GORUCK just launched a “Steals and “Deals” page on their website that evidently features overstocked items.  Many of their products are available up to 50% off but supplies are limited.  I was able to grab a 10L Bullet Ruck I had eyed for $95 – which in hindsight was about what I was willing to pay for it (new or used).  Look for a review on the Bullet in the near future.

Like these Deal Alerts?  Subscribe to this site and get them via email. You’ll land some cool stuff every now and then for less scratch.  Disclaimer:  I’m not responsible for any credit collateral damage. It’s not like I put that mouse in your hand, right?  :).

GoRuck Echo Mulitcam is on sale too

The post Deal Alert: GORUCK Steals and Deals appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

EDC is a great hobby and I’ll be the first one to admit that sometimes I get a bit obsessive compulsive about it.  It bugs me when I feel that some part of my carry could be improved or that I’m missing something that I need (or want).  I love trying out new gear and reading/talking/writing about it and I’m not alone judging from the explosive growth in YouTube, blog, and forum based reviews.

That said, we sometimes forget our most important piece of gear and that’s our bodies.  This winter was horrific here in the Midwest and I admittedly fell into the trap of being a cave troll… a keyboard warrior… due to the weather.  I just didn’t feel like getting out and freezing my ass off.  It was too cold… too windy… too meh.  I basically threw out every excuse in the book.  Now, because I effectively took several months off, my body feels wrecked and weaker.  I hate it.

So, this past weekend, I got off my ass.  I went for a hike, played golf, and spent time outside running around with my kids. And I hit the gym.. HARD.  Every muscle said, “what the eff was that?!#”.  It hurt but it was (and still is) a good hurt.

I’ve made a lot of friends online so let me impart some friendly advice.  Get up and get out.  Don’t let this stuff keep you from being active.  It doesn’t have to be a ruck run or hiking 20 miles.  Even going for a walk or a short hike is a win.  You’ll feel better and look better too.

The post Don’t Forget Your Most Important Piece of Gear appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

I was doing laundry last night and look what I found in the bottom of the washing machine.

Streamlight Microstream

I had left my Streamlight Microstream in the pocket of a pair of jeans and it went through a full wash and spin cycle.  The Microstream is a great little light.  It delivers 35 lumens with a 2.5 hour run time on one AAA battery.  After muttering an expletive or two, I unscrewed the light to see if water had gotten past the O-Ring.  The inside of the light was bone dry. After crossing my fingers, I did a function check.  Low and behold, it lit up like a champ.  The Microstream is one tough little light.   

The post Gear Diary: Streamlight Microstream is one Tough Little Light appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

In Indy for the 2014 NRA Convention.   

The post Gear Diary: Pocket Dump appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

The M&P Shield is a very popular gun and therefore there are a variety of holster options for it.  The trick is finding the right one that will work for you.  That isn’t always easy and often times you’ll end up with the proverbial “drawer full of holsters” in the process.

Some of the Holsters available for the M&P Shield

I did just that.  But before sticking some of these in a drawer or selling them, I thought I’d share my thoughts on the holsters I tried in the hope that it might save you a purchase or two.  As always, it will be purely based on my opinion.  Your mileage may vary and if you’re really excited about trying one of these then I’d urge you to try it anyway.  What works for my carry might not necessarily work for you.

INSIDE THE WAISTBAND (IWB)

I’ve tried appendix carry (AIWB) and I don’t find it comfortable while sitting so IWB is my primary mode of concealed carry.  With that said, some of the holsters I tried could be worn either way.  Outside the waistband (OWB) is an option also – especially for your LEO’s out there.  However, as a responsibly armed civilian, I’m always concerned about inadvertently exposing my firearm, which in non-open carry states is against the law.  Call me cautious.  Of course, with the right garment combination (long shirt, jacket, etc.), any firearm can be concealed IWB or OWB.  I’m just explaining why none of these holsters are OWB.  I will likely purchase a OWB at some point, but that’s another article for another time.

