Backpack 3003/Black Review

The Backpack 3003/Black Made a Bold First Impression

The Backpack 3003/Black isn’t your average hiking pack. It is a tactical solution designed with personal protection in mind. The Backpack 3003/Black features a unique deployable front body armor carrier, alongside a dedicated compartment for back protection. The red zippers against the black nylon scream, “I’m ready.” This piqued my interest as I have been searching for a way to integrate personal protection into my everyday carry without sacrificing practicality.

My need arose from increased urban foot patrols while volunteering for a local neighborhood watch program. I needed a discreet yet rapidly accessible means of deploying ballistic protection in unpredictable situations. I had considered modified plate carriers, but their overt appearance and lack of storage made them unsuitable. The Backpack 3003/Black promised a solution that blended seamlessly into my everyday routine while offering the option for immediate protective deployment.

Unboxing the Backpack 3003/Black, I was immediately struck by the robust feel of the nylon construction. The pack felt heavier than a standard 30-liter backpack, likely due to the reinforced armor compartments. The stitching was clean and the zippers, though red, seemed heavy-duty. The magnetic closures for the armor compartments felt secure and easy to manipulate.

Compared to other tactical backpacks I’ve used, such as the 5.11 Rush 12 or the Condor 3-Day Assault Pack, the Backpack 3003/Black prioritizes protective capability over pure storage volume. While the 5.11 and Condor packs offer more extensive MOLLE webbing and larger main compartments, they lack the integrated armor deployment system of the Backpack 3003/Black. I chose the Backpack 3003/Black for its primary function of discreetly carrying and rapidly deploying body armor.

My first impression was a mix of excitement and slight apprehension. I was eager to test the deployment mechanism and assess the comfort while carrying weight, but I was also concerned about the overall bulk and potential for printing (obvious visual signs of carrying concealed items). Still, the innovative design of the Backpack 3003/Black made it a worthwhile gamble.

Real-World Testing: Putting Backpack 3003/Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Backpack 3003/Black on a series of neighborhood patrols during both daylight and nighttime hours. I loaded it with my standard patrol gear: a first-aid kit, flashlight, water bottle, notepad, and a 10″x12″ Level IIIA soft armor panel in the front carrier. Weather conditions ranged from dry and mild to light rain. The streets were mostly clear, though I did encounter a few potential threats.

The deployment system proved to be surprisingly effective. With practice, I could reliably deploy the front armor carrier in under 5 seconds. The waist straps were easily adjustable, providing a snug and secure fit. However, the weight distribution took some getting used to. With the front armor deployed, the pack tended to pull forward slightly, requiring me to maintain a conscious posture adjustment.

The first issue I encountered was the magnetic flap closure on the front armor compartment. In light rain, the magnets held securely. However, during a brief but heavier downpour, the flap came undone, exposing the armor panel. This necessitated a quick adjustment and a re-evaluation of the closure system’s reliability in inclement weather.

Extended Use & Reliability

After two months of regular use, the Backpack 3003/Black has held up reasonably well. The nylon material shows no signs of tearing or significant wear. The zippers still function smoothly, though the red paint has begun to chip in high-use areas. The stitching remains intact, though I’ve noticed some minor fraying around the edges of the armor compartments.

The durability of the deployment system is a concern. The 1″ webbing straps show signs of stretching, which could potentially affect the speed and reliability of the deployment over time. I’ve also noticed that the magnetic closures on the front armor compartment are becoming weaker, increasing the risk of accidental opening.

Cleaning and maintenance are relatively straightforward. The nylon material is easy to wipe down with a damp cloth. However, I’ve found it necessary to occasionally lubricate the zippers to maintain smooth operation. The pack does not come with any specific cleaning instructions.

Compared to my previous experiences with tactical backpacks from reputable brands like 5.11 and Maxpedition, the Backpack 3003/Black falls slightly short in overall durability. While it offers a unique and valuable feature in its integrated armor deployment system, the long-term reliability of that system is questionable. Its protective feature outweighed its durability in the role that I needed the pack to serve.

Breaking Down the Features of Backpack 3003/Black

Specifications

• Main Backpack Storage Compartment: Measures 17″H X 12″W X 4″D. This provides a decent amount of space for everyday essentials or a light load of tactical gear.
• Outer Zippered Compartments: Three compartments measuring 10″H X 10.5W X 1.5″D, 9″W X 7.5″H, & 10″H X 10.5W. These offer organized storage for smaller items like magazines, flashlights, or first-aid supplies.
• Side Mesh Pockets: Elastic top mesh pockets on each side. Ideal for carrying water bottles or other readily accessible items.
• Front Body Armor Carrier Compartment: Dedicated storage compartment for a 10″ X 12″ shooters cut soft body armor panel. The front carrier is adjustable for height.
• Rear Body Armor Pocket: Stationary pocket inside the backpack designed to hold hard or soft body armor plates/panels up to 16.5″H X 11.5″W. The rear carrier is ideal for a larger panel or plate, offering full back protection.
• Deployment System: 1″ webbing that runs down each of the backpack straps, allowing for rapid deployment of the front carrier. This is the key feature that sets this backpack apart.
• Materials: Nylon construction with red zippers. The specific denier of the nylon is not specified, but it feels reasonably durable.
• Magnetic Fasteners: Magnetic fasteners secure the flap of the body armor compartments. These provide a quick and easy closure system, but their reliability in harsh conditions is questionable.

Performance & Functionality

The Backpack 3003/Black performs its core function – carrying and deploying body armor – reasonably well. The deployment system is genuinely fast and intuitive with practice. The front carrier provides adequate coverage for the vital organs. The rear pocket accommodates a variety of armor plates.

However, the overall functionality is limited by the smaller storage capacity compared to standard tactical backpacks. The magnetic closures are a weak point that needs improvement. The weight distribution with armor panels installed can be uncomfortable for extended periods.

The Backpack 3003/Black mostly meets expectations for its primary purpose but falls short in terms of overall versatility and comfort. The focus on personal protection comes at the expense of some traditional backpack features.

Design & Ergonomics

The Backpack 3003/Black features a simple and unassuming design. The black color and minimalist aesthetics allow it to blend in easily in urban environments. The bright red zippers are a matter of personal preference and some may find it too flashy.

The build quality is decent, but not exceptional. The materials feel durable, but the stitching and hardware are not on par with higher-end tactical gear. The weight distribution with armor panels is a significant ergonomic issue that needs to be addressed.

There is a slight learning curve associated with the deployment system. It requires practice to execute smoothly and efficiently. The waist straps are adjustable, but the lack of a sternum strap further contributes to the discomfort of carrying heavy loads.

Durability & Maintenance

The Backpack 3003/Black should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. However, the long-term durability of the deployment system and the magnetic closures is questionable. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the zippers are necessary to maintain optimal performance.

Repairing the backpack could be challenging due to the unique deployment system. Replacing the webbing straps or magnetic closures might require specialized skills and tools. The manufacturer does not offer any specific repair services.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Backpack 3003/Black does not come with any additional accessories. There are no MOLLE webbing attachment points for adding external pouches or gear. The only real customization option is the choice of body armor panels to install in the front and rear compartments.

The Backpack 3003/Black is compatible with standard 10″x12″ shooters cut soft armor panels for the front carrier and up to 16.5″H X 11.5″W hard or soft armor plates for the rear pocket. It’s important to choose armor panels that are both effective and comfortable to wear.

Pros and Cons of Backpack 3003/Black