US MOLLE II Assault Pack, Surplus

A very versatile modular backpack that carries everything you need for 3-Day operations. Rated for a 27 kg load with 38.5 l of total volume, this is sort of in between a backpack and a proper rucksack. Used US Army surplus.

Compartments and pockets

The pack consists of a zippered main compartment and a large front pocket. The main compartment is secured with compression straps to reduce stress on the zipper and flatten the pack when not used to its full capacity. Both compartments have drainage grommets in the bottom.

The front pocket is sized to easily carry bulky stuff you might need fast, such as a 6-mag bandolier, gas mask, or a couple of claymores. It also has two flat pockets for smaller items, but other than these, the pack is very simple.

Any additional pouches (such as an E-Tool or an extra water canteen) can be purchased separately and attached to the PALS webbing on the sides of the pack.

The top has fixed straps for e.g., a sleeping pad or other things you can pack into a fairly small roll. The bottom has webbing loops for utility straps (sold separately).

Carrying System

The wide shoulder straps are anatomically shaped and feature a quick-release system, an adjustable sternum strap, and a waist belt. The straps have three generous webbing loops for easy management of a hydration tube and comms cables.

At the bottom, the shoulder strap attaches to a steel D-ring with a cris-crossing webbing reinforcement to spread the load. This construction is tough as nails and can be repaired in the field if the unthinkable happens.

The shoulder straps and waist belt can be stowed in the cargo compartment to streamline the pack, and the top features a sturdy carry handle for easy carrying.

Specific features

In addition to the obvious standalone use, the Assault Pack can be attached to the top of the MOLLE II Rucksack Frame above the MOLLE II Main pack for increased capacity. The bottom has two female SR buckles for this use.

The top has passages for a drinking tube, antennae, and comms cables. They are also used for the two 30" type 8 webbing inside the back. These white straps are used for airborne operations and allow direct attachment to the parachutist's snap-hook. In the same compartment, there's a lowering line attachment loop.

Against the back on the inside, there are 25 mm (1") oval steel rings for a radio pouch.

Materials and measurements

Made of Mil-Spec standard, water-repellent Cordura with the required NIR properties. All straps are made from heavy-duty nylon. Durable ITW Nexus buckles.

US Army surplus

High-quality piece of kit, made in the USA. In used but perfectly serviceable condition, consider washing the pack - maybe. The padding of the back stiffener and the plastic stiffener itself may be missing, but is easy to replace through DIY if necessary.