Backpacks today look nothing like the metal and canvas contraptions of the 1970s. Removable internal supports made of plastic have replaced external frames, and ripstop nylon now reigns supreme. No ...

There’s a common saying in the Corps: “Nothing is Marine-proof.” A determined lance corporal with enough time on his hands and limited supervision could find a way to break a ball bearing. Which makes ...

Marine Corps Systems Command has developed a more durable pack frame that is scheduled to be fielded next year. The reinforced U.S. Marine Corps Pack Frame provides the same form, fit and function as ...

In this column last month, I covered two major companies, Kelty and JanSport, who will introduce retro-style, external-frame backpacks in 2011. The article pitched external-frame packs as throwbacks — ...

Building an external frame backpack from scratch might sound ambitious, but can it really work for bushcraft on a budget?

Invented by British outdoorsman Jonathan Davies, the LayBakPak is used just like any other rigid-frame backpack when you're on the move. Once it's time to make camp or take a rest, though, its ...

The delivery of new pack frames from Puerto Rico are being delayed due to destruction caused by Hurricane Maria. (Cpl. Immanuel Johnson/Marine Corps) Hurricane Maria has delayed the fielding of about ...

For avid backpackers, the search for a lightweight pack that is both comfortable and able to carry a hefty load seems to be never-ending. Gear maker and retailer Kuiu believes it's come up with a ...