Being inconspicuous and fitting in with the crowd is the ultimate goal when carrying. Toting a pack that blends in with everyone around you is the perfect method for storing weapons, backups, and other gear. One company that excels in designing backpacks for the armed wanderer is Vega Holsters, distributed through Craft Holsters.
One of the latest products from Vega is the Cargo Explorer bag, a sling-style pack produced expressly for concealed carry, but still affording enough cargo space for additional accessories and personal belongings. The concealed carry section of the pack takes up the most space and due to the sling design, the bag can be accessed quickly on either side through the use of rip cord pulls, which is a nice tactical feature.
Vega Holsters advertises the Cargo Explorer as having a universal holster for concealed carry, but as author Scott W. Wagner points out in his article “Vega Holsters Cargo Explorer Concealed Carry Bag: Versatile Sling Pack with Many Features” at USConcealedCarry.com, the universal designation comes with a caveat:
“The compartment comes with a universal holster. However, the holster is not truly universal as you must order your pack to accommodate revolvers or semi-automatic pistols. This way, you can be sure the setup will work with the primary type of gun that you wish to carry in it.” (Read more at USConcealedCarry.com)
Vega Holsters’ Cargo Explorer is made from rugged Cordura nylon. In addition to the gun compartment, there are three other zippered sections of varying size. These are customizable with a Velcro modular system that can accommodate variety of gear.
The exterior follows the same logical design as the interior. There are MOLLE attachment points on the front and sides as well as the shoulder straps. There is also a Velcro lined compartment on the back side that is large enough to store a spare magazine or two.
If the idea of carrying your main weapon off-body is unappealing, consider using the Cargo Explorer as a back-up option. Another gun of the same type as your main carry weapon (revolver or semi-auto), or even a Taser will fit snugly into your pack holster.
If you’re looking for a practical way to utilize off-body carry while remaining inconspicuous, the Cargo Explorer is versatile enough to work in just about any situation. It is available in black or Coyote tan with an MSRP of $112.95.