REVIEW: ZENTAURON combat backpack M.A.R.S.

M.A.R.S. makes mobile… You can't get around the pun when the combat backpack from ZENTAURON is on the program. However, it's not cute, but practical. M.A.R.S. stands for "Modular Assault Rucksack Standard" and is a daypack that leaves little to be desired in its solid simplicity.

Here on the man: the dimensions are impressive. 30 wide, 50 high and 20 cm deep. This makes the combat backpack bigger than the average gear, which we like. Our model here is in the Finnish M06 camouflage, ZENTAURON offers it in a total of 8 different colors and patterns, starting with the German Flecktarn, of course.

Let's start with the details at the top: there's always something to carry. Therefore, a solid carrying handle that has everything under control, even when the M.A.R.S. is heavily loaded.

Velcro openings on the right and left. Drinking tube and cable from the radio go through them as well…

To keep everything as slim as necessary, there are two clip-on tension straps on each side.

This way, each carrier can adjust the width of their backpack to the required measure themselves.

The straps can be neatly stowed away. And there are MOLLE loops on the sides for additional pockets. For those who want more, ZENTAURON also offers the M.A.R.S. with two pouches in a set.

The front is full of MOLLE under a velcro area.

The zipper with pull tabs only goes around the upper third of M.A.R.S. and opens the throat of the combat backpack wide enough to accommodate everything it needs.

On the outside is a zippered mesh pocket for small items you want to take with you. In the depths of the M.A.R.S., when it's filled, you wouldn't find anything.

The interior is minimalist and well thought out. There is a hook-and-loop compartment on the back where you can insert a stiffening plate, which can be quite useful when carrying bulky items that might push through. If you're wearing a plate carrier, this is a non-issue.

There is a large divider in front of the compartment that helps to structure the interior space. That's all you really need. There are also two compression straps inside the backpack. The size of the M.A.R.S. allows it to be used as a radio backpack as well - SEM70 or PRC117 fit perfectly into the 30-liter space.

Do good and talk about it: ZENTAURON is handmade in Germany.

There is also another compartment on the back, where stiffening can also be added.

The straps are what connect you to the backpack. The M.A.R.S. has everything you need to carry it well.

Quickly clip-on, of course...

...and with a chest strap for a better carrying experience.

There is also a waist belt. We don't usually use one, but when you're running it can suddenly be very useful for stabilizing the backpack.

This is the entire back of the M.A.R.S. in all its functional glory.

The outer compartment also has the advantage that you can separate the two straps and make them disappear in the back of the backpack. Then you have a very practical tote bag.

The bottom has four attachment points for straps, for those who want to attach their sleeping mat, sleeping bag, or tent sack: it works great here.

CONCLUSION: The daypack for those who want more. The ZENTAURON M.A.R.S. is a solid storm gear with a lot of volume and thoughtfully designed details. Take it, pack it, and deploy it. M.A.R.S. makes you mobile - in work, sports, and play.

You can get the ZENTAURON Kampfrucksack M.A.R.S. in many camouflage patterns and colors directly from the manufacturer for 225 euros. The M.A.R.S. Set with additional side pockets is available for 325 euros.

ZENTAURON online