A military backpack that looks dope fits more stuff than you need, is unbreakable and water resistant, and can even be accessed with your gloves on.
Sounds too good to be true?
Well, that’s because it is with most backpacks. However, when I got my hands on the 5.11 tactical rush. I knew this one was going to be different.
In this article, I’ll tell you why.
Rush 5.11 Tactical Backpack
Evander’s Personal Rush 5.11 Tactical Backpack Summary:
The Rush 5.11 Tactical is a solid choice if you want to have a cool-looking backpack with a lot of internal pockets to store all your gear.
The 1050d nylon material is top-notch (almost unbreakable), and you can even take it with you in the pouring rain with your laptop staying dry and safe in the 15″ laptop sleeve.
But the biggest benefit of this tactical backpack is that it has glove-friendly pull tabs. It has saved me from having frozen fingers during the winter and will probably do the same for you.
On the flip side, it might be a bit overkill if you are just looking for your everyday gym bag. Since you could achieve the same result with the Bear KompleX or a simple Adidas bag.
But if you also want to use the backpack for running, hiking, hunting, or other outdoor activities, you are in for a treat with the 5.11 tactical!
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What is the 5.11 Rush Bag?
The 5.11 Tactical Rush Bag is a super-tough and versatile backpack designed for those who like to get down and dirty in the great outdoors.
Military personnel, cops, hunters, hikers, and adventurers of all kinds love this bad boy for its high-quality materials, roomy main compartment, multiple pockets, and generous molle attachment points.
It comes in three different sizes, from a dinky 12-liter model to a whopping 55-liter version, and has a bunch of color and camo options.
It sounds like the perfect bag for people who like to carry lots of stuff and look badass while doing it.
The masterminds behind the 5.11 Tactical Rush Bag
The 5.11 Rush Bag was made by 5.11 Tactical, a company from California that’s all about making top-notch tactical gear and clothing for people who need to be tough and functional.
The founder, Dan Costa, used to be an FBI agent and a gun enthusiast, so he knows what’s up when it comes to creating gear that’s practical and reliable.
The company name comes from the hardest level in rock climbing, which shows they’re not messing around when it comes to quality.
The 5.11 Rush Bag is one of their most popular products, and it’s designed to be used by tough-as-nails folks in all sorts of environments.
For who it is made
The 5.11 Tactical Rush Bag is a bag for many, but not all people.
First, let’s take a look at some groups that would dig this tactical survival backpack.
CrossFit Fanatics and Gym Goers
This backpack is a beefcake’s dream come true.
If you’re a CrossFit fanatic or gym-goer, you’ll love the roomy main compartment and multiple pockets that make it easy to stash your workout gear.
The MOLLE webbing also allows you to attach all kinds of extra doohickeys.
Plus, the tactical bag’s rugged design means it can take a beating, just like you.
Hikers and Outdoor Lovers
If you’re the type of person who likes to get lost in nature, the 5.11 Tactical Rush Bag is the perfect companion.
With multiple pockets (including a hidden CCW compartment) and a spacious main compartment, you can pack all your hiking or hunting essentials with ease.
The MOLLE webbing also lets you customize the bag to fit your needs. And since it’s built to handle tough terrain, you won’t have to worry about it falling apart on you.
Military and Police
This tactical bag means business, and so do you.
If you’re in the military or law enforcement, this military backpack is a top choice.
The military backpack has all the features you need to keep your gear organized and accessible, like multiple pockets and MOLLE webbing.
Plus, it’s built to withstand extreme conditions, making it a great survival backpack as well.
For who it is not made
On the flip side, some folks might want to keep scrolling:
Minimalists
If you’re a minimalist, this bag might not be your cup of tea.
It’s got lots of pockets (after all, it is a military backpack) and MOLLE webbing, which means it can get pretty bulky when fully loaded.
If you’re all about keeping things simple and streamlined, you might want to look for something more lightweight.
Budget Shoppers
This tactical backpack is like a fine wine; it comes at a price.
If you’re on a tight budget, the 5.11 Tactical Rush Bag might not be the best option for you.
It’s an investment piece, so you’ll want to make sure it’s worth the splurge before pulling out your wallet.