MY CRITERIA

I had a set of criteria going in and I would encourage you to do the same because it will help narrow the field a bit.  First off, I typically prefer Kydex or Kydex/Leather hybrid holsters – particularly with polymer guns.  I did opt for a couple of non-Kydex options but that was my going-in position.  Why Kydex over leather?  Don’t get me wrong… I love the smell and feel of leather and I generally prefer them, for whatever reason, for all metal framed guns.  But, Kydex definitely has it’s advantages and this article sums it up pretty well.

I needed a holster that can be easily removed.  Illinois has many so-called “restricted zones” written into its concealed carry law which requires a CCL holder to unholster and reholster during the course of a day.  Yes, I could keep my holster on but in most cases I prefer not to and therefore holsters which require belt removal were not an option for me.

My holster of choice needed to be very comfortable.  If it isn’t comfortable then it will eventually go in the drawer. Guaranteed.   

Finally, fit was important.  A generic nylon holster is cheaper but they typically require a strap to ensure proper retention.  That requires an extra step under stress and slows down your draw.  No thank you.

HOLDERS WITH A BELT CLIP OR LOOP

The Comptac Infidel Ultra features a Kydex shell with a leather backing for comfort.  The N82 Tactical Professional Series Holster has a polycarbonate shell mated to a oiled tanned leather front with a padded suede leather backing material for comfort.  Finally, for your minimalists out there, the Appalachian Concealment Smith & Wesson Holster consists of a kydex shell with a single belt loop.

Clockwise from top: Compact Infidel Ultra, N82 Tactical Professional Series, Appalachian Concealment Smith & Wesson

NO CLIP HOLSTERS

These no clip holsters made of non-slip materials that offer retention without the need for a belt are all the rage.  Sticky Holsters MD-2 and Remora 5MPART “RFT” holster are two of the most popular options that I tried.

From left to right: Sticky Holsters MD-2, Remora 5MPART RFT

REVIEWS COMING SOON

Which holsters did I prefer and why?  Whether you’re a Shield owner or just interested in these brands for a different firearm, look for more detailed reviews on each of these holsters in the coming weeks. Stay tuned!

The post M&P Shield Holster Round-Up appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

The Leatherman Raptor is a pair of industrial strength medical shears combined with additional features geared towards the needs of a First Responder or Combat Medic.  I’m not an EMT or Active Military but I often include a pair of Maratac Combat Shears in my EDC.  They’re great for tough cutting tasks and they save me from dulling the blade of my carry knife on those jobs.

While at the NRA Convention this weekend, I spotted a pair that were on display. 

I had never handled the Raptor in person and I was surprised at how heavy and substantial the tool felt.  That’s good and bad.  It definitely felt like a well built tool.  On the other hand, it’s going to add additional weight (roughly 5 ounces more than the Maratac Shears) to my bag.  That doesn’t sound like a lot and it isn’t but it all adds up.  I try to save ounces here and there when I can. 

Still, the Leatherman Raptor does add other capabilities through the inclusion of the additional tools including a strap cutter, ring cutter, carbide glass breaker, oxygen tank wrench, and a ruler.  Those are good things to have in anyone’s carry, especially the strap cutter and glass breaker, in the event of an emergency. 

Besides that, I really like how the Raptor folds up into a nice tight form factor.  It also includes a removable pocket clip and a lanyard hole.

Leatherman also includes a carry holster.  Lots of options for storing this tool for pocket or bag carry. 

Based on reviews from First Responders and EDC enthusiasts on various sites, the 420HC (High Carbon) Stainless Steel shears are very heavy duty and have no problem cutting through heavy clothing, leather, zip ties, seat belts, etc.  I had read early concerns before launch about whether the Raptor can be autoclaved (for decontamination).  According to Leatherman, you can do that but based on the feedback they received from combat medics, that wasn’t a huge requirement.  I wonder about that so maybe some First Responders here that have tried the tool can chime in.

