Rucksacks at Recon Company – from daypacks to combat rucksacks

Over 600 rucksacks in our range – and not one of them is the right choice for every mission. Whether it’s an Assault Pack for rapid deployment, a Patrol Pack for a 48-hour exercise or a compact daypack for the shooting range: with over 30 years’ experience as a supplier to the Bundeswehr and public authorities, we know that choosing the right rucksack starts with the carrying system, not the brand name.

Assault Pack, Patrol Pack, Daypack – which type of rucksack for which mission

The terms may sound interchangeable, but they describe different operational profiles. A daypack has a capacity of 15 to 25 litres and is designed for everyday operational use: writing materials, food, a rain jacket, a first-aid kit. Nothing more; that’s all it’s meant for. It sits flat against the body and doesn’t get in the way, either in a vehicle or when worn over a protective vest.

The Assault Pack has a capacity of between 25 and 35 litres. It is the rucksack for rapid response operations, short missions and as a detachable back panel on plate carriers. Key features here: quick access to the main compartment, MOLLE compatibility on the exterior and a profile that doesn’t push upwards under a helmet. Many models from Tasmanian Tiger or Mystery Ranch can be attached directly to a plate carrier – in which case the Assault Pack becomes part of the carrying system rather than a separate item of kit. It’s important to note that with permanently mounted systems, you can only access the contents with assistance from others or after removing the plate carrier – unless the pack has side access zips.

The Patrol Pack has a capacity of 35 to 50 litres and carries equipment for one to three days in the field: sleeping bag, bivouac bag, rations, extra ammunition. Once you reach this volume, the carrying system becomes the decisive factor – anyone who cuts corners here will realise their mistake within the first hour of carrying a load.

Carrying system and load distribution – what matters from 20 kilos onwards

Every rucksack feels good when it’s empty. The difference only becomes apparent when you’ve loaded it with 15, 20 or 30 kilos. A good carrying system shifts most of the weight onto your hips. This only works if the hip belt is wide enough, the back length matches your torso, and the shoulder straps act as guides rather than load-bearers.

For rucksacks designed for heavy loads – 40 litres and above – look for a padded hip belt at least eight to ten centimetres wide and an adjustable back length. Back panels with ventilation channels reduce heat build-up, which would otherwise leave you drenched after an hour’s walk. Aluminium frames or plastic frame sheets ensure the rucksack retains its shape, even when it’s not fully packed. Compression straps on the sides keep the load close to your body – this prevents the rucksack from swinging back and forth during rapid movements.

Material and construction – Cordura, ripstop and what the denier rating tells you

The material’s thickness is specified in denier (D). 500D Cordura is the standard in tactical applications: abrasion-resistant enough for everyday service, yet not unnecessarily heavy. 1000D Cordura is used where maximum tear resistance is required – for combat rucksacks dragged across rough terrain, or for rucksacks that regularly carry heavy loads. Lighter materials such as 330D or ripstop nylon are ideal for daypacks, where weight saving is a priority.

As well as the outer material, the details matter: YKK zips last longer than no-name alternatives. Bartacked seams at stress points prevent the rucksack from tearing where the most force is applied. Water-repellent coatings such as DWR provide protection in light rain – for prolonged rain, you’ll need a rain cover or waterproof inner bags.

MOLLE, laser-cut features and modularity – configure the rucksack for the mission

MOLLE webbing on the outside makes a rucksack modular: you can attach gear pouches, magazine pouches, water bottle holders or medic pouches wherever you need them. Laser-cut MOLLE is the modern version – lighter, flatter and less likely to snag on the terrain.

Not every rucksack needs maximum modularity. For day-to-day police or ambulance service duties, a rucksack with fixed compartments is often more practical than a MOLLE system that you have to fit out yourself. Lindnerhof Taktik and Helikon-Tex offer both approaches – from fully modular systems to pre-configured solutions.

You’ll find shoulder bags, travel bags and other accessories in the other subcategories of our rucksacks and bags range.

• Discounts for all public sector organisations and members of the police, fire and rescue services – applied directly during the ordering process.
• Field post delivery worldwide, so your rucksack reaches your operational area.
• Expert advice from the Recon team – online or in person in Salzgitter.
• ISO 9001 certified: from procurement to dispatch, following verified processes.