Decided to buy another, after 10 years
Have had an earlier version of this back pack since just after Navy bootcamp. My father purchased it for me as a gift for graduation.
The new version has a velcro spot for a patch right where I used to pin on patches or place a label etc. Stuck an old flak patch on the new one.
Only quarrel is the slot pouches on the inside don't accommodate the cell phone sizes of today... Not quiet deep/low enough to clear the pouch zipper for my Galaxy S8 Active... and larger phones might be to wide. They do however accomadate ID's, passports, credit cards, business cards etc nicely.
However that aside this has been a really durable backpack, you can't beat it for the price and the aesthetic design is perfect. Doesn't scream "taticool" which makes it great for liberty and is perfect as an aircraft carry-on. The description about it being a basic pickup that does it's job is spot on. Glad this product was still available!
I have loaded up with anything and everything over the years. Clothes/uniforms/beach gear/laptops/gym and even took it camping. This has always been my "personal effects" carrier when deploying, going overseas or long training ops. Easy to clean too!
Reason for the replacement? Years a go a strap broke and I tied it off at the waist bolster. Saw that a new one was under $35 on base here, was surprised.to see it, it had the spot for a Velcro patch, so treated myself to this new model!
Customer For Life
I have had the 203B for a little over 2 years now. I have had dozens of packs in my life and after finding the 203B, I will never own another kind of pack for daily use. I use this pack everyday for my work gear and have taken it on at least 50 day hikes and even a few over-nighters. It has almost zero wear and tear. Are there things I would change about the pack? Sure. I would like there to be a webbed compartment for my water bottle and maybe a little more organization in the front pockets. But at the end of the day, these are things you learn to deal with for such an unbelievably durable pack. For the price, you can't find a better product. When I purchased this bag, I had never heard of Flying Circle, but they've certainly earned a customer for life.
Perfect Throw & Go Bag
As one of the other reviewers already stated this is a perfect throw and go bag. I too am not a fan of the organization backpacks. Sure you get a divided bag and can place different items in the different areas but when you are on the go these bags become a hassle in trying to determine what goes where. This bag remedies that issue. OK size storage area for all the items you have to carry. The bag is made of sturdy material and is water resistant which is a big plus for me. I believe the interior lining is what makes the bag water resistant not the outside portion. I did a "faucet" test and the inside was completely dry (due to the lining) but the outer material was damp. So just an FYI if you were hoping the outer part of the bag would repel/bead water off the bag. However, im sure a coat of water repellant can remedy this. The only downside i can see to the bag is the depth that is measured at 6". Decent if you are carrying smaller or fewer items but dont try to pack to much into it. As an example, I used it one day as a gym bag and was able to fit my bathroom items in the front small pocket and in the main area my uniform items and combat boots...and that was it. Aside from that small gripe I believe the bag is perfect especially for the price. Other bags from other brands that may be similar will cost at least double the price.
Very tough backpack
It rivals the durability of backpacks like 5.11 and is a great solution for "Throw in and go". I am not a huge fan of organization in backpacks especially when it gets in the way of being able to "throw it in and go" as stated before. If your able to get up, stuff your equipment in and go then that is good enough for many situations that are encountered day-to-day. Less organizational pockets and whatnot means more room- Which is what this bag accomplishes without being huge more is less and less is more.
The only SMALL complaint I have is an area of MOLLE type webbing on the back would be very nice (Then again, it would be less low-profile), but other than that it is a great backpack and I would highly recommend it to a friend.
Not to mention the cost- Many crappy backpacks cost 30$ and many backpacks as nice as this cost 120$ or more. Its an amazing deal and anyone who wants a high-quality backpack for cheap needs to take advantage.
Solid Basic Pack
I acquired one of these five months ago, when a Soldier from a departing unit left it behind. It's been used steadily since then, and has held up admirably. Soon it will be shipped home for my son to use as a backpack for school, where it will get its real test. For the price, one would be hard-pressed to find such a good basic pack for everyday needs. I cannot say how long mine was used by its previous owner, but it seems to be a slightly older pack (lacking the velcro seen in the pictures here) and probably saw months of hard use here in Afghanistan. It's dusty and broken in, but should last my son years--unlike the old Jansports I recall from my days in school.
Durable Bag
I have had this bag for over 5 years and just a month ago the zippers went out. The bag it self has one small hole. This is an inexpensive yet very durable bag.
Great Bag
I've had this bag for almost a year and it's great. It is casual yet it can hold a lot of weight for polyester. I realy like the waist straps for extra comfort when carrying heavyloads. The only problem is the flap that covers the top of the zipper has become a little shredded, but it's still good.
Value & Craftsmanship
I bought one of these bags (203B) over 3 years ago and have used it six days a week in a railroad enviroment. It has shown very little wear and has cleaned up easily. I am very impressed by the value and craftsmanship of this backpack. I will get the new one and my kids will continue to use my older one since it still has plenty of life left. Thanks for the great product!!!
I love my new bag!
I love my new bag! I had it monogrammed also. I was surprised at how soon I received it and the quality of the material.
I have recommended this company to others and will be purchasing again soon!
