Backpack Review: USMC ILBE By Arc'teryx

[Bean Counter]

Alright, fellow bargain hunters--listen up. If you've always wanted a nice, solid internal frame pack with all the heavy duty fixins' but don't want to shell out $400-800+, read on.

In recent years a slew of used military backpacks have been hitting the surplus stores and internet. You may have seen one of these. They were manufactured for the U.S. Marine Corps and most are in used condition. About 250,000 were made if I understand correct. Internal capacity is stated to 4,500cu with an addable "assault pack" that can add up to 1,500cu of capacity. More importantly, the backpack is designed to carry a mind boggling 120 pounds. For more versatility: molle webbing abounds on this pack, allowing attachments in which ever way you might want to access your gear in a hurry.





Shoulder straps and back padding are thick and robust. I carried 50 pound bags and blocks of salt up to 1/2 mile on my last scouting trip several times and the backpack definitely seemed to do the trick well. On the inside, a shelf can be formed to keep the weight up higher. It did not budge under the blocks and bags of salt. Zippers run along the outside of the pack which allow access to the main compartment, either above or below the shelf whether or not it is deployed.



The waist strap is somewhat basic but gets the job done well. Basic means not a lot of hocus pocus velcro straps for micro adjustments, it does not mean flimsy. This belt is SOLID.  I'm guessing this is standard for all internal frame backpacks but if not--it attaches directly to the two internal frame poles and is further secured by a heavy patch of velcro.



Rounding out the bottom of the pack, there is a mesh area. I'm not sure the purpose behind this design but if you're packing out meat it should allow for increased ventilation. Disappointingly, the bottom of the backpack isn't any further reinforced than the rest of the material. Don't get me wrong, the fabric all over the pack is solid but I would have liked to see some additional layers of cordura or rubber for my spastic hands to drop this pack onto rocks.



Moving to the outside of the pack, there is an external marsupial type pouch to add up to a 100oz water bladder. I am not used to this so I found the whole setup awkward. I have not attempted to use it in the field. Also my particular backpack did not have a little clip thingy to attach  your hydration hose to the shoulder straps, but I'm guessing that can be added if they all don't come with one.








Moving to the side of the pack, you'll find the ability to add a scoped rifle on either or both sides. In addition, there are nice handles with a comfortable, heavy duty rubber grip.



To top it all off, there is a lid that attaches by clasp and therefore can be completely removed if desired a drawstring enclosure below the lid allows for the main compartment to be tightened up. The lid is where we find the only smaller enclosure on the pack, which runs the entire size of the lid and is enclosed by a heavy duty zipper and again made easy to grasp with a gloved hand with that no nonsense rubber grip.



Buying guide & Recommendations: if you're on the fence about shelling out the bigger bucks for a new pack, I would definitely start with this one first. If you don't like it, you can always resell it. Since you're buying used to begin with you don't stand to loose too much money. FWIW, AFAIK, the Marines paid $600/ea for these. The biggest risk with this backpack is not whether it is up to the task or even whether you'll like it, its the wide variety of condition you might find the pack in. They range from gently used like the one I fortunately got my hands on, to some being heavily beaten and signs of wear from the fabric to the clasps. I would try to avoid such heavily used ones even at the cost of paying for the higher end ones out there. Expect to pay $100-200 for this bargain pack on [anti-gun] eBay. I would try to either get some sort of condition guarantee or return period when buying on eBay. if you can find it surplus then even better as you can go in and finger it yourself.

Read the full "about" http://ilbepack.com/about/

Links to the actual manual are here: http://ilbepack.com/category/manual/

Full disclosure:

• I own this backpack and I'm happy with it
• I have no financial interest in the sale of this pack or any of its competitors

You have question? You post long time...

[Fl0und3rz]

Great review.  I have been wondering about these.  Arc'teryx makes a solid product.  I have a 80 or 90 L pack and the belt, construction, suspension, etc. are no joke.  These seem a little more versatile with the molle webbing and ability to add a rifle to the side of the pack. 

The only downside is the lack of ability to add a holster to the belt via molle or other attachment mechanism such as the Eberle packs and others. 

I might still give them a look for the price.

[ctwiggs1]

That price is insanely good.  On Midwayusa.com for $80. 

I will probably end up buying 2 of these.  Thanks for the lead

Curtis

[Bean Counter]

No problem, Curtis. Let us know what your opinion is of it once you kick around with it a little.

[Bmcox86]

Is this the same one?

