5.11 Tactical Rush12 Backpack (24 Liter) Review in 2025

Last Updated on January 13, 2025

Are you a camper, hiker, military personnel, or just a civilian looking for a sturdy and versatile backpack? The 5.11 tactical Rush12 backpack is a sturdy, compact, and lightweight backpack that can be used for various purposes.
The 24-liter backpack is made of durable nylon material and is water-resistant. It has 16 different compartments for storing your items as you go about your daily business or for going camping. The backpack is also comfortable as it has adjustable straps with padding. Thus, you can adjust the bag to have a comfortable fit, especially if you are carrying heavy items. Read this 5.11 Tactical Rush 12 Backpack review to know more about this bag.

24 Liter 5.11 Tactical Rush12 Backpack Review

The 5.11 Rush 12 military backpack looks stylish and is sold at a great price. The backpack is more affordable than the 5.11 Tactical Covrt 18 Backpack. Acquiring this bag will change the way you carry your things, and you will love its compact size. Also, select a color that you love and use it for survival expeditions, outdoor hiking, camping, trekking, patrol, or even hunting. Read our detailed review to find out the specifications, pros, and cons of this assault backpack from 5.11.

Pros:

It is durable and weatherproof
Has easily adjustable straps
Sturdy zippers
Durable and long-lasting nylon construction
It has MOLLE webbings that allow you to attach some additional pouches for carrying extra items.
It comes with 16 different compartments for the proper arrangement of your EC items and tactical gear.
The main compartment makes passing through security checks to be a breeze as it unzips all the way to the base of the back.

Cons:

The shoulder strap adjusters are not very stable, as they slip at times.
It doesn’t come with a built-in pad for laptops. But still, you can keep your laptop in the main compartment as it is very spacious.
The backpack doesn’t come with a hip belt. But you can purchase it separately or get an Eberlestock Halftrack backpack that has a removable hip belt with PALS webbing.

Technical specifications	5.11 Rush 12 Backpack
Compartments:	16 individual compartments
Total Capacity:	1476 cubic inch / 24 liter total
Dimensions:	1 x 12.6 x 1 inches
Pockets:	Hydration pocket, Zippered fleece-lined eyewear pocket
Ideal for:	Recreational use or as an operational bug-out bag
Compatible with :	5.11 Tier System
Hydration pocket Durable:	1050D nylon (MultiCam: 1000D nylon)
Handle:	Reinforced grab-and-go handle
Wrap-around MOLLE:	5.11 SlickStick web platform
Water-resistant construction:	Yes
adjustable shoulder and sternum straps:	Yes
Front pocket :	12” x 9” x 1.75”
Main Compartment:	18″ x 11″ x 6.5″
Hydration pocket:	17” x 11”
Weight:	4.3 pounds
Price:	Check Today’s Price on Amazon

5.11 Tactical Rush 12 Backpack Features:

24-liter total capacity but more durable than the Maxpedition Falcon 2 backpack
Main compartment measures 18 x 11 x 6.5 inches
The front pocket measures 12 x 9 x 1.75 inches
The hydration pocket measures 17 x 11 inches
Water-resistant 1050D nylon
Zippered fleece-lined eyewear pocket
Adjustable height sternum strap
Internal multi-slot admin compartment
Hook and loop nametape and flag patches
Wrap-around MOLLE/5.11 SlickStick web platform
Two external compression straps
Self-repairing YKK zippers
Contoured yoke shoulder strap system

16 individual compartments

If you’re a person who carries a lot of things, you will find that this backpack has enough space for different items. First and foremost, the main compartment is very spacious and has a lot of individual pockets. You can use it to keep your 15-inch laptop, charger, USB cables, textbooks, and many other items. The main compartment measures 18 x 11 x 6.5 inches.

There are two small mesh pockets in the main compartment for storing essential items like keys and a lighter. There is a retention pocket that can be utilized to keep things like cash and folded papers at the back.

Check Today’s Price on Amazon

Apart from having the main compartment, the 5.11 Rush 12 military backpack has several other compartments. Among them, the front pocket measures 12 x 9 x 1.75 inches and is subdivided into various compartments for suitable storage of things like pens, notebooks, flashlights, etc. The front compartment allows you to be organized and keep items that you use more often.

Another vital compartment is the rear hydration pocket which measures 17 x 11 inches with ambidextrous hose ports and routing. The backpack as well as features a glasses pocket, which is a zippered, fleece-lined pocket located at the top of the backpack for keeping your sunglasses or other gadgets like a USB.

Durability

The 5.11 tactical Rush 12 backpack is sturdily made to last longer. It is constructed using durable 1050D nylon, which is also water-resistant. So, in the case of rainfall, the backpack will still survive and protect the contents in it. Additionally, unlike most tactical backpacks on the market, this one has no issues with its zippers and seams. It is properly stitched, and you will be surprised at how the seams stay in place for a longer period of time.

Comfortable

Whether you’re carrying a lot of things or just a few things, you will still be comfortable having this bag on your back. This is because it has high-quality shoulder straps and sternum straps that are adjustable. These allow you to carry a heavy load and still be comfortable as the weight is distributed. So, if you’re going camping or hiking, the 5.11 tactical Rush 12 backpack will be a great option over a 5.11 Tactical Rush 72 backpack as you won’t feel any pain or difficulty. Always ensure to carry the backpack the right way to avoid fatigue or pain.

Size

Since it comes with a 24-liter capacity, the Rush 12 assault backpack will carry most of your EDC items and keep them well organized. It also weighs around 1250 grams, which makes it a great everyday carry backpack. As a result, you can use it for your daily errands and carry things that you need on a daily basis.

