I still have and use my 1973 Navy issue seabag. It's all canvas, just the shoulder and hand strap. The newer one's came out that were the same design, only made out of nylon. Got one of those also. Great for travel and clothes storage
Nice review. I earned mine at MCRD San Diego 1994, it's now stored away in a Rubbermaid container. I found 2 at Goodwill for $7.00 a bag US Army issued. That little pocket on one them had an Army boot camp list of items to be issued in the bag at their receiving. Pretty cool so I saved the list. Anyway: for those apartment dwellers who have to trek to the laundromat. These bags are awesome for laundry day, just stuff it and lug it to the laundromat :) Semper Fi
Thanks for sharing, Daniel; Good Stuff! It's great when you can get a deal of gear that you know, is Good To Go! Thanks again for the feedback; SF! -Hg
Thanks for the video, I keep three or four around for quick evacuation, hurricane or whatever the situation. They fold very compact and as you say can hold a lot of stuff.
I have my Dad's old bag from the 70s. Any idea how well this would hold up on the roof rack of my truck? I'm thinking of using it for camping supplies. I'm in the desert in Arizona, and the sun is brutal. Not sure it will last. Also wondering if rain can soak through. Although rain is rare out here.
Hello Bassage13, considering the age, and that the material does age and crack over time, I wouldn't trust it for that purpose. Add in the hot sun and... you may lose a lot of gear. It is a good idea to use a wet weather bag/ dry bag, as an insert for anything that you want to keep dry. I actually reviewed the military issued version a while back, if you are interested: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-CKp3WpTH-8Q.html I hope that helps and good luck. -Hg
I never knew the correct way to use this. Thanks it looks so simple, but I have struggled in the past. I want to strap this on the back of my motorcycle.
duffle bag imo is always the way to go idk why... never a suit case.. even tho theyre durable they can also break from the zipper area and aren the best material compared to the material of these sea bags and how theyre sealed.. id prefer the sea bag
I was cleaning up the basement of a woman who's husband who has sadly passed away was a marine in Vietnam and I found an old one of these bags along with two pairs of boots his uniform and all of his papers I talked to the wife and she let me keep the bag and the boots we gave the uniform and all that back to her the boots were too small for me but a family friend uses them whenever he hunts and does outdoor stuff but I kept the bag and it's in pretty much perfect condition besides for some feeding on the letters and a little bit of corrosion on the metal rings and clothes clip but the metal on the arm straps is in perfect condition with no corrosion and now I use it as a camping bag for all outdoor activities and boy scouts
Sorry to hear about the loss of her husband. Semper Fi to him. I'm very happy that his gear will continue to be used and appreciated. Thanks for sharing your info with us and I wish you the best! -Hg
I just bought 3 more of these on Ebay . I am excited about them being in my P.O. Box today. I see how these help keep you organized in the military . Plus the lock is a cool feature to ensure no theft . Ebay is definitely a great place to find these . I always look for free shipping. Always use a debit card on there & find a legit surplus source on Ebay . Also I handwash & air dry these only . The top inside hem came unraveled on my first one machine washed & I learned a valuable lesson . Rothco also makes replicas . 😎
Just picked one of these up at a yard sale for a dollar. I'm not sure what I'm going to use it for. I really watched this video because I wasn't sure how to closed it
Make sure you hand wash these sea bags in a clean 5 gallon bucket I used Tide & Fabric softener . If you wash these bags on the wrong cycle with out putting it in a wash bag they fray on the inside . 😎
I got my two sea bags at MCRD San Diego in 2019. I’ve only been to three or four places with them but I still have some great memories. (Most of them involve me carrying them several miles to the barracks.) They’re very handy and very tough. While on Pendleton a couple marines in my platoon loaded their sea bags with sand bags to go rucking. I didn’t do that. I like my back. They’re pretty useful. I give them two thumbs up!
