Is the **GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack** All Talk?
For a seasoned gear enthusiast like myself, finding a range bag that doesn’t feel like a compromise is a constant quest. The GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack promised a lot – the “tall” aspect hinted at greater utility, and the “tactical” moniker suggested robust construction. I purchased it after growing frustrated with my previous duffel bag, which always seemed to be overflowing or leaving essential items buried. My existing range bag was literally bursting at the seams, making it a chore to pack and unpack. I’d been eyeing a more organized solution for some time. The initial impression of this pack, fresh out of its packaging, was one of solid construction. The material felt substantial, and the zippers had a satisfying heft. While I considered a more general-purpose hiking backpack or a specialized rolling range case, the dedicated firearm storage within this backpack tipped the scales. My first reaction was a sense of cautious optimism; it seemed like it might finally bring some order to my range day chaos.
Real-World Testing: Putting **GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack** to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was straightforward: a standard trip to my local indoor shooting range. I packed it with two handguns, multiple magazines, ammunition boxes, eye and ear protection, cleaning supplies, and a few other incidentals. The GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack’s padded waist strap and internal frame were immediately noticeable, distributing the weight more evenly than my old duffel. Navigating the range aisles, the pack felt surprisingly balanced and didn’t feel like a cumbersome sack. It was intuitive to access the main compartments, though I did spend a few minutes familiarizing myself with the specific layout of the various pockets. One minor surprise was that the “eye protection” pocket, while present, felt a bit snug for my larger safety glasses.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months, this tactical range pack became my go-to. It’s accompanied me to outdoor ranges, private property shoots, and even on a road trip where I wanted to bring a couple of firearms safely and discreetly. Through repeated loading and unloading, and being set down on gravel, concrete, and even a bit of damp grass, the 1000 Denier heavy duty material with DuPont Teflon coating has held up admirably. There are no visible signs of fraying or wear on the stitching, and the zippers continue to glide smoothly. Cleaning is generally straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth usually suffices, and the pull-out rain cover has proven its worth during unexpected downpours. Compared to my previous, much cheaper range bags, the durability and thoughtful organization of this backpack are a significant upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of **GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack**
Specifications
The GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack boasts an extra tall design that significantly increases its internal volume, providing more room for ammunition and supplies compared to standard range bags. It comes with 4 padded internal pistol storage cases, each designed to hold a handgun and its magazines, which is a crucial feature for safe transport. Additionally, there are 8 outside zippered pockets offering ample space for handguns, ammunition, and a variety of other accessories. Load stability is enhanced by a padded waist strap and an internal honeycomb frame, crucial for comfortable carrying when the bag is fully loaded. A practical addition is the pull-out rain cover, designed to protect your gear from sudden weather changes. The Visual ID Storage system aims to streamline gear identification and access, a welcome feature when time is of the essence. The construction relies on 1000 Denier heavy duty material with DuPont Teflon coating, and the zippers are YKK Brand oversized self tracking, lockable zippers, ensuring durability and security.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function – carrying range gear – the GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack excels. The dedicated pistol sleeves are well-padded and provide secure transport for multiple firearms. The sheer volume of external pockets allows for meticulous organization, separating different types of ammunition, cleaning tools, and smaller accessories. The Visual ID system, while a simple concept, genuinely helps in quickly locating items, especially under less-than-ideal lighting conditions. The padded straps and internal frame work together effectively to manage the load, preventing the bag from becoming an unwieldy burden even when packed to capacity. A slight weakness is the aforementioned “eye protection” pocket, which could be a bit larger to comfortably accommodate bulkier safety glasses or other sensitive items.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this tactical range pack is clearly geared towards functionality and durability. The 1000 Denier material feels robust, and the Teflon coating adds a welcome layer of water resistance. The oversized, lockable YKK zippers are a standout feature; they operate smoothly and inspire confidence in their longevity, providing an extra layer of security for your valuable contents. The padded shoulder straps are comfortable, and the addition of the waist strap, combined with the internal frame, transforms it from a mere bag into a genuinely wearable backpack. This ergonomic consideration is a significant advantage over simple tote-style range bags. The overall aesthetic is practical and understated, aligning with its “tactical” designation without being overly aggressive.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack is built for the long haul. The heavy-duty fabric and quality hardware suggest it can withstand the rigors of frequent use. I haven’t encountered any stitching failures, tears, or zipper malfunctions. The Teflon coating seems to be performing well, repelling light moisture and making it easy to wipe away dirt and dust. For maintenance, a simple periodic check of the zippers and straps is all that’s really required. I haven’t had to perform any deep cleaning yet, but the material suggests it would respond well to mild soap and water if necessary. The only potential long-term concern might be the plastic buckles on the straps, but they appear to be of good quality.
Accessories and Customization Options
The most significant “accessories” included with the GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack are the 4 padded internal pistol storage cases. These are well-made and offer excellent protection for firearms, each with dedicated magazine slots. The pull-out rain cover is another integrated accessory that adds significant value. Beyond these built-in features, the backpack’s exterior offers webbing loops and attachment points, allowing for some degree of external customization if you wish to add MOLLE pouches or other gear. However, the internal layout is so comprehensive that extensive external customization might not even be necessary for most users.
Pros and Cons of **GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack**
Pros
- Taller than standard version provides substantially more room for ammo and supplies.
- 4 padded internal pistol storage cases offer excellent protection and organization for firearms.
- 8 outside zippered pockets allow for meticulous organization of all your range essentials.
- Padded waist strap and internal (Honeycomb) frame for superior load stability and carrying comfort.
- 1000 Denier heavy duty material with DuPont Teflon coating ensures exceptional durability and resistance to elements.
- YKK Brand oversized self tracking, lockable zippers provide smooth operation and added security.
- Pull-out rain cover is a practical and effective feature for unexpected weather.
Cons
- The dedicated “eye protection” pocket is somewhat small and may not fit larger safety glasses comfortably.
- While versatile, the majority of the internal space is dedicated to the pistol sleeves, meaning it’s less suited for carrying bulkier, non-firearm-related range gear.
Who Should Buy **GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack**?
This GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack is an ideal choice for firearms enthusiasts who frequently visit shooting ranges and value organization and durability. It’s perfect for those who carry multiple handguns and a substantial amount of ammunition, as the dedicated sleeves and ample pocket space cater specifically to these needs. If you’re upgrading from a basic duffel bag or a less specialized backpack, this model offers a significant improvement in functionality and comfort. Individuals who prioritize robust construction and weather resistance will also find this pack to be an excellent investment.
Those who primarily need to carry large quantities of non-firearm-related equipment, or who only bring one handgun and minimal accessories, might find the dedicated pistol storage excessive. For such users, a more general-purpose, large-capacity backpack might be a better fit. Essential complementary items to consider would be organizational inserts for the smaller pockets, if you prefer even finer control over your gear layout, and perhaps a water bottle holder if you plan on longer outdoor sessions.
Conclusion on **GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack**
The GPS Tall Tactical Range Backpack proves to be much more than just talk; it’s a thoughtfully designed and robust piece of gear. It excels at its primary mission of safely and efficiently transporting multiple handguns, ammunition, and essential range accessories. The build quality, particularly the 1000 Denier material and YKK zippers, inspires confidence in its longevity. While the price point is higher than many basic range bags, the features, durability, and organizational capabilities justify the investment for serious shooters. I would absolutely recommend this backpack to anyone looking for a premium, hard-wearing solution for their range days. It’s a purchase that balances necessity with superior design, making it a worthwhile upgrade for any dedicated firearm owner.