NcStar Tactical Backpack with 10″ x 12″ Square Panels Green Review

The NcStar Tactical Backpack with 10″ x 12″ Square Panels Green Made a Bold First Impression

The NcStar Tactical Backpack with 10″ x 12″ Square Panels Green isn’t just another bag; it’s a statement of preparedness. From the NcStar brand, known for budget-friendly tactical gear, this backpack boasts a unique feature: integrated ballistic protection. The promise of a Level IIIA-rated panel capable of stopping common handgun rounds immediately sets it apart. I was intrigued by the combination of everyday functionality and readily available protection.

My need for this backpack stemmed from a desire for discreet personal safety during urban excursions. I often find myself navigating crowded public spaces and wanted a readily accessible solution for potential threats without drawing undue attention. The NcStar Tactical Backpack seemed like a viable option to blend in while providing essential protection. I wanted a bag that could carry my daily essentials while offering a tangible safety measure.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust, albeit somewhat stiff, green material. The backpack felt surprisingly light considering its intended use, largely due to the Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) ballistic panel. The numerous compartments and MOLLE webbing hinted at its tactical nature, however. I was eager to test its capacity and overall comfort during extended wear.

I was choosing between this NcStar option and similar backpacks from Condor and VISM. While the Condor offered greater customization options with more MOLLE webbing, and the VISM boasted a more streamlined design, the NcStar stood out due to its included ballistic panel and lower price point. The promise of integrated protection tipped the scales in favor of the NcStar.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the build quality seemed adequate for the price, I was most interested in verifying the real-world comfort and utility. I hoped it would live up to its promise of providing both functional storage and a discreet layer of defense, but a nagging feeling of “you get what you pay for” lingered.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar Tactical Backpack with 10″ x 12″ Square Panels Green to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the NcStar Tactical Backpack on a day trip to an outdoor shooting range, simulating a situation where I might need both tactical gear and personal protection. The range offered varied terrains and moderate weather conditions, providing a fair testing ground. I loaded the bag with ammunition, targets, ear protection, a first-aid kit, and a few snacks to approximate a typical loadout.

The backpack performed adequately in the dry, slightly dusty conditions. The compartments allowed for organized storage, but accessing items quickly proved to be slightly cumbersome due to the stiffness of the zippers. The shoulder straps, while padded, began to feel less comfortable after a few hours of continuous wear, especially with the added weight of the gear and ballistic panel.

Initially, the backpack felt a bit awkward due to the rigid ballistic panel, but I quickly adjusted to its presence. The MOLLE webbing allowed me to attach additional pouches for magazines and other accessories. One immediate issue I encountered was the limited adjustability of the sternum strap, which sat uncomfortably high on my chest.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the NcStar Tactical Backpack for daily commutes and weekend hiking trips, some durability issues began to surface. The stitching around one of the side compartments started to fray, indicating a potential weak point. The zippers, while still functional, became noticeably stiffer over time.

Despite these minor issues, the backpack has generally held up well under moderate use. I haven’t subjected it to extreme conditions, but it has proven to be water-resistant during light rain. Cleaning is relatively easy, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and grime.

In comparison to my previous experiences with higher-end tactical backpacks from brands like 5.11 Tactical, the NcStar falls short in terms of overall build quality and long-term durability. However, considering the price point and the included ballistic panel, it offers a reasonable compromise. It does not outperform my expectations, but it delivers what I would expect for the price.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar Tactical Backpack with 10″ x 12″ Square Panels Green

Specifications

• The NcStar Tactical Backpack features a main compartment with dimensions of 18″ H x 12″ W x 6″ D, providing 1,200 square inches of storage. This generous space allows for carrying essential gear and supplies for a day’s outing.

• It includes 4 side compartments, two on each side, measuring 5″ H x 5″ W x 1 ½” D. These smaller compartments are ideal for organizing smaller items such as tools, snacks, or personal electronics.

• The backpack features a top outside compartment with two sections: an upper section of 8″ H x 4 ½” W x 2″ D and a lower section of 9 ½” H x 9 ½” W x 3″ D. This provides additional storage space for frequently accessed items such as maps, gloves, or a flashlight.

