Maxpedition Kodiak Gearslinger

For long distance and heavy loads you cannot beat a proper backpack with two shoulder straps and a waist-band. For lighter situations though, the Kodiak wins hands down. The ability to swing the pack to the front and get quick access to the contents is a real boon. The organization is great with tons of pockets, dividers and attachment loops but, as another reviewer said, the front pockets could be further improved with the addition of a couple of loop fields for additional internal attachments. Despite being the largest of the Gearslingers, this is by no means a huge pack. I find it perfect for both light hikes and commuting. I'm even tempted to buy one for each purpose!

Bought this about 7 months ago, have been using it constantly for my EDC. I removed the useless Y-shaped compression strap. I found the best way to carry pens, tools etc was to use two Maxped Hook-and-Loop Mini Organizers on one of the internal loop fields. There's enough room in the main compartment for sports kit or a laptop (in a sleeve). A4 docs tend to get bent, so use a folder for stiffness. Best thing is the way the bag swivels round to the front without taking it off. Best way of taking off the bag is to undo the big clip on the strap. Bag is of course great quality and will last. Maxpedition have not made best use of the top pouch. There is good organisation on one side, but the other side could do with a loop field, allowing me to attach a pouch of my choice. Overall, an excellent bag which I expect to be using for years. Looses a star for useless Y strap and missing a trick on the inside of the top pouch.

I drove to HH when in the UK with the intention of buying a Sitka. However, working as a travelling musician and journalist, I carry my 13'' Macbook pro almost everywhere, and while it would just about fit in a Sitka, in the Kodiak it will fit inside a Civilian Labs ventilator case, slide into the rear organiser and still have room in the main compartment. I have a RAT wallet on the strap molle, and all my junk is really well organised now! I have read online that many people find the single strap uncomfortable over distance/time, but I haven't experienced this, and prefer it to a standard backpack, that I would always have over just one shoulder unless covering real distance. Great bag...only improvement I could think of would be a rubberised bottom to stop the coating being scuffed off and allowing damp through the bottom after a few years use.