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/916408/military-surplus-ilbe-rucksack-nylon-marpat

[ctwiggs1]

It's very similar to what I used in the army. Great price and I already know I will love it.

[Bean Counter]

Is this the same one?

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/916408/military-surplus-ilbe-rucksack-nylon-marpat

Bmcox,

Yes, that is the same one. IDK where the name "Marpat" comes from. 

If I were doing that, and they allow returns, I would maybe buy two or three, keep the nicest one, and send the others back. Capitalize the shipping cost to yourself as a part of the backpack.

[JoeE]

Is this the same one?

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/916408/military-surplus-ilbe-rucksack-nylon-marpat

Bmcox,

Yes, that is the same one. IDK where the name "Marpat" comes from. 

If I were doing that, and they allow returns, I would maybe buy two or three, keep the nicest one, and send the others back. Capitalize the shipping cost to yourself as a part of the backpack.

Marpat is the Marine Corps digital camo pattern. It stands for "Marine Pattern".

[Bean Counter]

 

[Stickerbush]

Looks like a steal to me, USMC is all I needed to hear! I've always been skeptical of paying big money for these back country packs the one I have used for several years backpacking and was 30 dollars brand new at the bag shop in Leavenworth. I'm sure if I had the money I would go high end though, but cheap options exist for the budget minded 

[Bean Counter]

   for Hernon

[lamrith]

Bean, Any update on how yours is doing?  have you had a chance to load it up real good with weight?

I have been skimming pack threads and many people talk about the importance of lift straps, I do not think this bag has those, but it spreads load over hips ok anyway?

Be nice to know it can handle packing out a Elk qtr, or maybe a deer out even if I can't..

[Bean Counter]

An uncut elk quarter aint' going in this bag--sorry to disappoint. Deer quarter maybe.

How much weight is it really practical to carry? I figure between the weight of the pack, trail cam, some water, and 50 pounds of salt, i'm easily at 65 pounds. Average adult male being some 180-200 pounds, that's about 1/3 body weight. At 10,000 foot elevation it seems like you're asking for it to hike around with 100 pounds. I have a few more scouting trips yet and may take another block or bag of salt. I'll try to capture a photo of it loaded up and on my back then.

[lamrith]

An uncut elk quarter aint' going in this bag--sorry to disappoint. Deer quarter maybe.

How much weight is it really practical to carry? I figure between the weight of the pack, trail cam, some water, and 50 pounds of salt, i'm easily at 65 pounds. Average adult male being some 180-200 pounds, that's about 1/3 body weight. At 10,000 foot elevation it seems like you're asking for it to hike around with 100 pounds. I have a few more scouting trips yet and may take another block or bag of salt. I'll try to capture a photo of it loaded up and on my back then.

I was referring to me not being in the shape I want to be yet, chances are a good bag will be able to haul heavy weight better than me at this point. 
But I think your 1st sentence covers the important part in that this is not a rig that could do duty as a meat hauler for elk very well.  And that is not a bad thing, as it was never designed with that use in mind and is still a great pack.

[fillthefreezer]

Average adult male being some 180-200 pounds, that's about 1/3 body weight. At 10,000 foot elevation it seems like you're asking for it to hike around with 100 pounds.

just keep in mind, for some people(me), and where and how they hunt, its imperative they be able to haul, well over 100lbs(for me its more like 70-80% of my body weight) for 5, 10, maybe 15 miles. others would never even consider it. all things to consider when talking packs...

[Special T]

I bought one of these for my brother. There is a company in Lynden that sells them for pretty reasonable. I think its $150ish for both the main pack and battle pack.

If i didnt already have one Id buy one...

[lamrith]

I bought one of these for my brother. There is a company in Lynden that sells them for pretty reasonable. I think its $150ish for both the main pack and battle pack.

If i didnt already have one Id buy one...

I saw those on cl.  $170 but think includes bladder too.

[Bean Counter]

just keep in mind, for some people(me), and where and how they hunt, its imperative they be able to haul, well over 100lbs(for me its more like 70-80% of my body weight) for 5, 10, maybe 15 miles. others would never even consider it. all things to consider when talking packs...

Have you actually stepped on a scale with 100 lbs on your back?  Then taken that very same pack load on those 10-15 miles? I'm in dammed good shape and there's no way I could do that.

You could always toss two 50 lb bags of salt in your backpack to try.

Don't mean to start a  but I just can't believe that. 

[SilkOnTheDrySide]

just keep in mind, for some people(me), and where and how they hunt, its imperative they be able to haul, well over 100lbs(for me its more like 70-80% of my body weight) for 5, 10, maybe 15 miles. others would never even consider it. all things to consider when talking packs...

