A while back I decided to invest in “another” first-aid trauma pack, and the Vanquest FATPack 5×8 caught my eye.
With so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to find the perfect balance between size, storage, and accessibility.
However, I decided to try the FATPack 5×8, hoping it would deliver.
Upon further research, I discovered that this Gen-2 FATPack 5×8 comes with a few notable improvements, such as external built-in tourniquet holders, additional internal organizational options, and easy-to-use bottom pull tabs for closure.
Moreover, the pack features a covert MOLLE-Air structure that undoubtedly appeals to those who need to attach additional gear.
Overall, in these introductory paragraphs, I aim to provide an in-depth review of the Vanquest FATPack 5×8 First Aid Trauma Pack and share my experience with this promising piece of gear.
Vanquest FATPack 5X8 Overview
Design
The Vanquest FATPack 5X8 is a well-designed and compact first-aid trauma pack that caters to various emergency situations.
I find the quality of the materials used to be outstanding, as it’s made from high tensile strength nylon webbing and Cordura fabric.
These materials ensure the pack is not only durable but can withstand harsh conditions and daily wear and tear.
Keep in mind, I have not put this thing through the wringer.
It mainly goes in whatever vehicle I’m driving for the day, and as such, it pretty much stays in my house or in one of my rigs.
Features
There are numerous features in the FATPack 5X8 that make it stand out from other first aid packs.
Some of the noteworthy features include:
- Dimensions: Measuring at 8″ (H) x 5.5″ (W) x 3″ (D), the FATPack 5X8 is the perfect size for personal gear kits, easily fitting into a backpack or (EDC) everyday carry bag.
- Quick Access: One of the most significant advantages of the Vanquest FATPack is its quick and intuitive access to the contents. The pack has a downward pull allowing you to access your life-saving tools in seconds.
- Organization: The main compartment features high-viz ripstop pockets to help you organize your medical essentials better. Elastic loops are present to secure cylindrical items, crucial when every second counts.
- External Shear Holders: Two external elastic holders securely hold shears, allowing for easy access during emergencies.
The FATPack makes it easier for me to carry essential first aid supplies while maximizing storage and accessibility.
With its rugged design and innovative features, it is an essential addition to my emergency preparedness gear.
Materials and Quality
As I examined the Vanquest FATPack, I was thoroughly impressed by the materials used and the overall quality of the product.
The exterior of the pack features robust webbing, which is coated with a Dupont Teflon fabric protector.
This coating helps to ensure that the pack is resistant to water, stains, and abrasions, making it an ideal choice for a variety of conditions in which an individual might require immediate first aid assistance.
Additionally, the loops on the exterior allow for convenient attachment to other equipment.
When it came to the zippers, I discovered that the pack uses RC-Class YKK #8 zippers, known for their performance and reliability.
This choice of zipper reinforces the quality of the pack and contributes to its practicality for use in emergency situations.
The 5×8 trauma pack is available in multiple colors, including a bold red option (the color I chose).
The red color brings attention to the kit, which can be helpful in emergency scenarios where it is important to quickly locate and access first-aid provisions.
Overall, the materials and quality of the Vanquest FATPack demonstrate the thought and care that went into its design.
This first-aid kit is a sound investment for those who require a resilient and functional trauma pack that can withstand the challenges presented by various environments and situations.
Storage and Organizational Features
Pockets and Holders
As someone who needs quick access to medical supplies, I appreciate the pockets and holders in the FATPack.
This trauma pack features external elastic holders specifically designed for shears and cylindrical items, such as Epipens and airway tubes.
In the main compartment, I find the high-viz ripstop pockets with additional elastic loops perfect for organizing and securing my gear.
There is also a hook-and-loop fastener to close the pack securely and a loop ID panel to make sure someone can quickly identify it.
Volume-Maximizing Storage
One aspect I value about the Vanquest FATPack 5X8 is its volume-maximizing storage.
The compartments allow me to easily arrange and access my trauma-based medical gear.
This pack’s design also contains a shock cord storage ladder for my MOLLE-compatible gear.
The MOLLE-Air structure gives me the flexibility to attach more items or other MOLLE-compatible accessories.
Additionally, the FATPack fits MOLLE sticks and MOHL-Air adapter for seamless attachment to other gear.
The zippers hold up well under everyday use, ensuring that my first aid equipment stays protected.
In summary, I find the organizational features and storage capacity of the Vanquest FATPack ideal for my needs, providing easy access to my medical gear while keeping everything securely in place.
Compatibility and Attachment Options
As someone who now has some experience with the Vanquest FATPack 5X8, I can confidently speak about its compatibility and attachment options.
Designed as an IFAK, the FATPack 5X8 has ample storage and easy accessibility, making it versatile for various situations.
One key feature that improves its compatibility is the MOLLE-compatible system.
The MOLLE-compatible design allows for seamless integration with other tactical gear, such as bags, backpacks, and other MOLLE-compatible gear.
Additionally, the 5X8 is compatible with the MOHL-Air adapter, further expanding its attachment options and ensuring a secure fit on your equipment.
The FATPack 5X8 is designed to accommodate essential first-aid items like a tourniquet, which can be kept easily accessible by using external elastic holders.
Furthermore, the use of YKK zippers on this medical pouch ensures a durable and reliable closure system.
I find that the paracord zipper loops make it easier to open and close the pouch, even while wearing gloves.
In terms of construction, the FATPack 5X8 benefits from high-quality stitching, which increases its longevity and durability.
