Eberlestock for a BOB

I'm looking at the G4 Operator for a BOB. I'm looking for people who have experience with Eberlestock. Give me some opinions/experience with the product.

I've looked at the Gunslinger II also but I believe it is too small for my needs. I need to be able to pack for 5 days of use and it needs to carry everything to sustain me. I'm shooting for a pack weight of about 45 to 50 pounds.

We just order that same pack. I got the G4 and my wife got the X4 I think.. Hope to pick them up this weekend and start packing them. We pick these two due to the fact we are looking to hitch the A.T in a few year plus have BOB ready. I like the G4 so I can pack my AR10 .. Will post more later

BnB

You'll love the build quality and organization of the Eberlestock packs for sure. I went with the GS2 mainly as a go to armament pack, as I have it loaded with guns and boolits. I am considering the G4 for the ability to do the same but care more BOB type equipment. Dont under estimate the carry abiltiy of the GS2 though I can carry alot and very comfortably. Pics when Ya get'em...........What colors did ya settle on? I went with Military Green (Foliage Green). Damn Fine Bag!!

Here she is the day she arrived..........

I have a G4 & a FAC Trac and really like them both.
They are very well built & can hold more than you will want to carry.

I love mine and use it often. Packs waaa––––aaaayyyyy more than you should and carries well

I settled for Dry Earth. It shipped today so I'm stoked.

Good choice!
I live in Florida and really like O.D. so I figured it would blend the best here but dry earth blends in just as good and with a few shots of krylon, does an even better job than O.D.



.....and it doesn't scare the sheeple as bad as O.D.

I've seen a bunch of threads about packs and I'm curious why nobody (or almost) looks at mountaineering and trekking packs from the big outdoors manufacturers like The North Face, REI, Marmot, Mountain Hardware, etc.? They all make packs to handle the roughest situations and carry a butt-load of gear (some rated for 100+ lbs.). AND they have a ton of attachment points on the outside.

Because most look ghey!!! I'm ex-mil and modularity is key my friend, they work and they work well.........Personal choices like most of life so you just enjoy your hardcore ghey pack!!

G4 Operators are great packs with plenty of space for your needs. I've got two of them myself, one for work and the other sitting at home as a BOB. I was fortunate to get in on their Fire Sale a while back. The scabbard easily conceals most weapon systems, unless you've got a long barreled rifle, then you'll have a portion sticking out the top. Mine has swallowed up shorties, M4 w/203, and most recently my M249 Para. I've used it extensively in Afghanistan and it's still ticking after the abuse I've put it through, which is why I bought one for home. Enjoy your new pack, you won't regret it.

I did a review of the Eberlestock Gunslinger bag Here

Since you aren't team, I have posted my original post below.

I recently purchased a Coyote Brown Eberlestock Gunslinger and 2 3lt. Source Hydration bladders.

The waistband is very nicely padded with a nice amount of Molle webbing in along the belt. It would be a very convenient place for a pouch or two. The Waist belt is removable, held in place with Velcro, but even with it removed there is still a 4” x 6” x 1” thick pad. Above the belt is more padding that has a space for your spine so that the padding rests on your whole back and not just your spine. The shoulder straps have much thinner padding then the rest of the pack. The height of the shoulder straps can be adjusted by around 4 inches. Since I am 6’ 2” I found the top most setting to be the most comfortable.

The scabbard has a thin layer of padding, about as much padding as most laptop cases. There is a fold out flap at the bottom of the scabbard that allows you to store a longer rifle. The bottom 5 inches of the fold out flap is a different fabric than the rest of the pack, more of a rubberized material. There are two grommet drainage holes at the bottom of the scabbard. There is also a 6” zipper on the fold out flap that allows you to easily reach into the bottom of the scabbard. There is an additional cover lets you cover the stock of longer rifles. There are to clips that connect the cover to the pack, though when the cover is attached there is a bit of slack, because the cover adds another two inches of clips. There is some slop in the pack but clipping the scabbard shut takes care of most of that. The scabbard easily swallows an AK-47 underfolder, collapsed. The one thing that I noticed was that it is very difficult to “draw” the AK because the charging handle likes to catch on the interior padding of the scabbard. Drawing is not easy unless a significant portion of the stock is exposed, but that makes the pack kind of useless for concealment.