Have you actually stepped on a scale with 100 lbs on your back?  Then taken that very same pack load on those 10-15 miles? I'm in dammed good shape and there's no way I could do that.

You could always toss two 50 lb bags of salt in your backpack to try.

Don't mean to start a  but I just can't believe that. 

We both did it last year.  And plan on doing it again multiple times this year.  Half a bear each, plus camp and hide one trip.  We both regularly train with over 100 pounds.  In fact I loaded mine up with a 124 pounds on our local mountain the other day. 

At 40-45 pounds of camp+water, 40-50 pound hide and  40/50 pounds of meat, I was probably around 125/30 packing out my bear last year.  Scott's pack was pretty similar in weight.

Maybe you should train harder? 

I'll tell you what though.  I wouldn't put that kind of weight in the ILBE...Which is basically the point FTF is trying to make.  High quality packs allow you to pack more weight further because of fit, function and form. 

[Bean Counter]

Maybe you should train harder? 

maybe 

Don't mean to impugne your integrity. I know sometimes distances feel stretched out with lots of weight sometimes. I can, have, and will continue to carry 75-80 pounds a number of times and about a mile, maybe two, but I'll stick with my assertion that 100-125 lbs for up to 15 miles is a tall tale. Drug mules from Mexico, high on amphetamines, don't even attempt that.

[b.roberts]

Bean Counter, those guys do it.  Not all of us can.  I do the high hunt for fun, and  my twelve year old daughter has come with for the past 3 years.  That means I am carrying a comfortable camp for 2 at about 70+ lbs.  Each of the last 3 trips have been 4 miles or more.  If I can do that, I don't doubt others that actually train and have more expensive equipment ability to do much more.

BTW, the ilbe pack can handle weight over 100lbs.  I can't carry  it without pain, but 20 year-old marines can.  I like the ilbe pack, it's tough and cheap.  But after trying it out, I realized I needed a taller pack where the load lifter straps could pull the shoulder harness off my shoulder a bit.

[b.roberts]

Forgot to say that I switched from the ilbe to a rei xt85.  It isn't nearly as bomb proof as the ilbe.   However,  the frame and suspension carry weight much more comfortably than the ilbe.

[MountainWalk]

Yes, their doo doo has muscles in it too.  But, what kind of animals are they tagging?

[Special T]

While i Didnt use an IBE I carried a 80lb pack for 115 miles.
I also had a Short haul About 4-5 miles with a 125 ish pack.
I used a Mountain Smith Backpack... Pretty sure it would be difficult or near impossible today for me to repeat.

[SilkOnTheDrySide]

Maybe you should train harder? 

maybe 

Don't mean to impugne your integrity. I know sometimes distances feel stretched out with lots of weight sometimes. I can, have, and will continue to carry 75-80 pounds a number of times and about a mile, maybe two, but I'll stick with my assertion that 100-125 lbs for up to 15 miles is a tall tale. Drug mules from Mexico, high on amphetamines, don't even attempt that.

[jackelope]

The man juice is flowing now!! The ILBE pack is a well built, tough, inexpensive pack for those that can't afford or don't want to drop the big $$ on a top tier pack. May not be as comfortable but I'd rather use it than nothing if thats what it came down to.

[jjhunter]

I can't wait to see all of these packs full of critters in a couple months!

[ctwiggs1]

I have several times with a pack similar to this one.   We were required to set the pack on a hanging scale to make sure we were carrying regulation weight.  It's a different mentality for sure.  It's definitely not a comfort haul, it's more of an "embrace the suck" moment.   Keep  in mind also the best way to get better at rucking is just to go ruck.

My wife is in great shape but a 35lb pack put her down for the count last weekend because she just wasn't ready for it. My fault - should have started her lighter.

Be safe - anything can go wrong when you have that much weight on.

[jackelope]

I can't wait to see all of these packs full of critters in a couple months!

I just drag mine out whole.

[SilkOnTheDrySide]

The man juice is flowing now!! The ILBE pack is a well built, tough, inexpensive pack for those that can't afford or don't want to drop the big $$ on a top tier pack. May not be as comfortable but I'd rather use it than nothing if thats what it came down to.

At this point we really aren't talking about the ability of the pack.  The pack is a viable option for someone for a 100 bucks, but IMO, there's better options out there in that price range. 

We are talking about being called out for "tall tales."

