As you all probably already know, I am a HUGE fan of haversacks and always have one nearby. But, I haven’t been this excited about a new haversack in a long while…It really is incredible!
Hav•er•sack: “A small single-strapped bag that is worn over one shoulder. Perfect for carrying a small amount of essential, lightweight items.”
I recently received this new GB2 Haversack from my buddy Joshua Enyart of Gray Bearded Green Beret and it is literally perfect! The subtle new features make this ideal for bushcraft, survival training, and general hiking adventures.
GB2 Haversack Water Bottle Carrier
Official GB2 Haversack
The new GB2 Haversack is especially exciting to me because it’s a collaborative effort between my friends Josh Enyart of GB2 and PNW Bushcraft. Josh brings decades of in-field experience to the table, ranging from military deployments to wilderness survival, and bushcraft to primitive skills. While, PNW Bushcraft are experts at their craft when it comes to making timeless, heirloom-quality gear.
Photos provided by GB2 to show off the new features of the Official GB2 Haversack.
What’s awesome about this haversack?
- Waxed Ripstop Canvas:
This is a very tough material. And the wax provides incredible water resistance (I was recently in a downpour for 10-15 minutes with this bag & the contents of my bag were bone dry). - Adjustable:
The shoulder strap is adjustable for length, which works great for a wide range of body sizes (from kids, up to larger adults). - Lid Pocket:
There is a stash pocket in the main flap/lid of this haversack, which is handy for items that are needed quickly. - Subdued AND Hi-Viz:
The haversack itself looks pretty subdued from its olive-colored front. But reverse it and you’ll see a large Blaze Orange signal panel. This is, perhaps, one of the most innovative design features that I’ve seen in a haversack in a long while. I, personally, always forget to add something bright into my kit for signaling, so this always has me covered. - For use with a pack frame:
There is a grab handle loop near the top of the haversack and 2 grommets near the bottom. These are ideal for use in conjunction with a Roycroft Pack Frame. - Made in the USA
- Price: $64.99
(prices may vary depending on when you’re viewing this)
What to put in a haversack kit?
Haversacks are simple bags meant to contain a small number of lightweight items. For me, they are ideal for taking into the outdoors for simple day trips (ie: fishing, hunting, scouting, practicing bushcraft skills).
With that said, my haversack kit slightly changes based on the weather, season, and whatever I’m planning on doing while I’m out. But, as a general rule, I typically pack gear along that will cover the following needs…
- Safety & Tools:
A simple first aid kit, fixed blade knife, and multitool are my go-to’s here. - Fire:
A ferro rod, some tinder, and a BIC lighter are the essentials of my fire kit. - Water:
A metal water bottle & nesting cup cover my needs for both drinking water & purifying additional water by boiling. - Shelter:
A simple military poncho is a staple of my haversack shelter kit. - Food:
I often times bring a summer sausage or trail snack. I also keep a small fishing kit in my haversack in case I want to catch my own food.
Above photo of the GB2 Water Bottle Carrier by GrayBeardedGreenBeret.com
A Great Addition To A Haversack Kit: Waxed Canvas Water Bottle Carrier
I’ve heard people complain that haversacks are uncomfortable. But, if you follow the tips I mentioned above by keeping yours lightweight, that will help a lot. Next up, I recommend getting a GB2 Bottle Carrier to help offset some weight & remove it from your haversack.
Tip: Carry your water bottle & nesting cup in this type of carrier, on the opposite side of your haversack (ie: haversack on the right, bottle carrier on the left, or vice-versa). This will distribute the weight better, result in less fatigue on one shoulder, and it gives you quick access when you’re ready to take a drink.
Real World Test: Does Waxed Canvas Work?
Pictured above is my GB2 Haversack in an unexpected downpour that left me relying on this bag for about 15 minutes to protect my $2,500 workhorse camera setup. I wasn’t just “gear testing” here…I literally had a lot of money depending on this waxed canvas to actually work for me.
Waxed Canvas: “A durable material that is treated with wax to increase its water resistance.”
When I opened this haversack up, the contents were bone dry! That’s an A+++ from me! This Waxed Canvas certainly does what it needs to do.
Get one for yourself…
If you have liked the looks of this haversack, I highly recommend checking it out here. This haversack is very well thought out, made by great folks, and built to last right here in the United States of America!
