Being a police officer means carrying a lot of gear. From your radio and weapon to spare magazines and first-aid kits, it all adds up. A good patrol bag keeps everything organized and accessible, so you’re not fumbling around when seconds count. I remember one time I had to chase a suspect, and my old bag was bouncing all over the place. It was a nightmare! Finding a reliable bag can make all the difference in your day-to-day work.
Here’s a quick look at some of the top patrol bags on the market. These bags offer a mix of durability, organization, and comfort, all crucial for law enforcement professionals.
- 5.11 Tactical Patrol Ready Bag: A classic, durable option with plenty of compartments.
- First Tactical Jump Bag: Designed for first responders, offering ample space and organization.
- BLACKHAWK! Patrol Bag: A simple and effective bag for basic patrol needs.
- Explorer Tactical Range Ready Bag: Great for range days and can double as a patrol bag.
- Orca Tactical Gear Bag: A versatile bag with a modular design for customization.
Top 5 Best Patrol Bags For Police
5.11 Tactical Patrol Ready Bag
The 5.11 Tactical Patrol Ready Bag is a workhorse. It’s built tough and has a ton of compartments to keep your gear organized. This is a go-to choice for many officers because of its reliability.
Pros:
- ✅ Durable construction that can withstand daily use.
- ✅ Multiple compartments for organized storage.
- ✅ Removable dividers to customize the layout.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be bulky when fully loaded.
- ❌ Shoulder strap could be more comfortable for extended wear.
- ❌ Zipper quality could be improved for smoother operation.
Verdict: A solid, dependable bag for officers who need a lot of organized storage. It’s a great all-around choice, despite a few minor drawbacks.
First Tactical Jump Bag
The First Tactical Jump Bag is designed with first responders in mind. It has a huge main compartment and lots of external pockets, making it easy to grab what you need quickly. It’s built to handle a lot of gear and tough conditions.
Pros:
- ✅ Very large capacity for carrying a lot of equipment.
- ✅ Bright interior lining makes it easy to see contents.
- ✅ Durable construction with reinforced stitching.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be too large for basic patrol needs.
- ❌ Relatively expensive compared to other bags.
- ❌ Might be overkill if you don’t need all the extra space.
Verdict: Best for officers who need to carry a significant amount of medical or rescue gear. If you’re a first responder, this bag is worth the investment.
BLACKHAWK! Patrol Bag
The BLACKHAWK! Patrol Bag is a simple, no-frills option for basic patrol needs. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done. If you don’t need a ton of bells and whistles, this bag is a good choice.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ Lightweight and easy to carry.
- ✅ Decent amount of storage for essential gear.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as durable as some other bags.
- ❌ Limited organizational options.
- ❌ Shoulder strap is basic and not very comfortable.
Verdict: A budget-friendly option for officers who need a basic patrol bag. It’s a good choice if you’re just starting out or don’t need a lot of extra features.
Explorer Tactical Range Ready Bag
The Explorer Tactical Range Ready Bag is primarily designed for range use, but it can also work well as a patrol bag. It has a padded main compartment and several smaller pockets for organizing ammo, magazines, and other gear. I’ve used mine both at the range and during patrol shifts.
Pros:
- ✅ Padded main compartment for protecting firearms.
- ✅ Plenty of pockets for organizing magazines and ammo.
- ✅ Durable construction that can handle heavy loads.
Cons:
- ❌ May be too specialized for general patrol use.
- ❌ Can be heavy when fully loaded with ammo.
- ❌ Design might not be ideal for carrying non-firearm related gear.
Verdict: A good option for officers who frequently visit the shooting range or need to carry extra ammunition. It’s versatile enough to serve as a patrol bag in a pinch.
Orca Tactical Gear Bag
The Orca Tactical Gear Bag is a versatile option with a modular design. It has a large main compartment and MOLLE webbing for attaching additional pouches and accessories. This bag lets you customize the layout to fit your specific needs.
Pros:
- ✅ Highly customizable with MOLLE webbing.
- ✅ Durable construction with reinforced handles.
- ✅ Large main compartment with plenty of space.
Cons:
- ❌ Pouches and accessories sold separately.
- ❌ Can be expensive if you add a lot of extra gear.
- ❌ Requires some setup to configure the layout.
Verdict: An excellent choice for officers who want a highly customizable patrol bag. The MOLLE webbing allows you to tailor the bag to your specific needs and preferences.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right patrol bag depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
- Size and Capacity: How much gear do you need to carry? Consider the size of the main compartment and the number of additional pockets.
- Durability: Look for bags made from durable materials like nylon or polyester with reinforced stitching.
- Organization: Do you need a lot of compartments and dividers? Consider how you want to organize your gear and choose a bag that meets your needs.
- Comfort: Look for bags with padded shoulder straps and back panels for comfortable carry.
- Customization: Do you want a bag with MOLLE webbing for attaching additional pouches and accessories?
- Price: Patrol bags range in price from budget-friendly to high-end. Set a budget and choose a bag that offers the best value for your money.
Think about your typical day on patrol. What gear do you absolutely need to carry? What would be nice to have? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and choose the perfect patrol bag for your needs.
FAQs
Q: What is MOLLE webbing?
A: MOLLE stands for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. It’s a system of webbing that allows you to attach additional pouches and accessories to your bag.
Q: How do I clean my patrol bag?
A: Most patrol bags can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning recommendations.
Q: What size patrol bag should I get?
A: The size of your patrol bag depends on how much gear you need to carry. Consider the size of your firearm, magazines, first-aid kit, and other essential items. Choose a bag that can comfortably accommodate all of your gear without being too bulky.
Q: Are there any patrol bags specifically designed for female officers?
A: While there aren’t many bags specifically marketed to female officers, some smaller or more streamlined options might be a better fit. Consider the overall size and shape of the bag, as well as the adjustability of the shoulder straps.
Conclusion
A good patrol bag is an essential piece of gear for any police officer. It helps you stay organized, carry your equipment comfortably, and access what you need quickly in critical situations. I hope this review has helped you narrow down your options and find the perfect patrol bag for your needs. Remember to consider your specific needs and preferences when making your decision.
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