The Leatherman Raptor retails for $80, but it can be had for less.  I will probably pick one up at some point because I like that you can clip it anywhere and despite the additional weight, the added functionality makes it a good addition to my EDC.   

The post First Look: Leatherman Raptor appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

I’ve been carrying the Vertx Gamut for a month now and I’ve grown to appreciate many of it’s EDC friendly features.  Despite the fact that I’m constantly testing new packs, I keep going back to it as my primary carry.  That should tell you something – even in advance of my review on it.  However, I’ve yet to find a pack without flaws and the Gamut is no exception.  The biggest issue I’ve found is the Vertx Gamut’s thread chomping zipper.  Huh… say what?

You heard me… the Gamut has a zipper with an appetite for stitching.  I mentioned in my last Gear Diary on the Gamut that the main compartment zipper wasn’t as silky smooth as I’ve known other YKK brand zippers to be.  Well, now I know why.  Vertx incorporated a storm collar on the inside of the bag to keep out the elements.  That’s good.  However, the collar is so beefy that the underside of the large 10RCt zipper is catching on it and starting to shred the stitching.

It also pulled a wayward stitch on the side.

Here’s a close up view.

Now, to be clear, I’m not certain it will continue to do more damage or even that it will significantly effect the overall build integrity of the pack (the collar hasn’t separated yet).  The bigger issue is that I’d like the main compartment, which holds most of the Gamut’s organization, to open a little more smoothly.

When I mentioned the issue to Darrell Morrow, Vertx’s Director of Sales, he seemed genuinely surprised and immediately offered to replace the pack.  That tells me it might not be a rampant issue and perhaps I received a dud.  I’ll take them up on their offer just to determine if that’s the case and report back. Stay tuned.

The post Gear Diary: Vertx Gamut’s Thread Chomping Zipper appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Mystery Ranch has been busy this month releasing new bags.  Among them are three new Mystery Ranch Adventure Packs – the Rush, Swift, and Big Mountain.  You can read more about them here.

Mystery Ranch Rush Adventure Pack

A few things caught my eye.  First, the new Redirect waist belt is one of the most robust removable waist belts I’ve ever seen.  

The Rush Adventure Pack with a redesigned Redirect Waist Belt

Despite the Rush being mid-sized (2,200 cubic inches), MR says it has the structure of a much larger pack.  With an internal frame that includes two vertical and one horizontal fiberglass stays plus an aluminum lumbar stay, they weren’t kidding.  They also streamlined the yoke system.

The Swift (2,637) and Big Mountain (3,966) are larger options.  The Big Mountain features a new “Split Shroud” system, which is detailed in the blog post.

All three packs are on pre-order with an early June ship date.       

The post First Look: Mystery Ranch Adventure Packs appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Mystery Ranch has been busy this month releasing new packs.  Add another to the list.  The new Mystery Ranch Invader is a smaller version of their Outsider Messenger/Sling bag.  

Those who are familiar with my philisophies on bag design known I’m not a huge fan of the Sling format.  Particularly large slings.  People tend to load them up (or pretend in reviews to load them up) when in reality they don’t handle weight well and in turn they aren’t all that fun to carry.

Despite my misgivings, the Invader shows promise.  They downsized the bag by 20% to 1,272 cubic inches, which is a more manageable and maneuverable size for a sling.  

The wide seat belt strap is thickly padded.  The strap can’t be switched to one side or the other (which would have been a nice enhancement by MR), but that’s not a show stopper.  The backpanel seems to have some structure to it in order to provide padding for the laptop compartment, which can accomodate up to a 15″ device.  And the carry handle is also a nice touch.

Based on a limited number of reviews on the Outsider, if the layout is similar, then the Invader will have a decent amount of compartments/organization for a small-ish pack.   And despite being made out of 500D Cordura, it’s also relatively light at 2lbs, 6 ounces. 

