Hi there. Just a few ideas regarding The Bergen. I utilised the main compartment to carry one of two ration packs that were issued the night before an exercise at the bottom, then the insertion sack, followed by spare boots, German folding mat, sleeping bag inside the bivi bag, spare clothing, hat and gloves in a stash bag, a spare gas cartridge and duvet jacket on top. Goretex jacket under the flap. Basha and accessories including a folding saw in the top pocket, a couple of bin bags in the zipper pocket. Front pocket, I carried my personal admin (wash roll, small towel, boot cleaning and sewing kit). Side pockets/rocket packs, I left empty or spare rations, water, batteries for comms ect. In brief the main sack was mine and the side pockets were for ops/missions. The ladder strapping were to carry two mortars
just before i left the corps the RM we did an ex with USMC when then they saw our BERGENS and how much we carried they tried like hell to buy,borrow, or steal, or exchange or swop our BERGENS thiers was based on the old ALICE pack which was crap the other thing was then current belt kit no matter how tight you got it the belt you looked like a bag of shit tied in middle to me best belt kit we ever had was the 58 webbing.
The vertical straps are just that and not MOLLE. MOLLE is a US system of horizontal straps from 2000 onwards. This Olive drab PLCE bergen design dates from late 1980s. The small pouch on the front is known as the 'messing' pouch. They were a great improvement on the steel frame Para / GS bergen.
Thank you, I've enjoyed this. I particularly like the innovative use of a rotating stool/table - very clever. Feedback: 1:43 - The straps you mean are called "Support Straps". Many people might confuse "ancillary straps" with "utility straps". (PLCE Utility Straps are issued with the PLCE set) 2:29 - If you attach the kipmat VERTICALLY using the accessory loops on the front, you'll be able to plonk your pack on the ground upright without it falling over. 3:27 - That ladder is the accessory loops strip (mentioned above). For attaching accessories. Too tight for 25mm strap but careful use of 20mm strap works well. (For the record after reading comments here, it's NOT MOLLE!!! MOLLE is the genuine issue US Army standard load bearing system just as PLCE is the standard genuine issue British issue system. MOLLE and Osprey use the PALS 25mm looped strips for the attachment of pouches. And these accessory loops AREN'T PALS, either.) 6:45 - They're invented and made in Sweden. The one on the 1970s SAS/Para bergen I was issued has "Made in Sweden" moulded in it. The cheap, crappy copies on rucksack covers are probably not made in Sweden. These cheap ones are hopeless for packing parachutes - Fixlock rules! 7:40 - That's not the original liner issued with this type of rucksack. A new one on me. What's the NSN? 9:30 - I use to comatose when people talked about rucksacks - and it was YEARS before I realised the the "back" of a rucksack was the part that goes against the wearer's back! 9:35 - The two loops by the belt AREN'T haul loops. On the original (trials '85 pattern PLCE) rucksack, they were for the detachable hip belt but they were retained for abseiling. 10:54 - Did you repair/customise the hip belt with the Lowe Alpine buckle or did you buy it like that? I normally repair these by fitting replacement same parts and never considered a repair/mod like this. 11:54 - Not quite! Before the PLCE rucksacks, most service personnel had the '58 Field Pack - WORSE than pre-Bronze Age!!! 🤣 13:11 - Only TWO sizes, Longback and Shortback. 13:35 - I buy these in bulk for repairs - and have run out of spares. Costs me 75p for the original part (8315-99-168-5536) - which is then dwarfed by P+P... 16:13 - Regardless of how well I keep the sidepouches of equal weight, my family still claim that I'm "unbalanced"... 18:10 - Note: the Shortback is shorter and fatter. Incidentally, Bergans invented the idea of compressing the rucksack way back in 1934 (at least), using lacing rather than straps. No-one here was paying attention until the 1970s... 19:13 - The PLCE system has two near identical Yokes: "Yoke Main" (for use with the belt and pouches, aka "webbing" in army talk) and "Yoke Side Pouches". By design, you can attach ONE Side Pouch onto the Yoke Main, one or two (by preference) to the Yoke Side Pouches. 19:44 - That loop was designed for attaching to the waistbelt of the webbing. No-one ever does this. Can be used for other purposes. 22:01 - I think a much earlier version of this rucksack was carried by line infantry units during the Falklands War. AND in jolly hiking colours like blue and postbox RED! Rucksack covers not existing other than in white, the numpties didn't have the sense to paint the things to be less conspicuous. Seriously. 25:11 - PLCE Rucksack Infantry was introduced in 1985, BEFORE adjustable back rucksacks, if memory serves. PLCE Rucksack Infantry is ultimately based on the 1970s canvas Berghaus Roc (used by some marines in the Falklands) and Berghaus Scorpion, Berghaus producing their Crusader simultaneously with the PLCE. 25:49 - That two spine frame is an early one. The very first '90 pattern ones were rivetted in, then they had these frames for a short while. Later ones were 1" wide. These frames always bend to the contours of the user's back after heavy use (heavy being an operative word).
