best-sling-backpack

The 8 Best Tactical Sling Backpacks in The Market For 2024

Tactical backpacks have been used widely for their multi-purpose applications. They are used by travelers, hikers, hunters, emergency personnel, students, adventurers, and military and law enforcement officials. There are many products in the market and it can be difficult to choose the best tactical sling backpack.

Tactical sling backpacks are growing in popularity because they offer the option to keep your gear close to your chest or across your body. You don’t have to worry about your hands being engaged. Most sling backpacks come with the option to adjust shoulder straps. You will not regret buying a tactical sling backpack regardless of your needs.

WHAT IS A SLING BACKPACK?

Sling backpacks are easier to handle than the average backpack and larger than most messenger bags. The best sling bags come with padded and breathable back panels to ensure you don’t get hot and sweaty. Sling backpacks have a streamlined design with a single shoulder strap allowing you to hang the bag across your body.

Tactical sling backpacks come with many straps, pockets, and hooks without the weight or bulk of travel backpacks. You can easily use them as EDC messenger bags or daypacks.

Backpacks are liked by people since they can hold all their gear in one place. Messenger bags stay at the side and offer ease of access to the things inside. Sling backpacks are the best of both worlds. They are large enough to carry all your essentials while offering an easy way to keep a better eye on things and pull out whatever you need at a moment’s notice.

Sling backpacks offer swift access and are convenient with multiple outside pockets and internal compartments depending on the design. They are lightweight which makes them an easy companion for daily adventures and long journeys.

These backpacks may not have the amount of storage space that comes with standard backpacks. However, they do offer a sleek and useful way to carry your necessary and essential belongings. The accessibility, durability, and comfort present in the best tactical sling backpack set them apart from other traditional packs.

HOW TO CHOOSE A GREAT TACTICAL SLING BACKPACK

There are several types of sling backpacks on offer. Each product is different from the next in terms of colors, styles, and sizes. The best tactical sling backpack would be as versatile, practical, and stylish as you are. These are a few things to consider while choosing a product:

PRICE

Price can be a huge purchase determining factor since sling-style backpacks can easily range from $25 to $300. You need to identify your main purpose in buying this backpack and the kind of use you are looking to get from it. Will you use it frequently or once a year during the hunting season?

Generally, the price goes up as the quality gets better and more features to get added. You should not worry about the price if you are trying to get more use out of your backpack. The more basic or cheaper models are nothing more than daypacks. Sling-style packs are a lot like other survival and outdoor recreation items – you will get exactly what you pay for.

You should consider spending more if you are looking for a tactical backpack that offers more features and lasts longer.

MOLLE COMPATIBILITY

MOLLE compatibility refers to a webbing feature that can be added to your backpack. This allows your pack to add more accessories and carry more gear. MOLLE webbing provides the option to add compartments, straps, and other personalized features to a tactical slingshot backpack.

Military elites tend to rely heavily on MOLLE webbing since each mission requires individual and customized setups. One of the major benefits of purchasing a backpack with MOLLE webbing is that you can mold it to fit your needs. You can add compartments or hooks to carry activity-specific gear.

You don’t need to purchase separate backpacks when you are headed on a snowmobile trip or an elk hunt. It pays to purchase a do-it-all style pack, which can be customized for the particular activity you are headed out for.

COMPRESSION

Compression straps are a must on tactical backpacks. They help in compressing your gear and making it more compact. Your pack and gear are easily manageable with compression straps. They also help in packing the gear in a denser, tighter, and firmer fashion. This way you can center the weight easily on your back and body, reducing fatigue, and injury.

You should consider compression straps while picking up the best tactical sling backpack if you plan on going for long-distance trekking or hiking. Centering the mass will help you carry additional weight on your shoulders and back for longer without getting tired. This will allow you to cover more miles each day.

DURABILITY

Sling backpacks come in various durability options depending upon your use and the price point. Some of the more expensive options are constructed using high-quality material and can last a long time. Look at the denier count when comparing two backpacks in terms of the strength and durability of the fabric used.

Generally, higher denier count provides for a more durable pack. You should also consider the material the backpack is made of. There are a few materials with a lower denier count that are highly resistant to tears and scratches than other materials with higher denier count.

Always research the fabric quality and strength before purchasing your tactical sling backpack. As a general rule, never purchase a tactical backpack that has a denier count below 500. Look for something between 500 and 1200.

You might find interesting to read our best survival backpacks article.