Without trying to be overly confrontational, there's a contingent of people on the internet who have a mindset that if "they" can't do something, no one can.  The human body is capable of doing amazing things, and with proper training, dedication, and mental fortitude, you can achieve much more then you think is possible.

I'll say this Bean, you're more then welcome to come train with Scott and I (And occasionally Brock) any day of the week.  We'll load up 100 pounds for you and do and up and over and back on Mt Peak in Enumclaw, which comes out to 5.4 miles.  Keep up if you can.

Though if you want to do this, you're going to have to wait until Scott and I get back from Colorado next week from our scouting trip.

[Bean Counter]

At this point we really aren't talking about the ability of the pack.  The pack is a viable option for someone for a 100 bucks, but IMO, there's better options out there in that price range. 

Why don't you write up a full review for us to read? Seems as though its easier and far more enjoyable to belittle on any other gear that isn't something you use, as if your self esteem is connected to what you use or more narcissistically, that everything you touch turns to gold. I don't care whether people carry a backpack at all--I just found this to be a good bargain and being that its almost exclusively available second hand, it didn't feel too overly commercialized for me to review it. Truth be told I was able to score mine for less than $50. If you're proud to spend lots of money on great gear--good for you. To each his own. This review and most of my style is geared (pardon the pun) towards spending less where practical and stuffing the rest into my retirement accounts 

We are talking about being called out for "tall tales."

Without trying to be overly confrontational, there's a contingent of people on the internet who have a mindset that if "they" can't do something, no one can.  The human body is capable of doing amazing things, and with proper training, dedication, and mental fortitude, you can achieve much more then you think is possible.

I agree that many people sell themselves short, especially those who watch too much t.v. and live a sedentary lifestyle. I don't suppose its impossible to carry 125 pounds of stuff 10-15 miles, but more importantly whether its a wise decision. Don't let me stand in your way. Maybe we'll dig up this post again in 20 years and see how its working out for ya. The risk of injury and long term degradation to your knee cartilage and back will catch up to you sooner rather than later if you make a long term habit out of it. There are even paradoxical internal health risks such as myocardial fibrosis or even sudden cardiac arrest example Alberto Salazar. I found it odd that he didn't discuss it much in his autobiography. I ran a few marathons back in college and the 200 mile Hood to Coast relay in 2007 just to check the box and say I've been there, done that... but doing that on a monthly basis as a few "hardcore" runners do is just foolish. History indicates that they will likely have a lower quality of health later on in life, not greater.

I'll say this Bean, you're more then welcome to come train with Scott and I (And occasionally Brock) any day of the week.  We'll load up 100 pounds for you and do and up and over and back on Mt Peak in Enumclaw, which comes out to 5.4 miles.  Keep up if you can.

Though if you want to do this, you're going to have to wait until Scott and I get back from Colorado next week from our scouting trip.

You don't want to be overly confrontational... you just want to challenge me to a hiking duel? 

I no longer live in Washington but rather the Southwest US. I can do 80-100 pounds for 5 miles.  Particularly on Washington's soft, tame trails. Perhaps not as fast as you but the mere fact that you want to make it a race speaks to your mentation in the discussion. Its going to be 107 here tomorrow and I'm going out scouting in the afternoon after church time. So I will reciprocate the invitation: how about you join me for a hike here after you're done in Colorado and we pet the various cacti you never knew existed. Good luck with your scouting trip.

Good day to all.

[SilkOnTheDrySide]

Look dude,

The only reason I even posted on this thread is because you called out my hunting partner on his statement.  You stated yourself that you could do 80 lbs for a mile, maybe two, not the review of the pack.  You made a statement that might be true for YOU concerning what YOU deem is an acceptable weight to be able to carry around in the backcountry, while FTF stated that for SOME people when talking packs, there's other things we look at.

Now you're totally capable of doing 100 lbs? 

Cool story.

I never challenged you to a duel, I was inviting you to see what you deem "impossible." 

I also think you're worrying about some pretty silly things in the health arena.  For the vast, vast majority of American's, what they eat during the average day is probably significantly more detrimental to there health then training for the back country. 

Never have I on any threads on Hunt-WA stated that you must have the best gear available.  Some guys come on here and state that budget isn't an issue, and so I recommend what I've experienced, and why.  Others I steer them in a different direction if I have an opinion on the issue.

I'm done with this thread, as I really don't feel like there's anything else to be gained other then two grown men arguing on the internet.  I hope you enjoy your pack, and good luck to you this season.

