Eagle Industries is a world leader in the production of top-quality individual equipment products for the military, homeland security, and law-enforcement agencies. The Crossover Pack is one that not many people know about. I contacted Eagle Industries to get their thoughts behind the design, and basically, they designed it to accommodate the exact needs of what they call the “end operator,” or end user.
I’ve been using this pack as my everyday, back-and-forth-to-work bag as well as my carry-on travel bag for a few months now. One of the things I really like about it is the fact that it doesn’t have a bunch of pouches hanging off the outside; it’s a very straightforward, simple pack. It does, however, have a lot of webbing on the outside to attach pouches if you choose to do so.
On the inside of the pack lid are two permanently attached zipper pouches. for my personal setup, I use the top pocket for medical supplies and the second pocket for other EDC items. If I’m taking this on a day hike or overnight in the woods, I typically use the second pocket for smaller items such as a headlamp, spare batteries, fire-starting tools, a multitool, etc. Behind the top pocket is a Velcro-closure document pocket. This is ideal for maps and a compass.
Moving to the interior back panel, you’ll find a narrow slip pocket to support a 100-ounce hydration bladder as well as an admin panel to hold other small items. I personally don’t use the admin panel as it would be difficult to get to if you had this pack fully loaded.
Separate from the interior is a padded sleeve for a laptop if you choose to use this as an everyday work bag. I have a large 15″ laptop, and it fits in with quite a bit of room to spare. If I’m taking this out into the woods on a hike or overnight trip, I will typically use that padded laptop sleeve to store my tarp or emergency shelter.
The shoulder straps are of great quality and comfortable. The sternum strap is also very functional when you start carrying a heavier load.
On the bottom of the pack are four loops for attaching a blanket, bedroll, or shelter. That leaves a majority of the interior available for other items. All in all, if packed correctly, you could use this pack as a four-day pack.
Specifications:
- Inside zipper pockets for smaller miscellaneous items
- Laptop accessory pockets
- Padded zippered laptop compartment
- Convenient key clip
- Elastic organizing loops
- Fully adjustable/removable sternum strap
- Dimensions: 16 x 7 x 21″
This pack can be purchased from Natchez Shooting for around $40! This is a bargain, and a great way for the average guy/civilian to get their hands on a quality piece of gear without breaking the bank.
-Scott