Every once in a while, I see a sling that tempts me to try the category again.  The Mystery Ranch Invader is one of the those bags.  The Invader is available as a pre-order with an early June ship date.  

The post First Look: Mystery Ranch Invader appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Chances are, today is a special day for a woman in your life.  So what did you get for your Mom, Wife, or Significant Other?  Dinner?  Sure.  Flowers?  Boring.  Only a card?  Cheapskate.  One of those damn mail order Bears?  You should be eaten by one.

Let me help you out with some ideas.  Admittedly, these will be too late for Mother’s Day, but there are birthdays, Christmases, and even next Mother’s Day to worry about.  Whenever you gift, I guarantee she’ll appreciate receiving one of these even if it’s not immediately obviously to her why she needs it.

Pocket Knife

Everyone should carry a knife.  Yes, ladies too.  My favorite for women?  Benchmade Mini Griptillian.  It’s simple to use, non-threatening in appearance, and great for smaller hands while still having a blade length that’s long enough at 2.91″ to be useful.  And it even comes in Pink.

Outerwear

Every woman should own the TAD Gear Valkyrie.  Especially if she lives in a cold weather city.  It will be the warmest piece of clothing she owns.  And she’ll love you for it.  The regular Valkyrie is sold out at TAD right now since it’s seasonal.  The lighter LT version is available in some sizes.  Both will be re-stocked later in the season. 

Multi-tool

The Juice XE-6 is stylish, good for smaller hands, and has all the tools anyone might need.  And with a closed length of 3.25 inches, it’s a medium duty multi-tool that won’t take up a lot of room in whatever bag or purse she prefers to carry.

 Self Defense

Care about her safety but she’s not down with carrying a firearm?  The Kimber Pepper Blaster is a nice compromise.  It’s non-lethal option that’s easy to use, more accurate than a can of mace, and has second strike capability.  It also has a three-year shelf life.

Bag

The Kavu Astoria is a nice travel alternative to a purse because of its quick dry material and multiple organization pockets.  

Another option is a sling bag.  The Kavu Rope Bag is the most popular in their line.  It features a padded back panel and multiple pockets.  It also comes in a variety of color combinations. 

The post Five Great Gifts for the Special Women in your Life appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

The Vance CARNO is a keychain tool that packs a lot of utility into a small package.  The sample we were sent is made from Damascus Steel that’s been folded 250 times.

The CARNO is 2.5″ long and has a chisel ground tip that can be used as a mini pry bar or a driver for larger slotted screws.  For instance, in a pinch, I used it to tighten the Chicago screws on my holster.  

It also has a bottle opener.  Despite the tool’s size, it does a decent job of opening a beer – like this last bottle of Sam Adams Winter Lager.

The CARNO is handmade in limited quantities and retails for $50.  When in stock and available, they are sold on the Vance Website.

The post Vance CARNO Review appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Here’s another Kickstarter Project from Dark Sucks, who has produced by all accounts, some great lights and pens.  The Prometheus Lambda Top is made from an unusual mix of materials – brass, aluminum, and ruby (you read that right).

The resulting product is a heirloom quality pocket top that spins forever making it a poor choice for telling whether you’re still dreaming or not but an awesome edition to anyone’s EDC if you have the money to burn.

The post Prometheus Lambda Top Kickstarter Project appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Since I recently snagged a GoRuck Bullet 10L from their Steals and Deals promotion, I thought I would do a GoRuck Bullet 10L Size Comparison with some other go bags that I’ve reviewed in the past.  Below (from left to right), is the Camelbak Mil Tac HAWG, GoRuck Bullet 10L, MSM Adapt Pack and the Grey Ghost Gear Stealth Operator.

