A good backpack doesn’t have to carry everything and the kitchen sink. Like any EDC tool sometimes just the essentials are all you need to get the job done. The Battalion 12L pack by Recycled Firefighter is one of those bags. It’s not designed for your next 3-day hike through the mountains, though it’s certainly tough enough to make the trip. Instead this American-made pack was made to have your back through a 12 hour day, making it a great option for EDC.
Although the Battalion is only a 12L pack, Recycled Firefighter didn’t skimp on any of the rugged build materials they’re known for. Instead of the recycled firehose that you’ll find on their wallets, you’ll get a bag built from a durable 1000D Cordura that’s more than suitable for the everyday wear and tear of EDC. The use of YKK zippers is a nice touch, as you won’t be stuck wrestling with the bag when you need to get open it. Plus the dual zippers also give you a little extra versatility when wearing the bag. When you’re on the move, you can swing the pack around with one arm and access your gear using the dual zips just like you would a sling bag. Combined with its clamshell-opening design, the dual zippers also help for effective, lie-flat packing.
Bags with a clamshell design might not inspire much in terms of internal organization, but that’s why the Battalion is more than meets the eye. The exterior pocket is perfect for items you’ll need frequently throughout the day like notebooks, pens, and even tablets, while the larger compartment has two zippered mesh pockets for smaller essentials that you don’t want to lose track of and can easily fit a 13” laptop. Throw in a padded handle, 550 paracord zipper pulls, and the padded straps and you have a fairly minimal bag with tactical features. For those of you who do use internal pockets, the Battalion is also compatible with a rigid MOLLE grid framesheet to add on pouches and holsters.
For a daypack that combines a heavy duty build with a modern design, the Battalion 12L pack could be the one you’ve been looking for to help lighten the load. If this sounds like the bag for you make sure to click the link below and check it out for yourself.
