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How to Pack a Ruck Sack

This class is intended for the BOLC audience. Students should come to training with a properly packed ruck sack. The ruck sack or assault pack are an important part of the dismounted soldier’s combat equipment. These items allow the soldier to bring additional or oversized equipment essential to the mission or give the soldier additional longevity in the field. When setting up a ruck sack or assault pack, it is important to understand the constraints, requirements, proper fitment, and packing principles. Constraints There are several considerations before we dive into packing a ruck sack, like does my unit have a Standing Operating Procedure (SOP) or packing list, what is our mission, how long will I be gone, and is a ruck sack appropriate for the task? Sometimes, an assault pack is a better choice, depending on the Operational Variables: Mission, Enemy, Troops, Terrain, Time, and Civil considerations (METT-TC). So, let’s begin with the most important constraint- the unit packing list/SOP. Some units will issue a specific packing list or SOP, telling the soldier exactly what to pack and where. Other units will only specify what equipment to pack. Please abide by the packing lists provided by your units but be aware that most positions will require some additional equipment. Important note: verify that your unit’s packing list will fit in the ruck sack, duffle bag, or assault pack, as described. Too often, units publish unrealistic packing lists, where all of the items cannot physically fit in the ruck or bag. Leaders are expected to provide this bottom-up refinement through their chain-of-command. Fitting the Ruck Before filling that ruck sack with TA-50, let’s discuss the fit of the ruck or assault pack. I have seen many, many soldiers suffer under a poorly fitted ruck sack. Poor fitment can cause back pain, numbness or tingling in the arms, and poor balance. A properly fitted ruck sack should have the kidney pad sitting in the small of the back either on or just above the waistline. This is accomplished by adjusting the placement of the pack, straps, and kidney pad on the ruck frame. Note: the large MOLLE ruck sack is a pain to fit properly, so ask a crusty NCO, as required. The straps should ride comfortably over the shoulders without pulling the shoulders to the rear or restricting breathing. The sternum strap should be adjusted to prevent the shoulder straps from moving too far to the outside of the shoulders, but not so tight that it restricts breathing. Several rucks come with a waistbelt, but this typically interferes with belt-mounted equipment (ie. Pistol, magazines, Gerber tool, dump pouch, etc.) and is rarely used. Finally, roll and secure all loose straps with tape or Velcro to prevent them from getting caught on vehicles or in vegetation. Packing Principles Let us discuss some principles related to loading a ruck. The ideal load puts the most dense, heavy objects high and close to the back. This allows the soldier to move faster, easier, and with the best balance. The heaviest items are usually ammunition, radios, and water. Moderately heavy items should be low and close to the body, which creates the foundation for heavier items. Examples are the sleep system in a stuff sack or MREs. Lightweight items can be packed further from the soldier’s back, like clothing. Next, we will consider what will be packed where and why. Again, unit SOP may dictate where items are packed, but if not, follow these principles: 1. As mentioned above, ASIP radios, linked ammo, and Camelbaks should be packed high and close to the body. 2. Items that will be needed quickly should be packed so that they can be removed/accessed easily. For example: medical equipment, ammo, and mission essential items. Items that do not need to be accessed quickly should be packed on bottom. Examples include a sleep system or clothing items. 3. Rain gear (jacket and poncho) should be packed in the sustainment pouches for quick donning. Note: The Goretex or rain jacket is for you and the poncho is to protect your ruck, create a temporary shelter, or build a poncho raft. 4. Everything should be waterproofed. The wet weather bag is great for waterproofing most of your equipment- Many grunts like myself use the wet weather bag inside out so that the rubber prevents it from shifting inside the ruck, and all of your gear slides against the canvas inside. Gooseneck the top of the bag to make it waterproof, and suitable for wet river crossings. Everything not in the wet weather bag should also be waterproofed, unless inherently waterproof, like a sealed MRE. Even if you are not in a wet environment, waterproofing will keep dust, dirt, and bugs out of your gear.