The top flap has two zippered pockets; the smaller pocket has an almost fleecy interior that would make it a good place to store a handheld GPS. Lift the flap and there is one more zippered pocket it is the perfect size for my Katadyn Hiker Pro water filter. Below that is a large pouch that is about 10” across and 12” inches deep. There is Molle webbing along the front and sides of the pack. On the left side of the pack there is an elastic pouch for a small water bottle. The main compartment has a drawstring closure. The interior is a 2900 c.i. There is a full length zipper on the right side of the pack that has access to the main compartment. The interior is a white fabric that feels like nylon. There are two elastic pouches that are against the scabbard, that hold two 3lt. Source hydration bladders. There are two slits, one on each side, that allow you to route the bladder tubes through the pack. There are three compression straps on the pack, two across and one from top to bottom.

The Source 3lt. bladders are very well thought out. There is a screw on cap as well as a flap at the top that has a slide lock. The tube feels like a bungee cord, albeit a bit larger. There is a plastic dust cover that slips over the mouthpiece; this cover is attached with a cord. The mouthpiece twists to unlock than it must be pulled open.


I decided to put the pack to the test. I filled the Bladders, loaded up the AK, threw a few mags, and a 10 lb weight into the bag. Roughly 25-30lbs. I cinched everything up, and headed out on an eight mile hike through downtown. I found it pretty easy to adjust the pack to put the weight on my hips. Though for me the tighter I cinched the shoulder straps the more weight was put on my shoulders, which tired me out a lot quicker. There is a strap that connects the two shoulder straps and after about six miles the clip started to dig into my chest. The shoulder straps could use a little more padding. The pack did an excellent job of concealing my AK. I was able to walk by several crowds of people without so much of a second glance. There are many drifters in my area that carry all of their belongings on their back so I just blended in. My biggest complaint is that the water tube turned out to be too short. I had to keep my head cocked to the side which prevented me from being able to ingest as much water as I wanted, as quickly as I wanted. The other problem that caused is that I couldn’t really keep my head moving around enough to keep an eye on my surroundings. I don’t think that would be a real problem as long as you don’t stop for a water break in a sketchy area. I managed to do about 3.25 mph, which I felt was pretty good for my first time out.

The pack is definitely worth the 190 or so dollars and I would recommend springing for the bladders. Other than the few minor complaints mentioned I am very happy with the pack.


James

ETA
4/25/07

Well I have been carrying this pack on a daily basis for the last 3 months or so. (I am a college student, and wanted to truly test out the pack) I carry my BOB essentials everyday, food, water, bivy sack, firetools. I leave things like my sleeping bag and other tools out. It weighs about 26-34lbs, depending on how much water is left. I walk an average of 4 or 5 miles a day with the pack. I carry my books in the scabbard part of the pack which makes it fairly easy to get them out without digging around.


The pack has held up really well. There are no seams coming apart or zippers acting up. Everything functions just like the day I received it. Shoulder straps show no wear.

The hip belt fits me perfectly and I can cinch it down nice and tight, tight enough to run without everything flying all over the place. The shoulder straps have plenty of padding, but not so much that it becomes a problem. I have two complaints with the shoulder straps. There are clips that connect the padded portion to a smaller strap that connects to the bag. These clips/straps have a tendency to slide off of the piece of padding and can dig in a bit. Not real bad, just enough of a poke to notice every now and then. The other thing I do not like about the shoulder straps is that there is a strap that connects the two straps across the chest. I really like how functions in theory, but on this bag the clip is positioned right on the right portion of my collarbone that juts out at the top of my pecs, below my neck. That gets kinda annoying.

The Source water bladders have been great. I really like the dust cap, but even better than that is the closure system. Instead of biting the nozzle like one does on a Camelbak, one simply twists the nozzle and pulls out on it much like a sports bottle. I really prefer this to the bite style because with this method I can just keep sipping on water as if I was drinking from a straw.(A really big straw) I do not have to consciously bite to drink. The bladders have held up exceptionally well. There were some initial leak problems, though that was my own fault. There are two different ways to fill up the bladders, a screw cap located on the side and a slide top. I had not made sure to check both openings to ensure that everything was securely tightened. My only complaint about the bladders is that they can be rather hard to fit completely into their pouches.

Overall I couldnt be more pleased with this pack and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a 3-day pack.

I have the gunslinger and the terminator pack. Both are great bags.

