Hydration systems

[Steelersfan413]

Well i'd prefer a backpack kind. It just feels more natural when running and biking.

[EIREGOBRACH]

The best to use is the Camelbak 'Viper' Hydration pack! Fits snug to the body and to the contour of your back! I highly recommend it!

[Hippo]

Not much. I want ample water for running a mile. Biking 5 miles. I can always refill at a gas station or convenience store nearby. But I don't want it to be too heavy.

if you need a camelbak for running a mile or riding 5 miles on a bike, you are severely out of shape

[phigment]

Just sip a bottle of water when you get back.

[EIREGOBRACH]

The Viper would hold a sufficient amount of water for 6 miles in total.

[Britboy]

Alright biatches,

Who knows what other model Camelbaks a Thermobak 3L bladder would fit into?

Asking 'cos I may have a bladder going spare and want to get a carrier for it so's the old man can have a Christmas gift and sup water on his mountain bike...

I know someone will answer 'teh Thermobak carriers duh' but m'eh p-) want to get him something in civvy colours if poss.

Anyone know if/where you can buy the carriers on their own, no bladder?

Cheers!
BB

[Bia]

What happened to our world... people develop massive leakage syndrome?

"yeah I gotta go do some stuff I need several liters of water on my back"

huh

[pascalywood]

Of course you dont see the need to carry water. There are sinks in kitchens.

[digrar]

"yeah I gotta go do some stuff I need several liters of water on my back"

Sounds about right. Hydrate or die.

[Bia]

Of course you dont see the need to carry water. There are sinks in kitchens.ya got me. :P
But yeah, when did canteens go bye-bye?

[pascalywood]

ya got me. :P
But yeah, when did canteens go bye-bye?

I dont know for the "when" but I have a guess for the "why"

-Dont have to let go off your weapon while you drink
-Can Carry more water

etc

[vinny_121_ND]

ya got me. :P
But yeah, when did canteens go bye-bye?

They didn't carry enough water for me for a day and it was annoying to refill it at the water fountain at 1L / 3 minutes. Camelbaks are just more efficient. Just go to the sink, fill it up real fast with cold water and that's it. When I'm hydrated, I'm at least happy instead of cranky, emo and tired from being dehydrated. :)

[antagonist22]

Hi everyone,
I recently got a new hydration bladder.
It is the "widepac" made by Source Vagabond systems
http://www.source-vagabond.com/Hydration.asp?CategoryLevel02=2

http://www.source-vagabond.com/images/hydration/widepac.jpg

As you can see it does have a pretty wide opening.

I stopped using my old one because mould had grown inside the tube but the bladder itself was ok.(i had used it for 2 years)

So my question is:
1. How do I care for the tube? Any ways to dry it? (the tube cannot be removed,my one differs from the one in pic slightly)
2. Are there any good chemicals to clean the tube and bladder itself (apart from the camelbak cleaning tablets which are too expensive for regular use)?
3.Putting it in the freezer: Yes or No?

[Irish_11]

yes on the freezer, thats the cheapest and most effective way. You can use tablets that people use to clean dentures to clean it out instead of the camelbak cleaning tablets. They are alot cheaper, the downside though is some of them leave an "interesting" taste.

[StuRat]

Look in this thread
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?t=132488
(Its the sticky on hydration systems)

Simple things like only putting water in it and letting it dry after you use it keeps most things away. You can buy brushes that go down the tube to clean it out and Bicarbonate Soda works well as an alternative to the cleaning tabs.

[AROUETLJ]

The question's been discussed already. And my answer will always be: Your nan's denture cleaning tablets. They work like a charm.

[LineDoggie]

2 drops bleach, hot water, swish it around with w cleaning brush. rinse several times with clean water, air dry.

[ZoneOne]

I've used Listerine with good results. Just make sure you really rinse it out, (I'd say multiple times) but it will leave a good minty taste. I also suggest using the brush from camelback that will allow you to clean the tube. Similar to a better pipecleaner.

[SARGE!!!!]

Miltern's baby fluid......Used to clean baby's bottles and Dad's bladder.(The one I carry in my bergen, not the one near my spleen)

[Desert_Donkey]

Alright biatches,

Who knows what other model Camelbaks a Thermobak 3L bladder would fit into?

Asking 'cos I may have a bladder going spare and want to get a carrier for it so's the old man can have a Christmas gift and sup water on his mountain bike...

I know someone will answer 'teh Thermobak carriers duh' but m'eh p-) want to get him something in civvy colours if poss.

Anyone know if/where you can buy the carriers on their own, no bladder?

Cheers!
BB

The 3L Thermobak bladders will fit into the old Mule and Lobo carriers, as well as many of the new ones.

The 2L bladders will fit into just about all the different carriers, except the ones designed for the 1.5L bladder, obviously.

Ebay will likely be your best bet for finding just the carriers.

[Britboy]

The 3L Thermobak bladders will fit into the old Mule and Lobo carriers, as well as many of the new ones.

The 2L bladders will fit into just about all the different carriers, except the ones designed for the 1.5L bladder, obviously.

Ebay will likely be your best bet for finding just the carriers.


Cheers man, ended up getting him a new civvy camelback for Chrimbo anyway, but could still be handy since I might still have that bladder going spare, need to check/email them somehow to see just which carriers it'd fit...

