Let’s Dive into Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite
The Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite promises a streamlined, lighter version of their popular rifle pack, aimed at users needing to carry a rifle and essential gear without the bulk. Marketed by Voodoo Tactical as a tactical backpack solution, it boasts hydration compatibility and a side-loading design. It’s priced at $152.95, positioning it in a competitive space against other tactical packs.
I was seeking a more agile and less cumbersome rifle-carrying solution for backcountry hunting trips. My old pack, while durable, felt like overkill for shorter excursions where I didn’t need to haul extensive camping gear. I wanted something that could securely carry my rifle, a hydration reservoir, some basic survival tools, and maybe a change of socks without feeling like I was prepping for a month-long expedition.
The Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite arrived in a simple plastic bag, which was a bit underwhelming. Initial impressions were mixed: the material felt lighter than expected, bordering on flimsy, but the overall design seemed functional. It didn’t scream “high-end,” but I hoped it would perform adequately in the field.
I considered the Condor Outdoor Venture Pack and the 5.11 Tactical RUSH12 2.0 Backpack. The Condor felt too similar to my existing heavy-duty pack in terms of size, while the 5.11 RUSH12 2.0, while well-regarded, didn’t seem explicitly designed for rifle carry. The Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite seemed to strike a balance between streamlined design and rifle-specific functionality.
My initial excitement was tempered by the feel of the materials, I was hoping this would be a good fit for me but it just didn’t seem that this would be as durable as I would like. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping that real-world use would prove my initial reservations wrong. It was a bit of a gamble, but I was eager to see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite was a day-long scouting trip in the local hills, typical terrain for deer and wild hog. I carried my AR-15, a 3-liter hydration reservoir, a small first-aid kit, a knife, and a couple of energy bars. The weather was mild and dry.
The pack performed adequately, but the side-loading design for the rifle felt awkward at times. Getting the rifle in and out required some maneuvering, especially in dense brush, making me wish for a more streamlined system. The lightweight construction was appreciated on the uphill climbs, though I constantly worried about the durability of the straps under load.
After the first use, I noticed some minor fraying on one of the MOLLE straps, which was concerning. It didn’t impact functionality, but it raised serious doubts about long-term durability. The hydration compartment also seemed a bit small for a full 3-liter reservoir, requiring some extra effort to squeeze it in.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite on various day hikes and range trips, its shortcomings became more apparent. The lightweight material continued to show signs of wear and tear, particularly around stress points like the shoulder strap attachments. The stitching appeared to be the biggest issue.
Durability proved to be a major concern. The pack is very light material and it started to show wear very quickly. One of the zippers on a smaller compartment started to stick, and I began to treat it with extra caution, fearing it would break entirely.
Maintenance was simple – I could wipe down the pack with a damp cloth to remove dirt and mud. However, the fading color of the pack and the lack of any significant water resistance raised concerns about its performance in harsher conditions. It disappointed me compared to my previous experiences with heavier, more robust tactical packs.
Breaking Down the Features of Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite
Specifications
The Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite is advertised as being “one size fits all,” which is a bit of a stretch. It weighs in at 5.35 lbs, making it relatively lightweight. It is described as being hydration compatible, featuring a side-loading design for carrying a rifle.
These specifications are important because they dictate the pack’s suitability for different uses. The light weight is advantageous for long hikes, but the potential trade-off is durability. The hydration compatibility is essential for sustained activity, and the side-loading rifle design needs to be practical and secure.
Performance & Functionality
The Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite performs adequately for light-duty tasks, such as short hikes or range trips. It successfully carries a rifle and essential gear, but its overall performance is limited by its lightweight construction. The side-loading design for the rifle is not as intuitive or efficient as some other rifle pack designs.
Its strengths lie in its lightweight design and basic functionality, however, it needs improvement regarding durability, the rifle carry system, and the quality of the materials used. It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly tactical pack but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite features a basic, functional design. The materials used feel somewhat cheap and flimsy, especially considering the $152.95 price point. Comfort is adequate for short periods, but the lack of substantial padding on the shoulder straps and back panel becomes noticeable during longer hikes.
The pack has a relatively intuitive layout, but some users may find the side-loading rifle compartment awkward to access. There’s a slight learning curve with the rifle carry system, and it doesn’t feel as secure as other designs I’ve used.
Durability & Maintenance
Given my experience, I don’t expect the Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite to last more than a few years with moderate use. The lightweight materials and stitching are prone to wear and tear. The lack of water resistance is also a limiting factor.
Maintenance is easy – wipe it down. However, the pack isn’t designed for heavy use or harsh conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite doesn’t come with many included accessories beyond basic straps and buckles. The MOLLE webbing allows for some customization with compatible pouches and gear. However, the quality of the MOLLE webbing feels questionable, and I wouldn’t trust it with heavy or critical gear.
While it’s technically compatible with standard MOLLE accessories, the overall build quality of the pack limits its potential for extensive customization. Don’t expect to load it up with heavy pouches and attachments without compromising its integrity.
Pros and Cons of Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite
Pros
- Lightweight design makes it suitable for shorter excursions.
- Hydration compatible, allowing easy access to water.
- MOLLE webbing provides some customization options.
- Relatively affordable compared to high-end tactical packs.
- Adequate for basic rifle carry and essential gear.
Cons
- Questionable durability due to lightweight materials and stitching.
- Awkward side-loading rifle carry system.
- Lack of substantial padding makes it uncomfortable for longer hikes.
- Limited water resistance.
- Underwhelming build quality for the price.
Who Should Buy Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite?
The Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite is perfect for recreational shooters needing to carry a rifle to the range on a budget. It’s also suitable for casual hikers looking for a lightweight pack for shorter outings and airsoft players. It may work for someone new to rifle carrying but will soon need an upgrade.
This product is not suitable for serious hunters, survivalists, or anyone who needs a reliable and durable pack for demanding conditions. Law enforcement or military personnel should also look elsewhere for a more robust option.
A better hydration reservoir with a more streamlined design is a must-have accessory. Higher quality MOLLE pouches to add more functional storage are recommended but should be chosen with weight in mind.
Conclusion on Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite
The Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite offers a budget-friendly entry point into the world of tactical rifle packs, but it comes with significant compromises. Its lightweight design is appealing, but the questionable durability and awkward rifle carry system detract from its overall value. The Voodoo Tactical Praetorian Rifle Pack Lite tries to be affordable and lightweight but the loss of durability and comfort is a major problem.
The price may be justified for casual users seeking a basic pack for light-duty tasks, but serious outdoorsmen or professionals should invest in a more robust option. I would not personally recommend it for anyone who relies on their gear in demanding conditions.
If you are looking for a cheap entry pack and that is it, then look no further. Consider alternatives with better build quality and a more user-friendly design.