After taking the Maxpedition Falcon III for a spin in a series of day hikes and urban jaunts, we can vouch for its adaptability and durability.
This backpack caught our attention not only for its ample storage but also for its practical design features.
We navigated through crowded city streets and narrow trails, noting how the design allowed for a snug fit against the body. This reduces bulk and doesn’t once snag on branches or door frames.
Users will appreciate the lockable CCW pocket for those who carry a large pistol. This is an essential feature for outdoor enthusiasts requiring safety and quick accessibility.
The breathable mesh padding on the back and shoulders supported us through hours of wear. It provided comfort and prevented overheating.
The plethora of pockets and sections makes organizing gear a breeze. Nothing gets lost in the abyss of a one-compartment bag here.
While we’re fans of Maxpedition’s robust approach to bag design, we did find that accessing the main compartment could be a bit cumbersome when the pack was filled to the brim. However, the trade-off is a more secure stacking of gear, which could be a deciding factor for those prioritizing rugged ventures over quick access.
Bottom Line
For the outdoor adventurers or urban navigators needing a reliable gear carrier, the Maxpedition Falcon III Backpack stands up to the challenge.
Its design, with thoughtful pocket placement and extra security features, makes it a solid choice for anyone serious about their carry.
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Maxpedition Falcon III Backpack: An Overview
In our hands, the Falcon III by Maxpedition stands out for its practical design and build quality. The Foliage Green color is sleek, and it blends well into an outdoor or urban setting, although the Falcon III is also available in Khaki, Black, and Wolf Gray.
With a 35L capacity distributed through various compartments, we find it strikes a balance between size and functionality.
The comfort provided by the 3D breathable mesh padded back and shoulder straps makes carrying the bag a breeze, even when fully packed.
Its robust construction, including lockable zippers for the concealed carry pocket, adds to the sense of security for our valuables, especially when on the move.
We appreciate the versatility of the Falcon III. Whether it’s stuffed with gear for a weekend adventure or compressed for daily use, it maintains its form. Its thoughtful design encourages expansion, allowing us to customize the space according to our needs.
However, it’s not without its downsides. Some may find the backpack on the heavier side when empty, and it may not fit the bill for those requiring an ultra-lightweight pack. Despite these minor points, the durability and thoughtful touches make the Falcon III a reliable companion for us.
Spacious Main Compartment
When we loaded up the Maxpedition Falcon III for a weekend hike, the spaciousness of the main compartment was a pleasant surprise.
It comfortably accommodated most of our gear, including a lightweight jacket, a small tent, and essential tools. The pack’s design makes use of every inch, providing a roomy storage area without being bulky.
We did note, however, that while the compartment is generous, it’s also quite deep. This means that organizing smaller items can be a challenge. A few internal pockets would have been helpful. Despite this, the ample space is a boon, especially for those of us who prefer to have everything in one place.
In everyday use, the compartment proves to be versatile. It can easily transition from an outdoor pack to an urban carry-all, fitting laptops, books, and other daily necessities. It’s a testament to the thoughtfulness behind the Falcon III’s design.
CCW Pocket for Large Pistols
In our experience with the Falcon III backpack, one feature that stands out for practicality is the dedicated CCW (Concealed Carry Weapon) pocket.
It’s designed with ample space to accommodate larger pistols, which is a definitive plus for those of us who prefer full-size firearms for our personal safety. The pocket includes lockable zippers, providing an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
However, don’t expect this to be a quick-access compartment. It’s more about safe and discreet transportation.
The zippers are sturdy, reflecting the overall durability we’ve observed in Maxpedition products. On the downside, the pocket’s positioning may not be the most convenient for all users. If accessing your firearm quickly is a priority, you might find the design requires some getting used to.
Our verdict is that the CCW pocket is a solid feature, thoughtfully designed for those who carry. It’s neither a standout for rapid access nor a drawback; it maintains the balance of the backpack’s high functionality and security.
Comfortable Carrying Design
We’ve taken the Falcon III Backpack out for a spin, and our backs and shoulders are thanking us for it.
The 3D breathable mesh padding on both the back and shoulder straps has been a game changer. Even after hours of carrying a full load, we noticed significantly less strain compared to similar backpacks.
This Falcon III handles hikes, urban commutes, and school runs with surprising ease.
Yes, it’s robust and made to face the elements, but that doesn’t mean they’ve compromised on comfort.
The shoulder straps adjust easily, preventing any awkward fitting, and the pack sits just right against the back, maintaining a good weight distribution.
However, despite the many positives, we did find that when fully packed, accessing the main compartment was a touch more challenging.
And while the pack doesn’t dig in, the straps could use a tad more cushion for those longer treks. But, overall, this backpack carries its weight comfortably, living up to the Maxpedition name.
High-Quality Material and Build
From the moment we laid hands on the Falcon III Backpack, the robust construction was evident.
Crafted by Maxpedition, a brand respected for durability, this backpack didn’t disappoint.
We found the material to be top-notch, handling various loads without showing any signs of wear. The backpack felt secure on our shoulders, thanks to the breathable mesh padding that also provided ample comfort during extended use.