And yeh, several litres of water is never a bad idea, esp in summer. Yep, even in UK we occasionally get fair weather and sun!

[Desert_Donkey]

I looked around for quite a while to find a way to attach my Thermobak to my IBA, and lo! One day I was rummaging around in my box of old fastex buckles and found these nifty "no-stitch" buckles that I had completely forgotten about!

Problem solved.

I attached the bottom straps with the Fastex, and used a couple of mini-'biners I had laying around for the top. I plan to go with grimloc carabiners for the top, though; one of the mini-'biners gave out when I rolled over on top of it during a training lane, so durability is definitely an issue. I am curious to see how well the grimlocs hold up under field use.

My IBA:
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q293/doubleclaw/Gear/DSC_0059.jpg

Back view, w/ Thermobak:
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q293/doubleclaw/Gear/DSC_0060.jpg

Bottom attachment point:
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q293/doubleclaw/Gear/DSC_0061.jpg

Top attachment point, with mini-'biner:
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q293/doubleclaw/Gear/DSC_0062.jpg

Detail of "no-stitch" Fastex buckle:
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q293/doubleclaw/Gear/DSC_0064.jpg

[Britboy]

Nice one.

Surprised the American Army one hasn't got small clips on it. If you google 'BritBak' (GB version of Camelback) it has small clips so's you can clip it to Osprey/assaultvests I think. Still has shoulder straps so you can use it on its own or without vest/armour.

You can also clip it to the side of your bergen, at the point where the sidepockets normally attach, but as it cannot be zipped on as well it is a bit odd, and flaps around like mad.

[Frens]

I'd replace that mini carbiners with zip ties, paracord or ITW Grimlocs (as you already said) ;-)
those thiny mini carbiners are good only as key chain as they can be bend by hand

[Desert_Donkey]

I'd replace that mini carbiners with zip ties, paracord or ITW Grimlocs (as you already said) ;-)
those thiny mini carbiners are good only as key chain as they can be bend by hand

Of when you roll over on top of them.

I found that out the hard way.:-(

I'm leaning heavily toward the ITW Grimlocs, because I want to be able to get this thing off my armor so's I can fill it up without having to doff the vest.

[Frens]

a better way would be to use replacement buckles like you did at the bottom...putting one insted of the Dring and the other instead of the carbiner using paracord.
it would be way faster to remove the camelback compared to the Grimloc.

in my spare time I work in a AAFES contractor tailor shop and I saw other guys doing it this way.

I'd like to improve this attachment method as soon as I get 1'' webbing to be used instead of the paracord to attach the buckles to the IBA so that it would be fully adjustable

;-)

[KilledByAGirl]

In case this hasn't been mentioned yet, as for cleaning, white vinegar works great to clean all sorts of things like camelbaks, canteens, coffee makers, washing machines, etc because it gets rid of bad tastes, smells, and is very safe. Just dilute it and use it to rinse or scrub the bladder, and it wont leave a taste or smell. Plus, it's much easier to rinse out than soap or bleach.

I, particularly, like using vinegar for canteens that get sooo nasty smelling.

[LaoSexMachine]

I never cleaned my canteen.

[Dan2004]

I, particularly, like using vinegar for canteens that get sooo nasty smelling.

I haven't cleaned out my canteens since 2005. :|

[KilledByAGirl]

I haven't cleaned out my canteens since 2005. :|

I don't know about you, but I've been issued some canteens that smell worse than death. I bought new ones a couple years ago since they were less than $2 at the PX, but I still have one that's just plain wicked if you don't clean it. I keep it because it's an NBC cap. It's very, very old though. Must be why it's so nasty. But, I had to deal with that same one all through basic, years ago, so I certainly got used to it. At least I can clean it now. Unfortunately, when we had to turn in our gear at basic, I had that canteen in the bottom of my duffle, so I had to turn in the new one I had bought instead.

[Wilco]

I got new canteens at supply, had to dig tio the very bottom of the damn container full of hundreds if them.

[damaja]

Surprised the American Army one hasn't got small clips on it. If you google 'BritBak' (GB version of Camelback) it has small clips so's you can clip it to Osprey/assaultvests I think.

Yes, that's right. Clips easily onto the Osprey rather than bodging your own clips onto it. Most handy especially when you take the Camelbak on/off a lot for PT sessions or whatever (and taking it to the ice machine to fill up) I'm really surprised the US Army hasn't got this feature.

[KilledByAGirl]

I don't know about you, but I've been issued some canteens that smell worse than death. I bought new ones a couple years ago since they were less than $2 at the PX, but I still have one that's just plain wicked if you don't clean it. I keep it because it's an NBC cap. It's very, very old though. Must be why it's so nasty. But, I had to deal with that same one all through basic, years ago, so I certainly got used to it. At least I can clean it now. Unfortunately, when we had to turn in our gear at basic, I had that canteen in the bottom of my duffle, so I had to turn in the new one I had bought instead.

Btw, I just noticed that my nasty smelling canteen is from 1984. So... yeah.

[damaja]

I think the only time I used my issue canteen since leaving basic was on a training exercise in Canada. With the use of modern systems and also so much bottled water whilst on operational tour they have become completely redundant. I mean, a black plastic bottle that can only hold 1L in volume which doesn't really fit onto any kit (especially being a tank crewman I don't even wear webbing anymore).

