Review: Mission Workshop R6 Arkiv Field Backpack is a versatile, component-based bag
When shopping for a technology backpack, have you ever thought, “This bag would be perfect if only it had a couple extra slots for those things I need”? The folks at Mission Workshop clearly have, because the R6 Arkiv Field Backpack is an intriguing response to that very conundrum.
Sitting in the middle of the company’s Arkiv Field Pack line, the R6 Arkiv Field Backpack ($209 and up, depending on configuration) is an all-purpose, weatherproof, premium-construction backpack featuring the Arkiv System for creating what I’ll call “modular rucksacks”: Picture a full-featured backpack with two or three main compartments that can fit laptops and books; another compartment for smaller items and tools; a couple pockets on the sides for extras; and an even smaller pocket on the front for pens, your Moleskine notebook, and car keys. Now, tear each compartment off the bag as if you’re watching an animated blueprint on an episode of How It Works. Finally, add a series of rails—yes, like a train—for attaching all those compartments together in just about any configuration you can imagine. Yes, it’s as interesting as it sounds.
The R6 is named as such because it features six of these Arkiv System rails: two on the front for attaching a Laptop Case and Folio (I’ll get to that in a moment), and two on each side for attaching Vertical Zippered Pockets (also explained below). There are also R2 and R8 Arkiv Field Packs with exactly the number of rails, respectively, that you’d guess. Each rail is made of thick, tightly woven nylon to maximize durability, structure, and weight, with small, strong velcro straps at the top to secure whichever component you attach.
Because of this modular approach, Mission Workshop doesn’t sell pre-configured complete backpacks. Rather, the company offers components you use to create the perfect bag, or bag system, for your needs.
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