I joined the corps in 97. That patrol pack was actually issued to me around 2005, in addition to our Alice packs. We used them as patrol packs for combat essential gear. Ammo, mres, etc. We used the clips to attach to the top of the Alice pack frame, and tied it down with the Alice packs straps. There isn’t room for a camel back, because the military issues external camel backs that we then strapped on the outside of that patrol pack. That way if we needed to work and still have access to water, then we would just grab our camel backs. It essentially looked like this. Alice pack with that patrol pack strapped on top, with an external camel back strapped onto of the the patrol pack.
That snap was for the 6 magazine (2x3) bandoleer, and a radio pouch for the SincGars (PRC-117A/B) that came with the initial "MOLLE 1" system. Good find, though. Especially, at that price. Keep up the great work !!!
I like those, we have one In woodland another in ACU I dyed Kelly green that turned it into a OD green except for the plastic which stayed that grey color. What I did to make ours a little more 'firmer' is used a plastic counter top cutting mat from Walmart and duct taped the foam to it after trimming it. and yes, as stated below the snaps are for the 6 pocket bandoleer
If your trying to phase out your ALICE, i highly recommend the Spec Ops Recon Ruck. Its a modern ALICE in my opinion, a little pricey but well worth it. I use it everyday.
I have various larger military packs (they are great btw). One pack also has snaps inside. I would guess the snaps are for some kind of modular insert.... perhaps a radio, map or battery pouch insert?
survivalistboards No problem, I've found that the bandolier can be used as a great organizer for smaller items of kit I.E. knife, batteries, and paracord.
