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GORUCK GR2 Review: 10 Years Later and Still Going Strong

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After a decade of hard use, my GORUCK GR2 34L has proven why it earned its reputation as one of the most durable travel backpacks ever made. I purchased this ruck in November 2015 after saving up for a while, and it has been my primary travel companion ever since.​

Built to Last

This isn’t a bag that sits in the closet between trips. I’ve flown it all over the United States, used it for overnight trips, and it served as my primary rucking bag from 2015 until 2022. The 1000D Cordura construction has held up incredibly well, with all original zippers still functioning smoothly and minimal wear on any stress points.​

The Only Repair Needed

In 10 years, I’ve only used GORUCK’s SCARS warranty program once. Around 2020, the nylon on the shoulder straps became wavy from repeated tightening and loosening, so I sent it back to GORUCK. They replaced the connectors, MOLLE webbing, and straps on both sides—no questions asked, no receipt required. The process was fast, and they even included a leather SCARS patch.​​

male wearing goruck gr2 34L backpack

How I Use It

The GR2 34L is my go-to travel bag for any domestic flight up to three (3) nights away. It fits easily in overhead compartments and under the seat of any size commercial plane and has enough space for everything I need. I’ve also used it for one GORUCK Light event in 2016, though it’s never been heavily exposed to mud or sand. The laptop compartment with frame sheet is perfect for both protecting electronics and holding weight plates when I want to ruck.​​

Worth Every Dollar

These bags now retail for around $350+, and I understand that’s a significant investment. But after 10 years of being thrown around airports, kicked around, and used for work and travel, this GR2 shows minimal wear and still performs like new. The shoulder straps remain thick and well-padded, the MOLLE webbing is intact, and there’s no fraying except for a few tiny threads that don’t concern me.​

If you have the budget and want a backpack that will truly last a lifetime, the GORUCK GR2 delivers on every promise.​​

Get yours here: GORUCK GR2

You can watch my YouTube review here:

And here is a related video with multiple GORUCK backpacks: