A lot of tactical shooters are sticklers when it comes to organizing their gear, and that’s just what a good backpack or range bag will do — all while keeping the user more efficient in the field. And this efficiency comes from having the ability to effortlessly transport necessary gear while having quick access to it via an assortment of pockets and attachment points. Lucky for them — and you, if your store shelves and/or website are properly stocked with the latest and greatest packs — there has never been a better time in regard to the number of special-duty backpacks and range bags that are on the market, with models to fit every conceivable situation and application. Here are some top-shelf models designed with the discriminating user in mind.
3S Tactical Range Bag
Designed to hold multiple firearms, ammo, tools and other essential shooting range items, the 3S Tactical range bag is made from tough 600-Denier heavy-duty nylon for the serious shooter with versatile function in mind. It has a padded removable ammo tote, dual taper web grab handles, large padded external pocket with six magazine holders, pistol holders, rugged zippers with glove-friendly pull tabs, heavy-duty D-rings and padded pockets for extra protection. It comes with a detachable and adjustable padded shoulder strap with heavy-duty clips to use with tough 2D rings. This is a high-quality, practical bag for range instructors, special operations officers, patrol officers and recreational shooters. MSRP: $74.99.
5.11 Rush 2.0 (pictured above)
The new Rush 2.0 series of multi-purpose backpacks from 5.11 utilizes the best features of the original line and incorporates several strategic updates, including a customer-requested padded laptop compartment designed to keep contents in-place and protected. This new feature is elevated 1 inch from the base of the pack and secured with a front and rear padded sleeve. Also added is a concealed-carry compartment located behind the zippered front pocket on the face of the pack. A hook-and-loop closure system keeps this new compartment secure and discreet for keeping contents accessible but hidden. Additional updates include revised admin panels, interior organization and exterior trims, relocated hydration port, larger fleece-lined eyewear and media pocket and all-new color options. Available in three sizes. MSRP: $109.99-$189.99.
Alps OutdoorZ Ghost 30 EDC
While on-the-body carry of defensive firearms is not always practical or possible, daypacks and business/office backpacks designed to conceal a firearm are becoming increasingly common. The Alps Outdoorz Ghost 30 is built to satisfy both daily- and work-related needs as well as recreational activities. By incorporating firearm carry options within the pack, it allows personal defense and 2A advocates to maintain a defensive condition anywhere they go. The Ghost 30 is ergonomically designed to wear comfortably and to withstand hard use thanks to its tough, lightweight Cordura fabric. The heart of the Ghost 30 is its ability to accommodate personal defense handguns, with an ambidextrous-access carry pocket positioned behind the back panel and secured via left- and right-side zippers. MSRP: $149.99.
AttackPak Predator
The 1,600-cubic-inch-capacity Predator tactical backpack from AttackPak is designed for everyday use — it’s encompasses anything users will need in their daily travels, while its compression straps provide the ability to cinch half-capacity loads without restricting access. With the same shoulder strap configuration as its big brothers, load weights in the Predator are buffered against the shoulder, and adding capacity to this platform is easy using the securely stitched strap and loop external configuration to connect stuff bags, Molle pouches or other essentials. Compact but efficient, the Predator is an exceptional everyday carry pack. MSRP: $486.
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Ballistipax Survivor-1 Quickdraw
The Survivor-1 Body Armor backpack system features Ballistipax’s patented one-hand, ambidextrous, Quickdraw plate carrier deployment, featuring a full-size Molle panel, which allows for near-limitless equipment configurations. The Survivor-1 also features two hook-and-loop side panels where quick-detach IFAK pouches or additional Molle panels can be added, giving users the ability to customize their Survivor-1 for any mission. Unlike other “bulletproof backpacks,” the Survivor-1 allows individuals to easily interchange their armor panels to accommodate pistol- and rifle-caliber plates. The plate carrier’s quick-disconnects allow it to be easily separated from the backpack and interchanged with additional, pre-configured, Survivor-1 plate carriers. It can also be disconnected and handed to another individual for use in the event of an emergency. MSRP: $724.99-$1,299.99/depending on armor/package selected.
Blackhawk Stingray EDC
The Stingray EDC pack from Blackhawk can be opened at the top, left or right side of the main compartment and the zipper extends to the bottom of the pack, allowing the user to lay it flat if needed. It holds up to 1,400 cubic inches of gear and is available in three colors. The Stingray is constructed of 500D nylon and is built to withstand heavy use. A padded compartment at the back accommodates either a laptop computer or hydration reservoir, and EVA-molded side wings protect gear from jostles, bumps and drops. Durable YKK zippers with wide tabs provide reliable opening and closing, and a large, fleece-lined valuables pocket is deep enough to hold the largest smartphones. MSRP: $99-$134.95.
