Karrimor SF THOR 40 Rucksack Review 2019/05/07
A military rucksack with specific features to aid the soldier out on
patrol but also the busy commuter rushing about town. The Karrimor SF
THOR 40 brings together tough materials, a solid design and a
different approach to gaining entry to the pack. Let’s find out more
in this full review.
Introduction
The THOR 40 is a 'patrol' style pack with a volume of 40 litres. You
have the option to expand it using the MOLLE webbing which covers most
of the pack. However the thin hipbelt is not load bearing when worn
without webbing so you may have to pack light when around town.
A 'patrol' pack is designed with
military movement in mind. Consequently when a soldier is required to
react to action immediately by taking up a firing position it is vital
to not have any equipment impede this movement. The Karrimor SF THOR 40
has a streamlined shape that keeps out of your way and a quick release
pull tab on one of the shoulder straps to aid quick dumping on the pack.
Design of the Karrimor SF THOR 40
The THOR 40 is a very simple rucksack, it is free of all superfluous
additions. The first thing that strikes you is the main zip almost
completely encircles the pack. The zip is a strong and thick YKK variety
with fabric pulls for extra convenience. The zip allows the user to
quickly gain access to all of the contents. On top of the THOR 40 we
have a smaller zipped pocket for smaller essential items. Also present
is a grab handle and two velcro slits that enable antennae and hydration
system tubes to pass through unobstructed. Notice too the front facing
velcro patch.
The interior of the main compartment
features a sleeve which could take a hydration pack or flat shaped
equipment. The base of the pack has a small pocket for a rain cover. It
is included in the purchase and matches the colour of the pack. The
sides of the pack feature two side straps on each side with a plastic
buckle release. A streamlined stuff pocket lays beneath the side straps,
again one on each side. There is a zipped secret pocket that lays just
behind the shoulder straps against your back. This can take a small
laptop.
Fit
A persons torso is well fitted by the padded and curved shoulder straps.
Engaging the sternum strap adds to the overall stability of the pack.
The sternum strap can be adjusted or completely removed as the user
feels necessary. The Karrimor SF THOR 40 makes extensive use of MOLLE.
The front, side and base utilise this feature to allow you to add MOLLE
compatible pouches or accessories. It really transforms the pack into
something far more customisable.
Use
When worn with body armour or military webbing the Karrimor SF THOR 40
works well. Body armour systems tend to have webbing worn around the
waist suspended via a yoke. So that when you are wearing the rucksack it
can simply rest on the top of the webbing system and be rather
comfortable. It is possible to wear the THOR 40 without webbing or body
armour systems but the load will be pushed through your shoulders for
the entirety of the hike. This will lead to discomfort and even anguish
if the load is high enough. Nothing beats a good hip belt that takes the
weight from off your shoulders. However the one on the THOR 40 is very
thin and not load bearing. Rucksacks with a large hip belt can get in
the way of the user and can cause obstruction. The last thing you want
when trying to move quickly.
The Karrimor SF THOR 40 features a
quick release tab on one of the shoulder straps for emergency dumping of
the pack. The buckle features a reinforced pull tab made of fabric and a
hard rubber coating. The quick release buckle has never accidentally
disengaged whilst I have been using it, which is a relief!
Conclusion
If you are hiking without a yoke webbing system then the THOR 40 would
not be my first choice. The lack of a load bearing hip belt is a deal
breaker for me. However for commuting and around town the THOR 40 works
well, especially with the hidden laptop sleeve. Solidly put together and
very well made this pack is excellent. I have been using mine for almost
6 months pretty much everyday. It holds up especially well to the
rigours of transporting gear around town. The pack still looks brand
new.
