The winner in our two pack throw down is the Camelbak Mil Tac HAWG. The HAWG is a prime example of a relatively straightforward bag design executed by a manufacturer to near perfection. There are still a couple things I would change about the 2013 HAWG, but despite my rather large bag collection, I find myself coming back to it again and again whenever I need a smaller daypack.
Camelbak Mil Tac HAWG
We already discussed the specs of the HAWG in the earlier introduction post so this portion of the review will cover mostly practical carry considerations.
FIT
I start with this because the HAWG for me is a joy to wear. Unlike most packs it’s size that measure out at between 16-17″ in length, the HAWG is a full 19″. This makes it suitable for wearers with longer torsos or for people who just prefer longer, sleeker pack designs.
The 6’4″ author wearing the Camelbak HAWG
Despite it’s length and overall volume at 1,400 cubic inches, the HAWG is still a relatively small pack that can be comfortably worn over one shoulder. I probably wear it 50% of the time like this .
Here is a side shot to give you an idea on depth. I didn’t have the pack stuffed full but I did have my shell stuffed in there along with a couple of other items so it wasn’t empty either.
ORGANIZATION
The HAWG doesn’t have the worst admin area and it’s not the best. I’ll call it “adequate to the task”.
On the lower left, I have a Maxpedition Micro Pocket Organizer with a CRL Tactical Pen, Stainleess Steel Sharpie, and Sunwayman M10R flashlight inserted into sewn slots behind it. The lower right pocket has retention and is a great place to secure a smartphone. Behind that are two slip pockets that are roughly 6.5 and 8.0″ in depth respectively where you can stuff various items. There is also a key keeper that I’m using to attach a stainless steel cache.
That’s pretty much it. If you need more small item storage, you can always attach another admin pouch to the bag’s front PALS webbing. I opted to use the TAD OP1.
Camelbak HAWG and TAD OP1 Admin Pouch
We reviewed the OP1 earlier this year. Even when full, it doesn’t add a lot of bulk and it’s clean look, devoid of molle or hook and loop, makes the HAWG look less tactical than it otherwise would. Why is that important? Maybe in most cases, it isn’t. However, it’s worth noting that when paired with a smaller carry gun like the M&P Shield, the OP1 can turn the HAWG into a relatively decent CCW platform.
The top zippered valuables pocket on the HAWG is good for sunglasses and other items. Taking an idea from an EDCF member, I discovered that the Maxpedition Janus pouch will fit there.
I use mine for a FAK and leaving the pouch open in the pocket still provides access to it’s contents.
The 2013 Mil Tac HAWG has a larger main compartment than it’s predecessors. I fit my TAD Explorer Jacket in there with room to spare.
Included with the HAWG is Camelbak’s Mil Spec Long Antidote Reservoir. The Antidote is a lightweight, low-profile highly durable 100 oz water bladder.
Camelbak Mil Spec Antidote Reservoir
The HAWG’s backpack straps include straps and d-rings on both sides to keep the insulated hose in place as the wearer moves.
The last interesting feature I’ll higlight on the HAWG is it’s compression straps. The HAWG features upper and lower compression. Unfortunately, the straps do get in the way of the accessing the admin compartment.
Fortunately, Camelbak utilized Duraflex Quik Attach Mojave buckles that can be detached and removed.
Then they can be re-attached to a secondary loop position so that the upper buckles don’t get in the way of accessing the admin compartment.
And the lowers can be attached in a similar fashion.
They can also be tucked into stow way slots effectively moving them out of the picture all together.
Some 2013 HAWG owners might not be aware that the straps can be moved so I thought it worth covering.
CONCLUSION
I haven’t mentioned yet any of the flaws I was alluding to – mostly because I think they are minor. First, I know many HAWG owners complain that the side MOLLE webbing shouldn’t have been removed in this version of the pack (the sides are now “slick”) because you can’t attach additional pouches there.
The HAWG also tends to fold inward on itself when not fully packed due to the backpanel design. You can sort of see that in this shot where the bag has formed a slight “U” shape. Not a huge showstopper and it actually helps conform the pack to the back.
Overall, unless you can’t tell, I really like the HAWG. I like it’s straightforward easy-to-live-with design, carry capacity, and superior fit for a small pack. I use it regularly for weekend excursions, trips to the gym, and short hikes (among other things). The Camelbak Mil Tac HAWG retails for $172.50 and is available for purchase directly from Camelbak and other places where Camlebak’s tactical line is sold.
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