Fashion-Conscious Individuals
It is tough, rugged, and built to last, but it’s not exactly a fashion statement.
If you’re all about looking good and making a statement with your accessories, you might want to pass on the 5.11 Tactical Rush Bag.
Its military design may not be the best fit for your fashion-forward aesthetic.
Best Features of 5.11 Tactical Rush Bag
The 5.11 Tactical Rush Bag is known for its durability, functionality, and versatility. Let’s take a look at its best features.
Design
The design of the 5.11 Tactical Rush Bag is both tactical and practical.
The bag comes in different sizes and colors and has a large main compartment and many pockets (which I will sum up later in this article) to make it easy to keep things in order.
The MOLLE webbing also allows for customization with additional pocket pouches and accessories.
Something that makes the 5.11 tactical backpack stand out is its glove-friendly pull tabs. This means you can easily access all your essential gear, even with your gloves on.
This has been my life safer during the cold winter months.
Amount of Space
One of the standout features of the 5.11 Tactical Rush Bag is the amount of space it provides.
Depending on the size of the bag, it can hold a wide range of items.
These are some of the items I could easily fit in the bag:
- Water bottles or a camel bag
- Hydration bladders
- First aid kits
- Flashlights
- Gloves and handgrips
- Binoculars
- Compasses
- Maps
- GPS devices & health trackers
- Multi-tools
- Knives
- Fire starters
- Emergency blankets
- Ponchos
- A full set of extra clothing
- Rations and healthy snacks
- Rope or paracord
- Carabiners
- Climbing gear
- Ammo and magazines
It even fits a 15” laptop in its padded laptop sleeve (which is in the hidden CCW compartment), though I doubt it will be wise to take a laptop with you on your outdoor adventures.
Pockets
RUSH® 72 2.0 Backpack 55L
- Main compartment
- Front pocket
- 3L Hydration pocket
- Left and right side pockets
- Hidden CCW pocket
- Padded laptop sleeve and 3 zippered pockets in the main compartment
- Rear hydration compartment
- Front lower pocket with internal slip and zippered pockets
- Top zippered pocket with 6×1 name tape and internal pocket
- Shove-It compartment with side gussets
- External front and side web MOLLE with 3×3 loop
- Fleece-lined eyewear/media pocket
- Dual external side zippered pockets
- Contoured yoke shoulder strap system with web MOLLE
- Reinforced back panel with aluminum stay bar and waist strap
- Bottom panel web gear loops
RUSH® 24 2.0 Backpack 37L
- Front lower pocket with internal slip and zippered pockets, admin org
- Dual top pockets with internal pockets
- External front and side web MOLLE with 3×3 loop
- Fleece-lined eyewear/media pocket
- Dual external side zippered pockets
- Padded laptop sleeve and dual mesh pockets in the main compartment
- Hidden CCW compartment with loop panel
- Rear hydration compartment
- Front panel web MOLLE platform
RUSH® 12 2.0 Backpack 24L
- Front lower pocket with internal slip and zippered pockets
- Front top zippered pocket
- External front and side web MOLLE
- Fleece-lined eyewear/media pocket
- Padded laptop sleeve and dual mesh pockets
- Hidden CCW compartment
- Rear hydration compartment
- Bottom panel web gear loops
- Full clamshell opening on the 6.6 Pouch
- Front panel web MOLLE platform on the Flex Flashlight Pouch
- Top zipper closure on the Flex Vertical GP Pouches
Quality
The 5.11 Rush Bag is built to last with high-quality materials and construction.
The bag is made of 1050D nylon, which is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Evander’s opinion
As someone who has been serving in the army reserves for some years now, let me tell you: 1050D nylon is some seriously military-grade stuff.
I’ve crammed my 1050d nylon military backpack with all sorts of gear, pulled at the zippers like my life depended on it, and even had my buddies toss it out of a truck.
And guess what? This stuff is tough as nails (almost unbreakable, I’d say).
The zippers (and zippered pockets) are also made by YKK, a top manufacturer known for its high-quality and reliable products.
Fit
The 5.11 Rush Bag is designed for comfort and adjustability, ensuring a perfect fit for various body types.
There are two main ways you can wear this bag:
Backpack
The 5.11 Rush Bag is designed to be worn as a backpack, with padded straps and a back panel for added comfort.