All would be viable “grab and go” bags but they vary in size and capacity (in cubic inches):

• Mil Tac HAWG – 19 X 10.5 X 10.2 (1,400)
• GoRuck Bullet 10L – 18 X 8.75 X 4.5 (610)
• MSM Adapt Pack – 17 X 9.5 X 5.5 (1,178)
• GGG Stealth Operator – 17.75 X 10 X 5 (887)

As you can tell, pictures can be deceiving.  They don’t look all that different, but the Bullet is by far the smallest.

That isn’t necessarily a bad thing for a grab and go bag.  I use mine in the car and the gym and so it needs to fit on the floor board of my vehicle (even when it’s fully loaded with passengers) or in a locker.  I also sometimes throw it in my suitcase when I travel so I have a carry bag when I get to my destination.

By the way, GoRuck just published 10L Hydration Bullet Ruck Explained.  It’s a very extensive write-up with lots of pics.  One of these days, I’ll write-up my own take… perhaps called “10L Hydration Bullet Ruck Explained… Explained”.  But that’s another post for another time.

The post GoRuck Bullet 10L Size Comparison appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Wearing a pack loaded with PALS webbing, regardless of color, used to make the wearer look military.  Or like a military wannabe.  Or worse… in this day and age… an active shooter waiting for a place to happen.

But, that’s really no longer the case as long as you opt for a non-military color scheme, because bag makers are slapping PALS webbing (or a facsimile) on all types of bags in an attempt to make them look “tacticool”.

A “tactical” TARGUS laptop bag

Black, Foliage, and Khaki will mix in with the crowd.  Some may disagree but I think OD Green and Coyote Brown will still look out of place in an Urban environment.  The same is true with any Camo variant, perhaps with the exception being Woodland, which seems to be a designer favorite these days.  It also depends on how many pouches you hang off your bag.  More pouches screams tactical.  

I typically go with black.  It’s the most common bag color (especially with travelers) and it wears well.  The only downside is that it absorbs heat and therefore is hotter in the warmer months.  

The post Gear Diary: Why Tactical Packs No Longer Make You “That Guy” appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Vertx debuted it’s new bag line at this year’s Shot Show and by all accounts they’ve hit a home run. The first bag that I decided to try was the Vertx EDC Gamut. If the Gamut is any indication of the thought that Vertx put into the design of their bags then it may not be the last.

As I mentioned in my video first look review, the Gamut is loaded with features.  It’s really more of a “carry platform” that can be setup in various configurations to meet the needs of the user.  So, this will be a multi-part review.  Here I’ll show the basic features of the bag.  In future installments, we’ll cover different use cases including concealed carry and various organization options using some of the Vertx Tactigami accessories.

EXTERIOR

The EDC Gamut is a mid-sized pack at 22″ X 14″ X 7″ and 1,709 cubic inches in volume.  The outer shell is primarily made from a new Cordura brand 220/310 material that has proven to be a good compromise between weight and durability.  I like it.  Hopefully more bag makers will start using it.

Vertx EDC Gamut

In the picture above, I have it setup with the Transporter Tail.  The tail has zippers on both sides and is attached at the top with metal buckles.  The straps have keepers to secure excess webbing.  Strap management overall on this bag is excellent.

The tail is secured to the bag by a small patch of Velcro at the top.  Vertx also reinforced the top of the tail to provide a hand hold when pulling down the panel (no space is wasted on this pack).  A nylon loop is provided on either side to secure the buckles when you’re not using the tail and have them tucked in.  A nice touch by Vertx.

Removing the buckles and pulling down the panel reveals PALS webbing, which can be hidden from view to preserve the clean lines and urban friendly appearance of the Gamut.  Don’t like Velcro or want to further secure the tail?  Vertx included double headed zippers that have special pulls that snap into the top of the bag for that purpose (shown below).

If the tail isn’t needed then you can tuck the tail under the PALS panel at the bottom of the bag.  The same compartment, which has a velcro closure, could be used as a hidden area to squirrel away sensitive documents (such as a passport), currency, or similar items for safe keeping.

