Best Tactical Sling Backpack

While tactical bags were originally designed to be used by the military and law enforcement, their ruggedness and practicality have made them popular options for everyday use. From self defense and recreation to commuting and traveling, there’s a tactical backpack for every application. Many tactical bags are made with only one strap because this design makes gear faster to access.

If you’re shopping for the best tactical sling backpack on the web, you’ve come to the right place. We found five tactical sling bags that serve every purpose possible.

How We Researched the Best Tactical Sling Backpack

76 Expert Reviews Considered
5,709 Consumer Reviews Considered
8 Hours Researching
23 Products Evaluated

Best Tactical Sling Backpack 3 Features That Make Tactical Sling Backpacks Special

1. Ergonomic Design

A comfortable carrying experience is of utmost importance when it comes to tactical sling bags because they’re often used to carry heavy gear. These backpacks are ergonomically engineered and come with a padded back and cushioned strap. Some of the bags on this list are made with a Y-strap that’s designed to keep the bag from shifting on the wearer’s back.

2. MOLLE Design

Modern tactical backpacks adhere to Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) design standards. While MOLLE was originally made for the military, it’s practical for everyday use thanks to its pouch attachment ladder system (PALS). These thick straps cover the best tactical sling backpacks and enable the wearer to attach tools and equipment to them.

3. Neutral Colors

Because of their military roots, tactical backpacks come in neutral colors like beige, olive, and brown. These discrete, natural colors also make these bags suitable for hunting, hiking, and camping. Tactical backpacks that come in black or gray are good fits for the corporate world and make excellent work backpacks.

Best Tactical Sling Backpack Top 5: Best Tactical Sling Backpacks

5.11 RUSH MOAB 10 Tactical Sling Bag

Product place
Our Top Pick
Product rating

The 5.11 RUSH MOAB 10 Tactical Sling Bag is an all-around winner. This backpack is ready to hold all of your gear thanks to its roomy 18 L capacity, strategic pockets, and pouch attachment ladder system. Customers love this bag’s practical features, like its fleece-lined compartment for sunglasses and hydration bladder.

  • Adjustable shoulder straps provide extra comfort
  • Highly water-resistant finish thanks to UA Storm technology
  • 15” padded laptop sleeve
  • Large shoe compartment at bottom of bag
  • Spacious capacity
  • Some reviewers wanted sternum straps

Maxpedition Kodiak Gearslinger

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Runner Up
Product rating

Maxpedition’s Kodiak Gearslinger is a terrific option for those with a lot to carry. This spacious tactical sling backpack can hold 22.6 L worth of gear, including a 15.4” laptop. No matter how heavy the bag gets, its supportive Y-compression strap prevents it from moving around on the wearer’s back. The backpack’s ingenious design allows for 270 degrees of rotation, which makes gear easily accessible whether the wearer is standing or seated.

  • Trolley sleeve
  • Fits 15.6” laptop
  • Water-resistant coating
  • Sleek design
  • Gold trimmings
  • Not waterproof

Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger

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3rd Place
Product rating

The Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger is the Maxpedition Kodiak Gearslinger’s little brother. This tactical sling comes in a smaller size, which makes it practical for carrying everyday essentials. It comes with several safety features including a built-in distress whistle and anti-theft zippers. The wearer won’t go thirsty since this sling has a water bottle pocket and is compatible with hydration bladders.

  • Spacious 30 L capacity
  • Cushioned 15” laptop sleeve
  • Water resistant
  • Bucket-style main compartment
  • Sternum and waist straps
  • Blinker light attachment
  • Not waterproof
  • Some reviews say shape doesn’t hold unless you fill bag completely

REEBOW GEAR Tactical Sling Bag Pack

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4th Place
Product rating

REEBOW GEAR’s Tactical Sling Bag Pack is MOLLE ready and comes with PALS for attaching gear to. If the gear is heavy, this bag’s Y-shaped strap will keep the bag secured on the wearer’s back for ultimate comfort. This safety-focused bag comes with a concealed carry sleeve for firearms.

  • Extra large capacity at 34 L
  • Internal 15” laptop sleeve
  • Two large main compartments
  • Many style options for every kind of individual
  • Side water bottle pocket
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Zippers sometimes get stuck on fabric

Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling Pack

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5th Place
Product rating

The Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling Pack can keep up an active, outdoor lifestyle. This rugged backpack comes in a dozen neutral colors that help the wearer blend into natural scenery. Its ambidextrous strap makes it easy to carry the bag on either shoulder. Gun owners will love the backpack’s concealed carry sleeve.

  • Water repellent
  • Trolley sleeve
  • Cushioned laptop sleeve
  • Padded mesh straps and back
  • Two water bottle pockets
  • Small capacity
  • Warranty only covers EU

Best Tactical Sling Backpack Conclusion: The Best Tactical Sling Backpack

Customers have spoken, and the 5.11 RUSH MOAB 10 Tactical Sling Bag takes first place as the best tactical sling backpack available on the market. This MOLLE-ready bag is made with a strategic PALS for attaching equipment to. Outdoor enthusiasts love its protective sunglasses compartment and hydration bladder.

While this sling backpack by 5.11 Tactical is a fan favorite, the other bags in our guide are also customer-approved for their utility and ruggedness. We’re sure you’ll find a winner among this list.