Thanks Luke for giving people a tested piece of kit with an extremely honest non-sponsored review. It’s a great part of your channel. I have bought some great kit for Jeep camping that is strong, small, and appropriately priced that I’m very happy with due to your reviews!
As a woman, I LOVE this rig. It’s comfortable in the lowest position. Aside from using it in town, this is excellent for an airplane. On a plane, when I get up to the restroom, I can easily carry my phone, wallet, passport and mini IPad for security. This is an EXCELLENT product.
I saw this chest rig on RU-vid, and while being somewhat skeptical I decided to get one! You were totally right about this product, it is very good, and just the right size to hold all the survival gear we (our family) is ever going to need traveling or in the back country! It is simply the best “go to bag” to throw in the truck, ATV, backpack, climbing bag once you equip it for your next trip or adventure! Easily compatible to carry a firearm or flare pen , pepper spray and an area map that is convenient to reference upon opening the bag, if the gps isn’t working properly. Lightweight, comfortable, easy to adjust, and very functional for all people in your family! This item is great! Thank you!
Thanks man, a very thorough review! I’ve had my Numbat for a couple years and love it. I also live and hike in Grizzly country, and the bungies on the bottom make a perfect place to carry a canister of bear spray. Immediately accessible, which is what you want when you need it, but completely out of the way until you do. Brilliant!
Fantastic chest bag, I actually went out and purchased one after seeing you multiple times with it, couldn’t be happier, I don’t use it for hiking trips for I live in the middle of a large city, I use this for my daily bike commute and it’s working beautifully for me, great review and thanks, keep those awesome reviews coming.
Thanks Luke! After exhaustively searching online at multiple products, I bought one of these based on your previous review. Love it and don’t ever see myself having to get anything else. Very fairly priced, solidly constructed, and very adaptable for different trips and seasons.
I bought one based on Luke's review a few years ago. I used it to carry items I want easy access to, usually a flashlight, camera, water bottle, some granola bars, and a very small first aid kit. It's not big, but it carries what I want for a few hours easily. If I'm carrying more gear in a daypack the chest pack helps with center of gravity. Having a few things up front balances out what's in the daypack on your back. Use it within it's limits and it's a fine piece of kit.
I love mine. Also made a “sling” strap to replace the mesh back so I can wear it as a daily sling pack when in town. Plus it can swivel to front pack mode for easy access. Switching back and forth is easy.
Hey Luke, just saw a 7 month old video of yours with a water bottle and hydration hose. I wish I had seen it when you made it as 2 months later I broke BOTH my shoulders in a fall at home. One healed, but one was shattered and after 2 months, surgery and plates and screws were put in place. 10 werks after that my arm felt “squidgy”, so had xrays. The hardware failed. Needless to say early on i could have used that bottle with a hose. I had an off brand camel pak and at about 2 weeks post fracture I had enough hand function to maneuver the hose to my mouth. Im able to mostly take care of myself again, just needing help with over/head things, and buckling a seat belt. Watching your videos is an EXCELLENT diversion! Thank you!!!
I purchased this a couple of months ago with my Amazon points based on this channel's recommendation. It is now my everyday EDC when working or working outside on my property or in my garden. Have a loop-style handgun holster attached to the back wall. I left the map holder in place to keep the handgun hidden even when I open it and use the shelf. It makes for very fast and easy access to that tool, if zippers are positioned right. Just pull one down, insert hand, draw. Of course, practice that. Also carry, folding knife, lighter, bandanna, zippo, pen, small flashlight, couple of zip ties, keys, few bandaids, sometimes phone and a small wallet. I usually have a lot of tools nearby so I do not weigh it down except when I am on a specific project. I hang work gloves off the bottom on occasion. Generally keeps my shorts or pants pockets empty which feels great and my pants from falling down from the weight of stuff. I get nary a glance while wearing it around other people. Highly recommend this for people that work outside but want to be comfortable while doing whatever and staying prepared for life. Can also wash it when needed. Five stars.
Hi Luke Great review mate 👍 The numbat - Native to Australia (Myrmecobius fasciatus), also known as the noombat or walpurti, is an insectivorous marsupial. It is diurnal and its diet consists almost exclusively of termites. The species was once widespread across southern Australia, but is now restricted to several small colonies in Western Australia. It is therefore considered an endangered species and protected by conservation programs. Numbats were recently re-introduced to fenced reserves in South Australia and New South Wales. The numbat is the faunal emblem of Western Australia. I have one and can vouch that it’s fantastic !
