Dimensions (main compartment) : 18" (High)
Tapers from 16" wide at base to 6" wide at top.
Total Capacity : Over 1600 cu. in.
Hydration (two) : Up to a 100oz/3L CamelBak reservoir (rear hydration pocket), 32oz/1L Nalgene (side pouch)
The Monsoon certainly is a unique design appealing more to the urban market, but certainly built tough enough for more demanding tasks. The teardrop shape is a little deceptive in which one can fit more than most think upon first impressions. As expected from the gearslinger name, this is a thick 1 strap shoulder bag design. The first outer flap is a little odd offhand, but allows for a platform to store bedrolls and similar items. The compression straps then can be under or ontop as desired. One side of the pack has PALS webbing and a small mesh sleeve while the other has a nice big Nalgene pouch. Next comes the double zipper main area which has extra sleeves and slim zipper compartments. Also inside is a side pouch for electronics like Ipods and nearby above is a cool rubber headphone porthole. In the far back is the hydration pocket area which has the usual loop velcro to allow for accessories. This pack is generally well padded, but I feel it is made for larger people. I am unable to tighten it to be snug and it rides a bit low. I will see if I can mod the main strap to be smaller soon for a better fit to my monkey size. The 2" velcro'd webbing on the front is for Maxpedition's sheath accessories. Currently available in Black, OD Green, Khaki, and ACU.
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Monsoon Mod 1-
The shoulder strap is pretty long so works well on big people, but not so great on small dudes such as myself. So I got motivated one day and cut off the end of the shoulder strap and sewed it back on resulting in a shorter main strap with bonus padding to boot. It is hard to see, but I also de-stitched the strap connection point on the waist area and moved it back. Now I am able to tighten up the main shoulder strap much more securely and get a generally higher ride as desired.
