Condor Outdoor Backpacks? Quality?

C

c10darren

Joined
Nov 30, 2011
Messages
196
I can't figure out what is going on here. It seems like they make cheaper versions of other very popular brands and models. For example, they have a pack that seems a lot like the Maxpedition Falcon and Camelbak HAWG. I think they have one like the 5.11 Rush too.

I ask because I pretty desperately need a new backpack for work. My North Face bag is being held together with duct tape. I am considering a Maxpedition Condor II. I'm a pilot and its gonna hold personal stuff and flight gear. Plus I want it to be very durable and easily tossed around. Also, it has to hold my iPad (if it doesn't have a laptop sleeve built in, thats no biggie).

Is a Condor pack good enough? Or is it just a cheap knock-off that will fall apart?

Thanks.
 
You will not go wrong with Camelbak or Maxpedition, for some reason you actually get what you pay for. I personally those guys area bit over the top when it comes to backpacks though.

I asked the same question about 6 months ago, Condor vs. Camelbak with their vest/hydro pack combos. Condor makes good quality stuff, their not to be brushed off as just another cheapo brand. I personally would get a Condor before I spent the money on a more expensive backpack. I'd like to see how the cheaper brand holds up before I sink a crap ton of money into an expensive backpack.

I've never owned a backpack made by any of the above brands listed. I have however done a lot of research that frequently involved Condors name popping up a lot in comparison with top brand companies.
 
I have maxpedition sitka gear slinger, and if the condor is anything like it durability wise, it is tough as hell. I have been throwing it around on concrete and trails for 2 months (I know, not long). and it has shown no signs of wear except the strap is broken in and much more comfortable, and it has gotten dirty. Since getting mine, I'd say that you can't go wrong with the maxpedition.
 
The one weak link seams to be the stitching on most bags/vest. The material may be good but the stitching could suck and that will result in your bag just falling apart. I heard/read Condor is 'fair-good' with their stitching. Bot as good as Camelbak, but what do you expect from a product thats half the price.
 
I have a 5.11 Rush 24 I use as a beater and prefer it over Condor as the zippers and buckles on Condor are rather cheap and don't hold up under heavy use. 5.11 also have a better warranty as well, but like Condor, they are quite heavy and a bit bulky and I could never seem to adjust them for a tailored fit. If you can afford Camelbak or something along the lines of Spec Ops Brand I would go with those, again for the quality and warranty. Currently I run Kifaru and TAD, and they are in a league of their own and I have had zero issues with either. YMMV. 5.11 also has an outside pouch that will accommodate your iPad for easy access. And you can't go wrong with Maxpedition either.
 
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