I joined the USAF in 2010. When I went to Basic that year, this was one of the first things we were issued. We needed it for all the uniform items they gave us next. Still have it. I'm not sure if they still issue them in the USAF now.
Thank for sharing, Anthony. I'm not sure either about the Air Force. I know the Corps still uses them. Have a great day & thank you for your service! -Hg
@@CoachHelder I used my sea bag for snorkeling gear wetsuit, fins and mask plus I put the ALICE waterproof bag too carry soggy wetsuit after done swimming!
Hm blog link didn't work-? Doubles as a workout bag (save $)!👍 Did you knot the shoulder strap(s) below the hardware because you had to (it slips)? I understant the straps have to be tightened once you have them on. Thanks for posting!
Hello Sarah, I know that throwing them in a cold wash cycle and then air drying it, can do the trick. I also make a 50/50 solution with distilled vinegar and water in a spray bottle. I then add a few eucalyptus oil drops to the bottle. I spray my gear down after use and it has served me well for years. I hope that helps. -Hg
I have seen them used as carry-ons. As long as it us under the weight restriction & can fit into their required dimensions (no problem as long as it isn't full) there should be no issues. Thanks for posting, good idea! -Hg
cool review. i just had this pop up in my recommended videos. as i just did a vid wearing one walking through town with my rambo coat and rambo music. i had 3 of them but my brother got me a new one with rambo on it like it is at the end of rambo 4. just thought i would stop and comment. check out your channel. i gave it a like.
It was many moons ago, Makwa Claw. But I don't remember any additional stink. But then again... There was a bit of "stink" on everything within Parris Island. ;-) -Hg
I've been living out of a backpack for years now and have destroyed several backpacks in short order. I ordered one of these, hopefully it can put up with heavy use. Any idea on weight limitations?
Hello Canadian, we definitely stuffed these bags as much as we could in the Marines. I dont have an exact weight limit but it should serve your purposes well. There is no frame so lugging it around isn't an easy task. Let me know how it works out for you. -Hg
@@CoachHelder ok, these bags are awesome. I got it loaded up with all my gear and it's surprisingly comfortable, with just the 2 shoulder straps. I grabbed a cardboard box that fits inside snug, crushed the corners a bit with a rock, trimmed the top down. I use that as the base of the bag to give it its shape, and then build ontop of it, putting the heavier stuff towards the strap side. Going to be beating the crap out of it over the next.. forever, we shall see how long it lasts before it starts taking any damage. I'm curious about what I might need for repairs down the road/ fabric etc. Also I'm considering possibly using melted pine sap (fat wood resin) to maybe water proof it.
Great to hear and thanks for sharing all the details! As far as repairs, there are tons of kits out there for patching canvas-type material. But in the Corps, duct tape was the repair kit of choice. But then again... duct tape was generally our go-to for everything. 😂 Interesting idea with the waterproofing, let me know how that works out. -Hg
was wondering what your take is on canvas versus nylon sea bags. I was issued a canvas sea bag In 1982 at Parris Island and had mine for 30 years before someone lost it. I recently purchased 3 sea bags at army surplus in great condition aside some graffiti all the newer nylon style. my take is its strong, lighter and better water proofing, but I do miss the canvas. I only paid 9.99 for these sea bags . ebay wants min 20 plus shipping.
I have to agree with the 3 points that you made about the nylon sea bags. I will also add that they are more durable; more "abrasion" resistant. You got a great deal! -Hg
Hello Gavin, the spray will definitely help but we used waterproof (WP bags) while on active duty and they worked quite well and are inexpensive. Here is a link to my WP review: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-CKp3WpTH-8Q.html -Hg
Can they be machine washed? Purchased a similar bag from a surplus, but would like to possibly throw it In a washing machine. Or hand washing a better idea?