Hi, The zipper pulls are gutted 550 paracord covered with heat shrink tubing, the type used in an auto electrical shop. Hope that helps! Great channel, thank you. 😊
The HPG kit bags are more expensive for sure but you have to consider that they're handmade in the USA. That right there is the main reason for the price disparity. Plus, the HPG kit bags at least have a separate sleeve for a firearm. They're actually made for concealed carry first and a utility bag second. The Numbat just happens to be capable of carrying a gun as well if needed. I have two HPG kit bags, their largest one and the small runners one. I like their zipper design for the handgun sleeve because, with practice, drawing from the bag is smooth and consistent. I like that the HPG bags also have a slightly thicker shoulder and chest webbing to spread out weight better. I mostly use the runners kit bag because it's small and slim and can easily carry a G19 with my phone, trail wallet, and chapstick. I run with it and it doesn't bounce around much. I use the larger kit bag as extra pack space for backpacking or hunting and it works great. The Numbat is nice but I would highly recommend the HPG bags over it if you plan on always carrying a firearm with it. If you just want it as a utility bag then save the money and get the Numbat but for actually carrying and drawing a firearm, the HPG kit bags are superior.
@billradley they're also hand made in the USA compared to the China special. The USA label doesn't do anything special for me, but it explains the price increase considering they're paying a seamstress 10x more than the Chinese teenager is getting paid to make the Numbat.
I use this pack for fishing and i can comfortably say this have been one of my best purchases for my hobby! Having this as a working tablel for changing flies, while standing in waders out in the sea, (chefs kiss) perfect!
This is an excellent chest pouch system for travelers to keep your documents, cell phone, wallet and other valuables including food items like energy bars. I love mine and as a a van lifer I use it constantly.
Thanks for the product recommendation. Think I might have a go at making something similar. I like how it's something accessible without being awkward on a belt or dangling around like a sling bag.
I absolutely LOVE my Numbat. I got it based on your previous review. I carry my wallet, keys, phone, and a field notebook and pen in mine at a minimum. I left the map pouch in and use it as a vertical divider. Awesome piece of kit.
You can use the molle webbing to secure signalling chem lights and tourniquets along the outside since they are super lightweight and easily attached. It's also a way to attack a knife if you find yourself reaching for one often depending on terrain.
Mine has held up to similar abuse wonderfully as well and goes on every trip too! Such an incredible product, and enjoyed your follow up review, thanks! For me it functions as a perfect little scout bag with survival essentials (and a few comforts) when I wander off from camp or such.
Almost ordered this, but ended up going with The Hill People Gear SAR kit bag. Main reason being that it has a separate compartment for concealed carry. Definitely went back and forth on the pricing a bit, but I’m happy to support a company that makes products in the USA.
Same reasons I love my HPG kit bag 🤙. Plus if you ever get a chance to talk to one of the Hill brothers or their staff you’ll find that they are great people.
I bought my Numbat last year and have found it to be very useful for my wildlife photography. I carry a Sony A7RIV with a 200-600mm lens and use the tripod mount of the lens to hook my camera over the top of the Numbat keeping the camera in place while using my binoculars. Very useful product and also great for concealed carry.
I just received my Numbat. While it is totally as described, I have run into an issue. The straps are way too short to fit my chest measurements. I have tried contacting Helikon-Tex; however, they have not retuned an answer either by email or phone. I have traced the buckle manufacturer to a Korean company and have sent an email to them. They probably do not detail in retail amounts, so I may be out of luck. Just a little information for those whose chest measurements would not allow it to be useful, especially with jackets or coats on. Really appreciate your reviews, I have purchased quite a bit of equipment based upon your reviews and other than this one, have been totally impressed with the quality and usefulness of them. Great work.
After watching this video maybe 4 times. I finally pulled the trigger and bought A chestbag ..unfortunately these were out of stock when ordering, so I purchased a WYNEX chestbag . and I absolutely love it. It does everything I ask of it and even more..
Great review, Luke. Absolutely love mine. It is indeed a handy piece of kit; almost forget I have it on most trips. My Mora fits perfectly in the bottom shock cord and the front is great for glasses and multi tool. Phone and handgun fit inside with two extra mags. I would say that I do prefer to have the map insert attached both for concealment of handgun and the magazine pouch it provides. Simply attach it to the forward loops to a make a bit more space.
The numbat is a great chest rig and I take it backpacking for easy access to edc. It works for those small items you don't want to pocket carry when wearing a pack. Another advantage is you can drop your pack but you still have the essential with you
I have absolutely no interest in buying this or any need for it, however I watched the entire video because the explanations and cinematography are on point! Damn good quality video mate.
Love your reviews, and the places you camp and hike. I always try to figure out where you are outdoors by your filming and drone footage, but you have me stumped as I too hike and camp in your "neighborhood". My wife is convinced that you are my younger brother, from another mother as I too love the outdoors. Keep up the great site work with the excellent content. Be safe out there. Cheers! Burnsville, NC
I've been looking for a chest pack for about a week and had found the Numbat on their site but I've been procrastinating about getting one. Then, as if by some algorithm your video pops up, and not just any review of the Numbat, but a brand new video with an awesome review. Tell me sir, are you some kind of wizard? ;) Thanks for the review!
