REVIEW: Centaur Atlas Backpack System

Today we want to present you the best German quality work: "Atlas" comes from Zentauron and is more than just a backpack. It represents a complete backpack system that is modular and expandable. Ideally, "Atlas" is used as gear for a medic. But it is not limited to that, as SPARTANAT can show you. (All images clickable to enlarge.)

There lies "Atlas": the giant measures 50 by 30 centimeters and is 12 centimeters thick. This gives a packing volume of around 20 liters. On the outside, it appears modest: on the front (left) are MOLLE loops for expandability. In the upper third, MOLLE and Velcro come together, allowing for the attachment of patches. At the top, there is a handle attached to the Velcro for opening the front flap - and that's the entire front you see here - integrated. On the back (right), you can see the shoulder straps (here a thin set) and across the back a compartment: it holds a hydration bladder or a SAPI plate.

"Atlas" shows its best sides: on the right and left sides (left) of the body are more MOLLE loops, with extra expansion pockets available here. On the top (right, above) is an extremely sturdy carry handle sewn on. On the bottom (right, below) more MOLLE. So you can expand in all directions (except upwards and on the back).

When the entire flap is open (above), "Atlas" needs twice as much surface area. The first impression of the interior: quite organized. This is due to the many dividers that divide the storage space. But more on that below, here are two details: the integrated, Velcroed handle of the front (bottom left) and the prepared opening for threading the tube of the hydration bladder (bottom right).

Here we see a secret of organization: the entire backpack is fluffy inside. This makes it possible to work generously with Velcro. For example, with special mesh pockets for small items. In addition, and always additionally on the fluffy side: MOLLE. This allows for additional MOLLE pockets to be attached inside the main compartment of "Atlas."

The main compartment filled (above left) and completely emptied (right): we did not play around with the equipment for the medic or corpsman here - for those interested in the medical use of "Atlas," there is a very good review at Military-Medic-Outdoor - we simply placed normal items inside to see the organization. The dividers (bottom right) can be removed and Velcroed as needed: The entire structure consists of individual parts. Each divider (bottom left) has two Velcro ends and also a Velcro on the underside, so it holds securely on the fluffy surface that covers the entire interior of "Atlas."

With the straps (left), "Atlas" comes to the man. Here we have the narrow set attached, reminiscent of car seatbelts (top right). If the backpack is not too heavy or needs to be carried only a short distance, it is sufficient. However, these straps are designed to be worn over armor (usually a plate carrier). There are also padded straps for normal use. Here too, "Atlas" proves to be extremely flexible. A sternum strap (bottom right) ensures a secure fit.

CONCLUSION: "Atlas" impresses with its flat appearance, but it is not small. The backpack is designed for use in vehicles and in built-up areas. The user should not get caught in tight corners: that's why it is flat with rounded corners. Behind its simple aesthetic beauty hides a versatile backpack that is extremely expandable with MOLLE and Velcro. Dividers and pockets ensure organization in the interior. All made in 1000D Cordura for extreme durability and with a five-year warranty, because Zentauron itself knows the high quality of workmanship the company can offer.

The "Atlas" backpack system is available directly from Zentauron. "Atlas" itself costs 349 euros, various accessories (dividers, external pockets) are visible on the Zentauron website.

Zentauron Atlas in use - at the 4. Special Forces Workshop in Güstrow.