5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag Review

Let’s Dive into 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag

The 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag is designed for professionals who need organization and quick access to their gear, particularly those in law enforcement or security. 5.11 Tactical is known for building durable and functional gear, and this bag aims to deliver on that reputation. I’ve spent over a decade in tactical roles, constantly searching for the ideal bag to keep my patrol car organized and my essential equipment within easy reach.

I needed a bag that could serve as both a front seat organizer and a readily accessible gear bag. My patrol car often becomes a mobile office, and efficient organization is critical for staying productive and safe. I was tired of gear sliding around on the passenger seat or getting lost in the footwell; a dedicated solution was a must.

Upon unboxing, the 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag felt solid and well-constructed. The 600D polyester felt durable, and the overall design seemed thoughtfully laid out. It wasn’t overly heavy, which is important since it would be spending most of its time in my vehicle.

I considered the Condor Deployment Bag and the LAPG Jumbo Bail Out Bag. The Condor seemed a bit too basic, lacking the organizational features I desired, while the LAPG bag appeared too bulky for front seat use. The 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag seemed to strike a good balance between size, features, and durability.

My first impression was positive; I was excited to see if it could truly streamline my patrol car setup. The bag’s modularity and ability to attach to the seat were particularly appealing features, and I was eager to put them to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag to the Test

First Use Experience

My first use of the 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag was during a standard patrol shift. I configured it in my front passenger seat, utilizing the headrest strap and seatbelt attachment to secure it. The bag’s ability to stay put, even during quick stops and turns, was immediately apparent and appreciated.

The bag performed well in varying weather conditions. I experienced both rain and sunshine during the shift. The 600D polyester exterior proved to be water-resistant, keeping the contents dry, and the bag held its shape without sagging or collapsing.

The initial setup took about 15 minutes. Finding the optimal arrangement for my gear within the bag’s compartments required some experimentation. Once I established a system, accessing frequently used items like my notepad, pens, and citation book became significantly easier.

Initially, I found the main compartment slightly smaller than anticipated, echoing concerns voiced by other users. I quickly realized the importance of utilizing MOLLE-compatible pouches to expand the bag’s storage capacity and maximize organization.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my patrol car. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the main body of the bag. The stitching is holding up well, and the zippers are still functioning smoothly.

Maintaining the bag has been relatively simple. Occasional spot cleaning with a damp cloth has been sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag has outperformed my previous attempts at organizing my gear. Its dedicated compartments and attachment system have significantly reduced clutter and improved my efficiency on patrol.

Breaking Down the Features of 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag

Specifications

• The 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag is constructed from durable 600D polyester. This material provides a good balance of water resistance and abrasion resistance, making it suitable for the demands of patrol duty.
• The bag offers a 39-liter pack volume. This capacity is sufficient for carrying essential gear, paperwork, and personal items, while remaining compact enough to fit comfortably in a vehicle’s front seat.
• Weighing in at 1.96 lbs, the bag is lightweight, making it easy to transport when necessary. This is essential for minimizing strain during long shifts or when responding to incidents on foot.
• The 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag features MOLLE webbing on the exterior for attaching additional pouches and accessories. This modularity allows for customization and expansion of storage capacity to meet individual needs.
• The bag is designed with a Unisex design. It offers universal functionality without gender-specific tailoring.

These specifications directly impact the bag’s usability. The durable material ensures it can withstand daily wear and tear, while the modular design allows users to customize it to their specific needs. The lightweight construction contributes to overall comfort and ease of use, which is vital for professionals who rely on their gear throughout their shifts.

Performance & Functionality

The 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag excels at organizing and providing quick access to essential gear. Its various compartments and dividers help keep items separated and easily identifiable. The MOLLE webbing offers the ability to customize the bag with additional pouches for specialized equipment.

The main drawback is the limited space in the main compartment, as mentioned earlier. This can be mitigated by strategically utilizing MOLLE-compatible pouches. The bag meets my expectations for durability and organization, but falls slightly short in terms of overall capacity without additional pouches.

Design & Ergonomics

The 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag features a practical and well-thought-out design. The 600D polyester provides a rugged feel, and the bag’s construction feels solid and reliable. The weight is manageable, even when fully loaded, and the bag sits comfortably in the passenger seat without being obtrusive.

The bag is generally user-friendly. However, optimizing the placement of gear within the various compartments may require some initial experimentation. The MOLLE webbing provides flexibility in terms of customization.

Durability & Maintenance

The 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag is built to last. The 600D polyester and reinforced stitching contribute to its overall durability. With proper care, this bag should withstand years of use in demanding environments.

Maintaining the bag is simple. Spot cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The rugged materials are resistant to staining and tearing, making it a low-maintenance option.

Accessories and Customization Options

The 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag does not come with many accessories. However, its MOLLE webbing is compatible with a wide range of 5.11 Tactical and third-party pouches and accessories. Popular additions include magazine pouches, utility pouches, and medical kits.

The bag’s modular design allows for extensive customization. Users can tailor the layout to their specific needs by adding or removing pouches. This flexibility is a major selling point, as it ensures the bag can adapt to changing mission requirements.

Pros and Cons of 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag

Who Should Buy 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag?

The 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and other professionals who need to keep their gear organized and readily accessible in a vehicle. It is also a good choice for range enthusiasts who want a dedicated bag for carrying ammunition, targets, and other range equipment.

This bag may not be ideal for those who need to carry a large amount of gear, as the main compartment is relatively small without additional pouches. Individuals who prefer a more minimalist approach to gear organization may also find this bag to be overkill.

Must-have accessories include MOLLE-compatible pouches to expand the bag’s storage capacity and a rigid insert to reinforce the top flap. These additions will maximize the bag’s functionality and address its primary limitations.

Conclusion on 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag

The 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag is a well-designed and durable gear bag that excels at organizing and providing quick access to essential equipment. While the main compartment is somewhat limited in size, the bag’s modular design and secure attachment system make it a valuable asset for professionals who need to keep their gear organized in a vehicle. The 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag provides a substantial improvement over simply tossing your gear on the passenger seat.

The price of $115.00 is justified by the bag’s quality construction, durable materials, and versatile design. It is a worthwhile investment for those who value organization and efficiency.

I would personally recommend the 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag to anyone looking for a reliable and customizable gear bag for their vehicle. It has significantly improved my patrol car organization and made my job easier. If you’re tired of clutter and disorganization, give the 5.11 Tactical Wingman Patrol Bag a try.