Enter the Rat: Concealed Carry Pack
Everyday carry (EDC) and conceal carry is about finding that perfect balance between accessibility, organization, and comfort. When it comes to conceal carry gear, a well-designed pack can allow you to carry more essentials comfortably. The Helikon-Tex Concealed Carry Pack is one of our favorite options for off-body concealed carry. We absolutely love EDC packs here at ShadowBorn Gear and this pack has become an indispensable part of our daily routine. It is on the larger side with over all dimensions of 10 x 6.7 x 3.7 in. The size means you can easily fit a compact or subcompact handgun with spare magazines. The largest pocket is lined so the hook side of Velcro will adhere to it. Another great feature of this bag is that it does not scream “tactical.” It easily passes as a typical commuter style bag from the outside. This gives it a low profile look.
Helikon-Tex Rat Pack
The RAT WAIST PACK has three pockets. The first one is small, flat, and sewn on the front. The second is larger and contains a zipped mesh pocket and a soft loops panel. The third pocket opens fully and has two side anti-slip pullers, useful while wearing gloves.
Buy Now on AmazonHolster attachment sold separately. If you plan to use the pack for concealed carry, we recommended you buy the matching Helikon-Tex holster insert.
Helikon-Tex Pistol Holder Insert
Versatile holster Insert System for compatible concealed carry packs.
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First Impressions and Build Quality
The Helikon-Tex Concealed Carry Waist Pack shines as a well made and durable everyday carry bag. The pack is constructed from high-quality Cordura®, and will withstand the rigors of daily use. The stitching is robust, the zippers glide smoothly, and the overall feel of the pack is solid. Designed for concealed carry, organizing essential tools, or simply keeping your daily necessities in check. The material is water-resistant, which is a huge plus for those who find themselves in unpredictable weather conditions. We’ve used this pack in light rain, and the gear remained completely dry, which is a testament to its thoughtful design. This bag has been in our daily carry rotation for over 8 months and has stood the test of time. No obvious issues have cropped up in that time that would indicate quality or durability issues.
Design and Functionality
The bag’s materials are Nylon/Cordura® but no further details are given as to what Denier the material is. Most Cordura® is either 500D or 1000D, based on feel alone this is likely 500D. One of the standout features of the Helikon-Tex Concealed Carry Waist Pack is its organizational layout. Unlike traditional fanny packs, this pack is designed with EDC users in mind. The main pocket of the bag is 1.8 L with lots of room to fit a handgun, spare magazine and first aid items.
The secondary pocket contains a rigid panel with shock cord. This setup allows for items to be attached in custom locations. It ensures quick access to those items. This is a great way to carry knives, flashlights, wallets, keys and other EDC items. The second pocket also contains a zippered mesh pocket. It is great for items like cash, coins, or chapstick.
Key Points
- Main Compartment: Spacious enough to hold a variety of items, including a compact firearm, flashlight, multi-tool, and other essentials. It features a loop panel for attaching holsters or organizers, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry.
- Front Zipper Pocket: This is perfect for small items like a wallet, keys, or a pocket knife. It allows for quick access without digging through the main compartment.
- Middle Pocket: This section has the rigid organizer that allows you to attach items to it with the shock cord. This area typically holds our go-to items for EDC like a flashlight, knife, keys, and wallet. It can also be used for first aid items or sustainment items.
- Easy Grab Pull tabs: for quick access to main compartment without needing to manipulate the zippers. Grab the tab and pull away from your body to reveal and draw.
The layout of the pack makes organization effortless. Each intuitively placed compartment ensures you’re never fumbling for an item when you need it most.
Comfort and Wearability
Carrying gear all day can be uncomfortable if a pack isn’t designed with ergonomics in mind. Fortunately, the Helikon-Tex Concealed Carry Waist Pack excels in this department. The adjustable waist strap allows for a snug fit, preventing any bouncing or shifting while you’re on the move.
Additionally, the padding on the back panel ensures that even when fully loaded, the pack remains comfortable against your body. We’ve worn this pack for hours at a time, and after that long it becomes an extension of you. A comfortable pack is a crucial factor when selecting an EDC pack. We often keep the pack on while driving. It remains comfortable and low profile enough to not hinder any movements.
Concealed Carry Pack Compatibility
For those who carry a firearm as part of their EDC setup, this waist pack offers a practical and discreet solution. The inclusion of a loop panel inside the main compartment allows for the secure placement of a holster, ensuring quick and easy access when needed. The design ensures that printing is minimized, maintaining a low-profile appearance while still offering rapid deployment capabilities.
We appreciate the thoughtfulness put into the concealed carry aspect of this pack. Other waist packs feel like they’re trying too hard to be “tactical.” This one blends into a variety of environments seamlessly.
Who is This Pack For?
The Helikon-Tex Rat Waist Pack is an excellent choice for:
- Everyday Carry Enthusiasts: Those who need a reliable pack for organizing their daily essentials.
- Concealed Carry Holders: The discreet design and loop panel make it a fantastic option for carrying a firearm securely.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hikers, campers, and adventurers will appreciate the durable construction and water-resistant material.
- Urban Commuters: The compact yet spacious design makes it a great option for those navigating city life.
Final Thoughts on this concealed carry pack
After extensive use, we can confidently say that the Helikon-Tex Rat pack has exceeded our expectations. It’s durable, thoughtfully designed, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re carrying essential tools, personal items, or a concealed firearm, this pack keeps everything secure and accessible.
We highly recommend the Helikon-Tex Rat. It is a waist pack that combines function, comfort, and style. It has become our go to pack for EDC. We have no doubt it will serve you just as well.
For a more detailed breakdown on the pros and cons of off body carry, check out this article from USCCA.
Check out our Everyday Carry Holiday Gift Guide where we talk about another Helikon-Tex concealed carry pack.