Duluth Pack Range Bag
Duluth Pack’s Range Bag has the time-tested durability and thoughtful design shooters look for to keep their gear secure and organized on the shooting range and at home. Each compartment is equipped with a weatherproof YKK zipper that is guaranteed for life and a durable cotton webbed shoulder strap makes for comfortable mobility during transport. Made from tough 15-ounce canvas with a reinforced padded bottom, it has a front gusseted pocket and a backslash style pocket that provide plenty of options for organization and storage. It also features cotton webbing handles with a leather snap grip for easy handling. The Duluth Pack Range Bag measures 9 inch high, 12 inches wide and 9.5 inches deep and has a 17-liter capacity. MSRP: $280.
Sentry Products Ultra-Light Traveler Bag
The Ultra-Light Travel Equipment (ULTE) line by Sentry Products features the company’s top-tier products and technologies. The Sentry ULTE Traveler bag is a good example, combining 420 Denier rip-stop fabric with TPU, a moisture-proof fabric laminate for protection against extreme weather conditions. Combined with YKK AquaGuard zippers, a padded handle and removable shoulder and pack straps, the Sentry ULTE Traveler is as versatile as it is durable. It features three external pockets for easy access to gear, and its clamshell design allows it to open flat for quick packing and unpacking. Available in medium and large sizes in black and wolf gray. MSRP: Starting at $299.99.
SOG Surrept/24 CS
Designed to meet the daily demands of a busy lifestyle, the Surrept/24 CS Daypack delivers high-level organization and easy carrying, with enough space for daily essentials, including emergency gear. Its quick-access preparedness pocket in the bottom allows users to store quick-access items such as med kits or other vital items, and it works well in tandem with the Surrept/02 CS ($49.95) — a small storage pouch used to organize everyday gear, travel essentials or tech accessories — that fits perfectly inside. The Surrept/24 CS’s pockets are laid out to be intuitive and easy to access, and a padded pocket is designed to keep a laptop computer safe and secure. This low-profile pack is a staple for the prepared commuter. MSRP: $166.95.
Tac6 Intercept
The 2,500-cubic-inch-capacity, hydration-compatible Tac6 Intercept is a great on-the-go tactical backpack that’s a smart choice for a wide variety of tactical applications. It features internal organizer compartments, multiple external accessory pockets, an external Molle web system and rugged Endura fabric construction. For comfort and a snug fit, it has compression straps, padded shoulder straps with an adjustable sternum strap and side carry handles. The Tac6 Intercept provides for rapid deployment by keeping equipment secure and easily accessible. It comes with a neutral tan finish and measures 18.5 x 16 x 10 inches. MSRP: $74.99.
Tasmanian Tiger TT Modular Gunner
The TT Modular Gunner from Tasmanian Tiger is a lightweight, easy-to-handle, modular, military-style backpack that has a hydration-system-compatible flat main compartment and Molle hook-and-loop attachments for customization. The top front pocket of the backpack has a flip-top where the user can attach magazine holders, and both center front pockets are removable. The backpack has a Molle reverse system on the back and can be integrated into a plate carrier. The TT Modular Gunner pack includes three detachable mag pouches to use on the outside for quick release or can be moved inside the pack for concealment. It also includes four detachable pistol magazine pouches and two interior mesh zippered pockets. MSRP: $179-$199.
Uncle Mike’s Side-Armor Range Bag
Uncle Mike’s Armor Range Bag is designed for an organized day at the range with more than 1,200 cubic inches of storage, and it is packed with features. Made from durable, water-resistant coated 1680D fabric with a removeable handgun pouch, it features a roll-up double-zippered flap over the main compartment, web handles, removable padded shoulder strap and lockable zippers. Foam padded walls in the main compartment add protection, and a padded pistol rug is included. The main compartment measures 17 inches long by 9 inches high by 5 inches deep. Side compartments are 14 inches long, 8 inches high and 2 inches deep. Name strip compatible. MSRP: $68.45.
Vertx Last Call
When space and weight are important, the grab-and-go Last Call pack from Vertx is a great choice for keeping essential tools close at hand. Gear is just a tug away with its Rapid Access pull tab, and the main compartment opens like a clamshell to let the user load, find and remove items quickly and easily. The front flap quickly stows behind the Molle panel, and additional storage space is available in external pockets. Other features include a concealed-carry platform that accepts ballistic panels, G-hook straps that enable the front panel to convert to a sling for larger items, stretch side pockets for water bottles or similarly sized necessities, adjustable shoulder and sternum straps and much more. MSRP: $159.99.
