REVIEW: Tasmanian Tiger Range Pack MKII

Blast from the past: Due to the outage of our website last year, unfortunately, a few reviews were lost. We will now gradually repost them online so that new readers can also view them.

In addition to the Tac Pack backpacks (here for example the Tac Pack 22), Tasmanian Tiger also has some full-size multi-day backpacks in its range. One of them is an old acquaintance: the Range Pack. In a new look and with some new features, it is now being put to the test under the name Range Pack MKII.Range Pack - as the name suggests, this behemoth is designed for long distances with maximum payload. With a capacity of 100 liters, it is slightly smaller than its predecessor, which boasted a total volume of 115 liters. However, the weight has been reduced by 700 grams, bringing the MKII to a total empty weight of 4.4 KG. The external dimensions have also slimmed down: with 84cm height, 35cm width, and 27cm depth, the pack starts out slightly more compact. The MKII is made of 700d Cordura. All seams are cleanly and securely stitched, and there are no quality complaints.

Proven and still in use is the unique X1 carrying system. It is difficult to know where to start, the frame is so packed with components and adjustment options. The padded hip belt can be adjusted in two ways. The padding is divided in the middle for better ventilation and has an extension towards the top for additional comfort.For further attachment of equipment, each fin has two rows of MOLLE with four loops.

The belt is closed with a Fastex buckle that can be tightened by pulling it backwards. Elastic loops for securing excess belt material are also present. The X-shaped aluminum struts of the carrying system are also anchored on the sides of the hip belt.

Normally, one is used to a straight strut arrangement from top to bottom with fastening points behind the hip belt, so we were curious to see how the X1 would perform. Already when first putting on the backpack, you can clearly feel and even with the hip belt still open, the load transfer to the hip. This system is revolutionarily good and subjectively the best we have worn so far.The carrying system is rounded off with two also thickly padded, laterally attached back pads and shoulder straps.The straps also have a chest strap, MOLLE loops, D-rings, and are adjustable multiple times in the middle height - there is no quick-release system.

Height adjustment

To bring the weight closer to the back or to loosen the pack, there are load straps (Load Lifter Straps) on the upper part of the shoulder straps, which can also be attached to the backpack at two different points (high and low) in height. Above the height adjustment, there is also a carrying handle.The sides of the Range Pack are sewn with 6 rows x 4 loops of MOLLE. Above and below, there are compression straps that have elastic loops for strap attachment.Included in the delivery are two 5-liter external pockets that are looped through the MOLLE system.The dimensions of the external pockets are 36cm height x 16cm width x 8cm depth. They can be operated with a zipper that opens each pocket almost all the way down. Inside, many elastic loops are provided for securing equipment. There is also a D-ring and a passage for hydration tubes.

On the outside, the pockets have been given 33 rows of MOLLE and Velcro for patches as well. 700d Cordura is used, and the weight is 255 grams per piece. The pockets can also be purchased separately under the name TT Tac Pouch 8 SP.In the lower area on each side, a bottle holder has been added, which is also large enough to comfortably accommodate a rifle stock.

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