OK, we're not talking about a cheap price here but this kind of modular and hard-wearing rucksacks cost hundreds of bucks when new. The MOLLE II rucksack is the latest iteration of the US design, currently in service. Available in UCP.

We were able to get a single batch. Future availability is uncertain!

• Durable rucksack with external frame
• Volume 80 liters / 5000 cu in
• Configurable and expandable with MOLLE pouches

When the year 2000 approached, the trusty ol' ALICE pack no longer met the needs of the soldiers (or that's what the brass claimed). The new MOLLE system included a new rucksack, which was far larger than its predecessor and also modular. The modern soldier's load got out of hand at some point and started to wear the body down so ergonomics of carrying the load has gotten special attention. This is the improved MOLLE II rucksack with a Gen 4 frame.

Features

The standalone ruck is already as large as the ALICE rucksack in its entirety i.e. 65 liters. With modular pouches, the capacity can be significantly increased. Two sustainment pouches are indluded, which hold three MREs each and can be attached to a utility strap thanks to the D-rings. With the sustainment pouches, the total volume is about 80 liters.

The main compartment can be split with a zippered divider which also has grommets for a Paracord fix should the zipper fail. The lower part is designed for a 4-season sleep system including the bivy and all - this is accessible from the outside through a separate zipper below. This zipper is also backed up; it has three compression straps which also tighten the package.

Both sides have a pair of compression straps and the top closure features a simple drawcord and a large flap. The flap has a full-size mesh pouch inside but other small pockets and pouches are nowhere to be found. This simplicity is actually delightful among all the "organized" packs you see so often these days.

The speciality of the MOLLE II rucksack is the frame, which is impact-resistant polymer instead of the common aluminum, and placed outside of the pack in contrast to many other modern rucks. The frame is designed to flex to divide the load better and offer less restrictions to movement.

Attaching and adjusting the shoulder straps and hip belt offers good possibilities to customize the fit for your body and preference, it pays off to put some effort to this. The straps have a quick-release to drop the pack. The hip belt has PALS loops for additional pockets, chances are you want to access some items while on the move. The main bag can be detached from the frame for carrying weird and funny objects like a rock or something.

Tech specs

The material is virtually indestructible Cordura with Mil-Spec NIR properties and the webbing is thick nylon. The frame is flexible and tenacious polymer.

• Weight: 4.15 kg / 9.1 lbs
• Volume: 80 l / 5000 cu in
• Volume w.o. side pouches: 65 l / 4000 cu in

US Army surplus

These are used but not very hard, some of these are in a very neat condition, possibly because this pattern of camouflage went out of fashion some years ago.