Review for BlackHawk 100oz Stingray Hydration Pack, Cordura Hybrid - Coyote Tan 65SR00CT

Author: Greg from London, UK on Feb 26, 2012
Pros:  Great quality, hydration system is awesome, many good features
Cons:  Not sure if it's waterproof
Would recommend:  yes

Greg wrote:

This is an awesome pack that I think anybody would be happy with. It is well designed and has many great features. I bought it as an EDC bag and one that could be used as a BOB if I needed to as well. I bought it in black for the tactical ability while still having a common, low-key color that pretty much blends in in any situation. Only when you get up close can you see it's a tactically designed pack. The Stingray delivers on many levels. It is extremely well made with the stitching being top quality, the lightweight ripstop fabric, thick and comfy back padding, a removable hard plastic back panel, comfortable straps and a padded removable waist belt. The hydration system is awesome, completely removable with a zip you access on the padded back panel. When being used Blackhawk's 'bite me' valve is great to use when on the move and there's no danger of it dripping or leaking, you waste absolutely no time in drinking while you're walking/running. Don't like the rubbery taste of the valve but whatever, it's functionality is enough for me. To wash it you just push it and twist and it comes off, very simple. The hydration tube can be used on either side. It's quick access but could benefit from a rubber band or something to keep it closer to the strap, when you're running the tube could flap around a bit otherwise. There is 32 liters of storage space besides the 3 liter hydration capacity which is good for what I need at least. It's enough to store basic essential kit and it has a mesh section you could fit an A5 size book in for example. Personally I don't need the two radio antenna ports and probably won't be using the molle potential either but for people that would these features are good. Tons of molle all over it. The 2 side pockets are very roomy and the smaller zipped pocket on the back has room for plenty of essential items you'd want to keep separate from the main storage compartment. Underneath the pack, it has 5 drainage holes. The zippers have big toggles on them making them very easy to use. The inside material I haven't tested for waterproofness but looks similar to a North Face washbag I have so it's extremely robust at least. Overall it's an awesome pack of great quality and features. Not the cheapest either but then it's not going to quit on you. In my philosophy it's worth spending the money on something that's going to look after you.