Moreover, the small and lightweight design of the backpack is very convenient to carry and allows you to stuff different items like books, cards, flashlights, laptops, and a lighter. Despite its small size, you can carry things like clothes for camping as it is spacious.

Versatile

This is a very versatile backpack, as you can use it for different purposes. The 5.11 tactical Rush 12 backpack can be used as a bug-out bag, survival backpack, range bag, hunting bag, multipurpose pack, or hiking rucksack.

2 Alternative of 5.11 tactical Rush 12 Backpack

5.11 Rush 24 Backpack Check Price

Front pocket: 12.5 x 11 x 2 inches
Main Compartment: 20 x 12.5 x 8 inches
Hydration pocket: 18 x 12.5 inches
Dimensions: 14 x 5 x 14 inches
Left and Right Side Pockets: 16.5 x 6 x 1.75 inches
Compatible with: 5.11 Tier System
Hydration pocket Durable: 1050D nylon (MultiCam: 1000D nylon)
Handle: Reinforced grab-and-go handle
Total Capacity: 37 liter
Weight: 5.5 lbs
Pockets: Dual zipping side pockets
Water-resistant construction: Yes
Adjustable shoulder and sternum straps: Yes

5.11 Tactical Covrt 18 Backpack Check Price

Main Compartment: 19 x 12.25 x 6.5 inches
Hydration pocket: 19 x 12.25 x 1.5 liter
Front pocket: 11.5 x 9.5 x 3
Weight: 3.0 lbs
Built from: 500D and 420D water-resistant nylon
Total Capacity: 30 liter
Fits up to a: 15-inch laptop
Straps: Yoke-style shoulder straps
Sunglass pocket: Yes
Durable, water-resistant coated: Yes
Padded internal laptop sleeve: Yes
Adjustable shoulder and sternum straps: Yes
Lightweight and versatile: Yes
Ambidextrous side-entry TacTec system compartment: Yes
Flip-down ID panel: Yes

Practical Usage Tips

The 5.11 Tactical RUSH 12 Backpack is designed for versatility, making it suitable for a range of activities, from day hikes to daily commutes. To maximize its utility, consider organizing the backpack using its various compartments strategically. The main compartment is ideal for larger items and hydration packs, while the smaller pockets can be used for essentials such as keys, wallets, and first aid kits. For those using it in a tactical or law enforcement role, distribute gear evenly to maintain balance and quick accessibility. Additionally, utilizing the MOLLE webbing can expand its capacity by attaching extra pouches or gear specific to your needs. Remember, the backpack’s compact size makes it excellent for short missions or day use, not extended trips requiring more gear.

Comparative Analysis

When compared to similar tactical backpacks like the Maxpedition Falcon-II or the Condor Compact Assault Pack, the 5.11 Tactical RUSH 12 holds its own due to its robust build and thoughtful design. The RUSH 12 offers superior organization with its 16 compartments, allowing for more specific storage customization than the Falcon-II and greater ease of access than the Condor. Its 1050D nylon construction is both durable and water-resistant, giving it an edge in harsher weather conditions. Another notable advantage is its comfortable strap design and breathable back panel which enhance wearability during prolonged use. These features make the RUSH 12 an excellent choice for anyone needing a reliable, mid-sized tactical backpack that doesn’t compromise on quality or functionality.

Maintenance and Care Instructions

Maintaining your 5.11 Tactical RUSH 12 Backpack will ensure it lasts through many years of rigorous use. Start by cleaning the backpack regularly with a mild soap solution and avoiding harsh detergents that can degrade fabric integrity. For tough stains, use a soft brush to gently scrub the affected areas. Always air dry the backpack away from direct sunlight to prevent UV damage. It’s also important to check and tighten any loose threads or buckles and lubricate the zippers with a silicone spray to keep them running smoothly. If the backpack gets wet, ensure it is fully dried before storing to avoid mold and mildew build-up. By following these care instructions, you can maintain the backpack’s functionality and appearance, keeping it ready for any adventure or task.

Conclusion

To sum up, the 5.11 tactical Rush 12 backpack is a small and sturdy backpack suitable for everyday carry and outdoor activities. It is very comfortable to carry and has MOLLE webbings that you can attach all sorts of stuff that you want. The main compartment and other compartments allow you to keep your things safe and well-organized. It is also water-resistant and great for tactical activities.

So, whether you’re in the military, a hiker, or just a guy who wants a sturdy bag for your everyday hustle, the 5.11 Rush 12 backpack will offer you comfort and serve you well.

FAQs

Question: Can I use the 5.11 Rush 12 tactical backpack as my everyday carry bag?
Answer: Yes, you can. Unlike other tactical backpacks, this one is small and compact. It won’t create much attention on the streets, and it is very durable. It will allow you to perfectly organize different EDC items and access them easily and quickly when the need arises.

Question: What is the difference between the 5.11 Rush 12 & 24 tactical backpacks? And which one should you choose?
Answer: The difference between these two backpacks is mainly space. Rush 12 has 24L, while Rush 24 has 37L. In addition, the Rush 12 assault backpack has more compartments and more pockets for storing items when compared to the Rush 12 military backpack. So, if you want a great Rush backpack for your everyday use, I would suggest the Rush 12, while for camping, the Rush 24 tactical backpack may be the best.

Question: Is the 5.11 Rush12 backpack good for motorcycle riding?
Answer: Yes, it is a light-duty backpack that is easy to carry on your back while riding a motorcycle.

Question: Is the backpack ideal for the GoRuck Challenge event?
Answer: Yes, this day-trip backpack performs well in this case.

Question: Does it have concealed carry pockets?
Answer: No.

Question: Can it store a 15-inch MacBook Pro laptop?
Answer: Yes, it can hold a laptop/MBP/iPAD safely.