for you. If I have more ideas, I'll let you know.
and the Rush 72 might be too big actually. I meant 24 sorry...
Bruh, is the bag on the right in the Adaptive Green color??
No, adaptive green came with the mk2. The mk1 had a color that is considered urban grey.
outer limitless Thank you for responding and so readily! But dang it, though! I want that color! I like the adaptive green but am not sure I’ll like it and aesthetics are very important to me lololol
@@john-paulgagliano949 Yes, I agree... the adaptive green is definitely not the same... it's more tan than foliage
@@john-paulgagliano949 They have Urban Grey on their website right now...I just checked
Once again, lightning with these replies! 👍 And if it’s more tan than foliage I might like it. And bro, are you sure that’s Urban Gray? That color option on Amazon looks very diff than your pack. Yours looks pretty tan.
I prefer the camo patern so the 1st gen is ok for me, no big differences tho
Some of the Camo patterns are really nice! You're right about the minor changes...in fact I like the buckles better on Gen 1
13:50 hot air rises, it's better to flow out than in
How much does one of those products cost excuse me
My Mk II buckle has no marking which is same as yours but the teeth inside is like the original.. too bad which i wish same as yours cus look sick..
And its made in vietnam, is it because im in asia? Lol
The MKII does not have markings on the buckles, even though I really think they should! The version 1 buckles were nicer looking for sure.
Nice Review! I just posted a similar video on my channel, reviewing a Tactical pack from Roaring Gear. Check it out if you get the chance!
I hate built in waterbottle pouches, they are all open top, I would rather them just put molle on the sides and I will add a waterbottle pouch with zippered cover, it also makes it so that I can remove and just carry the wb pouch
Yeah, that makes sense. For me, it can go either way. I really enjoy a really well designed water bottle pocket, but sometimes they just can't get it right. The Dragon Egg pockets are ok...I like the MKII pockets much better for sure. But a nice bottle corset or similar might be sweet on this bag.
outer limitless I just purchased the 5.11 all hazards prime bag for use as a snap bag, snap being situation not as planned it's the right bag for me but the dragon egg is nice
They are both original !
Sky Watcher
The MKII came out a couple years after the original. I carried my MKI for over a year before the MKII was released.
outer limitless Thank you for your reply. For me original is something that is not a fake chinese reproduction 😄.
You intended original as the first version of the product.
but other direct action is replica? because I'm thinking to buy from turkey
I believe there Are replica knock off versions. Mine were direct from DA
@@outerlimitless ofcourse but it's no sales in türkiye I will buy by the Amazon seller is in italy
The main difference was the belt ….where’s the belt? Lol. How is it as a stand alone belt with mag pouches and the straps … watched the whole thing and no belt …