We reviewed Mission Workshop’s Sanction Weatherproof Rucksack in November of 2011. (Read the review here.) This time out we are taking a look at the company’s R6 Arkiv Field Pack.
The Mission Workshop Sanction Weatherproof Rucksack is one of the more unusual backpacks we have ever seen. In fact, it isn’t exactly a backpack. A more accurate way to describe the R6 Arkiv would be to refer to it as “backpackS”. You see, the R6 Arkiv is highly configurable and can be used in a variety of ways.
Here’s our video look, the company’s description, and how you might end up with the review sample!
From Mission Workshop:
The R6 Field Pack allows for the secure and simple attachment of weatherproof accessories to the exterior of the bag. The Arkiv® modular system gives the bag freedom to evolve and adapt as needed. With an arsenal of accessories to choose from the R6 series is ready to travel. Accessories range from simple cell phone pouches and tool pockets to larger organizers and laptop sleeves. Equipped with 6 Arkiv rails and available in two sizes.
The pack can be used in either “roll-top” mode, or in a traditional “flap-down” configuration, has one external zippered pocket for items like a phone or passport, and one interior zippered pocket that is ideal for documents and fits up to a 15” laptop. The Arkiv backpacks feature multiple weatherproof compartments, urethane coated YKK zippers, waterproof materials, and an internal frame sheet.
The R6 comes in two sizes. The small version measures:12” x 18” x 5” and offers 1,250 cu.in. of storage. The large version measures 16” x 20” x 8”, and it holds up to 2,500 cu.in. of gear. But that is just the start.
As you can see in the video, there are a host of different accessories you can add to turn it into the exact backpack you want and need. And, thanks to the unique design, you can quickly configure and reconfigure the backpack so it best suits your need at any given moment.
There’s the $68 Folio:
With two urethane coated zippered pockets, pen slots and extra Arkiv rails, the Folio is the ultimate weatherproof organizer for the Field Pack. The two front-mounted Arkiv rails allow for the additional attachment of the Tool or Cell accessories if desired. A U-lock slot in the back can double as a handle when the Folio is used as a stand-alone bag.
There is also the $86 Laptop Case:
This weatherproof roll top laptop case combines dense foam and two layers of waterproof fabric to create an incredibly protective and versatile laptop case. Two extra front mounted Arkiv rails allow for the addition of the Folio, Tool or Cell accessories. A U-lock slot in the back can double as a handle when the Laptop Case is used as a stand-alone bag.
There’s the $58 Tool Pocket:
A medium-sized weatherproof pouch great for carrying the tools of your trade. Has one urethane coated zipper pocket and one annex rail for the addition of the cell pouch if desired. Belt loops and U-lock strap will enable you to use this accessory as a hip tool pack.
And there is the $24 Accessory Shoulder Strap that turns the accessories into free-standing shoulder bags.
The list goes on and includes pretty much everything you might want! Yes, depending on the gear you use and the way you want to travel, the Mission Workshop R6 Arkiv Field Pack can fit your needs. And when your gear and needs change… the pack can change too!
I’m impressed with the Arkiv Field Pack. It is well constructed, highly flexible and had a unique look all its own. I love the flexibility it offers and I have no doubt that, when using it, the pack will draw attention… in a good way. Add in the fact that it is waterproof and you have a serious pack for serious use on the go. The biggest issue with the Arkiv Field Pack is the price. The small pack is $209 while the larger pack is $229. And once you begin adding accessories the price rapidly climbs. That’s the downside. The upside is that, thanks to the system’s flexibility and build-quality, it is the kind of bag you will purchase once and be able to use for years… and years… to come.
You can learn more and start building your own Arkiv Field Pack on the company website.
And check back next week because… we’ll be giving the review sample away.
MSRP: Pricing starts at $209.
What I Like: Great construction; Comfortable; Highly configuration; Can fit your gear and bag needs as they change; Draws attention; Waterproof
What Needs Improvement: Pricey; Will definitely draw attention
