REVIEW: Camelbak Miltac HAWG Model 2013

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The Camelbak HAWG is actually already a classic among hydration packs. Introduced in 2011 HERE with us, Camelbak has continuously developed the HAWG. While the first ones were made of 1000D Cordura, they quickly switched to 500D and with the 2012 model, they also added MOLLE on the sides. With the new Antidote reservoir, Camelbak introduced the 2013 model of the HAWG.

The HAWG is a 23L daypack that can be compressed or expanded nicely with side compression straps, depending on the task. Camelbak has come up with something very good here: while the previous model had the compression straps fixed on the front pocket, here on the main compartment, 2 loops have been added on each side.

What's special now is that you can open the Fastex buckles on the bar and move the compression straps. If you use the loops, only the main compartment is compressed; if you want to compress the entire pack, simply attach the Fastex buckles on the front side. The beginning of each MOLLE row has been provided with half loops, perfect for the buckles and also great for shock cord - as seen in the picture.

Now, moving on to the front side - it has received a facelift. Instead of an attached pocket in the lower area and a padded sunglass pocket at the top, the 2013 model was given a continuous front without sacrificing the divisions. This gives the pack a more streamlined look and makes it easier to attach a jacket or MOLLE pouches. There are a total of 7 rows of loops with 4 loops, with the second loop from the top being made of hook and loop. With the additional hook and loop strip directly below, there is a wide field for attaching patches or similar items.

Above the loops, the Camelbak logo is displayed (covered by a patch here). Directly below is a small zippered compartment for items that need to be accessed quickly. Unlike the predecessor, this compartment is not padded.

Opening the front zipper, you enter the front area. At the top, you can see the Quick Access pocket on the lid, and on the back wall, there is the organizer carried over from the old model. The organizer consists of a radio pocket with elastic closure, two deep flat pockets across the entire width (one behind the other), a key holder, and a pocket for medium-sized items, with holders for pens or glowsticks at the back. Since the organizer is sewn in the middle of the front pocket, there is still enough space underneath for a Nalgene bottle or raingear.

The main compartment is completely unremarkable, with loops on the right and left, as well as at the top for compressing gear. Behind is a pass-through for a drinking tube if you want to use the main compartment for the reservoir.

On the back is the actual reservoir compartment. There is a loop at the top for hanging the bladder and above that is the so-called "Pussy Flap" - the pass-through for the drinking tube. You can also route the drinking tube at the height of the lower compression straps on the right and left if you wish.

Also included is the new Camelbak Antidote reservoir - it holds 3L and has a baffle in the middle to prevent bulging when filled. Furthermore, there are quick-release valves here that are fully Source™ compatible and the opening can be twisted open with a quarter turn. If you want to take a closer look at the Antidote reservoir, check out this video. The Antidote is available in long and wide versions, and the HAWG comes with the long version.

The reservoir compartment is thickly padded on the back, especially at the shoulder blades and hips, with enough space in between for air circulation. Here you will also find the Camelbak skull and "Hydrate or Die" message printed on it. There is also a hip belt in the hip area, which can be quickly removed with Velcro and is only for securing the backpack - not for load transfer.

Looking at the pack from the top, you will see a sturdy carrying handle. On the right and left are openings for antennas or similarly long items. The flaps can be closed with Velcro.

On the bottom, there are four more MOLLE loops attached, allowing you to attach additional equipment. Here you can also see that each compartment has a drainage eyelet for water.

The shoulder straps are anatomically shaped and not too thick. There are two D-rings and a diagonally running loop on each side, through which you can thread the drinking tube. A sternum strap is also included.

It's worth mentioning the great overall appearance of the pack. All Fastex buckles are embossed with the Camelbak logo, and the compression straps and shoulder straps have hook and loop tabs for rolling up so nothing hangs and disturbs.

All details are nicely summarized in this video.

This year, the HAWG will come out in a new version, get a taste of it HERE.

CONCLUSION: A top-quality daypack, with well-thought-out details such as well-ventilated back padding, compression strap retainers, sternum strap, and practical internal organization. The HAWG has it all and weighs just under a kilo. With 23L, this pack quickly becomes a favorite for everyday carry, as it impresses with stylish details and excellent carrying comfort.

You can find the Camelbak Miltac Hawg at various retailers starting at around 160 euros.

Comparison: the HAWG 2012 (left) and the 2015 model (right)