[BlackhawkCY]

I suppose the only reason they are still around is to give them to the recruits in basic. They are really cheap and no one cares if they brake.

[CQB_Operator]

I've had a Blackhawk Hydrastorm Force 5 a couple o' years ago, the bladder leaked and all my stuff was wet:cantbeli:.
I sent a mail @ Blackhawk and they send me a new bladder but again it leaked withour any reason :-(
I bought a camelbak and no particuliar issue (appart the bad taste).

And no so long ago I've tested a Source Bladder, great stuff, no bad taste and so easy to clean with the wide opening on the top.

Source advert that their bladder has a BACTERIA- FREE™ System, TASTE-FREE™ System, and some other stuff...and they've got aNSN number
http://www.source-military.com/downloadables/accessories/wxp_hydration_3L_ds.pdf

For me the Camelbak backpack are good , but the bladders from Source are just better IMO

[tactical73]

camelback and source is both the best

[gilgoul]

I don't know about you, but I've been issued some canteens that smell worse than death. I bought new ones a couple years ago since they were less than $2 at the PX, but I still have one that's just plain wicked if you don't clean it. I keep it because it's an NBC cap. It's very, very old though. Must be why it's so nasty. But, I had to deal with that same one all through basic, years ago, so I certainly got used to it. At least I can clean it now. Unfortunately, when we had to turn in our gear at basic, I had that canteen in the bottom of my duffle, so I had to turn in the new one I had bought instead.


Take a handfull of pebbles and sand, a tea spoon of bleach, half fill with water and shake it like crazy.
It will clean the inside like new, and kill the foul smell.

[sauerstoff]

I'm thinking in buy a Gerber Reserve, could you guys provide some pros and cons please ?
I read some pages behind an opinion and seems a good product
Thanks

[kaibilgt]

I found this on the web...

1. Camelbak Cleaning Kit

The Camelbak Cleaning Kit comes with a curved brush for cleaning inside the water bladder, and a small brush on a line for cleaning the sucker tube. It comes with a couple of cleaning tablets for deep cleaning the water bladder once a month. It also has a handy drying kit including a hanger to attach and a frame to prop the water bladder open to help it dry. While you could find similar household items to use, it is very handy to buy the kit and have the brushes and hanger.

2. Camelbak Cleaning Tablets

Camelbak cleaning tablets are similar to the denture cleansing tablets in their action. They contain chlorine dioxide, which is basically bleach. You use the tablet in a liter of water in the hydration bladder for just 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and use. You may find that you want to follow this with a rinse of baking soda, lemon, or vinegar to help remove the chlorine taste.
3. Baking Soda - Bicarbonate of Soda

Mix baking soda with water and allow it to soak in the bladder - anywhere from an hour to overnight. If you are getting ready to use it the next day, it's best to allow it to dry overnight. How much baking soda? I've seen recommendations from 2 tablespoons to half a cup, mixed with hot water to help it dissolve. After it soaks, rinse thoroughly with warm water.
4. Baking Soda and Lemon or Lime Juice

This combination is also recommended, but be warned that it produces a foaming action. Mix a couple of tablespoons of baking soda in a couple of cups of water, put it into the hydration bladder. Now add a similar amount of lemon juice or lime juice and be prepared for the bubbling. Allow that to sit for 30 minutes to overnight and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
5. Denture Cleaning Tablets

Here's the easy way - use denture cleaning tablets. Drop them into water in the pack and allow it to work for 15 minutes as they recommend for detures. Rinse thoroughly. Some recommend not getting the ones with mint flavor unless you want your water to always taste minty fresh.
6. Baking Soda and Vinegar

Fill the bladder, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar and shake it, then add 1 tablespoon baking powder then shake it. Now drain and rinse thoroughly. This is reported to be good to remove the chlorine taste after bleaching the bladder.
7. Bleach Solution

Add a capful or teaspoon of bleach to enough water to fill the reservoir. Allow to bleach for an hour to overnight. Rinse very thoroughly with 4 or more changes of water. I would recommend then following that with the baking soda and lemon juice or vinegar to help remove the bleach flavor. But this is the best way to kill fungus and bacteria, especially if you see visible growth.



http://walking.about.com/od/hydration/tp/camelbackclean.htm

[Greek soldier]

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Fill the bladder, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar and shake it, then add 1 tablespoon baking powder then shake it. Now drain and rinse thoroughly. This is reported to be good to remove the chlorine taste after bleaching the bladder.

Agree 100%. Vinegar is perfect for both the water bladder and the 3/4 PVC canteen.

[Britboy]

Well I found my old Platypus (like a cheapo version of Camelback but smaller) that fits snugly in top pocket of my NI pack, and it had grown algae/mould inside it - yuk!!

Denture cleaning tablets, 2 of them for the 1-litre reservoir, wait til it fizzes up then run some through the hose til it comes out the mouthpiece so you know thats getting cleaned too.

20 mins later and after a few rinses, good as new, and did me fine for the next 2 days, no lurgy or anything, honest!

So denture tablets get my vote, just a bit odd when the checkout girl thinks you wear dentures in your early 20s :p

[Soldat_Américain]

Nice one.

Surprised the American Army one hasn't got small clips on it. If you google 'BritBak' (GB version of Camelback) it has small clips so's you can clip it to Osprey/assaultvests I think. Still has shoulder straps so you can use it on its own or without vest/armour.