I usually hose mine off and let them air dry. I do not see any reason why they cannot be machined washed, but I have yet to try it. If you do, please let us know how it goes. -Hg
Hello Bill, I would suggest using a good dry bag as a liner for the gear that you need to keep dry. I would bet that if you hold the bag up to the light, you can probably see some pinholes both from use and lack of use. Other than that, I sure that there are plenty of miles left in that seabag. Good luck and keep me posted. -Hg
+Randy Yeager Thank you Randy, I appreciate the feedback! We have them here in the U.S. for about $25 "gently used" on Amazon. You can also fine them on eBay. I have a link to my blog post in the video description if you want to access the direct links. I'm not sure where to find them in Canada but one of the two sources referenced above should ship them to Canada. Hopefully, they will not kill you on the shipping. If you do find a local solution, please share it here or on our blog at CoachHelder.com. Thanks again for commenting which helps to support this channel. -Hg
Hi and thanks for the great review. I'm looking for one of theses in the UK but there are so many imitations around. Can you give me a tip as to how I could tell the real thing, please? I've seen one with a stamp inside with the item name, a reference code and lot number and what looks like the words SNC TELECOMMUNICATIONS LLO. Does this sound like the genuine thing to you? Thanks again!
Hello Max and thank you for your feedback and support. Seabags are relatively inexpensive here in the states. I haven't seen many imitations but I'm sure they are out there. My best advice is to purchase it from a credible place. They don't usually have many markings beside the U.S. stamp on the outside. I wish I could be of more help. If you find one, reach out to me and I can help research it further to see if it is GI. Cheers! -Hg
@@CoachHelder Hi Hg, thanks for the speedy reply and info. With a bit of research it looks like SNC TELECOMMUNICATIONS LLO have closed business now but when in operation they were licensed to trade with the US government, so it looks like I found the real deal! Cheap too! Thanks for your help and best wishes to you. Hugs to the cute dog too x
I know this is a long shot but I’m going to use my dads bag this weekend for motocamping and I can’t figure out how to do the shoulder straps! Do you have a video on that? I’ve been looking for a bit and messing with them to try and figure it out. I’ll be on my motorcycle and absolutely can’t have this come undone. 🖤🤞🏼
Hello S J, I'm currently in Europe and do not have any seabags with me. Mine have a buckle that feed through like a standard waist belt. I wish you I could help you further. Good luck and safe travels! -Hg
You can usually find a good deal on a gently used sea bag on eBay or a military surplus store. Make sure that it is government issued. They are relatively inexpensive.
@@CoachHelder Thanks! Best price was ~$35 ($20+shipping) from Army Surplus World. eBay had a cotton one but my friend wanted a "nylon canvas" one. I did not have the hardware to make one; probably why there's no vids on that.
Hello Kyler, I have used these mesh bags for compartmentalizing the Seabag and it has worked well. Here is the link to the bags: coachhelder.com/review-pro-packing-cubes-organizing-go-bag/ I hope that helps. -Hg
I have used seabags, several times, as check in luggage. They work quite well for that purpose and save a lot of weight when compared to suitcases. I hope that helps. -Hg
So you need to take everything out to get at something at the bottom I'm looking to buy one of these to go to a camp for work but i don't want to have to keep taking everything out to access something k put on the bottom.
Hello MVRDA, those are good points. This bag may night be the right selection for your needs. Something with various compartments may be better suited for what you need. -Hg
do you have a video on how to pa k one of these with clothes? im moviing, taling a train and have 2 24x12x12 and a 36x22 bag like im this video to use. thanks in advance!
Hello Jacob, I do not have a video on how to pack the Sea Bag. What I do use are packing pouches to make the organization and packing a bit easier. Here is the link to the packing cubes that I use: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lSywGd_005A.html I hope that helps. -Hg
I got mine from a very dear friend of mine who passed away a few years ago. Now I'm trying to find out how old my bag is. It looks exactly like yours but without the text besides "US". When did you get yours? I'd like to use it but I wonder if a non military woman might look weird with it.
