REVIEW: GORUCK GR1 Rucksack

Jason McCarthy, the founder of GORUCK, had the opportunity to try out many backpacks during his time in the Army Special Forces (Green Berets). But somehow something was always missing, which is why he decided to design his own backpack. This is how the GR1, the flagship of GORUCK, was created. Ilhan has personally used it and gives his assessment.

The GR1 has a very simple, minimalist design. Jason himself said that his goal was to limit the design to the essential elements. It should also provide the ability to customize the backpack according to personal preferences. That's why the GR1 has no frills, no external pockets, and no visible external logos. Due to this minimalist design, the GR1 is also suitable for use in everyday office life, as the low-key appearance reduces the likelihood of attracting unwanted attention. However, the Velcro on the front of the GR1 must not be missing, designed stylistically like an attacking US flag (reverse or charging Flag).

The GR1 is made of 1,000D Cordura material, which is very strong and wear-resistant, and is used in military applications (military grade). The base is even made of ballistic-grade Cordura, which further increases its strength. While the use of Cordura does not make the backpack waterproof, it is extremely water-resistant. My GR1 remained dry inside even during heavy rain, and neither my laptop nor anything else got wet. The GR1 impresses not only with its very high quality of workmanship, e.g. through the use of high-quality zippers, but also with many small details that show that the guys and girls at GORUCK have put a lot of thought into it.

For example, the shoulder straps and the back panel are very well padded and adapt over time to the wearer's carrying style and anatomy. All seams are of very high quality. The handle at the top of the GR1 is securely sewn on. In an emergency, the wearer of the GR1 can be brought to safety using this handle. The handle also works well for carrying, even when heavily loaded.

The additionally padded laptop compartment is positioned so that it cannot be opened while the GR1 is being carried. This means you don't have to worry about someone opening the compartment and stealing the laptop unnoticed while on the go. The external MOLLE system allows the GR1 to be easily customized.

The laptop compartment can also be used as a bag for your own hydration system (e.g. a Source Bladder). Thanks to the clever design, the respective hose can be threaded through the backpack in such a way that no pocket needs to remain open, nothing gets into the backpack, but the hydration system is still optimally protected.

The main compartment is very large and can be completely opened, making filling the GR1 very easy. Here too, the makers have adhered to their principle of "less is more," so a lot fits in.

CONCLUSION: I have to say, I am impressed by the GR1. I took mine mountaineering and hiking, and it has also gone through three GORUCK events. I've dragged it through dirt, sand, and mud, completely soaked, and subjected it to many other types of punishment... and my backpack still looks like new. Even when heavily loaded, the GR1 is still comfortable to carry, and the seams hold up. I had up to 30 kg in my GR1 for several hours, and I know people who had much more in theirs. But most importantly, the GR1 is used and tested daily in operational service by soldiers in SOF units.

You can get the GORUCK GR1 HERE (unfortunately only available as an import from the USA). At $295, the GORUCK GR1 is a bit pricey, but good things do cost. The GR1 is of very high quality and extremely robust. Additionally, there is a lifetime warranty with the SCARS program from GORUCK.

Special thanks to Ilhan for this review.