You can also clip it to the side of your bergen, at the point where the sidepockets normally attach, but as it cannot be zipped on as well it is a bit odd, and flaps around like mad.

Help needed, googled BritBak found nothing of what you described, but did find a regular camelbak in dpm.

[BlackhawkCY]

In any case the camelback cleaning kit is a good buy. I have the small one without the hanger. The main reason i got it is to clean the tube which does not clean as much with the other methods

[Britboy]

Help needed, googled BritBak found nothing of what you described, but did find a regular camelbak in dpm.

http://www.sofmilitary.co.uk/products/AKT083.jpg

Just a camelback but with 4 clips to attach it to things...

[ferguson]

Method we used

[Troubadour]

How necessary is it to clean a CamelBak when all you put in it is water? I just usually empty the water and call it a day.

[Soldat_Américain]

Method we used
was that with or without iodine pills?

[BlackhawkCY]

How necessary is it to clean a CamelBak when all you put in it is water? I just usually empty the water and call it a day.

When water stays in for a while it is better to wash the camelbak otherwise slime will built up within your reservoir.... and thats not good. If you do not clean it you might or might not get cramps, indigestion etc small things but still annoying

[Soldat_Américain]

which reminds me I need to empty mine from night land nav on thursday:bash:

[Lt. James Anderson]

How necessary is it to clean a CamelBak when all you put in it is water? I just usually empty the water and call it a day.

Always empty the water when not in use. Clean it from time to time.

[GhillieSuitGrassHopper]

hello everyone i'm new. i personally have never used camelbaks myself, so i dunno much about them. are they standard issue nowadays (i'm civilian) and how are they than the traditional flasks or canteens? do they come in thermos?

[kaibilgt]

hello everyone i'm new. i personally have never used camelbaks myself, so i dunno much about them. are they standard issue nowadays (i'm civilian) and how are they than the traditional flasks or canteens? do they come in thermos?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXOeEN67OPY

[BlackhawkCY]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXOeEN67OPY

not sure that is what he is asking, he might be refering to the actual camelback used in the military....

[military gear geek]

Hey.. Got a question.. Would you guys buy a used camelbak if you had the chance too? My local surplus store has a few for sell between $20.00 to $30.00 each. They seem to be in good shape. The outsides shows signs of use but not abused.. Depends what the price is.. All have the bladders, bite valves, tubes, etc. They are in desert camo.
A matter of fact, they are the exact same models as these ones here,
http://cgi.ebay.com/US-CAMELBAK-THERMOBAK-3L-HYDRATION-PACK_W0QQitemZ220402700502QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item220402700502&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318%7C301%3A1%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A50

Thanks to the info on here, I now know of other ways to clean up the bladder & drinking tube instead of baking soda & luke warm water..

Just curious to see if this would be a good investment..

Thanks!!

[platypus]

how expensive are new ones in US ,

maybe better to go with new,

dont know how many swines have drunk from a used one

[BlackhawkCY]

Hey.. Got a question.. Would you guys buy a used camelbak if you had the chance too? My local surplus store has a few for sell between $20.00 to $30.00 each. They seem to be in good shape. The outsides shows signs of use but not abused.. Depends what the price is.. All have the bladders, bite valves, tubes, etc. They are in desert camo.
A matter of fact, they are the exact same models as these ones here,
http://cgi.ebay.com/US-CAMELBAK-THERMOBAK-3L-HYDRATION-PACK_W0QQitemZ220402700502QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item220402700502&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318%7C301%3A1%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A50

Thanks to the info on here, I now know of other ways to clean up the bladder & drinking tube instead of baking soda & luke warm water..

Just curious to see if this would be a good investment..

Thanks!!

All camelbak "bags" open so you could open one up and see the bladder inside but in my opinion things that have to do with food, hydration and base layers of clothing ie pants and socks are best bought new....

[BlackhawkCY]

hello everyone i'm new. i personally have never used camelbaks myself, so i dunno much about them. are they standard issue nowadays (i'm civilian) and how are they than the traditional flasks or canteens? do they come in thermos?

Standard issue depends on the country you are refering to....

they are convenient in wearing with a vest, carry more capacity, you can drink from them while aiming downrange, less capability of accidentaly spilling your water while in a bumpy ride and the water tends to be cooler than a standard issue canteen because it is in a way "insulated" furthermore some models of camelbaks are designed for NBC warfare so they can be integrated with gas masks.

[62ECHO]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXOeEN67OPY

I got two of these and they are great. Seriously though, how much sh1t can some talk about a freaking bottle 6+ min worth of blah blah blah.

[JJC]

Is it practical to have a large bladder if you run or is it uncomfortable having all that water thrash around?

[BlackhawkCY]

Is it practical to have a large bladder if you run or is it uncomfortable having all that water thrash around?


well the bladder is at you back not belt so it is more comfortable and water does not thrush as much as you would think since the bladder does not contain much air.

[TheProfessional]

MBSS Hydration assualt pack FTW!!!
http://flyye.com.au/store/images/MBSSHDBP_OD_C.jpg

[Mugg21B]

hey guys, I'm new here so be easy on me. I do have some experience in the
'ghan, but wanted some advice from people here on High Speed Gear's Hydration Carrier. I have a HSG warlord chest rig (can't remember which one) and it has these handy attachments on the shoulder for a hydration system, but unfortunately, it's completely incompatible with my issue Camel-bak. I've jury-rigged my camel-bak to some buckles that mate with the shoulder attachments, but was wondering if I'd be better off going with the HSG system.