An additional security feature is a snap that helps prevent the main compartment zipper from being opened discretely.  It also effectively makes the bag a top loader while still giving the user the option to unsnap the zipper stops and open the entire compartment.

On each side of the pack are stretch pockets that can hold a water bottle, umbrella, or similar item.  The pockets are not large enough on the Gamut to hold a full sized Nalgene (they are evidently on the Gamut Plus).  Each pocket has a bungee cord pull with a UTX Cord Lock to adjust the fit so items don’t fall out.

The Vertx’s back panel and straps are nicely padded.  There’s good routing for a hydration tube on either strap.  Vertx does include a sternum strap but I have to say that the hardware that attaches to the straps is a bit different (and not in a good way).  It also comes with a non-load bearing waist belt.  There is also a luggage pass through – although you have to turn the bag on it’s side to use it.

The way the Gamut carries reminds me of the GoRuck GR1 because through trial and error I’ve found that the Gamut is best worn with the pack pulled tight to the body and worn higher on the back.  Overall, with a decent amount of torsional rigidity due to the internal frame sheet, it’s a very comfortable pack under load.  One of the best I’ve tested to-date.

Being 22″ in length, the bag fit my 6’4″ frame very well and looks proportional.  I’ve heard people on forums say this is a huge pack.  I respectfully disagree.  It’s very manageable and will wear like a large day pack for most people.

The author wearing the Vertx Gamut

Here is a side view.  As you can see, the Gamut is very low profile.  Even when I loaded it up, it still held it’s shape pretty well.  If you need to retain a certain amount of mobility, this is a good bag to consider.  It’s also great on trains, planes, and buses where you don’t want to be knocking people down with your bag in tight quarters.

INTERIOR

The main compartment can be splayed open to be fully accessible.

The outside panel features an admin area and two zippered mesh pockets.

The inside panel adds a third zippered pocket and loop material to attach pouches.

The 15″ padded laptop compartment swallowed my 12″ Thinkpad without issue with lots of room to spare.  It’s bottom padded as well.  Also on display is the Vertx BAP Belt Adapter Panel attached to the loop area.  More on that in Part 3 of the review.  Yes, I’m a tease.

The Vertx branded tab is a hanger.  The laptop sleeve also doubles as the hydration compartment.  There are ports on either side to route the tube through to the shoulder straps.

Between the back panel and the main compartment, there is also a separate concealed carry/organization compartment.  More on that also in Part Deux.

The Gamut also has two zippered side compartments.  One is a simple sleeve with an additional zippered pocket made from micro mesh you can see the contents inside.  Another well thought out touch by Vertx.

The other is another mini organization area and micro mesh pocket.  Note: loading a large water bottle in either stretch pocket will steal capacity from these pockets behind them.

WRAP UP

For the EDC enthusiasts, organizationally challenged, or anal retentive/”everything must have its place” people among us, I offer this advice.  Go buy this bag without hesitation.  It’s worth every penny and more of it’s $200 price tag.  If you’re more in the “I like my rucks simple because I can’t find where I put my crap” camp then shy away.  The Gamut will cause you stress and undue torment.

In the next part of this review, we’ll focus on organization options including leveraging the Vertx Tactigami accessories and other pieces from our gear collection.  Stay tuned!

The post Vertx EDC Gamut Review Part 1 appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Here are some deals to take advantage of if you need some gear:

20% off All Hazard 4/Civilian Lab Products at GearBunker.  Use code memorial 14. 

Save on khaki Fatboy and Jumbo Versipack Kits at Maxpedition.

REI 30% off Sale.  Members get an extra 20% off one item.

20% off orders of $75 or more at Duluth Trading.  Use code SALE20.

20% off and free shipping on orders $75 or more at Tactical Distributors.  Use code MEMORIAL20. 

Do you know of others?  Leave them in the comments. 