TOP 8 TACTICAL SLING BACKPACKS

1. 5.11 RUSH MOAB 10 – BEST OVERALL

The 5.11 RUSH MOAB tactical sling bag is fully customizable made from sturdy, water-resistant, and lightweight 1050D nylon. It comes with an adjustable cushioned shoulder strap. The best part is that the shoulder strap is changeable so you can put it on either side.

There are several coms pockets in this Military style sling pack at the shoulder. There are a covert tactic and a secondary double zip pocket at the rear as well.

The sling backpack has an organized storage area that is comfortably roomy to carry all your gear. There are multiple admin and stash pockets on the inside with a special hydration pocket. The compression straps allow for a sturdy yet comfortable grip and handle making it the best tactical sling backpack.

WHY SHOULD YOU BUY IT?

Ready for action – The bag comes with 5.11 Tier System. All you need to do is hook and loop the flag patch to be ready with your tactical sling bag. The backpack also has a fleece-lined sunglass pocket and YKK self-healing zippers.

Versatile – The 5.11 RUSH MOAB can double up as hunting or range bag, survival bug out bag, hiking rucksack, tactical sling pack, army or military backpack, and an everyday shoulder backpack. The multi-purpose benefits mean you don’t need to purchase another sling bag for your needs.

Pros

  • (+) Durable and water-resistant construction
  • (+) Super durable YKK zippers
  • (+) Changeable shoulder strap

Cons

  • (-) Shoulder strap is too small
  • (-) No strap around the hips

Specifications

  • Size: 18.25” H x 9” L x 5.25” D
  • Weight: 2.2 Pounds

2. MAXPEDITION SITKA GEARSLINGER – MOST STURDY

Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger is a durable bag of solid construction. It is made from the highest quality materials and has some moderated and advanced features. The sling backpack is built for risky works with a shoulder strap that is useful, hardy, and stylish.

This tactical sling-style backpack is built from light-weight ballistic nylon fabric that has a 1000 denier count. The fabric is both water and abrasion-resistant. The entire backpack is triple polyurethane coated for enhanced water resistance.

It comes with superior shock protection from AS-100 high-grade closed-cell foam padding. The internal seams are also taped and finished to protect your gear.

The main compartment measures 16.5” high x 8.5” wide x 3” thick. It has an internal storage organizer. The top front measures 7.5” wide x 4” high x 2” thick and comes with its own organizer. The Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger can be easily worn in the front to access contents comfortably.

The backpack has easy to access top and side handles. It is compatible with a 100oz hydration reservoir for long journeys. This tactical backpack can be used in any situation. Strong materials are used to hold the inner and outer parts to handle rough situations beautifully.

WHY SHOULD YOU BUY IT?

Lightweight – The Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger weighs just 3 pounds and feels lightweight even when stuffed to capacity. This is because of the advanced one shoulder strap carrying system that allows weight to be distributed equally in the upper arm and shoulder. The system allows for easy access to content as well.

Practically Indestructible – This backpack is made from the highest quality materials, making it virtually indestructible. The nylon polymers used in the fabric are strong and tend to retain their shape. There is a tough bond between the bag and the strap that is made from the best quality materials.

Pros

  • (+) Multiple pockets
  • (+) High strength bonding material
  • (+) Extra hydration compartment

Cons

  • (-) Secondary strap fails to support primary
  • (-) Torque at shoulder

Specifications

  • Size: 16.5” high x 8.5” wide x 3”
  • Weight: 2.2 Pounds

Check out our suggested bug-out bags article.

3. REEBOW GEAR TACTICAL SLING BAG – BEST BUDGET BUY

REEBOW GEAR Tactical Sling Bag is the best budget buy if you want a backpack for infrequent use. The bag is 0.7” high and 14” wide with a 12” shoulder drop. It comes with an easy access nap closure making it a great small sized tactical rover sling pack.

The backpack is MOLLE compatible to allow you to extend its storage capacities and customize it the way you want. It is built from durable 600D polyester which is water-resistant to an extent. This sling backpack is large enough to carry keys, wallet, cell phone, flashlight, gloves, water bottle, charger, and a small notepad along with a 9.7 iPad.

There is a large Velcro pad in the back and concealed the main compartment in this tactical sling backpack. It can be used as a pistol range bag or a tactical assault pack as well. There is space to hold 1-2 handguns and plenty of ammo.