The backpack straps are also adjustable, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your body type.
The 5.11 Rush Bag also has a ladder strap, which is like a fancy belt for your bag.
It’s optional, but it’s a great way to take some weight off your shoulders and put it on your hips instead.
Carry bag
Though I would not recommend it, the 5.11 Tactical Rush can be worn as a duffel bag.
The bag has one handle at the top, allowing for easy carrying by hand.
This makes it a versatile option for travel or for those who prefer to carry their gear differently.
What Is Inside The Box?
When you get your hands on the 5.11 Rush Bag, here’s what you can expect inside the package:
RUSH® 72 2.0 Backpack 55L
- 6.6 Pouch
- Icarus DP Mini hunting knife
- EDC PL 2AAA flashlight
RUSH® 24 2.0 Backpack 37L
- 6.6 Pouch
- Flex Flashlight Pouch
- Flex Vertical GP Pouch
RUSH® 12 2.0 Backpack 24L
- 6.6 Pouch
- Flex Flashlight Pouch
- Flex Vertical GP Pouch
Accessories
You can customize the 5.11 Rush Bag by adding accessories to upgrade it into a hunting backpack or survival backpack.
Some examples of additional accessories include:
- Water bottle pouches
- Admin pouches
- Dump pouches
- Flashligh pouches
- And much more
All the Colors of the tactical rainbow
The 5.11 Rush Bag comes in an array of colors to match different styles and preferences. Check out the available colors below:
- Black
- Double Tap
- Sandstone
- TAC OD
- Multicam
- Storm
How much will it cost you? The 5.11 Rush Bag Pricing Breakdown
As I said before, quality comes at a price. The cheapest option goes around $170, while the biggest version of the assault pack goes for more than $250.
5.11 Rush Bag Alternatives
Don’t sweat it if the 5.11 Rush Bag doesn’t quite fit your needs. Here are a few other options to consider:
#1 Nobull Waxed Canvas Duffleback
The Nobull Waxed Canvas Duffleback is a rugged and stylish alternative to the 5.11 Rush Bag.
It’s made of durable waxed canvas that can handle rough conditions and has plenty of pockets and compartments to keep your stuff organized.
If you want to learn more about the Nobull Waxed Canvas Duffleback. Why not check out my comprehensive review?
Plus, the adjustable yoke shoulder strap system and padded handles make it easy and comfortable to carry as a backpack or carry bag
Sure, it doesn’t look as cool as a military-grade assault backpack, but it will make you stand out.
#2 REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack
The REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack is a tough and versatile alternative to the 5.11 Rush Bag.
It’s made of high-density fabric that can take a beating and has plenty of internal pockets and MOLLE webbing for customization.
Plus, the padded straps and back panel make it comfortable to wear for long periods.
#3 WINCENT Military Tactical Assault Backpack
The Wincent Multi-Function Military Tactical Assault Backpack is another solid option for those in need of a hard-wearing bag.
It’s made of top-notch nylon fabric that can repel water and withstand heavy use, and it has plenty of pockets and MOLLE webbing for customization.
It isn’t as topnotch as the 5.11 tactical, but the padded straps and back panel still make it comfy on a budget.
My Life Changed When I Got the 5.11 Rush Bag – Here’s Why
Being in the military means you need your gear to be reliable, and that’s where the 5.11 Rush Bag comes in. It’s perfect for long hikes and running, which are part of my training routine.
I particularly love the hidden CCW pocket and internal slip pockets, which keep my personal items secure.
The glove-friendly pull tabs make accessing my gear easy, even with gloves on. And with dual mesh pockets, my water bottle and other essentials are always within reach.
In short, this bag has been a lifesaver for me during training sessions, and I can’t imagine going back to my old bag.
Should you purchase a 5.11 Rush Bag?
In a nutshell, the 5.11 Rush Bag is a reliable backpack that offers durability, functionality, and versatility.
It’s great for hikers, people who like being outside, law enforcement officers, and people in the military because it has a lot of room to store things and make them your own.
While there are other alternatives on the market, the 5.11 Rush Bag is one of the best (unfortunately, the price reflects this).
If you’re looking for a backpack that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the 5.11 Rush Bag is worth buying.