I'm in college and am definitely willing to stick with what I got as long as it works (my camel-bak is DCU, rest of my uni is ACU), but my command is on our asses about being "uniform" since they got pissed off last summer with us reservists looking like...well, reservists (BDU + DCU + ACU = result of being red-headed stepchildren to National Guard/Active Duty ;) ).

[BlackhawkCY]

blackhwak has pouches that a camelback can fit in and can be attached via MOLLE on your vest. No idea about the build quality of HSG but i do know camelback bladders can take quite a beating..

[Raw1]

I purchased a camelbak Storm and the HAWG500 both in foliage green.
Im very impessed with the HAWG and bought the storm to throw into my bigger MOLLE2 assault pack.

How do you attach this on the outside of a pack as it has no D rings on the sides like some of the other models ive seen.
Any Ideas

[BlackhawkCY]

are you refering to this molle 2 pack?
http://www.campingsurvivalgearreviews.com/?p=7

[Raw1]

Yes its that pack but in ACU.
Its sometimes called an Airborn Assault MOLLE 2 pack because it has the straps inside the pack.
I dont no if theres a differance between the two maybe you could explain to me.

http://www.mrmilitaria.com/p-146-acu-molle-ii-large-assault-pack.aspx

[BlackhawkCY]

well not sure since i was never issued that, i did have a blackhawk raptor that had a hole on top (see picture below)
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=76200&stc=1&d=1244559474

for the tube to come out and now have a camelback bfm which also has a hole ontop for the tube. anw assuming you are able to have the tube hanging out from the side there are 3 to 4 ways in securing it on the shoulder strap.

http://70.62.253.162/campingblog/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/molle-ii-pack-rear-view.jpg

if the back of your pack is like that i sugest you pass the stap like so

http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=76199&stc=1&d=1244559474


if your bag has horizontal webbing (the top one is vertical) u could get a tube keeper like this from blackhawk or some similar dealer. as seen in photo below:
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=76202&stc=1&d=1244559819
taken from this website: http://www.bat-21.com/ the one in the pic is a camelback model i couldn't find that one so i posted the Blackhawk one
The product link is: http://www.blackhawk.com/product/Tube-Keeper-1-x-34,909,326.htm


The other way is getting a clip like so:
http://www.camelbak.com/%7E/media/Images/products/Rec_S09/270x340/CamelClip09_270.ashx?as=0&dmc=0&h=340&thn=0&w=270
http://www.camelbak.com/government-military/accessories/camelclip.aspx
or
http://www.blackhawk.com/product/Hydration-Tube-Positioning-Clip,908,326.htm

then again u could always use rip cord without the cords inside to tie it on the shoulder strap

PS. Sorry for thee bad pics phone doesn't tend to help

[realbigo]

I actually use two camelbacks. a regular 3L in a hydration carrier threaded on to my H harness streaps, and an "unBottle clipped to my Large ALICE pack. I also still carry one old style canteen, along w/ the canteen cup and stove on my pistol belt. That way I can use it to purify any found qwater before putting in in to the bladders.

[Slouch]

I actually use two camelbacks. a regular 3L in a hydration carrier threaded on to my H harness streaps, and an "unBottle clipped to my Large ALICE pack. I also still carry one old style canteen, along w/ the canteen cup and stove on my pistol belt. That way I can use it to purify any found qwater before putting in in to the bladders.

Smart man. Exactly what I do.

[Bohemoth]

G'd ole canteens still in use by the U.S. Marine Corps: p-)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/kwp/usmc/e898431c.jpg

[realbigo]

Ok, 2 Questions. What kind of canteen covers are those, and what kind of Suspenders? Being a fan of ALICE, I still use a OLD H harness, and it's starting to fall apart.

[Frens]

that's a molle utility/canteen pouch still in use with the Army as well (in ACU of course).
the suspenders looks like the rear part of the FLC Vest

[Bohemoth]

Ok, 2 Questions. What kind of canteen covers are those, and what kind of Suspenders? Being a fan of ALICE, I still use a OLD H harness, and it's starting to fall apart.
Both the canteen covers and the suspenders (that's a FLC) are USMC issue gear in Coyote Brown made by SDS.

[realbigo]

Thanks for the answers. I'm going to try and get a couple of the canteen pouches, but I HATE vests. Armor is a neccesary evil, but I'll not be adopting heat holding vests myself

[Racoon]

hi all,

on the camelbak website there are two models of backpacks in woodland marpat, they call it digital woodland, though. Now I've been searching the web for these packs, but I just can't find them. I can only found the Desert Marpat ones. Does anybody know where I can get them?

Any help appreciated!

Thanks

[kokoro666]

canteens we dont you to much now adays we prefer 1.5 liter normal water bottles .
but for camel bags gos save the guy who made it.
to clean it . emty it put some vinegar in it. for few minutes. than rinse well . it will be totaly cleaned. be well.

[BlackhawkCY]

hi all,

on the camelbak website there are two models of backpacks in woodland marpat, they call it digital woodland, though. Now I've been searching the web for these packs, but I just can't find them. I can only found the Desert Marpat ones. Does anybody know where I can get them?

Any help appreciated!

