LK35 Rucksack Overview and Thoughts. (Canvas Version)

I managed to pick up a reasonable used condition iconic rucksack from from the Swedish Military. The LK35 is a steel framed bucket style rucksack used from the 70s onwards. It's ability to carry heavy loads and pack quite a lot of gear inside...and crucially outside, is very much sought after. It's a very basic sack, but its design with all the straps for extra loading points is superb. Described as a 35ltr in size, I am sure it can take more. I have always owned a metal external frame rucksack even in my days with the scouts, so this fits the bill nicely. It seems to be popular choice for those looking to carry unusual loads, like game meat or timber. I can't see that being my requirement though.

Mine is one of two styles reportedly made, one being of canvas with the other from Cordura synthetic material with PU coating inside. I am guessing that the Cordura version will resist water better. Most of the Rucksacks I have seen online via YouTube, have been Cordura as it seems the internal pocket is of a totally different construction. The pocket in mine is a canvas material whilst the Cordura version looks like a rubberised stretchy material. It would be interesting to see these both together for comparison.

The unit I purchased from Military Mart has a lot of wear to the steel frame, with 50% of the paint being removed. I mention this as mine was the "A" grade, the website reviews say this grade has a few marks and chips but good condition overall. Personally, this is not the one I received so beware. It's fully serviceable but not excellent quality like the reviews suggest.

It has been washed, as the smell of this kind of item is quite strong (you know this smell if you have bought ex military stuff stored for years etc) It's hard trying to get rid of the smell though. My wife really is not keen!

The ability to fully remove the sack from the frame is very easy so made washing (on a 30C wash) easy as would a full rub down of the frame and respray should I choose.

A few pictures below show the condition.

As you can see the shoulder straps are different, as well as much of the strapping and buckles which have been replaced with various colours and designs. The end caps are present though and it all works.

The bucket type design is shown in the next pictures. It seems able to swallow a good amount of gear with the lid of the sack allowing a good expansion of room for extra litres. This is said to be 35ltr but that lid allows you to increase this a lot.

 

A modest sized rucksack in a nice subdued olive green. Plenty of straps allowing you to add items to the outside easily. The straps are simple to operate and have good holding ability.

The bucket style is shown quite well in this picture. I have added a dense foam mat to the inside, to stop the annoying collapse of the rucksack. It was cut to allow the shape of the taper to the bottom of the sack. It can double up as a sit or kneel mat at camp.

This again shows that tapering design. The foam doing its job in keeping the structure of the opening. This pre-stitched webbing on the sides to allow for pockets to be used on either side

The picture below showing the alternative style inner pocket with a small metal hook. Could be useful for attaching a water bladder when in transit. The pocket goes quite some way down into the pack, possibly different to the Cordura version?

A cracking little toggle lock came on the sack which is simple but very quirky. I love it! It's designed to cinch in the top opening of the rucksack.

The following items will be added soon with a webbing belt stitched horizontally to the sides of the sack molle style. This will hopefully allow other pockets to be used in the future as well as being able to take the pockets off as and when.

The pockets shown below are a Swedish army pouch that come in twos with a belt and braces, of which I have no use for.

The series of pictures below show that they are a great size to house a cook/drink set like the crusader style. This set was a Dutch issue water bottle at 1ltr, and a kidney shape stainless steel cup/pan. As you can see they nestle together nicely and also fit into the pockets like a glove.

 

The cups and bottles look very good quality and in good condition. 

As a side note these bottles marked "AVON" seems to be a British rubber/plastics company.

One litre in size and leak free.

After some very nifty work on the sewing machine by my wife, a little strip of webbing was added to either side of the bag to clip on the side pockets. The metal clips on the back of the pouches allow for easy removal should they need to. Possibly a bit wider webbing to help with any accidental removal? We shall see. Easy fitted onto the bag with the pouches having metal clips to allow easy removal.

Certainly give a little more usable space for the sack.

 I have no doubt the rucksack will alter to fit the gear that I want/need/use. The kit for camping/bushcraft etc is always changing almost as you refine your needs. Already looking at a more nesting style cookware and drinking kit. Possibly stainless steel water bottle instead of the plastic version above. I guess having as many uses for one item is key. A stainless bottle can be used on a fire or stove where as plastic not so!