As a user of Vanquest gear, I can attest to the reliable craftsmanship and attention to detail present in their products.
Overall, the Vanquest FATPack 5X8 First Aid Trauma Pack offers a range of attachment options and compatibility features that cater to the needs of various users in different scenarios.
Color Options
When I first came across the Vanquest FATPack 5X8, I noticed that it has a few color options to choose from.
This allows users to match their preferred style or even coordinate with any existing gear.
In my research, I found that the FATPack 5X8 is available in four different colors: Black, Wolf Gray, Coyote Tan, and Red.
The black version can be a great choice for those who appreciate a classic and discreet look, blending well with various environments and setups.
The Wolf Gray option provides an excellent choice for those who want a less obvious but muted color. It sets the FATPack apart from typical black or tan bags.
Coyote Tan is ideal for folks who work or play in desert or arid environments. This color option works well in these settings and complements other gear or clothing typically used in these areas.
Lastly, the Red color option provides a bold look, making it an excellent choice for those who want to their kit to stand out. It is easily identifiable as something that contains med gear.
These color options give users the flexibility to choose a FATPack that best suits their aesthetics and preferences.
No matter which color you opt for, the primary purpose of this first aid trauma pack remains the same – providing life-saving contents with efficient storage and accessibility.
Additional Features and Accessories
ID Panel and Patches
One feature that some folks really like is its loop ID panel.
The loop ID panel allows me to easily attach patches, including blood type or other medical identification patches, to my pack, making it more personalized and potentially life-saving in an emergency situation.
In addition to the ID panel, the FATPack 5X8 also comes with tourniquet holders.
These two external elastic slots are perfect for holding a tourniquet or shears, ensuring that these essential items are easily accessible when I need them most.
Overall, the features and accessories included with the FATPack help to meet my needs when it comes to an organized, easily accessible, and highly functional first aid kit.
Use as a Get Home or Bug Out Bag
When I first got my hands on the Vanquest FATPack 5X8, I immediately noticed its compact size and organization features means it easily fits in/on my Get Home Bag (GHB) or Bug Out Bags (BOB), making it a valuable addition.
A key consideration for GHBs or BOBs is the ability to access contents quickly in emergency situations.
The FATPack shines in this regard, thanks to its intuitive downward pull system.
With just one movement, I can access everything that I’ve stored inside, potentially saving crucial seconds when it matters most.
While preparing my GHB and BOB, I realized that including the FATPack not only helped save space but also allowed me to create a dedicated first-aid section.
This is important as it can be easy to overlook first-aid essentials when packing other preparedness items.
Below is a list of items that I found fit well in the FATPack 5X8 for my bags:
- Adhesive bandages
- Gauze pads
- Medical tape
- Antiseptic wipes
- Pain relievers
- Pair of gloves
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- QuickClot gauze
In conclusion, the Vanquest FATPack 5X8 serves as an excellent addition to my Get Home or Bug Out Bag.
Its compact size, organization features, and quick access make it an ideal choice for carrying essential first-aid items during emergencies.
Personal Use Combined with IBEX-26 Backpack
Before I purchased the FATPack I had picked up the IBEX-26 Backpack from Vanquest, and I must say, they make a great combination for my personal emergency preparedness needs.
The IBEX-26 Backpack is a 26-liter backpack designed for both urban and outdoor environments.
The backpack comes with plenty of MOLLE webbing and hook & loop fields for customization and organization.
The large main compartment, which clamshells open, is padded with foam, providing extra protection for my gear.
I quickly discovered that the FATPack 5X8 works seamlessly with the IBEX-26 Backpack.
Thanks to the MOLLE webbing, I easily attached the first aid pack to the outside of the backpack, ensuring quick access in case of a medical emergency.
This frees up valuable space in the main compartment, allowing me to carry other essential items.
When wearing the IBEX-26, I found the padded shoulder straps and removable, load-bearing padded waist belt to be very comfortable for extended periods, even when the backpack was fully loaded.
The side compartments, capable of holding two 2-liter hydration bladders, were a nice touch, although I rarely use them for water purposes.
Overall, combining the Vanquest FATPack 5X8 and the IBEX-26 Backpack has been an excellent investment for my personal preparedness needs.
I feel confident knowing that I can handle various emergencies with the right gear and, most importantly, in a quick and efficient manner.
Critical Review and Verdict
In my experience with the Vanquest FATPack 5×8 First Aid Trauma Pack, I found it to be a reliable and efficient medical pack.
The FATPack series has made impressive improvements in storage and accessibility, making it a great option for anyone in need of a dependable first aid kit.
As I began using the FATPack 5×8, I appreciated how its design allows for maximum storage, while still being compact and easy to carry.
Its ability to securely store essential medical supplies while remaining easily accessible is a significant advantage.
The instant accessibility feature, which allows the user to access the contents with just one intuitive downward pull, is especially helpful in emergency situations.
The pack’s design also provides organization and separation of supplies, allowing me to find items quickly and efficiently.
Another aspect of the FATPack 5×8 that I found beneficial is the durability of its material.
Made with tough and resistant fabric, the pack is built to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring that the contents remain intact and protected.
In conclusion, I believe the FATPack has proven itself to be an excellent choice for anyone in need of a compact and efficient medical pack.
With its ample storage, instant accessibility, and durable design, the Gen-2 FATPack series stands out as a reliable product that can cater to various situations and environments.