Thanks for the updated review! Mine arrived today! So excited to get out in the woods with it! I watched many reviews on this chest pack, I would have to say yours was the most comprehensive and of course not sponsored!
I use the Osprey Archeon chest pack and it's a brilliant piece of kit. I think the numbat probably has the slight edge because the sheer number of features on that thing, it's brilliant. But the Archeon is also very good, it has a similar size, identical strap arrangement, but the fewer features, as you said I wouldn't use half of them myself, I don't want too much weight in a chest pack to reduce bouncing. It's about as waterproof as the numbat is (or isn't) and does have numerous pockets but the standout thing for me is the quality. It feels tougher than some military gear. I've used it on camping and hiking trips with a sizeable backpack. And it is also one of the best things I've ever bought. I can take all the crap out of my trouser pockets. And you're certainly right about the sweating, if it's hot it's unavoidable but if I start to get really sweaty I take the chest rig off and put it on my backpack. Props for a great review.
Hey Luke, I have this exact product and love it! the zipper ties look to be paracord that has had the core removed and then a electrical heat shrink applied. Keep up the great work!
I've just got a cheap Chinese unbranded chest rig and it's fantastic. I attach a compass and Ortleib map case to it and slide the map case behind it. Save so much piddling around having to stop for things. No mesh though so certainly sweaty in the summer, you can see the salt deposits 🤣
Hi Luke I agree that is a great product at a great price. I clipped a waterproof cover over the top of mine when it raIned, just hanging from the straps. It worked most of the time and when it was really windy it wasn't so good. Eventually I changed the cover to use a see through A4 m,ap case that hung of over the front. The additional weight stopped it from blowing around in strong winds. It wasn't 100% much better than not having one.
I have had mine for 2 years and I love it. When it is very humid I don't use on my chest I attach it to my pack because I would get soaking wet with sweat and not a fan of that 😂. Thanks for review I bought it after watching one of your videos
One day while hunting , I carefully cut the stitching down the center of front pocket to make on big pocket ..works way way better..now my phone fits. (Lmk want pics) Only thing left to do is sew Velcro on back for my holster to hide it behind and easier to access.
Good update, Luke. I bought the Numbat last year, mostly in part to your earlier comparison video. I prefer the Numbat over HPG, although it is also a good piece of kit. I have wore it often, and it is very comfortable. With a Maxpedition holster, I carry a S&W Shield Plus and an extra mag and some other gear, and I really appreciate how secure the pack stays to your chest. No bouncing or swaying around, and fast access if needed. Hope to see some more awesome adventures, gear reviews, and adventures with you and Suzy Q.😎 If you watch Amazon, you can sometimes find the Numbat for $68.90. I chose the adaptive green color, and love it. When going into a store, a light windbreaker covers it up nicely and doesn't draw any unwanted attention.
Thinking about doing the same thing, it seems like a great little pouch for firearm storage, wondering if you're able to wear a backpack over this as well? Do the straps get in the way at all?
Excellent piece of kit. I bought it two years ago based on your previous review and I'm in love with using it. I agree with you abut sweating but this is the case related to every chest pack. However, in hot summer days I carry a lot less equipment so chest pack is not essential.
I just ordered mine. I have the Hazard 4 chest rig and do not like it. It is very stiff and thin making it hard to load out. Looking forward to my new Numbat and thank you for your second review on this chest rig. Great video's as always, thumbs up!!
I place my radio for SAR in one of those front pockets. The antennae, external speaker/mic for the radio and the dials are accessible. The other one I run my gps. While it’s not as cool looking as some using tactical plate carriers and full Molle rigs it works and it doesn’t stand out when go for a small walk. I keep all the same kit inside for anything in the bush I just slip the radio in for SAR and training days.
I had a slightly surreal moment the other day when this video was released. I'd been watching and re-watching Luke's previous Helikon-Tex Numbat 'update' video, comparing it with another video of someone reviewing a Osprey chest pack, going back and forth between the two, trying to decide; watching, pausing, rewinding; for 2 days. So I had the previous video open as I was closing everything down to go out, at that moment I got an update saying there's a new TOGR video about the Helikon-Tex Numbat - "eh?! But I'm already watching that, and it's not new it's from 2 years ago?!". Then I realised that it's another update on this piece of gear... but I was confused for far longer than I should've been. Oops. Anyway, I've now bought one (partly because the Osprey one is out-of-stock and possibly discontinued). I paid the equivalent of $65USD, so not bad, although I was slightly hoping to get it a little cheaper considering I'm in Poland and Helikon-Tex are based, and manufacturing, here. It arrives tomorrow, can't wait to try it out.
