Quoted:
I've been eyeing the MR3DAP for a bit now and am convinced it's THE bag to get. But i've got a question for anyone that has one - do the upper compression straps interfere with pouches/knives/etc. when they're connected to the pack's side PALS webbing on the side?
The pack's compression straps run right over the PALS webbing so it seems like it'd be tough to have a knife/admind pouch/bottle carrier/medic pouch (or whatever else) attached to the PALS webbing without interfering with said attached kit.
Anyone care to share their experience with attaching stuff to the 3DAP's sides via the PALS?
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You're not going to get a sizeable pouch on those relatively small areas of PALS webbing, assuming this the pack to which you're referring:
http://www.mysteryranch.com/military/assault-patrol-packs/3-day-assault-pack.
Sometimes a pouch is large enough to merit running a compression strap over it. Sometimes it is wiser to run the compression strap
under the pouch. You have choices; see which works best for you.
BTW, the black neoprene borders on the zippers, intended to make them more water-resistant, will stand out quite nicely if seen under NVDs. I'm surprised that they used black, and even more surprised that they did not cover the zippers with some sort of flaps. Not knocking MR in general, but just this aspect. YMMV.