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Pretty as a hatful of kittens, the Soviet "Veshmeshok" rucksack is quite likely the best carrying sack in recent history. The black version is the hallowed and feared navy model!
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Pretty as a hatful of kittens, the Soviet "Veshmeshok" rucksack is quite likely the best carrying sack in recent history. The black version is the hallowed and feared navy model!
The same kind of sacks were probably used during the Napoleonic wars. However, at some point during or after WW2, these were modernized with four side straps for blankets/shelter halves/greatcoats. Even today it sees action in the modern Russian army. These were still made in the 90s, and if you're lucky, you'll get one of these recently manufactured pieces of ancient history. The dates on the sacks we get range mostly from the 50s to the 80s. No, we will not rummage through the wares for the date of your choice.
The Veshmeshok is a very simple, very rough, and very durable potato-sack type carrying solution. The material is treated to resist water and quite often actually does. The sack is closed with a tie-string and its own shoulder straps. This system prevents pick-pockets from going through the contents when you're wearing it. Amazing!
These rucksacks have one external pouch, straps for attaching a greatcoat or blanket roll, and a name tag holder. Most WWII models were made without these, so remove all excess stuff for that extra special "fighting the fascists"-feeling. Do note that you'll leave holes where the stitching was any stronger.
Old military surplus
These are mostly in used condition, but nevertheless fit for purpose for a long time to come.
Kierto Circular Economy
Return this product used but clean and unbroken, and you'll receive half of the product's original price as Varusteleka credits. Service is available only in Finland. Only Registered users can make Kierto returns. See more information about Kierto.
Remove Russia
Our old product descriptions include ironic praise of our eastern neighbor and it used to be good fun. Does it piss you off? We understand and agree. However, we won't whitewash the old product descriptions. Instead, we have decided to stop buying Russian products. We sell what we have in stock and that's it.
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recommends
does not recommend
50 ratings



Erik A. 09.04.2020 Verified purchase
Erik



Stevan Z. 13.04.2020 Verified purchase



Henry W. 27.05.2020 Verified purchase



Chris W. 05.11.2020 Verified purchase
Update: still kicking with no visible wear after more than a year of medium-hard use.



Jeroen V. 11.03.2021 Verified purchase



Vikke-Eemeli P. 11.05.2022 Verified purchase



Alex T. 09.10.2022 Verified purchase



CARL N. 27.10.2022 Verified purchase
I don't know how to really describe it. I'm cycling home from uni, decide to stop off in the shop and it never occurs to me that there is a limit to this bag. It always seems to have enough room and, as I use it mainly for short journeys, it never feels uncomfortable. This bag does work. It handles heft well. It's pickpocket proof in the main pocket as it requires one to completely undo the main knot that is being held together with your shoulder straps. It's pickpocket proof as the bag is ugly as sin.
I stuff the bag in a jacket pocket before I head out on a walk or stuff it in my partner's bag just in case. It always comes in handy. It's just a useful bag. It's getting 5 stars for practicality alone.



Karri K. 06.06.2016 Verified purchase


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Not that I know. I kind of like the idea of making my own modern version though. You'd just need bolt of 1000d cordura, some Dyneema cord and an hour with a sewing machine.
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