Direct Action Halifax Medium Backpack 40 l - Ranger Green

I bought this backpack to pair it with the Wisport Zipperfox 42 model. Its major advantage is the expansion options, especially the zips that allow a module in the AVS standard to be attached quickly. I also see the use of plastic plates in the shoulder straps as a plus, as this should clearly improve comfort during long periods of carrying a heavily loaded backpack while also allowing the use of thinner, less heat-retaining cushioning foam. The overall workmanship makes a good impression, and the number and placement of the bar-tack stitches indicate that the backpack should easily withstand at least several years of use. The capacity matches the claims — the main compartment fits a winter sleeping bag, such as the Carinthia Brenta or a similar one, but beyond that there is already very little room left. A downside, however, is the stiffening back plate, which, along with three aluminium stays, is part of the frame. It cannot be removed because it has been sewn in permanently, which will make washing the backpack—intended, after all, for intensive field use—much more difficult and perhaps even impossible. In addition, its curved profile may not suit every user's build well. Another drawback is the quick-release buckles for emergency doffing of the backpack. Although the solution itself is an interesting compromise between a ROC buckle and a Fastex buckle, under load they produce a squeaking sound. I would not call this a genuinely dangerous noise, considering the ordinary sounds that accompany moving through the woods, but after just two hours of testing in a fairly quiet forest, it proved irritating enough to deserve a mention in the review. In the context of the design assumptions, another downside is that, unlike Wisport, Direct Action (Helikon) manufactures its backpacks in Vietnam.

The backpack is excellently made, using high-quality materials, and the workmanship and design are truly world-class. The construction is well thought out. The only downside is that the backpack seems smaller than the declared 40 litres, although this might just be a subjective impression. Mounting the hip belt is a bit troublesome, but after removing the Velcro you can easily take off the buckle, which makes it much easier.

A versatile backpack with a capacity of 40 litres, designed with a variety of uses and longer trips of up to 72 hours in mind. The materials used for production are of high quality, as is typical for Direct Action products. It can be opened traditionally from the top or fully unzipped. Equipped with laser-cut PALS panels, AVS zips for attaching MOLLE accessories and dedicated panels, which makes it easy to expand the backpack and integrate it with a plate carrier. The hip belt can be detached and used as a tactical belt, while the shoulder straps are contoured and the pads can be removed for comfort. There are also additional pockets, hydration system compatibility and quick-release. The side pockets can fit bottles. This is equipment intended for professionals. Theoretically, it looks excellent—practical use will show how it performs during extended usage. The design and quality of workmanship can be recommended without hesitation!

I returned the backpack because it turned out to be too advanced for my needs. The stitching is very meticulous and the zips work perfectly. However, it is heavy and extremely sturdy. The backpack is rather narrow and tall, quite bulky for 40 litres, and it does not stand up on its own when placed on the ground. The option to attach Direct Action panels, such as two pockets, makes it look great. Unfortunately, it did not work for me as gear for amateur use despite the excellent quality and brand reputation. It could be ideal for those looking for a tall, narrow backpack, e.g. for a car, because it doesn’t take up much space; it opens like a suitcase; it is exceptionally durable for tough, long field trips. I rate the quality very highly, but it’s worth remembering that this is a strictly specialist backpack and won’t suit everyone.