thanks..liner field pack waterproof large NSN 8465-99-869-5048 upside down office chair with its back and wheels removed ..made a quick vid on potential about year ago Evolution of rucksack from 58 pattern along with specalist small publishers promoting more "extreme" type sports ..mountain climbing" and availability of new generation and lighther equipment was caught up by military personal. Falklands period was an outdoor shop in Aldershot that sold top spec often imported equipment..and had a mail order service..how things have moved on..result good usable items at lower costs... Robert
Some of us used to bungey our kevlar helmets on those loops. Most of us also bastardised the yoke so that we could fit one of the side pouches on it as we only needed it to keep our NBC kit in it.
Paul outdoors first priority is rucksack...without gear cannot move...the size and strength gives it "self sufficient" practicality of moving your "home" Regardless of newer models, high st, military, it's design build simplicity and reliability (spare waist buckle) cannot be better. Perfect form and function ...Andy Mc Nab Bravo 2 zero book has photo of loaded Bergen and weights.....
I bought a crusader cyclops berghaus, its amazing. Bomb proof, and comfortable to carry. However, i would love a pair of side pockets, but cant find any that'll fit the zips.
If military issue the zips are very heavy duty in size ..Berghause made a range of sacks for the outdoor enthusiasts.. side zips were smaller in size Side pockets were I think we're an option .. In 1980s these sacks were about £100 Those were the days of tin food..
A very informative video. I have a pair of the rocket pouches which I've attached to my 1995 vintage Macpac Cascade pack and they work really well. I still have a Karrimor Jaguar E50 ( the wife's pack) purchased in late 1987. Purchased in early 1987 was a Jaguar E65 pack which was used on a 5 month long trip around Europe. I remember buying it from Lillywhites in Piccadilly Circus and it was very expensive! Both packs were subsequently used on multiday tramping trips in NZ and were more than adequate for the job. I sold the E65 when I bought the Cascade but the E50 is still going strong. Neither of them has detachable side pockets so I'm wondering whether yours is a later vintage.
Unsure of date of my rucksack but same shown in mid 80s Berghaus catalogue..side pockets an option. Jaguars were expensive.. have an 85 with side pockets.. I will make a video.. yes how expensive in the 80s compared to now.. mine all car boot fodder... LillyWhites has changed.. from our day..
Yo, I bought the E65 in 87 too, still going strong, though the crampon straps on top came loose (stitching) quite early on. Mine also has fixed pockets.
The original design was by Berghaus in the late 80s who made the first prototypes (rare) but the MOD asked them to cut production costs, Berghaus refused & so the manufacture was tendered out to the lowest bidders (as it usually is) The first models from '89 to '91 were OD & then in 92, NATO forces changed from olive green to various national camo patterns & the UK chose DPM. Then in 2010, since warfare had changed to more drier climates & new more versatile camo was created, the MTP. The actual design of these bergens hasn't changed much, other than the aluminium stays, either because the MOD doesn't wan't to spend money on research & design or they're still fit for purpose.
