I just wanted to post this in case anybody was considering one...
I just got this ruck after carrying a modified large ALICE pack for years. The ALICE had plenty of padding, so it was comfortable from that aspect, but it was heavy and the frame length is fixed.
The MR ruck is about 10lbs lighter, which is very nice, but the adjustable frame system is what makes all the difference. I did a 3 miler the other day with about 50 pounds and it was night and day difference from the ALICE. You have to carry both to truly appreciate the difference.
Build-wise, it seems like it should be bulletproof, as they have a reputation for. The ruck has a ton of room, but they have enough cinch straps, including one inside, that carrying a smaller load doesn't result in the ruck bouncing all over like the ALICE does.
My only complaint is the lack of external pockets, which is where my modified ALICE is better (and why I'll keep using it for deployments). The extra outside pockets help with keeping gear separated and organized so I don't have to dig through the main compartment trying to find something.
It has MOLLE webbing, but that's more money and more weight than if they had sewn them on.
That aside, I love this thing so far.
I just got this ruck after carrying a modified large ALICE pack for years. The ALICE had plenty of padding, so it was comfortable from that aspect, but it was heavy and the frame length is fixed.
The MR ruck is about 10lbs lighter, which is very nice, but the adjustable frame system is what makes all the difference. I did a 3 miler the other day with about 50 pounds and it was night and day difference from the ALICE. You have to carry both to truly appreciate the difference.
Build-wise, it seems like it should be bulletproof, as they have a reputation for. The ruck has a ton of room, but they have enough cinch straps, including one inside, that carrying a smaller load doesn't result in the ruck bouncing all over like the ALICE does.
My only complaint is the lack of external pockets, which is where my modified ALICE is better (and why I'll keep using it for deployments). The extra outside pockets help with keeping gear separated and organized so I don't have to dig through the main compartment trying to find something.
It has MOLLE webbing, but that's more money and more weight than if they had sewn them on.
That aside, I love this thing so far.
