Direct Action Halifax Medium Backpack 40 l - Adaptive Green

I bought this backpack to pair it with the Wisport Zipperfox 42 model. Its big advantage is the expansion options, especially the zippers that allow a module in the AVS standard to be attached quickly. I also view 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 aluminum stays, is part of the frame. It cannot be removed because it has been sewn in permanently, which will make washing the backpack—after all intended for intensive field use—much more difficult and perhaps even impossible. In addition, its curved profile may not fit 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 very well made, using high-quality materials, and the craftsmanship and design are truly world-class. The construction is well thought out. The only downside is the impression that the backpack seems smaller than the declared 40 liters, although that may just be a subjective feeling. Installing the hip belt is a bit tricky, but after removing the Velcro you can easily take off the buckle, which makes things much easier.

A versatile 40-liter backpack, designed with various uses and longer trips up to 72 hours in mind. The materials used for production are high quality, as expected from Direct Action products. It can be opened traditionally from the top or fully unzipped. Equipped with laser-cut PALS panels, AVS zippers for mounting MOLLE accessories and dedicated panels, which makes it easy to expand the backpack and integrate it with plate carriers. The hip belt can be detached and used as a tactical belt, and the straps are contoured with removable padding for comfort. There are also additional pockets, hydration system compatibility, and quick-release feature. The side pockets can fit bottles. It’s equipment intended for professionals. Theoretically, it looks excellent; practice will show how it performs during longer use. The design and build quality 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 zippers work great. However, it is heavy and exceptionally solid. The backpack is rather narrow and tall, quite bulky for a 40-liter model, and it doesn’t stand upright on its own. The ability to add Direct Action panels, such as two extra pockets, makes it look great. Unfortunately, it didn't work for me as equipment for amateur purposes despite the excellent quality and brand reputation. It may be perfect for people looking for a tall, narrow backpack, such as for a car, since it doesn’t take up much space; it opens conveniently like a suitcase; it’s exceptionally durable for tough, long outdoor trips. I rate the quality very highly, but keep in mind that this is a strictly specialized backpack and it won’t suit everyone.