Police Product Test: Tru-Spec Tactical Backpacks

Tru-Spec has added a few new packs for the everyday carry (EDC) market to its 2015 product lineup. The new additions, dubbed the Stealth and Trek Sling packs, are capable of managing a lot of gear in an optimally sized package.

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Trek Stealth Pack (Photo: Tru-Spec)Trek Stealth Pack (Photo: Tru-Spec)

Tru-Spec has added a few new packs for the everyday carry (EDC) market to its 2015 product lineup. The new additions, dubbed the Stealth and Trek Sling packs, are capable of managing a lot of gear in an optimally sized package.

The Stealth's name is indicative of its primary design focus; it's a tactical backpack that looks anything but. Made of 1050-denier nylon with heavy seams and robust zippers, the Stealth is a true workhorse of a pack that would be just as suited for duty work as it would for recreation.

With thick padded air-mesh shoulder straps and back panel the Stealth is extremely comfortable even when fully loaded. And speaking of load capacity, the Stealth features seven dedicated pockets to fit everything from small, delicate items to electronics and laptops to weapons.

The main compartment, which is large enough to fit a laptop, jacket, and other bulky gear, also features a back panel with universal slotting that's similar to MOLLE webbing and allows for hard mounting of an array of holsters, pouches, and accessories.

Keeping your critical gear organized and in place is a huge plus. With an overall capacity of 25 liters, the Stealth has more than enough room for just about anything you'd need on the go.

Trek Sling Pack (Photo: Tru-Spec)Trek Sling Pack (Photo: Tru-Spec)

If you're looking to pack a little lighter, the new Trek Sling pack might just be the ticket. Constructed of the same 1050-denier nylon as the Stealth, the Trek Sling is obviously a tactical pack. MOLLE webbing and hook-and-loop panels adorn the exterior and there are more than a few options for concealing a pistol.

The front zippered pocket incorporates elastic sleeves for pistol magazines, as well as various places for pens, keys, and change. Between the front and main compartments there is a cleverly hidden pocket lined with hook-and-loop material that is designed to conceal a pistol and allow for easy access. Any number of holsters could be concealed here and allow for a lightning fast draw.

The main compartment is roomy at 11 liters and has a slim partition in the back that is just the perfect size for a tablet. There's also an additional pocket under the back air mesh panel that swallows up a full-sized pistol with ease.

The shoulder strap on the Trek Sling is wide and the air mesh lining makes it very comfortable, even when fully loaded. Whether you prefer right- or left-handed orientation, the strap can be anchored to either side of the pack in seconds. There's even a belt loop on the back to keep it in place, if you should feel the need.

I've had both of these packs in heavy rotation for several months now and not only do they perform well, they still look like new. Both packs are available now in grey, coyote tan, and black through your local Tru-Spec retailer.

Tru-Spec Stealth Backpack

  • Padded air mesh back panel
  • Padded air mesh adjustable shoulder straps with sternum strap
  • Concealed padded zipper pocket built into kidney pad
  • Reinforced and padded grab-and-go carry handle
  • Padded side zippered electronics pocket with headphone pass through channel
  • Fleece lined top zipper pouch
  • Easy access hidden tab pistol pocket with loop for attaching holster
  • Two side zippered storage pockets with external mesh pouch
  • Front zippered pouch with office/organizer panel and external zippered pouch
  • Concealed pass through opening for earphones or hydration tube
  • Dimensions: 17.5 x 8.5 x 16 inches
  • Price: $102.95

Tru-Spec Trek Sling Pack

  • Padded adjustable sling strap with front facing D-rings for adding accessories and two point attachment to allow for easy removal
  • Reinforced grab-and-go carry handle
  • Zippered utility pouch with interior equipment straps and pocket
  • Easy access hidden tab pistol pocket with loop for attaching holster
  • Zippered front pocket with interior magazine sleeves and key chain holder
  • Zippered main compartment with tablet sleeve and concealed pistol pocket with loop to attaching holster
  • Perforated foam back with concealed pistol pocket with loop and heavyweight snap closure
  • Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 10.5 inches
  • Price: $72.95

A.J. George is a patrol sergeant with the Scottsdale (Ariz.) Police Department.

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