I have a FAC track and a X3 LoDrag. Both are excellent when used in their designed roles.

This is a good amount of information. I'm really looking hard at the G4M Operator for my needs, but trying to figure out the best pack color. I like Multicam as that's what we're using right now and it does work pretty good in most places down in GA back home. However, I was thinking of just a solid color for a better "grey man" approach. There "Military Green" looks a lot like foliage, but I was wondering if their coyote brown would be too dark? Any feedback appreciated. This would be something I can use backpacking and camping (no issue with using a camo pack), but could also double as a get home bag which is what I was thinking...

ROCK6

I love the military green but do think my next (G4) will be Dry Earth. Here is their color chart for reference

Eberlestock Color Chart

Yeah, those are good pictures and examples and I was really considering the Dry Earth, but would really like to see it in person. Of course, I have a couple of Multicam pack/rain covers so if I need to really camo it up that would be easy regardless of the pack color.

One thing I noticed in the comparison pictures is that the top "line up" it looks like the Dry Earth pack has their Military Green MOLLE webbing on it??? That would be a nice combo and make some great shawdowing effects.

Touch choice but it'll be between coyote or their dry earth...

ROCK6

Here are a few pics of the FAC in Dry Earth compared to the LA Police Gear 3 day pack in coyote.

Mountaineering gear is good stuff but it is made of materials with a balance of weight to durability. Comparing the REI, North Face and similar packs to something from Eberlestock or even Kelty's tactical packs is like comparing a typical SUV to a Military Hummer. Mountaineering gear comes in colors like red, blue, yellow. These colors don't even begin to qualify for a pack that would be used to sustain and conceal your position if neccessary. Mountaineering gear, while durable, is not overbuilt like the tactical packs. This comes at a cost which of course is weight.

It's not bad equipment, but its not equipment that is ideal for MY needs and desires

Thanks Span, that Dry Earth looks quite versatile; I'm really leaning that way now...

ROCK6

Eberlestock is looking better and better...can anyone actually talk me out of getting a dry earth halftrack? Is it worth $100+ to move up a size?

we got our last week. I am packing them with weight in them to get use to the weight. I am packing in about 55 lbs and my wife is about 40 lbs
if we can carry that much when it comes to the point I can carry 45 and can carry 30 with no problems. We walk with them on the weekends..

The only difference between the Halftrack and Phantom is the rifle scabbard.... You can take the rifle scabbard off the Phantom and make it a Halftrack, but can't add it on the Halftrack.

I have now gotten my G4 operator and it is exactly what people have told me about the pack.

Its extremely well built and very well thought out with an abundant amount of storage and MOLLE/PALS attachment points. I highly recommend if you are considering Eberlestock, get the Multipack accessorie bag with the optional chest attachment kit. It is a perfect size for binoculars, pistols and any of the small accessories like a GPS, Cliff bars, etc. etc. Frankly I'm starting to question whether I can support the weight of the full pack, rifle and ammo neccessary for an extended trek. My goal is 40 to 45 pounds in the pack plus AR, Pistol, 7 AR mags and 3 pistol mags. I'm going to start light but I'm going to start hiking and building my stamina. I'll increase weight until I have a full load and then start to seriously consider my weapons.

I got the dry earth and it is the most versatile color I have come across. Its a perfect blend between gray, coyote brown and military/OD Green.

I bought a gunslinger 2 in ranger green a few years ago. I use it as my hiking, camping and bob.I like it a whole lot, but wish it was a little bit bigger. It's really full when I take it on a weekend hike/camp trip since it has a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, food, and all my other gear needed for several days in it.

I have family that has the Gunslinger II and I received similar feedback. While it is an excellent pack, it is lacking in space for extended trips. I'm just going to build my fitness level to be able to handle the load I'd like to carry.

Good to hear! I'm going to order one when I redeploy and I'm deciding on the Dry Earth choice. Interesting on the Multipack; I've been running a HPG Kit Bag which does the same and it's an essential part of my backpacking it.

ROCK6

I'm waiting on a X3 LoDrag in Multicam. I need a new hunting pack and I figure it will double as a BOB. It's on the small size so I thought it would pair nicely with the Warhammer, instead of the Little Brother. Together, that gives me about 5500 cubic inches of survival gear.

