CamelBak ThermoBak

We tested this product in two extremely different areas - it was put through its paces in the wet and cold of Sennybridge training area, and then another 48 hours in baking heat and sand at Longmoor. In both areas, the ThermoBak proved itself to be an absolutely excellent system. It was durable, versatile, light, and high capacity.

There are a number of features that we found to be extremely useful, and lots and lots of small touches that made the product so high quality. Filling the ThermoBak up is no chore at all, with an extremely wide mouth, making it easy to fill from a jerry-can, hose, water bowser, or tap. The cap then fits on equally easily (this is attached to the reservoir, so is quick to hand) - and with a few turns on its easy grip handle the reservoir is sealed up. The cover then zips up to protect the mouth and cap.

It is then possible to carry the ThermoBak in a variety of ways: it fits over webbing, over/under an assault vest, over/under a day sack, into the top of a bergan, or the Omega reservoir can be removed and placed into webbing pouches, or a backpack/bergan. The straps on the ThermoBak are very adjustable, and the attached Velcro straps ensure that there are no loose ends flapping around the place and that they are neatly contained. The only slight quibble we did have was that is seemed to be quite difficult to attack the ThermoBak directly onto a bergan or assault vest/webbing - the D rings running down each side are apparently for this purpose, but quite how it works is a mystery to us.

Drinking from the ThermoBak is equally simple. Although we were initially confused by the array of buttons and levers (well... 3), it is actually extremely easy to use. There is a simple lock off lever, a button to remove the bite valve, and the bite valve itself. This allows for yet more flexibility. The bite valve is easily removed, and the ThermoBak then can be turned on and off like a tap, an alternative to filling mess tins directly from jerry-cans. The bite valve is easy and secure, and the attached cap ensured that the bite valve itself remained free from sand, mud, and dirt.

Taking off the ThermoBak is aided by the clips on each of the straps, meaning that if you are wearing it beneath webbing or rucksacks then it can be directly removed without taking off any kit.

At just over £50 this item is perhaps a little expensive for cadets. However, it is an extremely sound investment that buys a product that will easily outlast a cadet career, and one that is useful in many other, non-military, activities.

Specifications

• Capacity: 3L (100oz)
• Dimensions: 483mm x 254mm x 25mm (19in x 10in x 1in)
• Empty weight: 720g (1.59lb)

Colours

• Available in desert/woodland camo, digital desert camo, black, tan, green, multicam, Army Universal Camo.
• The multicam option is similar in style to the new British Army camouflage pattern, but not exactly the same.
• The best option for cadets is probably the black/green option - this will allow for use both on military exercises and adventurous training.

Photos