I have a IRR shortback and two longbacks AND a berghause centurio same same but 45lt capacity. Well worth paying to get more comfy straps on. As well as a few sheets of old rollpad between frame and pack and your good to go with heavy 25kg multiday hiking camping trip. At 25kg, every luxury lol
Yes present issue has become a tactical item with options for modification for numerous specific purposes ,,like a Land Rover from the 1980s simpler yet has more appeal
@@OldNavajoTricks yes the 1" web on Molle gear is called Pals webbing Pouch attachment ladder system I buy and sell surplus gear from time to time I repair and mod some of it my personal pack is a Marines Filbe pack on alice frame
I OWN AN U.S. MILITARY CPF 90 AN ITS HUGE. THATS WHAT THEY DO ITS EVEN SMALL OR BIG AN NO BETWEEN. THATS WHY I LIKE THE BERGEN ITS THE IN BETWEEN SIZE A LOT OF US IN THE U.S. NEED.
1980s design Bergen is simple efficient form-function design ..coincidence yesterday looked over the current design..which has become a platform for add-ons accommodating the advancements of warfare ....The symbiosis of practical outdoor rucksack and living out isn't now needed ....
good design (I personally also use Lowe, made in Ireland) but now kind of outdated... brits, like americans, tend to overflow military equipment with features, and do not understand me wrong, because that equipment is usually top and with interesting features, but complicated and expensive to produce. In my opinion the best army backpacks nowadays are made by Savotta, from Finland (but expensive!)
Savotta is retailed buy a Bushcraft Specialist in England I was interested to lookup its specs and photos ..ideas picked up 1980s with demands on climbing rucksacks for 2 *man* self supporting alpine climbing ..particularly back systems for prelonged wearing with comfort in various sizes and simple....*cold fingers*!! .thanks for info MotR
Tutima Military Chronograph for £1,575 for sale from a Trusted Seller on Chrono24" www.chrono24.co.uk/tutima/military-chronograph--id11045291.htm Aviation chronograph similar was issued to German airforce....This link Probably need a service ...I found a titanium cased ...which was advertised as steel...model variant is shown on case back ... case color V similar steel because of the titanium grade ..worth checking model number as dealers sometimes make mistakes...Company has a fascinating history ...what appeals is form following function...no compromise with fashion..... Seiko made a chronograph chosen by RAF in the 1990s ...Seiko can fully service ...but prices have risen
@@manoftheroad55 Thanks for the information. I totally agree with what you say about "form following function." I think that you have got the dogs danglies of military watches and it was a steal at £1,575. I hope that you have many years of pleasure out of it. I imagine that you will also find eyes distracted by what is on your wrist. This is something that you have got used to or will need to get used to. Cheers, from the town with "four thousand holes."
Hi, I bought a used one which is missing the hip clasp male part. Any idea where to get one? I had no luck finding them on ebay. The female part is not replacable on mine (I think it is an older version) but seems in good shape so hopefully doesnt break anytime soon... Also the side pockets on mine are replaced copies without any clasps on them, so the full weight hangs on the zippers only which is sad.
John Howard Company Try JHC..replace both parts ..cut stiching carfully and use a length adjuster ..2 straight slots to install socket johnhowardcompany.com/plastic-buckles/?matchtype=b&network=g&device=m&keyword=%2Bplastic%20%2Bbuckles&campaign=898736124&adgroup=45595356620&gclid=Cj0KCQiAgribBhDkARIsAASA5bs4gYYijDKOG1Hi1BSJRY7UGvn53jgW2buFV-PHn8iBfSOvbnjIDVQaAhvQEALw_wcB
I just want to ask if anyone have info about these (dpm version). I noticed different labels/tag under flap. Is there anything to it? Different maker of bergens, original issue or repros etc. For example there is simple green tab on 2004 version, and some tab's have more writing and they're different. Quite curious about that, cos not sure if maybe some are not originals? Any info is welcome and thank you in advance ! Seems like great piece of kit !!
