ILBE Packs

Joined
Sep 17, 2009
Messages
2,692
Can anyone tell me how well they function from experience? I'm looking into the 6000 CI pack with all the trimmings. They look great!
 
I carried one for a bit but they had terrible interface with armor and what not so they were not very popular. Damn good pack though, I think it's made by Kelty or Arcteryx.
 
As far as I could tell it'd be a great pack if only a shirt separated it from you. The pouches and main compartment was well designed and the PALS webbing is always great to have. The suspension system was far more advanced than the ALICE packs but as I mentioned previously, the IBA essentially negated that.
 
Quick addition:

The other MOLLE rucks, with the plastic frame are complete sh!t. I haven't seen one that didn't have a broken frame. Apparently the new frames are better but beware. If you're getting an issued ruck get the USMC ILBE and run away from the Army's ruck!
 
Thanks for chiming in Hammer. I won't be wearing armor with it anytime soon (I hope). Any other input would be awesome folks.
 
I remember the first time I was issued one; I was actually excited at how comfortable it was. It is leaps and bounds ahead of the plastic external framed molle and external framed alice packs of former USMC issue. It held much more than the old packs, while feeling much lighter on your back, even with a full load. I could go on and on about the advantages.

I would say go for it. There are probably more lightweight, hightech, "highperformance" backpacking packs out there for similar prices, but I don't think you will find anything built this tough with this level of comfort. I would buy one of the Arcteryx models myself if I had the money.

Also, if you happen to be in the market for a small backpack with a laptop section in it, check out the Arcteryx Blade 21 from their military/LE line. I bought one last semester, and it is great for a college student.
 
I was looking at some Arc'teryx Bora packs tonight on sale for $300 and love them but would also like one of the ILBE's if I can find one under $300, they seem to be running close to that on that auction site.

One of the great things about Arc'teryx is their QC. But, if the packs are made by Propper, I don't know jack about their QC. Do they make stand up gear? I've been reading about some zipper issues with the packs now. That aside, the rest of the reviews are good.
 
Just based on my little Arcteryx and experience with the Propper USMC pack, I would say that Arcteryx quality is probably better than the Propper version but not by too much.

I guess I assumed that you knew before, but you can get an acutual Arcteryx made version too. http://www.quanticoarms.com/asp/ite...eryx&CMNum=91&CMSNum=270&CMSN=Packs & Duffels

It is quite pricey, but better than a used Propper version; although, I have considered getting one of those ILBE's online. There are some cheap ones on there, but the cheap ones usually have a tear or blown out seam. I figure that with the hundreds of dollars you would save you could pay to have it stitched up. It might be a good way to save a load of cash.
 
I didn't know Arc'teryx made them also, thanks for the link. I might just buy direct. $400 is a lot to spend on a pack though! :(
 
You get that for which you pay. Arcteryx quality is second to none. It is probable you would not be disappointed in anything you buy Arcteryx, especially packs. They would outlast the cost up difference.
 
Last edited:
You get for which you pay. Arcteryx quality is second to none. It is probable you would not be disappointed in anything you buy Arcteryx, especially packs. They would outlast the cost up difference.

Agree'd about their QC! Still! Thats a lot of smithereens.
 
Arc'teryx packs will never let you down. I really like the slim profile for all kinds of activities.
 
Go to altrec.com and buy something you need. Not expensive, just that you need, stainless guyot bottle maybe ($20 +/-).

Give them a "review" on it. Doesn't have to be your real name.

They will give you 20% off your next purchase (entire order) for posting a review on your purchased item. Order an Arcteryx pack and get your 20% off.

PM me if you want to know my pick of their line. The one I like is very difficult to get because they are made in extremely small productions runs. As in 6 or less at a time it seems. Calling every single Arcteryx dealer in the US only landed one for the wife, still trying to get mine from the next run. This pack is unbelievable.
 
Back
Top