BOB Essentials Series: MSR Dromedary Bag

[ninja-elbow]

My roomie works part-time at REI and I told him abot this review. He's actually sold a few now, and I'm hoping to get mine soon to mess around with. Well, borrow the one my roomie buys because I am not allowed to take part in his discount in any way.

[SharkChild]

bump

[Y.T.]

resurrecting. this looks awesome, thanks so much for the review Gunny. I see that the original post is about 1+1/2 years old. Have there been any changes to the product, or other companies making the same/better thing?

[DeltaUpsilon]

After reading this review of Gunny's, I kept my eye out for dromedary bags. Blackbearhardware had some gear I wanted AND the 10L dromedary bags for $25 - I couldn't resist. I've only used it a few time but it feels very tough and durable. Plus, 10L is a very sizable amount of water to be able to fill up.

I just bought a Kelty Red Cloud 6650 multi-day pack, and for fitting, I needed ~35lbs. Well, the dromedary bag weighs ~22lbs full.....keep that in mind if you're thinking about hauling it around much...

[don vito]

here's yet another option http://www.source-vagabond.com/a-hsystems6.html second from top they are made by source vagabond

they are not well know here in US but their gear is really good. they had/have a partnership with deuter, kelty and tactical tailor and the usmc has switched to a source bag a few years ago.

i've used mine through my second half of my service (after my camelbak stealth busted on me) and i still use it for camping and occasional edc, since then i purchased a few more just to have around since they are not too easy to come by here.

[That German Guy]

Bump per request. If you must get a collapsible water container, this is the one to get.

Really? Ortlieb makes excellent waterproof storage, and they started to make some bags that are waterproof in the other direction a few years ago. My Water bag is now four years old, and has survived sixteen weeks of touring.

[JT_of_JFF]

Has anyone used/seen the camelbak sixbak? I have a blackwater pack (primary BOB for the family) that this would fit in perfectly.
How do you think it compares to the MSR Dromedary?
The MSR is $20 cheaper and connects directly to many filters, but is more of a camp bag
The sixbak looks as heavy made, inclides an inline filter (not the same as a full filter) and mainlines as a hydration pack.

BTW... I am really ticked I didn't get the MSRs when blackbear had them at clearance prices. They were something like $10-15, but I dragged my feet. I was going to get 2-3.... then poof they were back at full price.

CamelBak SixBak 200 OZ Hydration Pack


Features
Massive external OMEGA Access Port allows for quick and easy filling, cleaning, and ice addition
Hydrolink Modular Attachment System, now with reservoir shut-off at exit port
Easy access to In-Line MicroFilter
Lightweight, durable 1000D Cordura exterior
Top and side exit slots enable multiple tube routing options
Multiple D-ring attachment points
Dimensions: 17" L x 11" W x 1" H
Volume: 366 cu. in. (6.0 L)
Weight: Empty reservoir- 1.27 lbs, Filled reservoir- 14.50 lbs

[Duffman]

I was going to go with a Katadyn system before I read this, but after doing a little research, I think an MSR filter and bag is the way to go. Thanks Gunny! I'm curious about any updates you may have about your equipment, too.

[Tim]

Thanks Gunny
Now my family has a 10L bag, we got the shower kit too. Can't wait to try it out.
ZS wins again.

[Cultentacle]

I just stumbled across this today, thanks for the review. I'll be picking one up this weekend.

[Gunny]

I just stumbled across this today, thanks for the review. I'll be picking one up this weekend.

Neat

Be sure to shop around and you'll find a better price. I've the 10L model and love the damn thing.

[Gunny]

For everyone who has one of these bags, would you mind taking a picture or two when you add it to your BOB/hike/however? It'd help flesh out this bag's section in the mega thread.

[Cultentacle]

For everyone who has one of these bags, would you mind taking a picture or two when you add it to your BOB/hike/however? It'd help flesh out this bag's section in the mega thread.

Next time I'm out backpacking I'll be sure to take pictures. I also plan to get the shower addition for it as well...those photos wont be included though

[Gunny]

For everyone who has one of these bags, would you mind taking a picture or two when you add it to your BOB/hike/however? It'd help flesh out this bag's section in the mega thread.

Next time I'm out backpacking I'll be sure to take pictures. I also plan to get the shower addition for it as well...those photos wont be included though

[thelight]

Here is a different option

This is similar to your dromendray, except you just fill it up and let gravity filter the water. However I've never tested it.

Question: What's the advantage of the MSR Dromedary over this Katadyn? It seems to me that there's a whole lot less pumping with the katadyn system... NFA had one of these at the NNY08SCT and it kinda rocked.

