Reviewer:
Matt Markowski
from White Marsh, MD United States
I purchased this pack for several reasons. First, I owned the original BFM and I loved it. I used it on several deployments and never had any issues. But the BFM 500 was available in multicam and I have been looking for that pattern on a pack that had pockets to access smaller items and one that had the full clamshell opening. Just as the original BFM, this pack had that and some extra features. The extra interior and exterior pockets are great. The 500D nylon isn't bad however I had no problems with the heavier 1000D nylon. It is also very cavernous and large. So far, I have primarily used it to pack a full uniform, boots and all, to ride a bicycle to work. I haven't yet had the opportunity to deply with this pack but I am 100% confident that it would suit me just fine for an overnight bag as well as a field pack. The only thing I would improve on this pack are the zipper pulls as they are similar to boot laces and are sometimes difficult to positively grab in a hurry. Great Pack.
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Even better...
June 19, 2011
Reviewer:
PB
from MS United States
I found this to be even better than the previous BFM... Multicam is great- looks good, good match, lightweight, rugged. Design is very well planned. Pocket placement is close to perfect, with ample slots for keys, pens, admin and other items. I have not had any issues with this pack at all. Bladder is improved over earlier models. Pack and waist straps are well padded- even more so than the new MOTHERLODE . Good for serious gear hogs. This is truly a solid 3+ day pack with all the bells and whistles . Good value, IMO, when you look at other premium packs of comparable size, quality , and features. Would definitely recommend !
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Excellent 3 day bug out bag
June 14, 2011
Reviewer:
David Sims
from mt. airy, MD United States
This bag Is excellently sized for a bug out bag or for 3-5 day camping trips. The orginization is excellent and has great padded pockets for delicate items. Has held up well so far and I have no Complaints.
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An even better BFM with one exception...
January 30, 2010
Reviewer:
Thomas Allen
from Operation ENDURING FREEDOM
Lighter, better organized, and just as rugged. However, the pull tabs are cheap nylon rope and they eventually work their way loose. I "lost" 4 of them in a combat zone...very frustrating!! Easy to fix with an after market kit, but disappointing to invest $200 in a backpack and then have to modify it. The lined pockets are great for any high value items that might get scratched. Holds tons of H2O and you can pack 3-4 days worth of gear and goods. As a side note a 17" laptop fits in easily and the straps secure it in place. You cannot go wrong with this Camelbak. Highly recommeded to anyone who needs a great all around backpack with or withour hydration needs.
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BFM = Basic Field Manouevers
November 18, 2009
Reviewer:
Dale Simpson
from Glasgow, Scotland United Kingdom
The thing that strikes you first when you get inside this model is the vastly increased compartmentalisation over its predecessor.
The two upper side pouches are the best bit though, with loops for NVG batteries. Main compartment can hold all your basic gear and a radio (Clansman) with ease and comfort.
In the old BFM most molle loops were on a bellowed admin pocket which caused any attached pouches to fly about the place wildly. this is no longer the case!
I'm not too impressed with the two lined pouches though, if only because they don't dry out easily. They are good for keeping delicate equipment safe though, i.e. read; Ipods, Common Weapon Sights.
The only major flaw, that can't be easily remedied, is the DPM that is used in its constuction. Whilst in Helmand this isn't so much of a problem training back in the UK it can cause significant concealment dramas.
In spite of those flaws, this pack performs when you need it to. Its extremely well made, light and roomy.
Better Than The Original 
BFM = Basic Field Manouevers 
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