The NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan Made a Bold First Impression
The NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan arrives looking like a no-nonsense piece of kit, promising practical utility without breaking the bank. I was intrigued to see how this budget-friendly option would hold up compared to some of the higher-end packs I’ve used over the years. This pack seemed to offer a solid base for outdoor adventures and tactical use.
Years of guiding treks and advising clients have taught me one thing: your pack is your lifeline. I needed a reliable, spacious pack for weekend SAR exercises. A pack that could carry essential gear without feeling like I’m hauling a small car.
Unboxing the NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan revealed a simple, functional design. The 1100 denier nylon felt reasonably robust, and the stitching appeared clean and consistent at first glance. The tan color is a practical choice for blending into various environments. However, the zippers initially felt a little stiff, something I’d need to address. I’m used to high-end zippers, so I was prepared to potentially swap them.
Compared to my GoRuck GR1 and my Arcteryx Bora AR 63, the NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan obviously lacks the bombproof feel and sophisticated design. The NcStar comes in at roughly a quarter of the price, making a direct comparison somewhat unfair. I chose this pack specifically to test its value proposition: Could I get acceptable performance and durability at a rock-bottom price? I was hoping for a practical, modular platform for a lightweight bugout bag.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan seemed like a decent value for the money. But the real test would come in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan to the Test
First Use Experience
I first took the NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan on a two-day Search and Rescue training exercise in the local state forest. The terrain was a mix of rocky trails and dense underbrush. The weather threw everything at us: rain, sun, and a sudden temperature drop.
The main compartment swallowed my standard loadout with room to spare. This included a first-aid kit, extra layers, a hydration bladder, and rations. However, I noticed the shoulder straps began to dig in after about four hours of continuous wear. This meant I needed to carefully adjust the sternum strap and hip belt more frequently than I usually do with higher-end packs.
After the first use, I also noticed some minor fraying on one of the side compression straps. This was a bit concerning but easily fixed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan for shorter hikes, day trips to the range, and even as a carry-on during a weekend trip, its strengths and weaknesses became clearer. The 1100 denier nylon has held up remarkably well, showing no significant tears or abrasions. The stitching has remained intact. However, the initial stiffness of the zippers never completely disappeared, requiring a bit of extra effort to open and close, especially when the pack is fully loaded.
Cleaning the pack is simple enough. A quick scrub with mild soap and water easily removes dirt and grime. Compared to my more expensive packs, the NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan doesn’t offer the same level of all-day comfort. Still, it has surpassed my expectations in terms of durability, especially considering its price point. It’s proved to be a decent, if not exceptional, workhorse.
Breaking Down the Features of NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan
Specifications
- The NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan boasts a durable 1100 denier nylon construction. This offers decent resistance to abrasion and minor tears, important for outdoor use.
- It features heavy-duty zippers. These are reasonably robust, though they lack the smoothness of premium brands.
- The main compartment is spacious. The multiple secondary compartments with internal pockets help to organize gear efficiently.
- Adjustable padded shoulder straps, sternum straps, and a padded hip belt offer a degree of load-bearing comfort and stability. These are acceptable for lighter loads, but become less comfortable with heavier weights.
- Side compression straps help to secure the load. They keep the pack closer to the body.
Performance & Functionality
The NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan performs its primary function adequately: carrying gear. The spacious main compartment and organizational pockets make it easy to pack and access items. However, the pack’s comfort level is average. This makes it more suitable for shorter durations and lighter loads.
The pack’s strengths lie in its affordability and basic functionality. Its weaknesses are the somewhat stiff zippers and the limitations of the shoulder strap comfort. It meets expectations for a budget pack, but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan features a simple, utilitarian design. The materials are adequate, but not premium.
The weight is reasonable for its size. However, the comfort in hand (or rather, on the back) is only moderate. There’s a slight learning curve to effectively utilizing all the compartments and adjusting the straps for optimal fit.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan should last for a reasonable amount of time. The 1100 denier nylon is relatively durable.
Cleaning the pack is simple; however, replacing broken zippers could be a challenge. It is best handled by a professional.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan doesn’t come with many accessories. Customization options are limited to adding MOLLE-compatible pouches and accessories to the exterior webbing. The pack’s universal design should be compatible with most standard MOLLE pouches from various brands.
Pros and Cons of NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan
Pros
- Affordable price makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Spacious main compartment offers ample storage for essential gear.
- Durable 1100 denier nylon construction provides decent resistance to wear and tear.
- Multiple secondary compartments with internal pockets aid in organization.
- MOLLE webbing allows for customization with additional pouches and accessories.
Cons
- Zippers lack the smoothness and reliability of higher-end brands.
- Shoulder straps and hip belt offer only moderate comfort, especially with heavier loads.
- Some users might find the overall build quality less refined than more expensive packs.
Who Should Buy NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan?
The NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan is perfect for: budget-minded campers, hikers undertaking shorter day trips, students needing a spacious and affordable backpack, and preppers looking for an inexpensive base for a bug-out bag.
Who should skip this product? Experienced backpackers needing all-day comfort and extreme durability should invest in a higher-end pack. Anyone needing bombproof construction for demanding tactical environments should consider other options.
A must-have modification would be upgrading the zippers if they become a significant annoyance. Otherwise, adding a sternum strap pad and a better hip belt are worthwhile investments.
Conclusion on NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan
The NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan is a solid, no-frills option for those seeking a budget-friendly pack. It delivers adequate performance and durability for its price point, making it a viable choice for casual users.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. The NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan offers a lot of value for the money.
I would recommend it to individuals on a tight budget who need a functional and reasonably durable backpack for light to moderate use. If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile pack to get you started, the NcStar 3Day Backpack/ Tan is worth considering!