My wife claims I have a purse collection. I keep trying to explain to her that they’re not purses; they are tactical bags. Undeterred, she maintains they’re purses despite my protests. Given the large shoe and purse collection she has, that’s the pot calling the kettle black. But I digress. I have a thing for tactical bags (no, they are not purses) and Maxpedition has a great reputation for making them. Today we’re reviewing the Maxpedition Mongo Versipack.
Maxpedition Background
Based in Los Angeles, Maxpedition has made tactical nylon products since 2003. Their product line is too voluminous to list here, but they have backpacks, sling bags, versipacks, dump pouches, and all sorts of other pouches and bags imaginable. They’re used by military, law enforcement, and private citizens daily to carry all manner of gear and items.
They actually have a lab in which all their products are subjected to harsh tests to ensure they will last over the long haul. I know this works, because I have a few Maxpedition bags still going strong that I’ve used for close to 20 years. I’m here to tell you this gear lasts a long, long time. I haven’t been able to kill any of it yet. So, when my editor gave me the chance to test out another Maxpedition Versipack, I nearly fell out of my chair in my haste to say “yes” to the offer.
Maxpedition Mongo Versipack
The Mongo Versipack is so awesome, I don’t even know where to begin. It’s large enough to be considered carry-on luggage for a flight (I’m not exaggerating). At the same time, it’s not so large that it’s ridiculous and intrusive. Maxpedition somehow made it streamlined just enough to carry a respectable amount of stuff and not make it unmanageable.
The main compartment will fit a lot of gear and items. And the pouches….oh, the pouches! They’re everywhere! Looking for all the pouches and hidden compartments in this bag is akin to going on an Easter egg hunt. Finding them is exciting.
Specs
The Mongo Versipack’s overall weight is 2.8 pounds and total volume is 716.4 inches (I was shocked when I saw the volume). The main interior pocket is 12 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 9.5 inches high. It’s quite generously sized. The main compartment has a cord cinch storm collar in the event you want extra protection for your contents.
Just behind the main compartment is another interior pocket (they call it a slip pocket) that’s 12 inches long and 6 inches high. This one is convenient for holding books, magazines, or even concealing a handgun. A laptop or iPad would also fit in their quite handily. It’s lined with loop (fuzzy) Velcro material. You could attach a holster to the inside of it and it would hold the holster in place if set up for Velcro.
I’ll refrain from listing every single pouch’s dimensions because, frankly, you’d likely skip over them from getting bored. There are seven interior/exterior pockets that are either zippered, sleeved, or meshed. There are also five elastic organizers. On the side, there’s a cinch pouch that accepts a 32 ounce/1 liter water bottle or radio (this one comes in very handy). Along the bottom of the bag, there are three additional PALS channels for attaching additional gear. The lid securing the main compartment has a spacious zipper pocket. Above that, a zipper secures a large external pouch. Suffice to say, there are pouches galore.
Materials
Maxpedition uses excellent materials in their gear. The Mongo Versipack is made from 1000-Denier water- and abrasion-resistant lightweight ballistic nylon fabric. A triple polyurethane coating makes it water resistant. The webbing is high tensile strength nylon. The threading is also high tensile strength nylon, which is stronger than the industry standard. Internal seams are taped and finished.
Each zipper features a paracord zipper pull. It’s this sort of attention to detail that makes these bags the Cadillac of bags. Stress points are double-stitched for extra strength. Zippers are high-strength YKK zippers. A Teflon fabric protector repels grime and dirt.
There are also several fields on the outside for attaching Velcro patches. So much so, you can advertise your thoughts and feelings to others. This bag is every bit as sturdy as my other Maxpedition bags. They’re all supremely durable and wearing very well. I’ve no doubt whatsoever the Mongo Versipack will last for decades.
Straps
The main shoulder strap is made from two-inch webbing and can be adjusted from 33 to 56 inches (maximum) long. The shoulder strap includes a two-inch wide, non-slip shoulder pad. The main strap has a two-inch quick release buckle in case you have to ditch the rig quickly. There is also a metal snap clip attachment point for clipping keys or other items. On the left base of the strap attachment, there is a 6-channel PALS webbing point for attaching additional gear.
A one-inch waist strap goes around the padded rear of the bag for securing to your waist. It attaches via a quick-release buckle for easy on/off. This is nice for keeping the bag snug to the body if moving fast. It won’t flop around. It keeps your load secure and prevents the bag from beating the wearer. It’s also widely adjustable.
Hauling Gear in the Mongo Versipack
I use my Maxpedition bags for a ton of different tasks, rarely configuring them for a specific, exclusive task (although I have one dedicated as a “Get Home” bag for my vehicle). Accordingly, they cover a wide range of missions.
Just after I got this bag, a family member was moving into an assisted living facility. I needed to transport a ton of items from this person’s house to their new home. I figured I’d see how well the Mongo Versipack would stand up to the task. After stuffing that bag full numerous times, I’m happy to report it was perfectly up to the task. On one of the trips, I estimate I stuffed at least 20 pounds of items into the pack. It was comfortable and distributed the weight well. I also managed to fit a half case of small spring water bottles into the main compartment. I could have fit some more bottles had I really wanted to push the envelope.
Part of this bag’s charm is you can store full-sized magazines or books in it. The slip compartment just behind the main compartment is especially perfect for this task. Sometimes I’m out and about and, if I’m waiting for an appointment, I might like to take a book or magazine along. This pocket accommodates them with no sweat. Creature comforts such as this just make a person feel warm and fuzzy.
Other Uses for the Mongo Versipack
I’ve heard some people using this bag as a “tactical” diaper bag because it holds so many items. It will also easily fit a laptop computer or iPad with many additional accessories. The padding protects your electronics, so that’s a plus.
I’ll definitely take it hiking with me next time I go out. The pocket for the very large water bottle makes taking refreshments along a simple matter. Some snack bars will fit into the many pockets or pouches. Other survival items, such as fire starting gear, will fit into the various pouches too. I could easily bring a shelter along.
Photographers would love this as a camera bag; they’d certainly not be wanting for space and compartments. The Mongo could also make a great medical kit bag. As a range bag, I think it would be stellar. Honestly, this bag’s uses are limited only by the imagination. It’s large enough to fill multiple roles.
Final Thoughts
Given the Mongo Versipack’s generous space, it can fulfill many roles — from diaper bag to a hiking day pack or computer bag. It can carry a considerable load while still remaining comfortable to carry. The well thought out shoulder and waist straps really go a long way in contributing to the comfort.
All the pouches and compartments are outstanding for keeping various items, including small ones, well-organized. The streamlined and reasonably-sized Mongo isn’t excessively bulky and cumbersome. Maxpedition really hit a nice balance of size and utility with this bag.
Finally, the quality materials and assembly guarantee this piece of gear will be functional for a very long time to come. It’s extremely rugged and will withstand a fair amount of abuse. The Mongo Versipack is a great buy available from GunMag Warehouse for $194.99.
And, remember, it’s not a purse!