• MOLLE compatible webbing is present on the front pockets and the bottom of the backpack. This allows for attaching additional pouches and gear, expanding the backpack’s carrying capacity and customization options.

• One Ballistic Soft Panel, rectangle cut at 10″ x 12″, is included and fits perfectly in a back pocket. The panel adds a layer of protection without significantly increasing the backpack’s weight or bulk.

• The backpack is constructed of Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE), creating a lightweight ballistic panel. This material offers a good balance of protection and portability.

• The backpack is rated at Level IIIA, capable of stopping 9mm and .44 Mag rounds up to 1,400 FPS. This provides protection against common handgun threats.

• The backpack’s gross weight is 3.9 lbs, making it relatively lightweight for a tactical backpack with ballistic protection. This helps reduce fatigue during extended use.

Performance & Functionality

The NcStar Tactical Backpack functions reasonably well as a general-purpose daypack. Its storage capacity is sufficient for carrying essential gear, and the MOLLE webbing allows for customization.

The included ballistic panel provides a tangible sense of security. Its low profile and lightweight design doesn’t significantly impact the backpack’s usability.

However, the overall build quality and comfort are not on par with higher-end tactical backpacks. The zippers can be stiff, and the shoulder straps may become uncomfortable after extended use.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcStar Tactical Backpack has a standard tactical design with a boxy shape and numerous compartments. The green color is functional but may not appeal to everyone.

The build quality is adequate, but the materials and stitching feel somewhat cheap. The weight is manageable, but the ballistic panel adds some rigidity.

The backpack is relatively user-friendly, with intuitive compartment layouts. However, the stiff zippers and limited adjustability of the sternum strap detract from the overall user experience.

Durability & Maintenance

The NcStar Tactical Backpack is not designed for heavy-duty use. The stitching and zippers are potential weak points.

However, the materials are water-resistant and easy to clean. With proper care, it should last for a reasonable amount of time under moderate use.

Repairing any damage may be difficult due to the complexity of the stitching and the relatively low-quality materials. Replacing the ballistic panel might also be challenging.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar Tactical Backpack comes with the included ballistic panel as its primary accessory. The MOLLE webbing allows for attaching a wide range of compatible pouches and accessories from other brands.

There are no specific NcStar branded accessories designed for this backpack. However, any standard MOLLE-compatible pouch or accessory will work.

The included ballistic panel is not designed to be replaced or upgraded.

Pros and Cons of NcStar Tactical Backpack with 10″ x 12″ Square Panels Green

Who Should Buy NcStar Tactical Backpack with 10″ x 12″ Square Panels Green?

Perfect for: Budget-conscious individuals seeking a basic tactical backpack with an added layer of ballistic protection. It’s suitable for students, urban commuters, and those wanting extra security in potentially risky environments.

Who should skip this product? Those who require a heavy-duty, ultra-durable tactical backpack for demanding outdoor activities or professional use. Individuals prioritizing premium comfort and build quality should also consider higher-end alternatives.

Must-have accessories or modifications? Additional MOLLE pouches for specialized gear, upgraded shoulder straps for enhanced comfort, and a higher quality sternum strap.

Conclusion on NcStar Tactical Backpack with 10″ x 12″ Square Panels Green

The NcStar Tactical Backpack with 10″ x 12″ Square Panels Green presents a compelling value proposition for those seeking an affordable and discreet way to enhance personal safety. While it doesn’t match the build quality or comfort of premium tactical backpacks, the included ballistic panel sets it apart at its price point.

The price is justified for what it offers: basic tactical functionality coupled with Level IIIA protection. One must temper expectations regarding long-term durability and comfort, however.

I would cautiously recommend it to those on a tight budget who understand its limitations and prioritize the added security of a ballistic panel. It’s a practical choice for everyday carry with a tactical edge. Consider the NcStar Tactical Backpack with 10″ x 12″ Square Panels Green if you need affordable, readily available protection.