Just placed my order for a “dry earth” G4 Operator. I am interested in those that have the Operator as to their packing lists. Do you see this is a full pack or a 3-day pack? I’m not sure how much capacity the rifle slot takes up, but it says 5000 cu inch which is pretty substantial and I could easily pack for a weeklong trip with that capacity. I won’t get my hands on it until I redeploy in June…

ROCK6

You should do just fine with the Operator as week long pack. For a 3 day pack the Gunslinger 2 would be more fitting for that role. The Dry Earth color blends in pretty well for AFG. You were asking about the "military green" earlier... I just bought a Phantom in that color. It is comparable to light OD color @ this color

Thanks, that rifle slot does take up quite a bit, but 3500 cu inch is more than enough for how I pack; thanks for the info!




Yeah, I’m looking at the Gunslinger 2 as a weekend/get home pack or one for my son if we both plan on going out.

Thanks for the heads up on the military green!

ROCK6

Look at my post on page 1. It's the GS2 in MIL GREEN.................

I have the Gunslinger and concur; it packs more than I need to carry, but that's a good thing.

I have a thread on large rucks and my warhammer carries a shit ton of weight and wears it well. The G2 Little Buddy zips in and so when I get to base camp, just have to dump ruck 2 zips and moving out with a 3-5 day BOB sized bag...

Loved mine and found a great dealer!

I hope this isn't too much of a highjack, however, this thread seems to have the attention of people who have real world experience with Eberlestock packs and here's my situation. I need another pack before I head downrange. My one criteria is that I can use it as a carry on. Anyone know if the X4 is small enough? I had a Blackhawk Phoenix that I used in Iraq (its now my BOB) and it was big enough for my needs but still fit in "the box" at CRC & Ali Al Salem. OTOH, I don't want too small a pack. I want as big a one as I can use as a carry on. I can get the X4 in military green through Promotive.com for $112.

Any insight is appreciated.

X4 on an CRJ no, not going to happen. On a 737 not a problem on the overhead.
Ps don't put the weapon in scabbard, TSA will have there way with you.

The X-4 Lo Drag should fit in "the box" will be pretty close but.... should fit. With the X4 you can not add a rifle scabbard, if you would intend to carry a long gun in the pack you need go with the X3

Took my gunslinger for a 10 mile hike last weekend. What a great pack. Was carrying 25 pounds, yet barely knew it was there. Make sure you cinch all your support straps down tight. My buddy also has a gunslinger2 and we found that a sloppy pack really throws ya around. Tight=right.

Thanks, I'm not too worried about the ability to attach a scabbard. I'm just in the market for a solid pack to see me through another trip downrange. I was thinking about going with the Molle style Eagle A-III pack, my son (USAF) has one I gave him and it has worked for him thus far, this one isn't a whole lot more money so I figure it's worth a look.

That's good to hear. It's nice to know the pack can ride comfortably with 25 pounds or 100 pounds yet still be able to cinch down for better control. I'm still hoping my Gunslinger-2 will make it out out here to Afghanistan for me to T&E before I have to redeploy.

ROCK6

It also (GSII) carries a shotgun nicely through a good walk. Can get dicey in the brush though.........Good to see so many having the same experience with E packs cause they fucking are pretty hardcore....Good luck down range guys......

gunslinger review of mine on lightfighter

http://lightfighter.net/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/2756008371/m/92420476563

I've had the opportunity to play around with my G4 since it came in, I got it in Dry Earth and the color is really versatile.

The fit is nice and the steel rods (there are two in the back of the pack) can be bent to ride more comfortably on the back.

The pack holds plenty for a week and I have used the rifle slot for things like a tent and tarp, sleeping bag liner instead of a bag as well as various other things.

The Operator has a long thin pocket on each side of the pack with MOLLE webbing inside of them. They are set up to use for molle pouches for ammo and such. I have found they work well for a shotgun also. Its important to balance the pack on the other side, otherwise the pack obviously rides funny.

I'm going to plan a trip out west in Yellowstone for the summer. It will be a seven day trek and it will definately test the capacity of the G4. Ill try to remember to post something about the trip after I'm done.

I wasn't that happy with my gunslinger 2 s. I bought 2 in multi cam. After a year I'm going back to a kelty coyote. Little more grey man concept plus holds a ton more capacity. For me more comfortable. Anyone interested in a couple multi cam gs2 s pm me.

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