Despite the heavy-duty feel, the pack remained surprisingly lightweight, a testament to the thoughtful design.
The tactile experience of the zippers was smooth and they looked capable of withstanding frequent use.
While exploring the pockets, we appreciated their abundant number, allowing for organized storage without feeling cluttered.
We tested the backpack in different situations, noting that the CCW pocket was discreet yet easily accessible, and lockable zippers added a sense of security.
Although the backpack isn’t immune to minor critiques – some may find it too rigid for their taste – the overall build quality solidified our confidence in its ability to endure adventurous and everyday demands alike.
Versatile Use Cases
In our experience, the Falcon III shines in its adaptability.
Carried on a weekend hike, we found it spacious enough to store all the essentials, with a main compartment perfect for larger items and the overall volume handling our gear effortlessly.
Out in the city, its sleek foliage green design received nods of approval, while the concealed carry pocket was discreet yet accessible for those licensed to carry a firearm.
The breathable mesh on the back and shoulder straps stood out during long treks, keeping us cool on warmer days.
We could tell that the design is thought through, aiming not just for appeal but for practical use.
Whether for daily commutes, outdoor adventures, or even as a rugged carry-on, it adapts to the situation at hand.
However, keep in mind, for those who prefer more organization, its simplicity might require additional pouches or organizers.
Pros and Cons
After thorough use and inspection, we’ve found several attractive and a few less favorable points about the Maxpedition Falcon III Backpack. Here, we detail our experiences to help you weigh the decision.
Pros
- Durability: The backpack’s sturdiness stands out from the moment you handle it. It’s built with strong, high-quality materials that seem to hold up well to wear and tear. We haven’t noticed any weakening even after rigorous, everyday use.
- Comfort: The 3D breathable mesh padding on the back and shoulders doesn’t just provide comfort; it also helps prevent overheating. Even on long hikes or commutes, we remained relatively sweat-free and comfortable.
- Volume: With a volume of 2160 cubic inches, we found the space more than sufficient for daily needs. The main compartment easily swallowed our gear, which varied day by day, without feeling bulky.
- Concealed Carry: The CCW pocket with lockable zippers is a huge plus for those who carry. It’s comforting knowing you have secure and easy access to your firearm, snug in its dedicated pocket.
- Compartmentalization: The multitude of pockets and compartments is fantastic. Especially commendable is the fact that despite loading it up, the backpack can be compressed flat against the body, maintaining a sleek profile.
- Zippers: The zippers are robust and glide smoothly. We faced no snags or resistance, a testament to the product’s thoughtful engineering.
Cons
- Aesthetic: The old school ‘tactical’ look might not suit everyone’s tastes, especially for those looking for a backpack that transitions well from outdoor activities to a formal workplace setting.
- Strap Adjustability: Some of us found the backpack’s straps a bit tricky to adjust perfectly. While not a deal-breaker, it could be something to consider if you frequently adjust your load.
- Price: The Falcon III Backpack’s quality and features come with a higher price tag. It’s an investment, so if you’re on a budget, this could be a deterrent.
- Color Limitation: The foliage green color is not to everyone’s liking and may not pair well with all personal styles or preferences. Additional color options would be appreciated to cater to a broader audience.
Analysing Customer Reviews
In sifting through the sea of feedback for the Falcon III, we’ve uncovered a treasure trove of insights.
Owners rave about its versatility, highlighting how it can expand to accommodate a substantial load or compress to hug the body snugly. Additionally, its compact size garners praise, striking that just-right balance for daily carry.
Durability is another standout feature mentioned by users. The Falcon III’s toughness is praised, keeping in line with Maxpedition’s reputation for reliable gear. Many users report being long-time fans of the brand, with this backpack only strengthening their loyalty.
As for the design, customers note its thoughtfulness, pointing to the ample pockets and sturdy zippers that contribute to an organized and accessible experience.
Although experiences are overwhelmingly positive, there’s an acknowledgement that while the bag offers expansion options, the initial outing may require a bit of adjustment to optimize the packing.
We noticed a thread of contentment with the well-constructed nature of the pack, affirming that it lives up to the rigors of day-to-day use. It’s obvious that the Falcon III has earned its feathers in the field of reliable day packs.
Conclusion
We’ve taken the Falcon III out on several adventures and its performance has lived up to the hype. Maxpedition has delivered a backpack that is as versatile as it is rugged. The design allows it to expand or compress, depending on the load. This is a definite plus for varied everyday use.
We’ve packed it with heavy gear and, not once did the zippers flinch—they’re as sturdy as you’d hope. The number of pockets is noteworthy, too. It eases organization and access, ensuring items are right where we need them.
We’ve always appreciated the durability synonymous with the Maxpedition brand, and this backpack doesn’t stray from that reputation. Although we’ve subjected it to some rough use, it bears no sign of damage, which is impressive.
In essence, despite only a handful of reviews, the consensus on quality and functionality is clear. We concur that this pack is a solid choice for those requiring reliable, everyday carry gear.