Labels were sewn in from 1991 onwards: some manufacturers didn't do this until 1992. Labels had the manufacturer name until ~2000 or after. Possibly to disguise the fact that some PLCE items were made in the EU FOR UK armed forces. The contract number (but NOT NSN) indicates the manufacturer but you sometimes need to do some digging around to find out who. The labels have to be compared to like years of the genuine items. On SOME faked kit, these labels are sometimes copied. "Webtex", amongst others, are a company that make budget versions of PLCE - but without trying to pass off their items as genuine issue. In the late Noughties, a lot of PLCE items were made in substandard shades with finer 20mm and 25mm straps - I mistook these as fakes but they were genuine. Govt didn't care so much about quality because they knew that MTP would be replacing these stocks.
Hi there. Just a few ideas regarding The Bergen. I utilised the main compartment to carry one of two ration packs that were issued the night before an exercise at the bottom, then the insertion sack, followed by spare boots, German folding mat, sleeping bag inside the bivi bag, spare clothing, hat and gloves in a stash bag, a spare gas cartridge and duvet jacket on top. Goretex jacket under the flap. Basha and accessories including a folding saw in the top pocket, a couple of bin bags in the zipper pocket. Front pocket, I carried my personal admin (wash roll, small towel, boot cleaning and sewing kit). Side pockets/rocket packs, I left empty or spare rations, water, batteries for comms ect. In brief the main sack was mine and the side pockets were for ops/missions. The ladder strapping were to carry two mortars
Thank you for explaining your packing helpful ideas
Why two mortars? 81mm? Legs on one side, tube on other, baseplate where?😉
just before i left the corps the RM we did an ex with USMC when then they saw our BERGENS and how much we carried they tried like hell to buy,borrow, or steal, or exchange or swop our BERGENS thiers was based on the old ALICE pack which was crap the other thing was then current belt kit no matter how tight you got it the belt you looked like a bag of shit tied in middle to me best belt kit we ever had was the 58 webbing.
I agree with you sir. I have the PLCE Dpm short back and it is a fantastic rucksack
Spot on, noting beats DPM and OG PLCE quality in terms of materials, stitching, clips and zips used. Old school built to last
Enjoyed your video, I have the DPM long back version. 👍🏻
Seen a good few reviews, and I am impressed with how thorough you are, I will subscribe.
Facination of good design..hpows this 123 years old..recognise ? ...Thanks ua-cam.com/video/2O474qHabns/v-deo.html
The vertical straps are just that and not MOLLE.
MOLLE is a US system of horizontal straps from 2000 onwards. This Olive drab PLCE bergen design dates from late 1980s.
The small pouch on the front is known as the 'messing' pouch.
They were a great improvement on the steel frame Para / GS bergen.
No mate, the SAS/Para beats this every time, even by capacity. How do you carry Milan tubes, etc, with a PLCE?!
Excellent comprehensive review, thank you.
www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/country/sweden/
7 protestors shot Rotterdam ....
www.northwaleschronicle.co.uk/news/national/19730677.police-open-fire-amid-orgy-violence-covid-protests-rotterdam/
Thank you, I've enjoyed this. I particularly like the innovative use of a rotating stool/table - very clever.
Feedback:
1:43 - The straps you mean are called "Support Straps". Many people might confuse "ancillary straps" with "utility straps". (PLCE Utility Straps are issued with the PLCE set)
2:29 - If you attach the kipmat VERTICALLY using the accessory loops on the front, you'll be able to plonk your pack on the ground upright without it falling over.
3:27 - That ladder is the accessory loops strip (mentioned above). For attaching accessories. Too tight for 25mm strap but careful use of 20mm strap works well. (For the record after reading comments here, it's NOT MOLLE!!! MOLLE is the genuine issue US Army standard load bearing system just as PLCE is the standard genuine issue British issue system. MOLLE and Osprey use the PALS 25mm looped strips for the attachment of pouches. And these accessory loops AREN'T PALS, either.)