[Gunny]

Here is a different option

This is similar to your dromendray, except you just fill it up and let gravity filter the water. However I've never tested it.

Question: What's the advantage of the MSR Dromedary over this Katadyn? It seems to me that there's a whole lot less pumping with the katadyn system... NFA had one of these at the NNY08SCT and it kinda rocked.

Go back and read my article a bit more thoroughly. The MSR bag is damn near indestructible. It can also host a wide number of attachments for filtering/showering/drinking and so on. I've even filled mine with snow and tossed it next to a campfire to get some drinking water (a huge no no with most bags) and it didn't seem to phase it.

It's the bag for the survivalist who likes to know his gear works regardless of how he or mother nature treats it.

[thelight]

Here is a different option

This is similar to your dromendray, except you just fill it up and let gravity filter the water. However I've never tested it.

Question: What's the advantage of the MSR Dromedary over this Katadyn? It seems to me that there's a whole lot less pumping with the katadyn system... NFA had one of these at the NNY08SCT and it kinda rocked.

Go back and read my article a bit more thoroughly. The MSR bag is damn near indestructible. It can also host a wide number of attachments for filtering/showering/drinking and so on. I've even filled mine with snow and tossed it next to a campfire to get some drinking water (a huge no no with most bags) and it didn't seem to phase it.

It's the bag for the survivalist who likes to know his gear works regardless of how he or mother nature treats it.

I understand that the MSR is extremely durable but was wondering about the other differences since they appear quite similar on the surface. No one responded to JCD so I asked again... I went out and dug up the below info because I was curious. I asked because I though other folks might already know it.

Point by point:
1)Compact size - MSR (2 liter) 8 x 16.5 in. 6.3 oz. (bigger, lighter) VS. Katadyn (1 Liter) 7.5 x 4 in. 22 oz (smaller and heavier)
2)Adaptability - Katadyn: Only takes it's own type of filter cartridge (20,000 Liter capacity). But it doesn't need any separate filter. This filter can break if frozen.
3)Functionality - The Katadyn closes just like a dry bag (fold over and clasp). This provides a sturdy loop to put around anything, including a small tree branch, no extra cord required. I'd argue that this method disperses the weight better than a grommet would, but that probably doesn't matter much.
3b)MSR: Can't find flow rate Katadyn: Approximately 1.4 gallons per hour max
4)Durability - MSR: 500- and 1,000-denier Cordura and laminated with food-grade polyurethane, can withstand temperatures from freezing to boiling Katadyn: No Information on specific material, some kind of nylon. The Ceramic filter may crack if it freezes.

Knowing the above, I'd use the Katadyn during the warmer months because while it's filtering into my pot/canteen/dromedary/whatever I could be doing any number of other things. Both the MSR and the Katadyn have their pluses.

Further Questions:
What attachments are available? Is there one that provides the same gravity filter capabilities as the Katadyn? I see MSR has this, but was wondering if there's something that would work directly with the dromedary bag.

[hardtorn]

Nice system... But She has got to lose the "ND" hat ! sorry....

[Duffman]

I picked up my 10L Dromedary from Cabela's on Saturday. I haven't filled it up yet but it seems just as bomb-proof as everyone is saying.

[crypto]

I'm getting ready to take my 10L Drom bag out this weekend for a camping trip. I'll let you know if it explodes and kills everyone, but I wouldn't bet on it. After a couple years of going on every camping trip I go on, it's pretty much still good as new.

[Gunny]

Nice system... But She has got to lose the "ND" hat ! sorry....

I'm also wearing a ND hat.

[ninja-elbow]

I'm getting ready to take my 10L Drom bag out this weekend for a camping trip. I'll let you know if it explodes and kills everyone, but I wouldn't bet on it. After a couple years of going on every camping trip I go on, it's pretty much still good as new.

That'd be strange if it s'ploded.

[MrBabel]

I was wondering... I know the bag says it goes from freezing to boiling and with the shower attachment it has my interest peaked for sure, but my question is, has anyone tried pouring hot water into it?, either straight boiling or warmed up slightly?

[mikeb]

I was wondering... I know the bag says it goes from freezing to boiling and with the shower attachment it has my interest peaked for sure, but my question is, has anyone tried pouring hot water into it?, either straight boiling or warmed up slightly?

I've put just about boiling temperature water in mine while cleaning it, not for shower purposes. Since they are black they warm up nicely if left in the sun. I've had my Dromedary for probably 15 years, they are pretty indestructible.