It’s a big EDC market out there, and tons of awesome gear is released all the time. We made The Drop to help you discover the latest and greatest essentials worth a spot in your EDC.
Over a decade ago, one of the first quality bags I used for my EDC was the 5.11 MOAB (Mobile Operation Attachment Bag) 10. At the time, it was precisely what I needed: mission-ready durability, could fit my 12” work laptop, and could even be ambidextrously configured, which was a rare boon for lefties at the time.
However, It wasn’t without drawbacks, and I eventually transitioned to a larger bag when I had larger work essentials and travel to add to the mix. But the MOAB remains one of my favorite tactical bags. My modern needs have changed, and I haven’t thought of the 10 for a while, but it was a pleasant surprise to see 5.11 revisit the platform and release the Goldilocks version of the MOAB, the 13-liter MOAB 8.
Like its siblings 10 and 6, the MOAB 8 comes in four colors of 1050D nylon in 5.11’s signature tactical aesthetic, making use of most available space with MOLLE-compatible webbing, both for modular accessories as well as the ability to connect to the bigger 5.11 RUSH packs. It takes its layout from its bigger brother, with a front compartment with a zip pocket and admin section, a concealed center compartment for securing more sensitive cargo, and a main compartment that can lay flat for easier packing. Rounding out its features are a beefy top handle, a fleece-lined quick access pocket, a hydration-ready pocket under the strap with a pass-through port, and a loop panel front and center on the exterior to customize with your favorite patch.
The MOAB 8 is still very much more mission-inclined with its tried and tested design, but I think its combination of ruggedness and key usability features still make it a compelling urban EDC solution for years’ worth of service, just like my trusty 10.
What I like: The MOAB 8 keeps all the features I loved with the 10, and trims off the excess for a lower profile and weight, like the compression straps and tuckable bottom half of the shoulder strap.
What to watch out for: Despite its smaller size, the MOAB 8 is still a hefty bag, weighing 2.4 pounds while empty. Keep that in mind when packing it full and its asymmetric position on your back.
Final verdict: The MOAB 6 and 10 were vastly different in purpose and capacity, and the 8 hits the sweet spot between for an everyday pack.