Thanks

some models are discontinued,the camelback website only has the current models in production. If you are looking for an older pattern of the same model check a reseller website

[ShadowKnows]

I've got a PLCE S95 Assault Vest and a DPM Camelbak. How do you attach the Camelbak to the assault vest? Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks.

I have 3 and all have attachments to attach to my IBA Vest or FLC Vests to my Back, and goes over back pouches also!

My Coyote B. Camelbak has top and bottom straps snap locks to attach to the back!

If no Molle II Straps Sewn On the back of your vest! Get and learn how to sew add to the top and bottom of your vest!


Then your Camelbak can be attached!

[KilledByAGirl]

I have 3 and all have attachments to attach to my IBA Vest or FLC Vests to my Back, and goes over back pouches also!

My Coyote B. Camelbak has top and bottom straps snap locks to attach to the back!

If no Molle II Straps Sewn On the back of your vest! Get and learn how to sew add to the top and bottom of your vest!


Then your Camelbak can be attached!

Let's hope he came up with something over the past 4 years.

[ShadowKnows]

Let's hope he came up with something over the past 4 years.


Yes seen how old after I posted Lmaooo I hope so to.

[Echo-Observer-31B]

Hi everyone this is one of my first posts on this website and recently I've been pondering weather or not to purchase one of the eagle industries yote hydration systems: http://www.eagleindustries.com/product.php?productid=16265&cat=275&page=1
I was wondering if anyone has any experience with this product? and what they think about it? I've read a couple reviews online but basically there all just "Its great you should get one if your looking to get a new hydration system" which don't really help...Looking forward to reading what anyone has to say about it. Thanks

[GETSOME]

Hey guys is there a thread on day and 3 day packs ,i cannot seem to find it,thanks .:oops:

[kayaker]

Nowadays I tend to leave the camelback in the barracks and going for the light 58' water bottles instead... a camelback and its tube is just another thing to keep clipping unclipping when having to take your kit off, back on, off, back on.... etc

[vinny_121_ND]

Do Camelbak, and source hydration bladder systems contain phthalates? Studies conclude phthalates in plastic will drop our masculinity.

[BlackhawkCY]

no idea but if you email them u'll probably get an answer please post here when you do get the reply

[vinny_121_ND]

no idea but if you email them u'll probably get an answer please post here when you do get the reply

K, I just got the answer, they're made out of polyurethane film. Not phthalates. We're ok.

[BlackhawkCY]

tnx good to know

[flanker7]

Got a Source today. Tactical 3L IIRC. Anyone who has used it?

[gilgoul]

I love my source for sturdiness, but the valve sucks after a while, and tends to leak.
I think I gonna go back to canteens at some point if it keeps going this way.
to avoid leeks I fold the end of the tube in my velcro catch, but it ain't the most practical thing, any trick?

[vinny_121_ND]

I love my source for sturdiness, but the valve sucks after a while, and tends to leak.
I think I gonna go back to canteens at some point if it keeps going this way.
to avoid leeks I fold the end of the tube in my velcro catch, but it ain't the most practical thing, any trick?

I found it would leak if you applied a lot of pressure on it, like sitting in a chair while leaning back on it. Once it leaks, I couldn't fix it. So I returned it to the store (MEC for me) and I got a new one for free.

Or I blew air into the tube so it wouldn't leak. That was a temporary measure only before I got fed up.

[Andy James]

Is it ok to use detergent cause that's what I use.

Personally just fill with hot water and detergent. Run the detergent and hot water through the tube and out of the drink valve. Rinse through a few times. physically dry the bladder inside and out with a teatowel, as i can fit my hand through the camelbak omega resevoir. I pull off the bite valve. grab the base of the tube and spin it around realy fast in circles - which gets rid of all the water in the tube (i noticed in a few earlier posts, people couldn't seem to dry the tube/dry it effectively). I then use a piece of cardboard and lay it in horizontally inside the resivoiur, then rotate it vertically to let the resevoir air some more. after it's been hanging for about an hour i can put the bitevalve back on and it's done.

the main thing I want to know is will detergent harm the water bladder?

(i also experience a bad plastic taste with my camelbak and it's supposed to be "taste free")

[flanker7]

Are the valve systems interchangable bettween Hydrastorm Camelback and Source?

[sauerstoff]

I got a Gerber and would like to know if it's possible to change the bite valve for a camelbak valve too.
Thanks

[BlackhawkCY]

Is it ok to use detergent cause that's what I use.

Personally just fill with hot water and detergent. Run the detergent and hot water through the tube and out of the drink valve. Rinse through a few times. physically dry the bladder inside and out with a teatowel, as i can fit my hand through the camelbak omega resevoir. I pull off the bite valve. grab the base of the tube and spin it around realy fast in circles - which gets rid of all the water in the tube (i noticed in a few earlier posts, people couldn't seem to dry the tube/dry it effectively). I then use a piece of cardboard and lay it in horizontally inside the resivoiur, then rotate it vertically to let the resevoir air some more. after it's been hanging for about an hour i can put the bitevalve back on and it's done.

the main thing I want to know is will detergent harm the water bladder?

(i also experience a bad plastic taste with my camelbak and it's supposed to be "taste free")

some reservoirs have antimicrobial linings. Depending on the detergent you might be rubbing off that lining hence the taste. It might also be the case that although you clean you reservoir you seem to ignore the tube. You should clean that too.