6:45 - They're invented and made in Sweden. The one on the 1970s SAS/Para bergen I was issued has "Made in Sweden" moulded in it. The cheap, crappy copies on rucksack covers are probably not made in Sweden. These cheap ones are hopeless for packing parachutes - Fixlock rules!
7:40 - That's not the original liner issued with this type of rucksack. A new one on me. What's the NSN?
9:30 - I use to comatose when people talked about rucksacks - and it was YEARS before I realised the the "back" of a rucksack was the part that goes against the wearer's back!
9:35 - The two loops by the belt AREN'T haul loops. On the original (trials '85 pattern PLCE) rucksack, they were for the detachable hip belt but they were retained for abseiling.
10:54 - Did you repair/customise the hip belt with the Lowe Alpine buckle or did you buy it like that? I normally repair these by fitting replacement same parts and never considered a repair/mod like this.
11:54 - Not quite! Before the PLCE rucksacks, most service personnel had the '58 Field Pack - WORSE than pre-Bronze Age!!! 🤣
13:11 - Only TWO sizes, Longback and Shortback.
13:35 - I buy these in bulk for repairs - and have run out of spares. Costs me 75p for the original part (8315-99-168-5536) - which is then dwarfed by P+P...
16:13 - Regardless of how well I keep the sidepouches of equal weight, my family still claim that I'm "unbalanced"...
18:10 - Note: the Shortback is shorter and fatter. Incidentally, Bergans invented the idea of compressing the rucksack way back in 1934 (at least), using lacing rather than straps. No-one here was paying attention until the 1970s...
19:13 - The PLCE system has two near identical Yokes: "Yoke Main" (for use with the belt and pouches, aka "webbing" in army talk) and "Yoke Side Pouches". By design, you can attach ONE Side Pouch onto the Yoke Main, one or two (by preference) to the Yoke Side Pouches.
19:44 - That loop was designed for attaching to the waistbelt of the webbing. No-one ever does this. Can be used for other purposes.
22:01 - I think a much earlier version of this rucksack was carried by line infantry units during the Falklands War. AND in jolly hiking colours like blue and postbox RED! Rucksack covers not existing other than in white, the numpties didn't have the sense to paint the things to be less conspicuous. Seriously.
25:11 - PLCE Rucksack Infantry was introduced in 1985, BEFORE adjustable back rucksacks, if memory serves. PLCE Rucksack Infantry is ultimately based on the 1970s canvas Berghaus Roc (used by some marines in the Falklands) and Berghaus Scorpion, Berghaus producing their Crusader simultaneously with the PLCE.
25:49 - That two spine frame is an early one. The very first '90 pattern ones were rivetted in, then they had these frames for a short while. Later ones were 1" wide. These frames always bend to the contours of the user's back after heavy use (heavy being an operative word).
thanks..liner field pack waterproof large
NSN 8465-99-869-5048
upside down office chair with its back and wheels removed ..made a quick vid on potential about year ago
Evolution of rucksack from 58 pattern along with specalist small publishers promoting more "extreme" type
sports ..mountain climbing" and availability of new generation and lighther equipment was caught up by military personal.
Falklands period was an outdoor shop in Aldershot that sold top spec often imported equipment..and had a mail order service..how things have moved on..result good usable items at lower costs...
Robert
This was a review in itself, thanks 👍
Some of us used to bungey our kevlar helmets on those loops. Most of us also bastardised the yoke so that we could fit one of the side pouches on it as we only needed it to keep our NBC kit in it.
I have all 3 army rucksacks dpm very good quality at very good price too .
Paul outdoors first priority is rucksack...without gear cannot move...the size and strength gives it "self sufficient" practicality of moving your "home" Regardless of newer models, high st, military, it's design build simplicity and reliability (spare waist buckle) cannot be better. Perfect form and function ...Andy Mc Nab Bravo 2 zero book has photo of loaded Bergen and weights.....
I bought a crusader cyclops berghaus, its amazing. Bomb proof, and comfortable to carry.
However, i would love a pair of side pockets, but cant find any that'll fit the zips.
