Italian Combat Pack, Surplus

Compact, unergonomic, and also otherwise crappy grunt tormentor from Italy. Comes with interesting solutions. Not very practical for anything and thus totally adorable for traditional camping and bushcraft.

Features

At a first glance this is a fairly straightforward small pack. The outer measurements of the main compartment are c. 42 x 29 x 20 cm (16.5” x 11.5” x 8”). However, since this is a shapeless blob, it is a bit difficult to measure it accurately. When you inspect it more closely, you notice that there are no practical straps around it for attaching any extra gear because the Italian engineers wanted to do things their way. Thus, there is a bit peculiar flap at the bottom of the pack for attaching a blanket or a tarp. This gives you a nice amount of extra carrying capacity.

There are open pockets inside, at both ends of the main compartment. Each can fit a half a liter bottle of whisky or alternatively, some healthy sports drink like vodka. The flap has a small pocket for a name tag. There are no other pockets on this pack.

The pack has adjustable shoulder straps and also buckles at the ends for attaching a shoulder sling. The sling isn’t included though. The shoulder straps are quite narrow and unpadded so carrying a heavy load will be an unforgettable experience.

Materials

Thick, durable, coarse, and stiff fabric. Most likely some sort of cotton blend but the consistency is unknown. Designed to survive wars so these will most likely outlast you.

Conditions

Used Italian military surplus but in quite a good condition. Of course, these can have some stains and frayed edges, but on this thing, they are just an improvement. Fully serviceable and ready to be used again.