Are the valve systems interchangable bettween Hydrastorm Camelback and Source?

i know hydrastorm and camelback have almost same tubing so you should be able to change the bite valves between them

[ZenTiX]

Is it ok to use detergent cause that's what I use.

Personally just fill with hot water and detergent. Run the detergent and hot water through the tube and out of the drink valve. Rinse through a few times. physically dry the bladder inside and out with a teatowel, as i can fit my hand through the camelbak omega resevoir. I pull off the bite valve. grab the base of the tube and spin it around realy fast in circles - which gets rid of all the water in the tube (i noticed in a few earlier posts, people couldn't seem to dry the tube/dry it effectively). I then use a piece of cardboard and lay it in horizontally inside the resivoiur, then rotate it vertically to let the resevoir air some more. after it's been hanging for about an hour i can put the bitevalve back on and it's done.

the main thing I want to know is will detergent harm the water bladder?

(i also experience a bad plastic taste with my camelbak and it's supposed to be "taste free")

We get issued the Thermobak 3L and I basically dry mine the same way.
Except I don't use the cardboard thing. I simply stick the other end of the tube inside the one end of the bladder, let it dry, then stick it the opposide and let that dry.

[Andrew116]

Anyone have the Source 3L Tactical?

http://i420.photobucket.com/albums/pp290/auxandrew/55dc9c78.jpg
(Imma gonna get it in tan)

I'm looking at picking one up, debating if it would work under a backpack (from time to time)

Also is this a good place to buy from?
http://www.optactical.com/sota3lhypa.html

[lunte]

I just got hold of the new MULTICAM Blackhawk Barrage Hydration Pack (http://www.body-armour-protection.co.uk/buy/MULTICAM-Blackhawk-Barrage-Hydration-Pack.html) and i have to say, "ITS THE DOGS NUTS!"

Blackhawk have really looked hard at the design of this hydration pack and the Multicam is one hell of a bonus :)
123412

[Sang]

How well do the smaller hydration packs (let's say, Source Strike 3L (http://www.source-military.com/p-hydrationpacks-storm3l.html) for example) work with backpacks? I have no place for just a reservoir in my gear, so it would need to be something that I can attach to my back and wear comfortably with and without a backpack. The problem is that I'm also required to carry a large (110L) backpack from time to time and the hydration system would need to work with that too.

[vinny_121_ND]

How well do the smaller hydration packs (let's say, Source Strike 3L (http://www.source-military.com/p-hydrationpacks-storm3l.html) for example) work with backpacks? I have no place for just a reservoir in my gear, so it would need to be something that I can attach to my back and wear comfortably with and without a backpack. The problem is that I'm also required to carry a large (110L) backpack from time to time and the hydration system would need to work with that too.

Back in the day, I used to wear the small hydration pack, and then put the backpack on top of it. Problem was, if it was too heavy, it would squish the bladder and water would leak out of the mouth piece.

[BlackhawkCY]

How well do the smaller hydration packs (let's say, Source Strike 3L (http://www.source-military.com/p-hydrationpacks-storm3l.html) for example) work with backpacks? I have no place for just a reservoir in my gear, so it would need to be something that I can attach to my back and wear comfortably with and without a backpack. The problem is that I'm also required to carry a large (110L) backpack from time to time and the hydration system would need to work with that too.

well depends on the backpack you're gonna be using :S Larger backpacks like the camelback bfm that have (integrated bladders) have exactly the same ones as the 3L. This means that the small hydration packs can be easily moved from your vest to the bag when wearing it and back. You can also wear it between the backpack and you vest like Vinny said.

When carrying the large 110L backpack i suggest moving the hydration pack to the inside of the backpack (rather than between) and as close to your back since due to the weight you will be quite uncomfortable after a while. Also too much pressure may cause the bladder tube to leak water or in the worst case blow up.

[Sang]

Thanks for the answers.

We use the 110L backpacks daily when we're out practising and there situations where I wouldn't have time to take the hydration pack off. Sometimes it could take up to an hour to have the time to take it off, and I imagine that can cause some problems if the hydration pack and the backpack don't match too well.

I guess the only way to really know would be to buy a hydration pack and test it, and then only use it in situations where I won't need to carry the backpack if it doesn't work...

[BlackhawkCY]

If you use a MOLLE System Hydration Carrier on your vest or the vest has a built in pocket you do not need to unhook clips. Just slip out from your vest and put it in the pack. It will take less than a minute.

[Totoche08]

Hi there,

I need expertise from people who own camelbaks.

I just bought recently a camelbak on ebay; it's a thermobak 3l with a cbr 4.0 resevoir. I've checked my instructions booklets that comes in the packaging and saw that the resevoir is actually tagged with the company logo as well as the "chem bio reservoir 4.0" on it. Mine doesn't have any markings on it. I still have the gas mask adapter, the tube with the chem bio lining on it , and got some info on the item molded onto the top of the resevoir, reguarding the lot number and the manufacturing date. At the priced I payed it, I'd like to know if my reservoir is original of if it just could be a regular one (not a cbr). It seems like this actually comes from a military store or something, just the way it's been packaged.

Thanks for your help!