The post Deal Alert: Memorial Weekend Sales appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

The Faceoff Messenger Bag Kickstarter Project is an interesting one.  The bag design is different because you can switch out the flap opting for different designs and all the pledge levels include two or more flaps. The main body of the bag comes in a couple of different colors.

The flap options include an illuminated light strip series which is battery operated.  

And a Utility Series that adds multiple external pockets and 30% more capacity to the bag.

There are more.  Here is a video that shows some of the other designs…

The starting pledge level is $116, which is fairly reasonable.  If you like messengers, you should check this one out.

The post Faceoff Messenger Bag Kickstarter Project appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Over the Memorial Day weekend, I had the chance to take the Maxpedition Xantha out on a hike for the first time.  The Xantha is a 32L/2000 cubic inch internal frame backpack.

Maxpedition Xantha Internal Frame Backpack

Here are some early first impressions of the pack.

THE GOOD

The Xantha’s internal frame sheet (which includes an aluminum stay) is a first for Maxpedition and it wasn’t a shock that the pack handled a relatively heavy load-out without killing my shoulders and back.  I need to stress it even more on future excursions but so far, so good.

From an organization standpoint, the Xantha is laid out pretty well.  I added a Monkey Combat Admin Pouch to the external PALS webbing for small stuff that I want to get access to quickly.

I’ve missed having zippered pockets on my padded waist belt.  They’re pretty common on hiking packs and Maxpedition included them on the Xantha.  Great for keeping a phone or small point-and-shoot camera accessible without having to remove the pack.

Wow, imagine that… side pockets that can actually fit a full-sized Nalgene bottle.

THE NOT SO GOOD

The Xantha isn’t a huge pack but it feels bigger than it really is.  Not sure why at this point.  Maxpedition does make a smaller version called the Zafar, but I wanted the extra capacity and two inches of length that the Xantha offered.

With the exception of the waist belt, which has elastic keepers, strap management is non-existent.  And there are a lot of dangling straps.  Time to scrounge up the Web Dominators again.

What happened to my favorite removable 1″ sternum strap?  A whimpy (typical) 3/4″ sternum strap was included with the Xantha.  Maxpediton, say it ain’t so!

——-

Overall, the Maxpedition Xantha made a good first impression.  It’s easily my favorite Maxpedition backpack to-date.  I had planned on alternating it with my Tom Bihn Guide’s Pack this Summer and I’m not wavering from that.  But this weekend did leave me wanting more quality time with the Xantha.

The post Gear Diary: Maxpedition Xantha First Impressions appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

For our first bag give away, I reached way back into the Gear Bunker and pulled out one of my favorites that is no longer in the rotation but is still a great bag.  The Timbuk2 Blogger is one of the few vertical messengers that Timbuk2 has sold.  

Timbuk2 Blogger Messenger

It has great laptop protection (fits up to a 15″ laptop), decent organization, and a nice beefy padded shoulder strap.  I’ve bought two of these over the years and I kept this one for future use.  It’s been long discontinued by Timbuk2 so this is the last one you’re likely going to find in close-to-new condition.  I know it will go to a good home.

The bag pictured is blue/grey but the one being given away is all black.  

To be eligible for the giveaway, you have to leave a comment to this post AND subscribe to the blog (only subscribers with valid email addresses at the time of drawing are eligible).  Tell us “I’m in” AND share what your most commonly carried EDC bag is (make/model).   A random number generator will be used to pick the winner.  The winner will then be contacted to arrange for delivery.  The contest ends on June 19th, 2014 at Midnight CST.  Good Luck to everyone and thank you for your continued support!

The post Product Give Away: Timbuk2 Blogger Messenger appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

For anyone who has a Twitter Account, follow us and share the original contest post on Twitter (make sure to @mention Loadedpocketz) and you’ll get an additional chance to win.  For anyone who shares the contest on Twitter, I will also include a bonus item if they win.       

The post Another Way to Enter to Win appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.