I keep a Helikon-Tex Numbat for keeping a Fire Making Kit and a Navigation kit (with Garmin Foretrex 601 GPS) in Maxpedition Micro Organisers, a Fenix HM65R Head torch with protective case, spare AAA RC123a and 18650 low temperature Batteries, a SwissTool Spirit X Plus Ratchet, a Brunton Solaris 2W solar panel with an Olight USB cell charger and an addition 6'' Ferro rod. Under the Numbat I have a cheap Hultafors RFR GH Stainless steel knife and a Map Case and map Grimlocked on the Molle Webbing. Down the Centre Molle I have an old Fenix T1 torch in a torch molle pouch.
I have been looking forward to this review, as occasionally do scrambling which makes a pack unfun. Um, if Mrs Outdoor Gear Review has thoughts on fit, that would also be appreciated.
Luke, awesome review as always, I am a larger person, and I own this chest rig. It does fit very tight, but for a few extra bucks and a little time I made 4 adjustable extension straps that also allow me to wear it over a heavier coat.
Thanks Luke for this review. I've been debating about trying a chest rig and I might give this a go. On a side note..dude are you working out. Looks like your bulking up.
Thanks for the review on this particular chest rig, however, after a review of the Hill People chest rig, years ago, I purchased it and have been happy with it. The Hill people chest rig is a little larger than this one, however it has two zippered main pockets, so that I can dedicate the zippered pouch closest to my chest for my firearm, the front pocket for all other things. I do like the 90 deg shelf your chest rig unfolds to, however I can achieve the same shelf by zippering down about 80% on zipper. Since the Hill People chest rig is larger and would hold more weight, it appeared the webbing and plastic buckles are a little more heavy duty, tho must admit my rig, most likely, is significantly heavier than yours. If I had purchased this one, I’m sure I would have been happy with it also, as I carry my firearm always when I’m hiking, ATV riding or Ebike riding in the mountains…….Strength and Honor Luke…….
I bought mine after your first review, it's the best way I've found for carrying my CCW in a Maxpedition hook and loop holster. Of course I had to remove the map pouch.
I love this bit of kit. I have a coyote one and a green one, duplicated the contents for winter and summer so I just grab the one for the appropriate season without having to swap bits out. Mora knife fits the underside loops/bungee, and I mounted a Armytek light to the horizontal molle on the front so when it's getting dark I just switch on the light without having to stop and get out my headlight. I keep all my small gear in it from sunblock& lip balm, paracord, first aid, drugs (antihistamine/anti inflammatory) snacks, to long handle spoon and fire starting kit. If I want anything other than my drink bottle, it's in there. So no more having to go look for bits inside your pack. ALSO........ There is the ability to attach a hand warmer/muff for winter use! (Use the snap clips from the internal map pouch) and it hangs in the perfect position. (Yes, map pouch not used so removed for more space and recycle the clips ). Great review.
I own one and use it pretty regularly. Not as much as you, honestly, but quite a bit. It's my EDC truck pouch with a small first aid kit, some emergency items, and a Skeletool with attachments. I also take it camping / hiking. Overall, it's a great piece of kit, and it is worth the money if you have it.
Thanks for that info at the end about your friend that is a 3X. I'm a 4X and was thinking about getting one of those but not now. Need bigger/more adjustment.
I love this pack. I have a kydex holster velcroed into the pack to carry a Glock 19, and it still has room for a few smaller items of gear without getting to heavy or bulky.
i believe WJ buckle is woojing plastic, and a lot of my packs using this plastic hardware, and they are very durable, up to the quality with duraflex in my opinion. thank you for long term review, Luke!
I have to say that I really like the looks of this chest rig but I prefer the Hill People Gear chest rig. However, your review is so good I just might have to give this rig a try!!!! Thank you as always for your honesty and great comprehensive reviews.
You should look at Hill People Gear Chest Rigs as well, as they have a good range of different designs for different purposes. I wish the Helikon-Tex either had zippered front pockets or or all molly front and a second zippered pouch on top. The downside with the HPG options is they don't have strap clips all around (some only one side, others one side and the 2 tops). For me it is important that the rig rides fairly low as I tend to use one with a 70L backpack with sternum strap.
Excellent idea, thank you for the review. Hard to find in the UK, but Amazon had them at inflated pricing......but I had loads of vouchers: look forward to using this in the canoe
Bought mine after your first review Luke. Love the hell out of it. I have mine set uo with my survival gear in case I get separated from my main pack. Also have it set up to carry my Sig P229. And ESSE Izula.
I love mine. I bought it by your recommendation, andtion a few years ago.I use the front pockets for energy bars or Mars bars or a compass. Great for some basic snack. Main compartment, phone, water filter.
