Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack Review

First Impressions of Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack

The Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack promises to be the ultimate blend of tactical functionality and everyday carry (EDC) discretion. Vertx, known for its innovative approach to blending tactical features with civilian aesthetics, aims to deliver a backpack that’s equally at home on a covert mission or a morning commute. It seemed like the perfect solution for someone needing both organization and the ability to carry concealed, all without screaming “tactical.”

For years, I’d been using dedicated tactical packs, but I wanted something less conspicuous for daily use in urban environments. I needed a pack with robust organization, a concealed carry compartment, and a durable build, but without the MOLLE webbing and aggressive styling that attracts unwanted attention. The Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack seemed to strike that balance.

Upon receiving the pack, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design. The 420D Poly-Carbonate fabric felt robust yet lightweight, and the overall construction felt solid. Compared to my existing GoRuck GR1, the Urban Ghost felt less overtly tactical and more refined, though I did initially wonder if it would be as tough.

I also considered the 5.11 Tactical AMP24 and the Vanquest Katara-16, both solid contenders in the tactical backpack market. I chose the Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack for its superior organizational features and more subtle aesthetics, which are crucial for blending into an urban environment. My initial excitement stemmed from the potential of finally having a pack that could handle both my everyday needs and my concealed carry requirements without drawing unwanted attention.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack during a week-long urban exploration trip to Chicago. I used it to carry my laptop, camera gear, a change of clothes, and my concealed carry firearm. The weather was a mixed bag, with periods of rain and sunshine.

The pack performed admirably in both conditions. The water-resistant fabric kept my gear dry during light rain, and the numerous organizational pockets made it easy to access my essentials without fumbling. I did find that the zippers could be a little stiff when wet.

I was initially concerned about the access to the CCW compartment but the Rapid Access Half-Pull tab worked well. I could quickly draw my firearm without drawing undue attention, a crucial feature in a concealed carry pack.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use, the Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being subjected to heavy use in various environments. The stitching remains intact, and the zippers, though sometimes stiff, are still fully functional.

Cleaning the pack is relatively easy. The 420D Poly-Carbonate fabric wipes clean with a damp cloth, and the interior lining is equally easy to maintain. The pack does attract some dust and dirt, but it’s nothing a quick wipe down can’t handle.

Compared to my previous tactical packs, the Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack offers a superior balance of functionality and comfort. It’s lighter, more comfortable to carry for extended periods, and blends in better in urban environments, making it a clear upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack

Specifications

• The Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack is designed for urban applications, blending tactical functionality with a discreet aesthetic. Its 20-liter capacity offers ample space for EDC essentials without being overly bulky.
• It is constructed from 420D Poly-Carbonate fabric, offering a balance of durability and lightweight performance. The fabric provides decent water resistance, suitable for light rain conditions.
• The pack includes a dedicated CCW compartment with Rapid Access Half-Pull tab for quick and discreet access to a firearm. The interior is loop-lined for attaching hook-backed accessories.
• It features lockable YKK zippers on the main and CCW compartments, enhancing security. The pack also has a hydration bladder compatibility and padded laptop/tablet sleeve.
• The sternum strap and carabiner straps contribute to the ergonomics of the pack. The inclusion of concealed armor compatibility adds a layer of security.

These specifications are crucial for a pack designed for urban environments, ensuring it meets the demands of daily carry while providing tactical readiness. The durable fabric and secure compartments offer peace of mind, while the organizational features enhance usability.

Performance & Functionality

The Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack performs exceptionally well in its intended role as an urban EDC pack. Its organizational capabilities are top-notch, with a well-designed admin panel, stretch pockets, and elastic slots for neatly storing accessories. The CCW compartment provides quick and discreet access to a firearm, adding a layer of security and preparedness.

The pack’s strengths lie in its discreet design, ample organization, and comfortable carry. The main weakness is the zipper stiffness, particularly in wet conditions, and the potential for the 420D fabric to wear over extended periods of heavy use. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for an urban EDC pack.

Design & Ergonomics

The Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack features a sleek, low-profile design that blends seamlessly into urban environments. The 420D Poly-Carbonate material is lightweight yet durable, and the overall construction feels robust. The padded back panel with the urban ghost pattern adds a touch of comfort and style.

The pack is user-friendly, with well-placed pockets and easy-to-access compartments. The Rapid Access Half-Pull tab for the CCW compartment is intuitive and efficient. There is no significant learning curve, making it accessible to both seasoned tactical users and everyday commuters.

Durability & Maintenance

The Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack is built to last, with durable materials and reinforced stitching. The 420D Poly-Carbonate fabric is resistant to abrasions and tears, but prolonged exposure to rough surfaces may eventually cause wear. With proper care and maintenance, the pack should provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the pack is simple. The fabric can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, and the interior can be vacuumed or brushed to remove debris. The zippers should be lubricated periodically to ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack comes with several useful accessories, including carabiner straps on the shoulder straps for attaching gear. The loop-lined CCW compartment allows for the attachment of hook-backed accessories such as holsters, magazine carriers, and pouches. The pack is also compatible with hydration bladders, allowing for easy hydration on the go.

The Vertx Tactigami system enhances the pack’s customization capabilities, allowing users to configure the interior to meet their specific needs. The concealed entry inside the main compartment for soft or rigid body armor provides an additional layer of protection, and it is worth noting that the pack will accept industry standard soft armor inserts. These features provide plenty of customization options.

Pros and Cons of Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack

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Who Should Buy Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack?

The Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack is perfect for urban commuters, concealed carriers, and EDC enthusiasts who need a discreet and functional backpack. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a secure and organized way to carry their essentials. Someone looking for a pack with both robust organization and the ability to carry concealed will find this to be perfect.

Those who need a pack for extreme outdoor activities or heavy-duty tactical use should consider other options. While durable, the Urban Ghost is designed primarily for urban environments and may not withstand the rigors of demanding outdoor activities. Those seeking a pack with external MOLLE webbing should also look elsewhere, as this pack prioritizes a streamlined, low-profile design.

A must-have accessory is a quality hook-backed holster for the CCW compartment. Also, the Vertx Tactigami system is worth investing in, allowing for maximum customization of the interior.

Conclusion on Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack

The Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack is a well-designed and highly functional backpack that excels in its intended role as an urban EDC pack. Its discreet design, ample organization, and comfortable carry make it an excellent choice for anyone needing a versatile and reliable pack for daily use. While it has minor drawbacks, such as zipper stiffness and potential fabric wear, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

At a price point of $149.99-155.99, the Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack offers excellent value for the money. The quality of construction, thoughtful design, and tactical features justify the investment.

I would highly recommend the Vertx Urban Ghost 20L Pack to anyone seeking a discreet and functional urban EDC backpack. It’s a reliable, comfortable, and well-organized pack that will serve you well in a variety of situations. If you value a blend of tactical functionality and everyday discretion, the Urban Ghost is an excellent choice.