Hello Anja, I'm very sorry for your loss. I was issued that seabag in 1992. The extra writing was put on by us in boot camp; Name and Last 4 of SSN. My advice is that as long as you feel comfortable using it and honoring your friend while doing so... Who cares what others think. Have a great day! -Hg
@@CoachHelder Thanks for your quick answer. My friend's military career started in 1983. So it's probably not the first bag. And thank you for your encouragement! I've just washed the bag and I'm going to use it. Greetings from Germany
anyone can use it.. plus how would they know if you were in the military or not just from a look... who cares what people think as long as the bag is getting the job done you need it for and just in general..
@@CoachHelder I like to carry 1 set for all seasons in a camping situation I've hiked around a good chunk of the united states and can I fit a pup tent plus the rods and stakes?
Good Stuff, CopenhagenCowboy! You may be interested in this article that I wrote a while back about the Amazing "Woobie." ;-) coachhelder.com/ever-wonder-why-u-s-marines-cant-live-without-their-woobie/ -Hg
Hello Ravi, there is a link in the description and pinned above in the comments field. It will take you to my blog post with the purchase link, which I update often. -Hg
Knock knock knock!! Anyone knew there is another different old milatary bag brand as RGTM 672 with tan colored duffel bag? if you knew, please tell me where was this cool bag made from? It is so useful than any other average bag that I can put computer. mobile, headphone into this big bag....................................................................STF..............................................................
Hello Mike, to be honest I have gotten conflicting reports from both Marines & Sailers as far as Seabag issue. Some say that they are still issued while others state that they never received one in basic training. I wish you the best in your Navy career & if you get a minute, let us know if you were issued one. :-) Kick ASS & Semper Fi! -Hg
Size 24″ x 36″ (Over 860 Cubic Inches of Space) More details in my blog post: coachhelder.com/review-military-issued-duffel-bag-aka-sea-bag/ I hope that helps. -Hg
Hello Miguel, I have a link to my blog post in the description. From there, I have affiliate links setup to purchase the seabag. Here is the link: coachhelder.com/review-military-issued-duffel-bag-aka-sea-bag/ I hope that helps. -Hg
Hello Manchuk1d, in the U.S. we have various surplus stores where we can get these bags and they are also available on Amazon; there is a link in the description. They are also available on eBay but I am not sure if the shipping is available to Canada from either Amazon or eBay but those would be 2 good places to start. Let me know if that helps and if not, I can do some more searching to see who would be able to deliver it to you. These bags are inexpensive but the shipping cost may not be worth it in the long run. I hope this helps and keep me posted. Have a great day! -Hg
@@CoachHelder clicked on the amazon link... it ships to Canada it looks like, people in the comment section says they got the wrong bag hmm... it doesn't seem to describe the exact measurements for it also.
I personally do not know the vendor on Amazon or have any experience with them. I am just pointing those that are interested, to a source online. Yes, they are surplus (used) bags. The bags vary is dimensions depending how they have been used as well as maintained. Some people don't realize that when they are placing their order. There are other vendors on Amazon that are selling new duffel bags but they are not USGI. I hope that helps. -Hg
@@CoachHelder found the USGI seller, also ships to Canada! www.amazon.ca/Military-Duffle-Green-Shoulder-Straps/dp/B01N170CCX/ref=pd_sbs_200_2/132-0068895-5485127?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01N170CCX&pd_rd_r=7906c4d4-36ec-49ef-8a41-1fa8ee8aa432&pd_rd_w=vhsKb&pd_rd_wg=datUn&pf_rd_p=0602d3b5-e536-4dc4-9e55-dd650b3d14d4&pf_rd_r=MTKXQNABY9RM1WNZYEJR&psc=1&refRID=MTKXQNABY9RM1WNZYEJR
I'm not sure Mr. Colombiano, it's definitely not a standard size that I have seen. I would keep my eye on Amazon as well as eBay. If you end up coming across something that you add to your gear, Let us know if you like it & if it is good to go. Have a great day! -Hg