[BlackhawkCY]

i'd contact camelback if i were you to be sure

[Catch22]

CBR reservoirs are clearly marked that they are CBR, plus tubing differs a bit, having those metal rings on it. That's the info from local distributor. Call your seller and ask for replacement.

http://a.imageshack.us/img199/6577/omegachembio.jpg (http://img199.imageshack.us/i/omegachembio.jpg/)

[Totoche08]

Hi,

Thanks for your answers. My tube does differs a bit, in fact I have the metal rings on it. The thing that is weird isthat I also have the instructions that show how to use cbr reservoir. On the other hand, it says that the reservoir "not included in most packs; sold separatly". The UPC sticker have "DFAR AUC Thermobak" writin on it, anybody knows what this stands for ?

Here two pictures that I tooked, let me know what you think:


http://a.imageshack.us/img28/5254/photodu32427950070900.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img35/1130/photodu32471804070901.jpg

[dacanadianbomb]

I have a bit of a silly question maybe. How do our northern friends manage to keep their water from freezing during prolonger periods of exercises out in the brutish cold.I understand that having water in a bladder system might not be as ****e to freezing, but what about canteens and larger water containers that are exposed to the direct cold?

[kayaker]

when you move the water in the bottles tent not to freeze. At night I personally kept them in the maggot to prevent them from freezing.

the sleeve on the cambelbacks are apparently amazing. A friend of friend took one up the side of everst and his ater didnt freeze.

[kayaker]

^I did not write that post :|

[Walker-69]

Just ordered a discount model Source Kangaroo hydration bladder, 1 quart/ three quarters of a litre:

http://www.operator.fi/index.php?target=products&product_id=2119

If Source is good, then I'll get a bigger one of the same make. My requirement is maybe four quarts/three litres for beer only.

[Lasse]

Beer would result in a blow out. Unless it's flat beer, which isn't beer.
Booze works though.

And Source are probably the best bladders out there.

[Walker-69]

Beer would result in a blow out. Unless it's flat beer, which isn't beer.
Booze works though.

And Source are probably the best bladders out there.

Blow out? What about the ten litre Source pack - if I fill it half full only? I have seen pictures of it somewhere but can't find them right now.

[Lasse]

Yes, blow out. It will build a lot of pressure. Just like hitting a bottle or glass of beer (with an hard item) will make it spill.

[Walker-69]

This is difficult for me because I am not a physicist. So, tell me Lasse - please. If I have a TEN litre bladder, and I put in FOUR litres of beer: there is SIX litres spare room. If it starts to bubble, the bladder will just expand like a balloon. Plus I will most probably have the tube in my mouth. Why should there be blow-out?

[Lasse]

I didn't catch the 10l part. It might work, but beer that foams expands quite a lot...

[Walker-69]

Yeah, there's some cool stuff out there. The MSR Dromedary comes in two, four, six or ten litre sizes:

http://cascadedesigns.com/en/msr/water-treatment-and-hydration/expedition-water-treatment-and-hydration/dromedary-bags/product

Even four and six litres are significantly superior to ordinary sizes.

[Walker-69]

Hey, now I found it. This would be the ultimate beer source, once we resolve the blow out issue:

http://source-military.com/tankers/48-aquasource-25l-water-tanker.html

The Source AQUASOURCE 25L water tanker from Eretz Israel!

[Greek soldier]

CamelBak also has the SquadBak. Both the Source and the Camelbak have the size of a Jerrycan. And expensive.

http://www.finnrappel.fi/camelbak.htm (SquadBak is 210 Euros)

http://www.finnrappel.fi/camelbakreservoir25ltr.htm

The Source in this French webshop is sold for 190 Euros

http://www.ops-equipement.com/descriptif.php?article=875

[JJC]

I'm looking for a simple "universal" bladder pack that has removable shoulder straps, and has PALS/MOLLE attachment capability. Any ideas? I don't like my Source bladder's pack. The straps can be tucked away but not removed, and it doesn't have PALS attachment points.

[HK in AK]

Taking hydration system beyond the vessel to contain the water, what do you use in the field for water purification? I am looking for a portable water purifier that cleans water really well, good flow rate, and long lasting filter, any ideas?

Thanks for the information.

[Greek soldier]

Take a look at Katadyn Pocket

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vS4Qg-SFvA

[HK in AK]

Thank you for the information. I am gonna do some more research on that system, from the video it is a thumbs up so far...I like the ability to add the activated charcoal.

[CheesyCigar]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5z2gPlILtVQ&feature=channel_video_title


Pretty nifty, I think I'll pick one up if I ever get a chance to.

[Ryan Boyd]

^ I want one

[PathFindeR[BE]]

Offtopic: Wha'ts the use of those gay bracelets he wears on his right hand, i see them quite often in pics these days.

Great drinking device though !

[wildcat]

I use a UV pen, takes 90 seconds to kill all nasty from water, last for 6000 liters on the batteries.
make refilling the camel pack easier.

http://www.rei.com/product/784448/steripen-journey-water-purifier-system

I paid half of the REI price though for the same system.

[HK in AK]

I purchased a KatadynPocket Water Microfilter for my use....I am looking forward to getting this in use.

[Greek soldier]

I purchased a KatadynPocket Water Microfilter for my use....I am looking forward to getting this in use.

Are you satisfied with the Katadyn?

[w0nder]

Picked up a Camelbak Ambush a while back, used it a few times and got nothing bad to say about it! Highly recommend for day trips , Ive used it for hiking , hunting , kayaking its a great little pack.

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