The Vertx EDC Gamut (shown here in Smoke Grey) is functional and fits into an urban setting without screaming “I’m tactical!”
For as long as I can remember I’ve had a sickness for backpacks. I’ve gone through the variety of tactical packs to include Eagle AIII packs in every conceivable color, the popular RAID pack, and countless other brands. One of my longtime favorites was the 5.11 COVRT 18 pack, which had quite a few well thought out features. Build quality wasn’t terrible, but it still left me wanting more. So when Vertx released their EDC Gamut pack, I had to have one. My first impressions after receiving the pack is that the build quality exceeds that of the 5.11 pack by a noticeable margin. It has a semi-flexible frame sheet that helps the pack stand and keeps its shape. Zippers glide smoothly (the 5.11 never had a problem in this regard) and materials are rugged where needed. So what about the design?
Besides the obvious useful features such as the water bottle holders and padded shoulder straps, the Gamut’s designers clearly put some thought into what to build into this pack.
One of my favorite features of the 5.11 pack was the sunglass case located on the top of the bag. It fit my Oakley case well, but also served to hold other little things like USB drives that could be conveniently accessed. I was happy to see the Gamut had a similar pouch on the top of the pack.
The front flap is secured by two zippers that run along the sides and tucks underneath a rubberized lip. The top is secured with Velcro. Pulling the flap down reveals the MOLLE/PALS webbing. The flap can also be secured via straps to hold a helmet or other bulky items. If you want to expose the MOLLE webbing full time, the flap can be tucked beneath the webbing panel as seen below.
One of the most frustrating tasks ever is trying to find a small black object in the bottom of a black bag. Thankfully, the interior of the Gamut is tan. The main compartment is accessible via obvious zippers and there are two snaps, one each at about 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock to restrict the flap from completely opening. This allows you to access nearly anything in the pack with out spilling its contents onto the floor. Multiple mesh compartments and a padded laptop sleeve line the interior of the compartment. Small organizer pockets are inside the top of the front flap as well.
The hidden and padded back panel is also accessible via zippers. Vertx conveniently attached large pull tab to allow the user to quickly access anything in the compartment as needed. The interior is lined with velcro loop to accept variety of pouches or holsters. There is also a sleeve inside where armor can be inserted for ballistic protection, if you don’t mind the added weight.
My least favorite features are the long side accessory pockets that may come in handy, but just seem a bit too narrow to be of much use. But they’re definitely a good spot for pens, business cards, and other admin items. Just don’t overfill or you will interfere with your ability to shove a water bottle into its intended pocket.
So far, I like the Vertx Gamut and plan on using it as my daily pack until it wears out or something better comes along. Overall, everything is well thought out without being too over the top. Price is just under $200 so while it isn’t cheap, it won’t break you either. Check it out at wearvertx.com
You have got to check out the GoRuck line of bags. Very practical and more importantly, very (very, very) durable. Best way to rest one out is fill it with bricks and sign up for one of their Challenge events.
http://www.goruck.com/en/gear#.U-TRXtm9LCQ
Honestly, the Go Ruck bags are way overpriced for what you get. There are many, many competitors on the market, including the awesome vertx gamut. If you want totally bomb-proof look at the LBT 3 day packs, which go on sale a few times a year.