The 5.11 Skyweight 65L – The Do All Pack

If you spend any time at all in the backcountry or on long hunts, you know that your pack matters. We want a pack that can carry everything without compromising our back with poor design. I recently got a pack that checked all the boxes on my list and a few extras. The 5.11 Skyweight 65L backpack

The 5.11 Skyweight 65L – A Heavy Use Pack Bult for Comfort

The Skyweight 65L is designed for individuals who regularly carry weight over long distances. It sits in that sweet spot between an expedition hauler and a hard-use “tactical” pack. 5.11 designed a tough frame, simple access, and a suspension that remains comfortable during long days. It has an aluminum internal frame, two size options, and enough structure to support heavier kits on multi-day trips.

The pack is well-made and designed for hard use. The body is made of 330D ripstop nylon with a DWR finish, and the base steps up to 500D for enhanced abrasion resistance. A packable high-visibility rainfly is included and easily stored in a pocket inside the removable lid pack. 5.11 offers the pack in two sizes based on torso height and waist measurement. So, this is not a one-size-fits-all rig.

Good Access and Organization

The Skyweight 65L features a well-organized design with easy access to your gear. You can top-load the main tube using a drawstring collar or utilize the full-body access zipper to reach your supplies without having to unpack the entire bag. The pack includes a lower sleeping bag compartment with a removable divider, bottom straps for securing a pad, and a front stretch shove-it pocket for quick access to essential gear. It also offers hydration routing and a conveniently located water bottle pocket for quick grabs. If you prefer a clean interior, color-coded stuff sacks fit perfectly into this layout.

Comfort stands out in this pack. The extra-wide, well-padded shoulder straps effortlessly articulate with your movements. The MOLLE-compatible hip belt extends to allow you to attach small pouches or adjust the position of the pads on your iliac crest. You’ll also find an adjustable suspension, a sternum strap, and multiple compression points, all contributing to a stable carry. Designed to handle heavier loads, this pack fulfills its purpose exceptionally well.

Removable Lid Pack

One nice feature is the removable lid that converts to a sling pack. It sounds gimmicky until you drop your main bag at camp and want a quick hike to glass a ridge or explore. Inside, it features an additional zippered pocket, as well as a key clasp. 5.11 has included a glow bead on the zipper pull to make it easier to see in the dark.

The only thing I added to this pack was a K4 quick-release rifle carrier from EXO MTN Gear. This addition transformed a great general-use pack into an exceptional hunting pack. The frame and design makes life easier in the field.

The 5.11 Skyweight 65L

5.11 kept the feature list focused on what matters in the field. The Skyweight 65L is not flashy; it is a functional pack. Build your system around stuff sacks, keep your heaviest items tight to the frame, and let the chassis do the lifting. For multi-day hunts, rucks, and backcountry trips where your pack takes a beating, this is a capable choice that trades a little weight for a lot of confidence.

For more information, visit 5.11.

Skyweight 65L Backpack Specs

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