Goose said:
I think the biggest problem was the only issue general issue "rucsac" for years was the large pack, biggest waste of space ever
I once read a quote about the 'large' pack. "Trying to get your sleeping bag into one, is like trying to stuff a rapidly inflating rubber elephant, into a matchbox"!! And it's true.
This is my opinion: The GS (General Service) is small, heavy and very uncomfortable if your using it seriously, ie, if your going to town for a loaf of bread it'll be ok, but using it for carrying loads is a no good. I used mine for a school bag years ago and even then it was uncomfy.
The SAS/Para is the same in design but much bigger. Both have the heavy, plastic coated steel frame as used for the 351 etc, and the straps attatch to the sac with 'dog' style clips, which end up digging into your shoulders and they become very sore. Most people used pipe lagging to pad them out, but it's not the solution. There is no waist/hip belt, and they are heavy before you put anything in them.
They are, however, indestructable, but just too bulky and heavy.
The ALICE ( All -Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment) is basically the same as the SAS/Para, a bit smaller maybe and the material is softer and lighter, but they are all dated and don't compare to the newer styles.
One big advantage about all these, is that they are compatible with webbing. Nowadays many soldiers wear chest rigs and so this doesn't come into it so much. (especially if you're a civy)!
I would go for a Berghaus Vulcan. Lighter than a PLCE (Personal Load Carrying Equipment) and more waterproof. As big, and can take pouches strapped to the outside if you need more, but you'll have difficulty lifting it after that. It's got a zipped base section, to access your kit and it can even be used with webbing, although only belt order with a few pouches. The side pouches are the same as the PLCE in the sense that they can be detatched and used as a seperate daysack.
They can be found for £140.00 if you look around. It will last for years.
Phew, I've obviously got too much time on my hands
Happy bergen hunting.