For the past couple of years, I’ve searched for a sleek, functional backpack that I can strap my long range rifle to. A pack that will carry the load I need into the wood-line for hunting or a day at the range. I recently got my hands on a 5.11 Ignitor Backpack that on paper, meets all of my criteria. I had been using a 5.11 Rush 72 for my long range loadout so I’m very familiar with the quality of pack 5.11 produces. The Rush 72 is almost too big for what I needed and at the time of purchase, didn’t offer a way to strap my rifle to it.
With about half the volume of the Rush 72, the 5.11 Ignitor Backpack displaces 26.5 liters. There was no issue fitting my 20-60x spotting scope, Bushnell rangefinder, data book, ammo, Kestrel, magazines, bipod, water, gloves, hat and soft-shell with room for more essentials. An AR-15 used for mid range shooting was also strapped onto the Ignitor Backpack. The description on the 5.11 website eluded to the pack having the capacity to mount a long gun…I was wrong. You’ll need to spend another $50 for the Rush Tier Rifle Sleeve. This accessory is designed to carry a rifle while mounted to the outside of a Rush backpack. For use with the Ignitor Backpack, you will only need the extension for the muzzle. Which begs the question, why wasn’t this small part included in the first place?
Once loaded with about 25lbs of gear and a 10lb rifle, I took off on the maiden voyage. Not long into the trek, I found that more time adjusting the pack was necessary. It was obvious right away that the pack was riding high and not carrying the load on my hips. Additionally, the sternum strap was higher than I’m used to despite being on the lowest adjustment. The ergonomic shoulder straps were well padded and comfortable as was the hip belt. You’ll find a generous amount of molle webbing on the exterior as well as hook-loop for attaching name tapes or morale patches. Finally, there are enough internal and external pockets to organize items such as rifle magazines, radio, phone, first aid items, etc.
5.11 Ignitor Backpack specs courtesy of 511tactical.com
- Overall Dimension: 21”H x 11”L x 9.5”W
- Volume: ~ 1617 cubic inches and 26.5 litres
- 300D ripstop polyester body
- 840D nylon base
- Zephyr suspension system
- Compression straps
- Dual side storage compartments
- Stuff-it pocket
- Hydration compartment
- Adjustable belt panels
- Wrap-around MOLLE- and SlickStick-compatible web platform
- MSRP $174.99
- Rush Tier Rifle Sleeve MSRP $49.99
From the layout of the pockets and zippers to the various lightweight materials used to save weight, my impression of the Ignitor Backpack is top notch. There is so much I like about the 5.11 Ignitor Backpack that I’m going to make every effort to fine tune the fit of this tactical pack. I want to make this pack work so badly due to its perfect volume and features. Over the next month and before the snow starts flying here in Northern Michigan, I plan to use and abuse this pack and get the final verdict out to our readers. Stay tuned…