If military issue the zips are very heavy duty in size ..Berghause made a range of sacks for the outdoor enthusiasts.. side zips were smaller in size Side pockets were I think we're an option .. In 1980s these sacks were about £100
Those were the days of tin food..
I have a few short backs that I prefer and one long back. The Northern Ireland pack is a fantastic but smaller British army pack
Best I ever used still have it
just pop in here you can put both side pockets on the yoke without the spare harness, combat order is you look it up
Nice, but haven't found them in the states.
A very informative video. I have a pair of the rocket pouches which I've attached to my 1995 vintage Macpac Cascade pack and they work really well. I still have a Karrimor Jaguar E50 ( the wife's pack) purchased in late 1987. Purchased in early 1987 was a Jaguar E65 pack which was used on a 5 month long trip around Europe. I remember buying it from Lillywhites in Piccadilly Circus and it was very expensive! Both packs were subsequently used on multiday tramping trips in NZ and were more than adequate for the job. I sold the E65 when I bought the Cascade but the E50 is still going strong. Neither of them has detachable side pockets so I'm wondering whether yours is a later vintage.
Unsure of date of my rucksack but same shown in mid 80s Berghaus catalogue..side pockets an option.
Jaguars were expensive.. have an 85 with side pockets.. I will make a video.. yes how expensive in the 80s compared to now.. mine all car boot fodder... LillyWhites has changed.. from our day..
Yo, I bought the E65 in 87 too, still going strong, though the crampon straps on top came loose (stitching) quite early on. Mine also has fixed pockets.
The original design was by Berghaus in the late 80s who made the first prototypes (rare) but the MOD asked them to cut production costs, Berghaus refused & so the manufacture was tendered out to the lowest bidders (as it usually is) The first models from '89 to '91 were OD & then in 92, NATO forces changed from olive green to various national camo patterns & the UK chose DPM. Then in 2010, since warfare had changed to more drier climates & new more versatile camo was created, the MTP.
The actual design of these bergens hasn't changed much, other than the aluminium stays, either because the MOD doesn't wan't to spend money on research & design or they're still fit for purpose.
I have a IRR shortback and two longbacks AND a berghause centurio same same but 45lt capacity. Well worth paying to get more comfy straps on. As well as a few sheets of old rollpad between frame and pack and your good to go with heavy 25kg multiday hiking camping trip. At 25kg, every luxury lol
The outer ladder webbing would have been used to strap grass foulage to it to hide the shape of the soldier helping him to blend with his environment.
Thanks..am always interested to learn ideas..thinking for design MotR
Great informative vid mate
Must be robust well you said it was a bout 50 times lol
Excellent vid.
The "ladder" webbing is called Molle webbing, it is used to attach pouches and other gear by strap and buckle or with clips.
Yes present issue has become a tactical item with options for modification for numerous specific purposes ,,like a Land Rover from the 1980s simpler yet has more appeal
Actually webbing on molle gear is Pals
Pouch attachment ladder system
@@floydcrase625 You mean on plce gear? 👍
@@OldNavajoTricks yes the 1" web on Molle gear is called Pals webbing
Pouch attachment ladder system
I buy and sell surplus gear from time to time I repair and mod some of it my personal pack is a Marines Filbe pack on alice frame
@@OldNavajoTricks not sure what plce gear webbing is called
I OWN AN U.S. MILITARY CPF 90 AN ITS HUGE. THATS WHAT THEY DO ITS EVEN SMALL OR BIG AN NO BETWEEN. THATS WHY I LIKE THE BERGEN ITS THE IN BETWEEN SIZE A LOT OF US IN THE U.S. NEED.
1980s design Bergen is simple efficient form-function design ..coincidence yesterday looked over the current design..which has become a platform for add-ons accommodating the advancements of warfare ....The symbiosis of practical outdoor rucksack and living out isn't now needed ....
good design (I personally also use Lowe, made in Ireland) but now kind of outdated... brits, like americans, tend to overflow military equipment with features, and do not understand me wrong, because that equipment is usually top and with interesting features, but complicated and expensive to produce. In my opinion the best army backpacks nowadays are made by Savotta, from Finland (but expensive!)
