Maxpedition Falcon II hydration day pack

I have to say that Maxpedition gear is pretty damn good. I was recently sent three examples by of their range of back packs. The first was the Malaga Gear Slinger, which was a single, cross strap design I found to be brilliant for the hunter on the go, so much so that I have bought one. The other two are a more conventional in build with a standard, two shoulder harness so next up is the Falcon II day sack.

Not Disappointed

The build as ever is 100% and uses a 1000-denier, water and abrasion resistant, light-weight ballistic nylon fabric. Buckles are all quick release UTX-Duraflex nylon types for low sound closures and both rear and sides of the Falcon are covered in MOLLE attachment loops. With a host of extras such as pouches and water bottler holders etc that allows you to add a lot of exterior stowage for all manner of items.
All compartments are closed by synthetic, YKK, high strength zippers and zipper tracks, these have long, cord nylon pulls for easy operation. At the rear is an adjustable QD/yoke arrangement that allows quick closure of all areas. On top is a grab handle.
Dimensions are as follows -  main compartment 18 x 9.5 x 4.75”, secondary compartment 16 x 8 x 3”, upper pouch 4 x 7 x 2.5”, lower pouch 10 x 7 x 2.5”. On the rear (next to your back) is a full size, zip-out section this is designed for a 100- fl/oz hydration bladder, at the top is a flap for the mouth tube which can be fed out and threaded onto the shoulder straps. The bladder is down to you as it’s not included with the pack.

25-Litres

Cargo capacity is 25-litres and the load is supported by broad, well padded, breathable shoulder straps with sternum closure and a waist belt which is detachable if not required. Two compressor straps show on either side of the body and the base is covered in a non-slip, high abrasion-resistance base. On this are two large loops/buckles for attaching items like ground sheets or compact sleeping bags etc.
Opening up the individual compartments shows a plethora of internal stowage pockets and nets with specific holders for pens etc. This sectioned off stowage, inside and out is really useful as more important or ready-use items can be pleased to best advantage for access, such as a medical kit, or spare ammo.
The Falcon II as the name suggest is an upgrade of the original model and was originally intended as a military assault day pack. Maxpedition tell us it is improved in 10 separate areas. But as we can see it doubles as an exceptional hunter’s pack, as well as a very useful travel item in the cabin baggage class.

Solids and Camo

A visit to the Maxpedition website shows a good choice of colours. My example came in khaki, which is a good look, however you also have the options of black, OD green, foliage green, khaki foliage, royal blue, orange and ACU-Compatible Digital Foliage Camo (US Army ARPAT camo)
Testing showed that the Falcon II is an exceptional design, not that big I grant you, but with ample storage none the less. Though I appreciate the off-the-shoulder build of the Malaga Gear Slinger, which leaves a shoulder free for proper gun mount and its 660 cubic inch capacity is more than enough for a hunting trip. I would opt for the larger Falcon II if I needed to go further afield and carry more gear.

However, the high build quilt, innovative and practical design exhibited by both the Falcon II and the Malaga shows that Maxpedition know a thing or two about carry systems, so check out what they have to offer as their ranges covers a lot of ground!

We Reckon:
• For: Exceptional design and build
• Against: Not a thing
• Verdict: The best costs a bit more but is always worth it

PRICES:
£121.95 (all solid colours)
Digital Foliage Camo finish £128.95