[Bean Counter]

Road access is good in most of NM and AZ. I've rarely been more than a mile or two from a road and have carried out all my hunting gear plus either quarters in the arms or carrying a dressed out deer with my buddy (two legs per hunter,etc). I think that conservatively/fairly estimated at 75-80 pounds each for my buddy and I. I've carried +/- the same amount solely on a pack for much longer distances. Enough detail?? I look forward to reading the details about your 15 mile trips with 125-130 pounds.

Kudos for sticking up for your buddy.

[SCRUBS]

At this point we really aren't talking about the ability of the pack.  The pack is a viable option for someone for a 100 bucks, but IMO, there's better options out there in that price range. 

I`d  be (maybe others as well)  interested in hearing what the better options would be in the $100 price range.  It`s nice to have options.

[SilkOnTheDrySide]

At this point we really aren't talking about the ability of the pack.  The pack is a viable option for someone for a 100 bucks, but IMO, there's better options out there in that price range. 

I`d  be (maybe others as well)  interested in hearing what the better options would be in the $100 price range.  It`s nice to have options.

Here is the list FTF stated on another thread.

It's a pretty good stratification of packs according to prove range.

1. sleeper deals. packs like older dana's. arcteryx bora etc.
2. cheaper externals like the cabelas alaskan. relatively durable but not ideal for hunting with all the time
3. eberle, badlands, tenzing (if theyre even still around) and various packs one would find at rei.
all of this price range will have major tradeoffs. weight, durability, comfort with moderate loads and heavy loads. the first few gens of kuiu icons could possibly fit into here.
a newcomer category that i feel was previously a void in the market..
4. new kuiu's, exo. now the exo may end up proving itself to be a hell of a value and compete at the upper level, but i figure it here because of price and its shorts history for now. possibly some tradeoffs while still being a more budget conscious option. should expect very good comfort with all but HEAVY loads.
im not sure where to put mystery ranch. solid packs. too expensive for the lower classes, but IMO, too heavy to compete at the next level.
5. kifaru and stone glacier. utmost strength and comfort at even the heaviest of loads. either ultralight or very light for the features.

this is just my opinion. 

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[SCRUBS]

At this point we really aren't talking about the ability of the pack.  The pack is a viable option for someone for a 100 bucks, but IMO, there's better options out there in that price range. 

I`d  be (maybe others as well)  interested in hearing what the better options would be in the $100 price range.  It`s nice to have options.

Here is the list FTF stated on another thread.

It's a pretty good stratification of packs according to prove range.

1. sleeper deals. packs like older dana's. arcteryx bora etc.
2. cheaper externals like the cabelas alaskan. relatively durable but not ideal for hunting with all the time
3. eberle, badlands, tenzing (if theyre even still around) and various packs one would find at rei.
all of this price range will have major tradeoffs. weight, durability, comfort with moderate loads and heavy loads. the first few gens of kuiu icons could possibly fit into here.
a newcomer category that i feel was previously a void in the market..
4. new kuiu's, exo. now the exo may end up proving itself to be a hell of a value and compete at the upper level, but i figure it here because of price and its shorts history for now. possibly some tradeoffs while still being a more budget conscious option. should expect very good comfort with all but HEAVY loads.
im not sure where to put mystery ranch. solid packs. too expensive for the lower classes, but IMO, too heavy to compete at the next level.
5. kifaru and stone glacier. utmost strength and comfort at even the heaviest of loads. either ultralight or very light for the features.

this is just my opinion. 

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thank you sir, I appreciate it.

[timberghost72]

Bringing this back. @Bean Counter I was wondering if you had an updated review of this pack after a few years of use and if you like it or not? I have been looking at these and it appears the current new ones now have load lifters on them.

[Magnum_Willys]

they weigh 8# empty ! Thats an extra 5# that could be a spotter and tripod compared to lighter options. 

[ctwiggs1]

Oh man what a few years experience will do

Silk is right and I was wrong about everything. 

I am 100% confident I can haul a deer or elk out with this pack.  I am 1000% certain I don't want to, and would rather with a higher end pack. 

Much love man and thanks for staying patient for those of us who honestly don't know.

[SilkOnTheDrySide]

Oh man what a few years experience will do

Silk is right and I was wrong about everything. 

I am 100% confident I can haul a deer or elk out with this pack.  I am 1000% certain I don't want to, and would rather with a higher end pack. 

Much love man and thanks for staying patient for those of us who honestly don't know.

I was a d*%^ a few years ago.

It's that time of year to start ramping up the training again!


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