For the past few weeks I've been using a Maxpedition Thermite Versipack to carry outdoor gear and I thought I'd share some of my thoughts and feelings about it here.
What is it?
First, what is a Maxpedition Thermite Versipack? Well, it's a belt worn thigh pack that has a waist belt (adjustable up to nearly 50" waist) and a thigh strap to keep it stationary and prevent it from bouncing all over the place when running. On the leg it rides quite low (rather like a tactical holster) and can be worn in an over the shoulder configuration. At forst it seems a little wierd, but after a short while it just starts to feel "right".
The pack contains a number of pockets and pouches (nine in all), the largest being 8" x 4.75" x 3". Have no doubts - this pack can hold a lot. If you want, pouches can be put on the pack belt. This is what mine has held recently:
Wallet
Notepad
Pen and pencil
Al Mar SERE 2000 knife
Surefire M2
iPAQ PDA
GPS
Gloves
Headover
Small first aid kit
WetFire
BlastMatch
Various other bits and bobs
So, it holds a lot!
Likes:
I really like this bit of kit for a variety of reasons. First, it's a handy hands-free way to carry stuff. All the zips and clips and fasteners can be operated single handed without problem. I also like the fact that is holds things securely until needed. The package is nice and comfortable to wear when walking, running, crawling and lying down. I've even found it no problem to drive with it. Through the thoughtful positioning of a tensioning strap, things inside the pack stay still and don't rattle about.
The outer shell of the pack is hard wearing cordura and mine still looks like new after many outings. I can't see any weaknesses in the design and there are no signs of loose stitching or fraying edges on mine. It seems very waterproof, although I tend to keep things in plastic bags.
Dislikes:
Only one. The metal zip toggles. I removed the ones on mine and replaced them with small lengths of paracord.
Conclusion
A well thought out bit of kit that is not only practical but comfortable to wear. Mine has become a regular companion on outings and geocaching trips.
9/10
The UK supplier for Maxpedition gear is www.woodlandorganics.com :biggthump
What is it?
First, what is a Maxpedition Thermite Versipack? Well, it's a belt worn thigh pack that has a waist belt (adjustable up to nearly 50" waist) and a thigh strap to keep it stationary and prevent it from bouncing all over the place when running. On the leg it rides quite low (rather like a tactical holster) and can be worn in an over the shoulder configuration. At forst it seems a little wierd, but after a short while it just starts to feel "right".
The pack contains a number of pockets and pouches (nine in all), the largest being 8" x 4.75" x 3". Have no doubts - this pack can hold a lot. If you want, pouches can be put on the pack belt. This is what mine has held recently:
Wallet
Notepad
Pen and pencil
Al Mar SERE 2000 knife
Surefire M2
iPAQ PDA
GPS
Gloves
Headover
Small first aid kit
WetFire
BlastMatch
Various other bits and bobs
So, it holds a lot!
Likes:
I really like this bit of kit for a variety of reasons. First, it's a handy hands-free way to carry stuff. All the zips and clips and fasteners can be operated single handed without problem. I also like the fact that is holds things securely until needed. The package is nice and comfortable to wear when walking, running, crawling and lying down. I've even found it no problem to drive with it. Through the thoughtful positioning of a tensioning strap, things inside the pack stay still and don't rattle about.
The outer shell of the pack is hard wearing cordura and mine still looks like new after many outings. I can't see any weaknesses in the design and there are no signs of loose stitching or fraying edges on mine. It seems very waterproof, although I tend to keep things in plastic bags.
Dislikes:
Only one. The metal zip toggles. I removed the ones on mine and replaced them with small lengths of paracord.
Conclusion
A well thought out bit of kit that is not only practical but comfortable to wear. Mine has become a regular companion on outings and geocaching trips.
9/10
The UK supplier for Maxpedition gear is www.woodlandorganics.com :biggthump