This is a review of the 5.11 Rush 24 vs 72, two highly durable backpacks. There are few manufacturers that design PALS backpacks such as these, but they are not of higher quality. In fact, most customers feel that the Rush 24 and the Rush 72 are well worth the investment.
We feel this way as well, as they are made with high-quality material and are very robust. But one thing to note is the differences between them. As the name suggests, the Rush 24 is made for overnight hiking, while the Rush 72 is made for 3 days of hiking. We will go further into detail about the differences, but we would first like to go over the similarities.
Need a lighter backpack? Maybe you’ll like our All Hazards Nitro vs Rush 12: Is One Tactical Backpack Better?!
5.11 Rush 24 vs 72
What makes the Rush 24 and Rush 72 similar
These tactical backpacks can be used for work or for adventure purposes. The tactical feel gives it an urban classiness that is acceptable in work situations. But deep down inside, they are tactical backpacks that can withstand rough terrain.
Some customers have used them while on military exercise and have noted that they remain looking new. This is due to their heavy 1050D nylon material. This material is coated with a water-resistant film. Instead of purchasing a rain cover for your backpack, your items will be well protected from the rain. Although, it should be noted that these backpacks are not completely waterproof.
Where to store your gear
The Rush 24 and Rush 72 have 3 internal mesh organizers inside of the main compartment. Using these mesh organizers, you can store your smaller items, such as your pens or your notebooks. There is even a fleece lined sunglass pocket.
In order to save space in the main compartment, both backpacks have a large Stuff-It pocket that you can close with a drawstring. Other backpacks sometimes have one of these large mesh pockets, but you cannot close them. With the Rush 24 and Rush 72, the drawstring will allow your gear to remain dry inside of this large pocket.
One of the things that makes these backpacks great is the fact that they both have a designated hydration pocket. This means that you can insert a third-party hydration bladder to allow you to drink out of a tube. Unlike some other backpacks, they have padding around the hydration pocket so that even if the bladder is full, it will not stick out into your back. They both have compression straps so that you can be sure you will get the slimmest profile possible with less gear.
Finally, they both have self-repairing YKK zippers. These zippers have paracord attached to them so that you can open and close your pockets without needing to take off your gloves.
Comparing the 5.11 Rush 24 vs the Rush 72
You may have noticed that these backpacks look almost identical. We have also mentioned the fact that the 5.11 Rush 72 is larger than the 5.11 Rush 24. In fact, the Rush 72 can hold 22 more liters than the 24.
5.11 Rush 24: Volume Capacity – 33 liters
5.11 Rush 72: Volume capacity – 55 liters
That being said, not all of the extra volume capacity is located in the main compartments. While both backpacks have three main compartments, they also have two side pockets. However, the Rush 72 side pockets are larger than the ones for the Rush 24.
Another difference between these backpacks is the fact that the Rush 24 does not come with a waist strap. This can be a disadvantage to some customers who really appreciate the ability to carry a backpack over rough terrain without it moving from side to side. The Rush 72 does have a waist strap, but keep in mind that it is not removable. If you do not like the feel of waist straps hanging by your sides while it is not buckled, this can be a disadvantage.
Finally, while you can put a 2-liter hydration bladder inside of the Rush 24, you can put a larger hydration bladder in the Rush 72.
- 5.11 Rush 24: Hydration bladder compartment – 18″ x 12.5″
- 5.11 Rush 72: Hydration bladder compartment – 21″ x 13.5″
The biggest difference between the two is simply the fact that the 72 is the largest one. It is fit for 3 days of hiking as opposed to the 24 hours of the Rush 24.
5.11 Rush 24 vs 72: Price Comparison
The Rush 72 is only around $25 more than the Rush 24 on Amazon:
The Verdict
We like both of these backpacks for the fact you can hook MOLLE pouches onto them to enhance the volume capacity. The MOLLE pouches come in various sizes and are designed for various uses. Some customers have said that they really enjoy these backpacks for the fact that they minimize weight on the lower back. This is due to the fact that they are rather stout, and will not extend much further below the waist.
The stitching on these backpacks is very sleek, which enhances the durability. Customers purchase these backpacks because they are very durable and are made with very thick nylon. They will last for years and still remain looking new.
We would normally make a purchasing decision based on the size of the backpack that we need. For most work purposes, the Rush 24 is sufficient, being able to carry 33 liters of gear. This puts it at the size of a medium hiking backpack. But if you are purchasing one of the use for outdoor purposes, and are going to be staying out for several days, we recommend the Rush 72.
Do you need a smaller backpack, check out our 5.11 Rush 12 vs 24 article and learn if the 24L pack is the right size for you!
Is the Rush 72 ok for short people around 5ft
I use this the 24h to travel to Germany for 3 months a year. The 24h can fit at minimum:
4 34×34 Levi’s jeans rolled up.
5 xl t shirts, folded.
6 pair large size boxers.
7 pair ankle socks.
2 pair heavy merano wool socks
Pair of wool gloves
1 wool knit hat
Shave kit,hygiene kit.
Travel battery pack
Chargers and cables for phone and camera.
Some junk food.
Sony a6000 camera stock lens attached.
Camera kit with 210mm lens..
Various other small items I can’t think of ..!! And still have SOME room for extra..!