Maxpedition Methuselah Gear Bag and Handler Kit

A decent kit bag that you can use to carry all of your equipment to the range is a good investment, particularly when some items are so expensive and often delicate.

Maxpedition produces an extensive range of carry options, and the build quality and layout of their kit are always really good. Both products on test are constructed from 1000-Denier, which is a water and abrasion-resistant, lightweight ballistic nylon fabric. Also, a Dupont Teflon fabric protector offers dirt resistance and easy cleaning. This very tough material provides a high level of protection for the contents and great durability.

Maxpedition Methuselah

At 14 x 10 x 9.5”, the Methuselah is a medium-sized bag with a fully padded front, back, and bottom to protect the contents. The main compartment is uncluttered, with just one internal pocket inside, and it has a unique, oblique, full-opening design to give better access to the contents. The built-in padded sleeve, intended for laptops, is ideal for keeping a mobile phone safe. The double zip is also lockable for added security.

Large pockets on the front and rear of the bag both have internal mesh pockets, for smaller items, and on the outside of the bag, there are several attachment points for additional gear.

The carry handles and the adjustable, padded shoulder strap are heavy-duty and provide a comfortable carry. The bag is very strong, with high tensile strength nylon webbing and thread, and taped internal seams. Plus, all the stress points are double-stitched. Weighing just under 1kg, this bag adds little weight to your carry while being very practical.

Maxpedition Handler

This is a much larger bag (20-litre capacity) and is ideal for anyone who takes anything and everything to the range. The main compartment has a large metal-framed opening with a lockable double zipper. Inside, there are slip pockets on either side, one with dual buckles on the opening, a large panel of Velcro, and 2x D-ring attachment points.

On the front of the pack, there are 2x large bellowed pockets, both with double zippers, and one has a further small pocket on the front. One of the bellowed pockets has a D-shaped top opening, while the other has a large, front/top opening flap for full access to the contents.

On the back of the pack, there is a full-length zippered pocket with one internal side that’s fully lined with Velcro. The framed, top-opening, main compartment is similar to the old-style doctor’s bag, and it really gives full, unhindered access to all of the contents. All of the zippers have paracord pulls and the bag also has 4x non-skid plastic feet on the bottom.

Weighing just over 1.25kg, the bag is not light, but it is packed with features and offers a comprehensive carry for absolutely everything you could possibly need.

Conclusion

Both of these bags are a great carry option, and whether you go large or small, both offer fantastic quality at a competitive price. Military 1st carry a large range of Maxpedition bags, so check out their website.