VISM NcStar Tactical Back Pack

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When we received the VISM NcStar Tactical Back Pack, we expected to find just a standard clamshell main compartment opening pack with some standard features. We were wrong. First off, there are plenty of small pockets, all with large zippers. There was also a zippered mesh pocket inside the main compartment that held quite a few objects of varying size.

The pack material itself appears to be thick and strong and feels solid. There were no loose threads around what seems to be double-stitched seams.

One of the features we liked was not only was there a grab handle on top but there is also one on each side of the pack so you can carry it like a suitcase.

There is MOLLE webbing on the front and bottom for attaching things, making this item very modular.

The shoulder straps are nicely padded which made for a comfortable hike, but the unpadded waist belt was a bit snug for my 38-40-inch waist. It might work if you are in better shape (thinner), but I like to think of myself as a typical American (just better-looking).

So I packed up the VISM NcStar Tactical Back Pack like I would a typical bug-out bag: gear, clothes, knives, handgun, ammo, flashlight, radio, books, some cash and found there was plenty of room. First test passed.

I then pulled all those items out and repacked it for a day hike in the woods: GPS, first-aid kit, snacks, extra clothing, knives, handgun, ammo, flashlight, binoculars, etc. Plenty of room.

I headed to the middle of nowhere and hiked for about five miles. The pack itself, while not having the waist straps on, felt super-comfortable. It handles very nicely on my back. There is, however, no padding in the back, so if you have something sharp in there, you are going to know about it. I was able to attach two Nalgene water bottles via a carabiner to the MOLLE webbing. The pack is not very well-ventilated, and I found my back got a bit sweaty. But I was out hiking in the woods, not going to a dinner party. I was not bothered too much by that.

Tech specs

• Main compartment dimensions: 18” H x 12” W x 6” D
• Side pockets, two on each side: 5” H x 5” W x 1½” D
• Front pockets: Top 8” H x 4½” W x 2” D & Bottom 9½”H x 9½”W x 3” D
• Two side compartments: 14″Hx7″Wx3″D.

Features

• Rear compartment for hydration bladder (bladder not included).
• Pals webbing on the front and sides allows you to add any gear or pouches you may want to take with you.
• Padded and adjustable shoulder straps and waist strap.
• Hook and loop patch on front with removable business card window.
• Four cinch straps.

Cost

$16.83 – $48.99

Pros

• Very roomy
• Well-constructed
• Sternum straps and waist strap
• Four cinch straps on the side to decrease profile
• MOLLE webbing
• Several external pockets
• D-rings on the front made of metal not plastic

Cons

• Waist belt runs a bit small
• Lack of padding on the back

Recommendation

Some people say you get what you pay for, but in this case, you are getting a lot more.  If you need a day pack or bug-out bag, this will serve you well.