Surplus ILBE Backpacks

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Toepopper
Patriot ⭐ Construction, Shelter
Patriot ⭐ Construction, Shelter
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Joined: 16 Aug 2007 12:03
Location: Southwest Oregon

Surplus ILBE Backpacks

Post by Toepopper »

In 2001 the Marine Corps adopted a new kind of backpack called the ILBE, which stands for Improved Load Bearing Equipment. These packs rendered the old style ALICE pack system obsolete. The IMBE has a main cargo carrying area of 4500 cubic inches plus an attachable 1500 cubic inch assault pack that easily comes off depending on how much you need to carry. The third element in this system is a 3 litre camelback hydration system designed so you may take a drink through a flexible straw without stopping . These packs have a padded wrap around waist belt and the pack straps are also padded to lessen the shock of a bouncing pack system on your body. I am starting to see these packs for sale at gun shows and in surplus stores and most seem to be in very good condition. They have sewn on loops to attach MOLLE clips to so you may carry additional equipment like individual first aid kits or extra water. I strapped one on in a surplus store and it fit like a glove, was way more comfortable than an alice frame style back pack and they are quiet, not having any metalic frame to make noise when bumped by a tree branch etc. Might be a good buy and would make a nice lightweight bug out bag for those looking to make one.
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