Savotta is retailed buy a Bushcraft Specialist in England I was interested to lookup its specs and photos ..ideas picked up 1980s with demands on climbing rucksacks for 2 *man* self supporting alpine climbing ..particularly back systems for prelonged wearing with comfort in various sizes and simple....*cold fingers*!! .thanks for info MotR
Love your watch! Is that a Tutima Commander (I think that it's called)? Real 'watch envy' from me.
Tutima Military Chronograph for £1,575 for sale from a Trusted Seller on Chrono24" www.chrono24.co.uk/tutima/military-chronograph--id11045291.htm
Aviation chronograph similar was issued to German airforce....This link Probably need a service ...I found a titanium cased ...which was advertised as steel...model variant is shown on case back ... case color V similar steel because of the titanium grade ..worth checking model number as dealers sometimes make mistakes...Company has a fascinating history ...what appeals is form following function...no compromise with fashion.....
Seiko made a chronograph chosen by RAF in the 1990s ...Seiko can fully service ...but prices have risen
@@manoftheroad55 Thanks for the information. I totally agree with what you say about "form following function." I think that you have got the dogs danglies of military watches and it was a steal at £1,575. I hope that you have many years of pleasure out of it.
I imagine that you will also find eyes distracted by what is on your wrist. This is something that you have got used to or will need to get used to.
Cheers, from the town with "four thousand holes."
Hi, I bought a used one which is missing the hip clasp male part. Any idea where to get one? I had no luck finding them on ebay. The female part is not replacable on mine (I think it is an older version) but seems in good shape so hopefully doesnt break anytime soon... Also the side pockets on mine are replaced copies without any clasps on them, so the full weight hangs on the zippers only which is sad.
John Howard Company
Try JHC..replace both parts ..cut stiching carfully and use a length adjuster ..2 straight slots to install socket
johnhowardcompany.com/plastic-buckles/?matchtype=b&network=g&device=m&keyword=%2Bplastic%20%2Bbuckles&campaign=898736124&adgroup=45595356620&gclid=Cj0KCQiAgribBhDkARIsAASA5bs4gYYijDKOG1Hi1BSJRY7UGvn53jgW2buFV-PHn8iBfSOvbnjIDVQaAhvQEALw_wcB
I just want to ask if anyone have info about these (dpm version). I noticed different labels/tag under flap. Is there anything to it? Different maker of bergens, original issue or repros etc. For example there is simple green tab on 2004 version, and some tab's have more writing and they're different. Quite curious about that, cos not sure if maybe some are not originals? Any info is welcome and thank you in advance ! Seems like great piece of kit !!
The long number NATO identification would give greater detail... perhaps
Labels were sewn in from 1991 onwards: some manufacturers didn't do this until 1992. Labels had the manufacturer name until ~2000 or after. Possibly to disguise the fact that some PLCE items were made in the EU FOR UK armed forces.
The contract number (but NOT NSN) indicates the manufacturer but you sometimes need to do some digging around to find out who. The labels have to be compared to like years of the genuine items. On SOME faked kit, these labels are sometimes copied. "Webtex", amongst others, are a company that make budget versions of PLCE - but without trying to pass off their items as genuine issue.
In the late Noughties, a lot of PLCE items were made in substandard shades with finer 20mm and 25mm straps - I mistook these as fakes but they were genuine. Govt didn't care so much about quality because they knew that MTP would be replacing these stocks.
Before i order should i ask the measurments?
Rucksack will/should have a size STENCILED under the lid flap ..along with other info ...ie S..M..L..ask for this
Er, "Back pocket"? That's termed the 'front' pocket!!! And you certainly wouldn't have any need for a 120L bergen out on a day-trip, surely? 😂
Yes front pocket ...side pockets removed...and depending on the activity ?...but never say never
They call them rocket packs .part of the plc.