First Thoughts on the VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED
The tactical gear market is saturated with backpacks promising ruggedness and versatility. The VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED aims to stand out with its blend of low-profile design and tactical functionality. Vertx has built a reputation for quality gear, and the Ready Pack Gen 3 is designed to be a daily carry solution that can also handle more demanding situations.
I needed a pack that could transition seamlessly between my daily commute and weekend range trips. I wanted something that didn’t scream “tactical” but could still carry my essentials and offer quick access to critical gear if needed. The VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED, with its subdued Brick Red color and hidden compartments, seemed like a good fit.
Unboxing the pack, I was immediately impressed with the feel of the materials. The nylon felt durable and the stitching appeared to be robust. The pack felt lighter than I expected, which is a definite plus for everyday carry. Initial inspection revealed a well-thought-out design with numerous pockets and compartments.
Compared to my 5.11 Tactical Rush 12 and my Condor 3-Day Assault Pack, the VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED is significantly less bulky. I chose this Vertx pack over the others primarily for its discreet appearance and streamlined design. The 5.11 is great for heavy loads, and the Condor is good for long trips, but they are too tactical-looking for daily urban use.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to test its capabilities and see if it lived up to the hype. I was also slightly concerned about the capacity, hoping it would be sufficient for my needs. Ultimately, my initial reaction was positive and I looked forward to putting this pack through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED was a day trip to the shooting range. I used the pack to carry my handgun, several magazines, ammunition, eye and ear protection, and a first-aid kit. The Vertx pack’s concealed carry compartment worked perfectly, allowing quick and discreet access to my firearm.
The weather was sunny and dry, so I didn’t get to test its water resistance initially. The pack felt comfortable to carry even with a decent amount of weight. Getting used to the layout of the various compartments took a little time. The internal organization allowed me to keep everything sorted and readily accessible.
One minor issue I encountered was with the main compartment zipper. It felt a little stiff at first and required some effort to open and close smoothly. After a few uses, the zipper began to loosen up. This break-in period seemed normal for a new, high-quality pack.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from carrying groceries to hauling gear on weekend hikes. The Brick Red color has proven to be quite versatile, blending in well in both urban and outdoor environments.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to some rough handling. The nylon material is showing no signs of fraying or fading. The stitching remains intact and the zippers are all functioning smoothly now.
Maintenance is straightforward. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime. So far, I haven’t needed to use any specialized cleaning products. It outperforms my previous everyday carry bag in terms of durability and organizational features.
Breaking Down the Features of VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED
Specifications
The VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED has dimensions of 19″x11.5″x7.5″. It is constructed from durable nylon. The color is Brick Red.
These specifications translate to a pack that is large enough to carry a substantial amount of gear while remaining relatively compact and maneuverable. The nylon construction ensures that the pack can withstand the rigors of daily use and outdoor adventures. The subdued Brick Red color provides a low-profile aesthetic that is ideal for blending in.
Performance & Functionality
The VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED performs exceptionally well as both an everyday carry bag and a tactical pack. The concealed carry compartment is well-designed and provides quick and discreet access to a handgun. The internal organization is excellent, with a variety of pockets and compartments for storing different types of gear.
The main strength of this pack is its versatility. It is equally at home on a hiking trail as it is in a coffee shop. One area for potential improvement is the water resistance. While the nylon material is somewhat water-resistant, it is not fully waterproof. This Vertx pack meets and exceeds my expectations for a daily carry and tactical pack.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED is outstanding. The materials are high-quality and the stitching is impeccable. The pack is relatively lightweight, even when fully loaded, which makes it comfortable to carry for extended periods.
The design is user-friendly, with easy access to all of the compartments. There is a slight learning curve when it comes to familiarizing oneself with the location of all the pockets. After a few days of use, accessing items becomes second nature. The comfort level is high due to the padded shoulder straps and back panel.
Durability & Maintenance
The VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED is built to last. The nylon material is highly resistant to tearing and abrasion. With proper care, this pack should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is all that is required to keep the pack looking its best. The zippers are also high-quality and should withstand a considerable amount of use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED does not come with a plethora of accessories, which aligns with its minimalist design philosophy. However, it is compatible with a wide range of MOLLE-compatible pouches and accessories. This allows users to customize the pack to meet their specific needs.
The concealed carry compartment is designed to accommodate a variety of handgun sizes and can be further customized with aftermarket holsters. Vertx also offers a variety of internal organization accessories, such as magazine pouches and medical kits. The ability to customize the pack with MOLLE pouches and other accessories greatly enhances its versatility.
Pros and Cons of VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED
Pros
- Excellent build quality and durable materials.
- Discreet and low-profile design.
- Well-designed concealed carry compartment.
- Comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded.
- Versatile and customizable with MOLLE accessories.
Cons
- Main compartment zipper can be stiff initially.
- Water resistance could be improved.
Who Should Buy VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED?
Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, military personnel, responsible armed citizens, and anyone who needs a discreet and versatile pack for everyday carry and tactical use. Individuals who prioritize a low-profile design and concealed carry capabilities will find this pack to be particularly well-suited to their needs.
Who should skip this product? Those who need a large-capacity pack for extended trips or those who prioritize maximum water resistance. Someone needing a brightly colored pack for high visibility situations should also consider other options.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality handgun holster for the concealed carry compartment and MOLLE-compatible pouches for additional organization. A rain cover could also be a worthwhile addition for those who frequently use the pack in wet conditions.
Conclusion on VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED
The VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED is a well-designed and highly versatile pack that is ideal for everyday carry and tactical use. Its blend of low-profile design, durable materials, and excellent organization makes it a standout in a crowded market. Vertx has delivered a solid product.
The price of $180.99 is justified by the quality of the materials, the attention to detail, and the overall performance of the pack. It’s an investment in a durable and reliable piece of gear. It performs as expected and even surpasses the expectations.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the VERTX READY PACK GEN 3 RED to anyone looking for a discreet and capable tactical pack. It’s a great choice for those who need to carry a handgun and other essential gear in a low-profile manner. If you value quality, versatility, and a subdued aesthetic, this pack is definitely worth considering. Grab one today and experience the Vertx difference!