Chest rig Helikon-Tex Numbat — Coyote Brown

The Numbat is a chest pack designed for those who move through the field with a backpack and need quick access to a map, compass, and small accessories without stopping to open the main bag. It sits on the chest via a minimalist 3D-mesh harness and integrates with any backpack shoulder straps without getting in the way of movement.

The shell is made from 500D Cordura, a highly abrasion-resistant fabric that holds its shape even after extended use on demanding terrain. The lid opens up to 90 degrees, held in place by heavy-duty cord limiters: the pack opens fully and stays there, keeping both hands free to work inside without holding the lid up. This is the detail that separates a pack designed from real field experience from one drawn up on paper.

The interior holds a removable organiser with a transparent map pocket, a hook-and-loop panel compatible with the VIS system for modular inserts, and two elasticated external pockets on the front face. The front and bottom surfaces are finished with laminate and feature MOLLE/PALS attachment points, allowing additional pouches to be added as needed. One trade-off to keep in mind: the compact layout maximises packability and backpack integration, but the internal volume is sized for navigation tools and small accessories, not for bulky gear or extra magazines. Anyone looking for extended tactical carry capacity should consider a dedicated modular chest rig instead.

Key points

• The lid opens up to 90° and stays there without being held, making access fast even with gloves on.
• The internal organiser is removable — take it out to use separately or swap it for a custom configuration.
• The VIS-compatible hook-and-loop panel lets you fix modular inserts inside, adjusting the compartment layout without any extra stitching.
• MOLLE/PALS points on the front and base allow capacity to be expanded with external pouches without touching the harness.
• The 3D-mesh back panel and minimalist harness do not compress the backpack shoulder straps, keeping comfort intact over long distances.

In the box

• Numbat Chest Pack in Coyote Brown
• Removable internal organiser with transparent map pocket