REEBOW GEAR Tactical Sling Bag has comfortable and adjustable shoulder straps with two smaller straps to check any sway of the bag while on the move.

WHY SHOULD YOU BUY IT?

Pockets – There are plenty of pockets in this bag to make it a great companion. There are two interior pockets, two back pockets, and an exterior Velcro sleeve. You can keep thinner items in the sleeve to prevent injury to your back as you move.

MOLLE webbing – The webbing is present on the entire backpack, including the main strap, sides, and pockets. There are two extra straps provided to reduce swaying and offer a tighter fit.

Pros

  • (+) Ample pockets
  • (+) Easily accessible main compartment
  • (+) Affordable

Cons

  • (-) Not too durable
  • (-) Boxy design

Specifications

  • Size: 12 * 9.5 * 6 inch (HWD)
  • Weight: 1.5 Pounds

4. CONDOR AMBIDEXTROUS SLING BAG – MOST STYLISH

Condor Ambidextrous Sling Bag is an attractive yet useful tactical backpack. The design is stylish and comes in a great color while allowing stowing away essentials that can be accessed at a moment’s notice. The backpack is useful in any situation, including hunting.

There are three major sections in the sling-style backpack with a number of organizers. There is an ambidextrous strap to make it easy for everyone. You can carry it on both shoulders which reduces fatigue and lets you go on longer.

There is a MOLLE panel where additional pockets can be added as per preference and convenience. There is a sizeable mesh pocket in the main compartment and a hydration feature. The secondary compartment has four mesh zipper pockets. There are double zipper pulls on all compartments to protect your gear.

The backpack measures 18” x 13” x 7” and has a total carrying capacity of 25 liters. It is made from sturdy nylon and comes with a sturdy hook and loop panel.

WHY SHOULD YOU BUY IT?

MOLLE panel – There are not many tactical slingshot backpacks in this price range to offer a sturdy and heavy-duty MOLLE panel. You can use it to increase the overall carrying capacity and create more pockets to stow away your gear.

Great capacity – The Condor Ambidextrous Tactical Sling Bag has a capacity of 25 liters. This is enough to carry all the things you would need at a moment’s notice when going home from work at night or in the outdoors.

Pros

  • (+) Ambidextrous design
  • (+) MOLLE panel
  • (+) Several pockets

Cons

  • (-) Low quality straps and internal zippers
  • (-) Not meant for heavy-duty use

Specifications

  • Size: N/A
  • Weight: 1 pound

5. MAXPEDITION KODIAK GEARSLINGER – MOST RESISTANT

The Maxpedition Kodiak Gearslinger is built from nylon for durability. There is a triple coat of polyurethane on the backpack to make it water-resistant. There is also a final coat of DuPont Teflon Fabric Protector to make it resistant to the elements. This tactical backpack uses only the highest quality materials in its design and finish.

The manufacturers have used YKK zippers as well as slides. Most sling backpack manufacturers use YKK slides and generic zippers which are known to malfunction. The backpack also comes with military grade nylon Webbing for handles, straps, and all modular attachment points.

The buckles are genuine Duraflex and are made for functionality and strength. The Maxpedition Kodiak Gearslinger is made from large, unseamed 1000 Denier Nylon panels that are meticulously reinforced with composite threads. All stress points are addressed in the bag. There are no polyester parts of unnecessary seams used in the construction.

The main compartment measures 18.5” high x 11” wide x 4” thick. The top front measures 9” wide x 4.5” high x 2” thick. The bottom front measures 10” high x 9” wide x 2” thick. All three come with internal organization and have an approximate overall capacity of 18 liters.

WHY SHOULD YOU BUY IT?

Tough construction – The bag is built to be sturdy using large panels of 1,000 denier count nylon that are stitched together without using additional seams or polyester parts.

Weather-resistant – The backpack comes with a triple coat of polyurethane and a final coat of DuPont Teflon Fabric Protector to protect it from water and the elements.

Pros

  • (+) Strong
  • (+) Convenient
  • (+) Rugged

Cons

  • (-) Insert cases could have been smaller
  • (-) Confusing zipper configuration

Specifications

  • Size: 18.5” high x 11” wide x 4” thick
  • Weight: 2.8 Pounds

6. SOG EVAC SLING BACKPACK – BEST EXTRA FEATURES

SOG EVAC 18L sling pack is great for mobility and short distance carry. It offers quick on-the-run access to everything you would keep in your tactical backpack. It has a sliding access main compartment and a secondary one to store things you need at a moment’s notice.

