Rare thing for me – disassembling the piece of gear and assembling it improved. Now, AUX pack is heavily modified to the degree it can be considered a new pack. Let’s inspect it entirely.
The most important part of backpack is back and straps. Back seems the same, with the seatbelt strap to prevent abrasive action on clothing, but slot for frame sheet is equipped with another pad, making back more solid.
Pack is outfitted with padded straps built with my new method, although I ran out of green faric and had to sew them partially of A-TACS AU.
Pouch attached is admin little one.
Lower straps attachment is cropped to allow it sit lower, to make straps more confortable.
From front, still the signature Y-shape pockets.
One strip of PALs added, mostly for beavertail, less for pouches. Note the top and bottom soft hooks are different, top visible, bottom not. In next generations, I plan to make all hidden.
From side, still no PALs.
Cable ports are modified, look clean ans stylish. Note the difference of height between front and back hooks, illustrated with attached fastener. It was done deliberately, to make bag more slim in case it would sag filled.
Handles added for both sides. Allows to hold it briefcase style, and some more fun with waist/sling bag:
From the bottom, double bottom edge moved from perimeter seam, and finally filled with the same pad as in the back.
For me, now it looks and holds much better. Straps on the bottom protect from abrasion and also allows to (surprise!) attach something.
On the main zipper I made a rigid lip. Really changes the game. Wonder, why it is not used by manufacturers all around the world.
Many changes in the interior. Big pocket on the back now is lined, for ease of use.
The surface of mentioned pocket now is covered with PALs and loop pieces. That rotated PALs are a part of tricky plan, not sure about the success, but let’s give it a try. Anyway, much needed part is placed properly and can hold a water bottle just in its place.
Front now is covered with loop strip and mesh pocket. Simple enough.
Further usage will show the value of modification, but I see very little possibilities for improvement so far.
Do not want too long zipper, it is not the pack to be clamshell-opened. Side PALs – 90% not. Top front pocket? Bottom front pocket (think Jansport)? Maybe.
Ironbound Concepts 