REVIEW: Eberlestock G3 Phantom vs. Clone

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What if the backpack is meant to be more than just a backpack? If the rifle and equipment are supposed to go along? Then there is a solution for that, usually associated with the name Eberlestock. Here we want to draw a small comparison for you between the Eberlestock G3 Phantom (right) and a "no-name" replica (left).

From the external appearance and if you overlook all the small details "generously", both backpacks resemble each other - here the back sides, left the clone, right the original - too much to conclude a "random" form of the replica.

However, while the replica is a backpack with an integrated rifle-carrying device, the Eberlestock is more of a drag bag with an attached daypack. The parts can be separated with the Eberlestock, while they are firmly sewn with the replica. In the picture at the top, you can see the original Eberlestock on the person and its big advantage: weapon and everything else on the back, hands free.

The simplified construction together with the materials used (600D nylon for the replica, 1000D Cordura for the genuine Eberlestock) also results in a noticeable difference in weight - from 1800g for the clone to 4800g for Eberlestock.

Both are equipped with MOLLE on the outside (unlike the original, the replica has no MOLLE on the underside, which limits the attachment of e.g. sleeping mat/sleeping bag) and can easily accommodate long guns up to 130cm in the weapon compartment. With the original, you can unzip the bottom end if necessary and let the barrel hang out, so you can also transport larger weapons. An L96 or M16 can disappear in the backpack almost without having to extend the top cover.

Speaking of the cover: with the original, it is clipped on with four concealed Fastex buckles, while with the replica, it is fastened with Velcro in 2 positions. The latter results in less weight and less dangling webbing.

Regarding the main compartment: both are classic "front loaders", the compartment can be opened all around with a zipper. On the inside of the cover, there is MOLLE again, where you can stick glow sticks or attach small pockets. With the replica, the main compartment is just a large, bare compartment, while with the Phantom G3, there are subdivisions, small pockets, a mesh cover for e.g. map material, etc. Here you can nicely store your gear.

If the main compartment gets too tight, both still have side pockets with compression straps, where two 1.5l PET bottles fit in easily. These are closed with a buckle on the Eberlestock, while Velcro and rubber bands secure the closure on the no-name model.

With the original, there are tube-shaped pockets under the side pockets, where the manufacturer intends to place hydration bladders, hence they also have tube guides and hooks for hanging the bladders.

Below the side pockets, which can be cinched with compression straps on both models, there are two small pockets.

The carrying system is not exactly high-end in both cases. However, with the replica, it is made of cheap padding material, which wears out quickly.

With the Eberlestock, the carrying system is removable, so you can choose to carry the weapon compartment alone or the main compartment alone; with the replica, everything is sewn together. Both hip belts are again equipped with MOLLE, where you can attach radio pouches or first aid pouches.

It should be noted that the original has an integrated rain cover, which is missing in the replica.

CONCLUSION: Both are suitable for transporting tripods, skis, hiking poles, fishing gear, or weapons. However, due to the quality of workmanship and material choice, one should not expect wonders from the replica, as the price is only about 1/10 of the original. In terms of quality, the old saying remains valid: You get what you pay for.

You can get the original Eberlestock Phantom at HQG starting from 389 euros. The Asian nameless clone is available here, for example, for 39.95 euros.