Helikon-Tex Ratel Mk2 Cordura Backpack — Coyote

The Ratel Mk2 is an expandable 25-litre tactical backpack made in Cordura, designed for one- or two-day patrols, hiking, and daily carry with technical equipment. Its empty weight of 1330 grams — barely more than a standard 1.5-litre water bottle — keeps the pack light even when the mission calls for carrying a full load.

The reinforced back panel and contoured shoulder straps distribute the load without concentrating pressure on the shoulders; the detachable hip belt completes the system by transferring part of the weight onto the hips, which makes a real difference on long movements or over uneven ground. The main compartment supports any hydration bladder via a dedicated internal hook that keeps the bladder in place and allows the drinking tube to be routed along the shoulder strap without restricting movement.

The entire front, side, and bottom surface is covered in MOLLE/PALS panels, allowing external pouches, mag carriers, or other modular accessories to be added without modifying the pack. The front hook-and-loop panel accepts ID patches or admin panels. One trade-off worth noting: the MOLLE system offers a wide range of configuration options, but adding external pouches increases both the overall profile and the total weight — those who want minimum bulk will run it bare, while those needing to carry more can expand as required. YKK zippers and WooJin buckles maintain their integrity under heavy use and in adverse conditions.

Key features

• 25-litre volume suited to one- or two-day outings without compromising manoeuvrability
• Empty weight of 1330 g: a light structure that does not eat into usable carrying capacity
• MOLLE/PALS panels on the front, sides, and base for modular expansion
• Compatible with hydration bladders of any brand via a dedicated internal hook
• Detachable hip belt to shift weight onto the hips during extended movements
• YKK zippers and WooJin buckles for reliability under continuous use

In the box

• Helikon-Tex Ratel Mk2 backpack in Coyote Cordura
• Detachable hip belt