There is an organization panel inside the main compartment to keep track of all the little things. There are several front organizer pockets and a molded top pocket that offers storage flexibility. The backpack is designed for rapid maneuverability and deployment.

The backpack is made comfortable with the help of a padded shoulder strap that comes with a quick-release buckle. It also has a stabilizer strap with a rigid suspension. The shoulder straps come with Hypalon zinger tabs and Webbing lash points for additional carry.

There is a handy pass-through side access compartment that can be used as a hydration carry. The backpack is built from Kodra 500D nylon and has 2mm PE sheet suspension to distribute weight. It also has a polyurethane coating to protect from water.

WHY SHOULD YOU BUY IT?

MOLLE panel – The bag has Laser-cut Hypalon MOLLE panels for quick access to things.

Durable – Kodra 500D nylon material offers long-lasting water resistance and durability.

Pros

  • (+) Handy zipper pulls
  • (+) Endless possibilities to store gear
  • (+) Ingenious design

Cons

  • (-) Shoulder strap could be more comfortable
  • (-) Not stylish

Specifications

  • Size: 19.7 x 7.9 x 13.4 inches
  • Weight: 2 Pounds

7. Gowara Gear Tactical Sling Bag  – EASIEST TO CARRY

Gowara Gear Tactical Sling Bag  measures 14” in height and 11.5” in width. It is designed on military shoulder bag parameters. There are two back pockets on the backpack and the main compartment. There are an exterior Velcro sleeve and two internal pockets.

The bag comes with zippered closure to keep your things safe. The backpack is comfortable and comes with an adjustable shoulder strap. There is a small hydration compartment that can easily carry a 2.0L hydration bladder.

The tactical sling backpack uses heavy-duty zippers and utility-style cord pulls. It is double stitched for enhanced strength and comes with front load compression system-Y strap for added comfort.

WHY SHOULD YOU BUY IT?

Velcro sleeve – The sleeve can be used to keep thin and sturdy items to allow easy access. It will also protect your back while moving.

MOLLE Webbing ­– MOLLE webbing is present on the entire sling-style backpack, including main strap, sides, and various pockets.

Pros

  • (+) Multiple MOLLE locations
  • (+) Large main compartment
  • (+) Strong polyester fabric

Cons

  • (-) Average waterproofing
  • (-) Additional straps not durable

Specifications

  • Size: 14 * 11.5 * 6.5 inch (HWD)
  • Weight: 2 Pounds

8. 3V GEAR OUTLAW – GEAR SLINGER SHOULDER SLING PACK – BEST VALUE

3V Gear Outlaw is a heavy-duty tactical shoulder pack with double-stitched seams. The backpack is made from 600D PVC-backed polyester allowing for average weather resistance. However, the sling style bag is designed to be strong and durable.

It contains a Y-strap compression strap for tightening the pack and securing the gear more tightly. The backpack has a versatile design to allow access without having to remove it. All the pockets and zippers are situated horizontally for easy access.

The best part about the 3V Gear Outlaw is that it comes with a lifetime warranty. The bag is designed for comfort with padded shoulder straps and air vented back panel. There are several pockets and internal storage compartments in the backpack to make it a great tactical gear.

WHY SHOULD YOU BUY IT?

Shoulder strap – The shoulder strap is comfortable and nicely padded. It comes with a stabilizer strap that has a buckle to secure the strap firmly.

Back panel – The back panel is made from Molded EVA Vented material with extra padding. The padding creates air spaces to reduce sweat on the back.

Pros

  • (+) Great storage space
  • (+) Comfortable
  • (+) Small size

Cons

  • (-) Cheap zippers
  • (-) Inadequate moisture resistance

Specifications

  • Size: 18″ H x 10.5″ W x 8″D
  • Weight: 2.1 Pounds

KEY ASPECTS

The best tactical sling backpack is the 5.11 RUSH MOAB tactical sling bag for its lightweight and sturdy design. There are enough pockets and compartments to keep everything you need. The 5.11 Tier System allows you to be always ready for action. Plus, the backpack is set at a great price point, making the extra features all the more attractive.

3V Gear Outlaw Shoulder Sling Pack is another great contender if you are preparing for urban assault or are looking for an EDC. It is highly versatile and can be used for multiple purposes, including hiking, hunting, and a small rucksack. The backpack comes with MOLLE compatibility, offering the added convenience of adding more pockets.

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