One of the more popular fieldpacks amongst Australian Defence members is the Platatac MAC ALICE V2 pack. This backpack is durable, customisable and has a solid frame, making it an ideal choice for Defence members. It is a well-rated survivalist field pack too (survivalist rucksack for our American readers).
The Mac Alice V2 rucksack made it on our top 5 military packs for 2023. In this article, we have brought in an Australian Special Forces operator to share his thoughts on the PLATATAC MAC ALICE V2 pack. We also had one of our experienced hunters trail it for a while to provide feedback.
The “ALICE” System
The ALICE system stands for “All-purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment”. It was developed by the US Army in the 1960s. It was designed to replace the M1956 Load-Carrying Equipment and was used by the US Army until the early 2000s. Nowadays the US army uses the MOLLE system and has very much been adopted by the Australian military.
The Alice system consists of a frame, a pack, and various pouches and accessories that can be attached to the pack via webbing straps.
Mac Alice V2 Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
- Dual main compartment, with top and bottom access
- Removable top pouch
- Compatible with MOLLE and PALS systems for additional customization
- Two hydration bladder compartments
- Durable and high-quality materials
- Large capacity for storing gear
- Good weight distribution for even load carrying
- Relatively heavy even when empty
- Separate frame requires proper adjustment else pack can become loose and unstable
- No built-in rain cover, can be purchased separately
Pros
- Dual main compartment, with top and bottom access
- Removable top pouch
- Compatible with MOLLE and PALS systems for additional customization
- Two hydration bladder compartments
- Durable and high-quality materials
- Large capacity for storing gear
- Good weight distribution for even load carrying
Cons
- Relatively heavy even when empty
- Separate frame requires proper adjustment else pack can become loose and unstable
- No built-in rain cover, can be purchased separately
Mac ALICE V2 External Pockets and Pouches
The pouch on top provides easy access while out field
“One of the most notable features of the PLATATAC MAC ALICE V2 pack is the wide zippered pouch on top of the lid. This pouch is ideal for storing CW gear, claymores, OP kits/Optics, and other stuff. ”
The PLATATAC MAC ALICE V2 field pack is an improved an upgraded version of the original Mac Alice pack.
The Mac Alice V2 pack features:
- 6 large external utility pockets
- 1 large zippered admin pouch with an internal mesh pocket
- 3 sizable pouches with dual zip and clip closures that permit access from either side of the pouch.
- 2 clip-closure pouches with drawstrings
- PALS fields sections
- 4-column x 9-row PALS fields on each side (can connect additional MOLLE-compatible pouches)
- a 7-column x 4-row PALS fields on the front of the pack, behind the huge center pocket (can add MOLLE pouches or a PLATATAC E Tool bag)
- a radio pouch on the top flap
- a removable lid pouch
- a large zippered pocket at the base for a sleep mat
The PLATATAC MAC ALICE V2 pack’s external design is pretty impressive, and there pretty much nothing missing.
Internal Features and Pockets
The Mac Alice V2 backpack’s internal features include:
- a large compartment, divided into two main parts by a zippered divider
- a cargo/radio pouch with PALS field
- 5 internal zippered mesh pockets in cargo compartment
- 1 internal zippered mesh pocket in sleeping compartment
- a double drawstring throat closure
- 2 internal bottom-to-top pockets conceived to hold a bladder (have hydration tubes pass through)
Again, a pretty complete set up.
Dual Compartments Mac ALICE Pack
My favourite feature is the sleeping compartment
“My favourite feature is the sleeping compartment at the bottom. I prefer to roll up my sleeping gear in one go, unzip the base, and place it all in the compartment at once. In comparison other packs can have stuff sacks for sleeping gear, so you need to push it in multiple goes. Just a personal preference.”
One of the nicest features of the Mac Alice V2 backpack is its twin pockets, which are excellent for segregating your sleeping stuff from other belongings.
Auto-Lock Buckles
The Duraflex auto-lock buckles on the main and bottom compartments add an extra layer of safety to make sure our gear is safe and stable.
Removable Pouch
One of the most notable features of the PLATATAC MAC ALICE V2 rucksack is the wide zippered pouch on top of the lid. This pouch is ideal for storing CW gear, claymores, OP kits/Optics, and other stuff. Thanks to the lid pouch’s watertight zip access at the back and covered zip access, you can quickly and easily reach your gear.
Mac ALICE V2 Pack Frame
Good frame for parachuting
“The Mac Alice V2 pack is a well-known and commonly seen pack within the defence community. The solid frame makes it ideal for parachuting, whether it be freefall or static line.”
One thing to consider with this pack is that the frame is a separate piece, which can become loose if not secured properly. This can be a problem for those who need to carry heavy loads, as it can make the pack less stable and secure. It’s important to take the time to secure, tighten and adjust the pack properly on its frame.
The pack is built with a comfortable and adjustable shoulder strap that allows for a customized fit.
Materials and Durability
The PLATATAC MAC ALICE V2 Field pack is made from 500D Multicam Nylon Cordura, which is known for its durability and resistance to abrasions, tears, and scuffs. The backpack also includes Mil-spec A-A-55301 Multicam webbing and Mil-T-5038 binding tape, which further enhance its strength and durability. The pouches’ ITW Nexus buckles and hardware, as well as the Duraflex Auto-lock buckles on the main and bottom compartments and #10 and #5 YKK coil zips on the pockets and compartments, ensure that your gear is always kept secure.
Accessibility
Overall, the Platatac Mac Alice V2 field pack provides functionality and convenience when it comes to accessing your gear.
The external pouches can be used to store and organize specific gear, such as a first aid kit, food, or extra ammunition, allowing you to have easy access to the items that you might need quickly and also keeping your main compartment less cluttered.
The access through the bottom of the pack is also a positive feature as it allows for quick access to sleeping gear such as a sleeping bag or pad without having to remove the pack or open the top.
Verdict – The Mac ALICE V2 Rucksack
Overall, the Mac Alice V2 field pack is a durable and versatile option for military and outdoor use. Its removable lid, top and bottom access, and quick access to sleeping gear are all great features.
However, the pack’s frame may come loose if not secured properly, so after extended periods of use, make sure you check the straps that hold the frame to the pack. The fairly high price and metal zippers that can rust if not cleaned correctly are just some things to be mindful of as well.
