Whether you prefer lighter hiking or heavier and longer treks, a backpack is an essential part of your gear. Ultra Hiker or tramp, rucksacks and backpacks are part of our challenges. Today we take a look at one of the larger backpacks, the 75-litre Mil-tec Ranger.
About Mil-tec
Most of us know the German brand Mil-tec, otherwise known as Sturm-Handels GMBH. Hikers, professionals in the armed and security forces, and a wide range of airsoft enthusiasts have their own experience with their products. They are known not only for models designed for hiking, but also for a wide range of replicas of various military gear. Under this brand, we can find a solid price-to-quality ratio.
If you are looking for durability in the form of Cordura and hardened ABS plastic, Mil-tec probably isn't the right choice for you. Let's be honest, however, that these types of products, designed mainly for professionals and with an extra long lifespan, are not exactly the cheapest. But if you are looking for the golden middle ground, Mil-tec is a great choice for you.
For example, if you play airsoft twice a month, you don't need an original military vest for 200-300 euros. A replica made of reinforced nylon for 60-80 euros is fully sufficient. And it is precisely on such solutions that Mil-tec focuses.
Buy Mil-tec Ranger backpack 75l
Backpack parameters
In terms of colour, you can choose between black and olive. As mentioned above, its volume is 75 litres, which is more than sufficient for longer treks. Its dimensions are 70x35x20 cm and it weighs 2.1 kg. The main fabric is made of 600D polyester. This is a denser and heavier type of polyester, which gives the fabric higher durability and has a positive effect on its lifespan. The fabric is coated with a PVC layer, thanks to which the water-resistant properties have been improved.
In case of heavier rain, however, a waterproof cover is also included in the basic equipment, hidden in one of the upper pockets. The basic construction is of a more traditional form. It is a two-chamber backpack, where the upper chamber represents a more voluminous space. In addition to these, you also have 3 larger outer pockets available. Two on the sides and one at the front. I was also quite interested by the two smaller pockets on the hip belt. Both are zippered and it's a good idea for small items you want to have at hand.
Carrying system
The back carrying system is cleverly designed. The Vario-back is height-adjustable. The upper part of the straps can slide horizontally along two aluminium rails. Their final fixation in the upper position is ensured by one strap attached between the rails. So, to adjust the height, you don't need to loosen several straps, which saves time. Downward movement is not fixed, gravity takes care of everything. A loaded backpack tightens the strap and thus ensures the stability of the setting. The hip belt is padded with breathable mesh with padding, similar to half of the contact surface on the back.
Personally, I would have appreciated it if the lumbar padding were a bit longer. On my 102 cm waist circumference, it reaches to the hips. This would also improve the accessibility of the small pouches attached on each side of the belt. Otherwise, the size of the individual pouches is ideal. Fire starter, an Opinel No 10 along with a compass fit into it comfortably. The zipper pull cord is longer, which improves handling of the zipper. The rest of the belt consists of an approximately 6 cm wide strap connected by a more massive plastic buckle. The shoulder straps no longer have pouches. I would have welcomed a MOLLE system on them. This is partly compensated by a vertically sewn piece of fabric and a fabric loop underneath it. However, it is more than sufficient for an emergency whistle or attaching small items with a carabiner.
The straps are connected at the chest by a smaller elastic strap. It is stretchable, so it does not press unnecessarily on the chest and is more comfortable during movement than rigid forms.
Main storage compartment and side pockets
The Ranger is a backpack with a storage layout that we have been able to find in larger expedition backpacks for several decades. The lid contains a larger pocket with a more spacious zipper. The zippers are longer and larger throughout the whole backpack. I really like this approach, as it makes it easier to take out and put in items, and there is nothing worse than a small opening on a large storage space. However, the top pocket is reduced in volume, and for a great reason.
The top part is divided into two separate compartments, each with its own zipper opening. In the rear one, a waterproof backpack cover is hidden. This means there is no need to buy one separately. Taking inspiration from this, I store a waterproof poncho in the second compartment. It fits nicely there, and in case of heavier rain, it keeps both myself and the backpack dry. All this without unnecessary rummaging through other parts.
Speaking of gifts, several spare plastic buckles are also included with the backpack. A medium-sized pocket at the front also serves well. I use it for maps and small food for the trip. What is pleasing is that it has a Velcro panel for patches measuring 5x10 cm on it. There is one larger pocket on each side. The zipper pull cords are again longer, and the zipper is two-way. There is great access to the pockets, as the zipper spans about 2/3 of the size. It is ideally enough for two 15m ropes with a thickness of 7 and 5 mm, a bundle of carabiners, and a handheld flashlight, if I don't happen to have it attached to the chest strap. The second side pocket easily fits a 100-200g gas canister, a folding gas stove, a coffee grinder, and cutlery. There is still enough room left for energy bars.
The main compartment consists of two chambers with separate openings. The first, larger one, with a top opening, takes up approximately 2/3 of the volume. In the back area, it has an internal divider. Its lower part has a permanently sewn-in panel. I like this solution, as I am not a fan of a front flap in the form of a drawstring fabric, which is usually just a copy of the top opening's closure. However, the divider is not a single piece. It has small transition gaps at the edges. This allows longer, narrow items to be stored even in the interior space.
The last, bottom chamber, has the full width and thickness of the top one. Access is designed pleasantly and practically. The zipper runs from one side to the other. This allows me to quickly and easily store a 2-liter mess tin, a smaller US mess tin for rations, and there is still enough space left for a French press.
Conclusion
To sum it up - the Ranger did not disappoint. It is a backpack of compromises. It did what it was supposed to, it did not promise endless miracles, and I know I can rely on it. Of course, there are also more durable and better brands and models, but for undoubtedly higher amounts. Mil-tec and similar manufacturers strive for compromises. They produce copies of military originals, or generally widespread product designs, at acceptable prices. This way they can reach a wider number of users. Availability for the end user is important to them.
Therefore, always choose wisely. A cheap backpack without back reinforcement and a volume of 75 liters will not be the most suitable for walking through rough terrain all week long. Especially if you have a habit of carrying a case of beer in your backpack. It was not built for something like that. However, for a few-day trips with family and friends, where you won't be carrying the equivalent of a blacksmith's anvil on your back, it is ideal. Personally, the Ranger pleased me.
It is comfortable to wear, does not disappoint even in damp weather, and serves well. Keep in mind that your gear will serve you as well as how well you take care of it. And that trust in your backpack is just as important as trust in your own abilities. When you are alone with it in nature, in the end you only have each other.
