Helikon-Tex Guardian Smallpack Multicam®

The Helikon-Tex® Guardian Smallpack MultiCam® is a compact, modular tactical rucksack with a capacity of 7.5 litres, developed as part of the Helikon-Tex Guardian system. The Smallpack can be worn as a standalone rucksack, but thanks to its detachable shoulder straps, it is also suitable for direct integration with a compatible plate carrier or chest rig.

The rucksack is made from Cordura® 500D, 100% nylon and combines this with YKK® zips and Woojin® components. The fabric has a DWR finish to minimise the absorption of moisture and dirt. Inside, a soft hook-and-loop lining and compatibility with the VIS (Versatile Insert System) ensure a flexibly organisable interior. MOLLE/PALS, compression straps, space for a hydration bladder and external attachment options make the Guardian Smallpack highly versatile for airsoft, milsim, outdoor and tactical use.

Compact 7.5-litre storage capacity

With a capacity of 7.5 litres, the Guardian Smallpack has been deliberately designed to be compact. The main compartment offers plenty of space for essential kit such as a hydration bladder, poncho liner, rain jacket, an extra layer of clothing or other compact essentials.

At the top, there is an internal zipped pocket in which smaller items can be stored separately. The stated dimensions of approximately 17 × 38 × 25 cm give it a relatively compact profile, allowing the rucksack to fit snugly against a plate carrier without taking on the bulk of a larger assault pack.

For longer skirmishes and milsim events, this size offers a practical compromise between a number of separate utility pouches and a full-sized rucksack.

Cordura® 500D with DWR finish

Helikon-Tex uses Cordura® 500D as its main material. This 100% nylon fabric combines good abrasion resistance with a relatively low weight, making it suitable for equipment that is regularly used in demanding conditions.

The fabric features a DWR water-repellent coating. This treatment reduces the absorption of moisture and dirt and makes the fabric easier to keep clean.

However, a DWR finish does not mean that the rucksack is completely waterproof. During prolonged or heavy rain, moisture may eventually seep in. For electronics, documents or other moisture-sensitive items, it is therefore advisable to use a waterproof inner bag or dry bag.

For the rest of the construction, Helikon-Tex uses, amongst other things, YKK® zips and Woojin® components.

Internal VIS in MOLLE/PALS

The inside of the Smallpack is fitted with soft hook-and-loop, allowing compatible organisers and inserts to be attached in various positions. To this end, the rucksack is compatible with the Helikon-Tex VIS – Versatile Insert System.

With the right VIS inserts, the interior can be adapted to suit the application. This means that small tools, medical supplies and other accessories can be stored in an organised manner rather than lying loose in the main compartment.

On the outside, MOLLE/PALS-compatible webbing offers additional mounting options for suitable pouches and accessories. This allows the standard configuration to be expanded when a specific loadout requires it.

VIS inserts and additional MOLLE/PALS pouches are not included as standard with the Smallpack.

Hydration bladder compatible

The main compartment has space for a hydration bladder. The drinking tube can be routed out through openings on both the left and right-hand sides, allowing the user to choose which side the tube runs along the kit.

This is particularly handy during longer airsoft and milsim events, where it’s important to drink regularly without having to open your rucksack every time.

A hydration bladder is not supplied as standard. You should also always check that the dimensions of your chosen hydration system are suitable for the available space.

Standalone rucksack or plate carrier integration

A key advantage of the Guardian Smallpack is its detachable shoulder straps. With the straps attached, it can be carried as a compact, standalone rucksack. Without the shoulder straps, it can be attached to a compatible plate carrier or chest rig.

The Smallpack has been specifically designed for use within the Helikon-Tex Guardian system, including the Guardian Plate Carrier. This allows the rucksack to be integrated into a modular loadout without the need for additional shoulder straps to run over the plate carrier.

When attaching it directly to the back of a plate carrier, accessibility must be taken into account. Equipment in the main compartment is easily accessible to a team-mate, but usually not to the wearer themselves without taking off the plate carrier.

Compression straps and external fastenings

On the sides there are compression straps with G-hook fastenings. These help to stabilise the contents when the rucksack is not fully packed. This reduces the movement of loose gear whilst running, bending down and during other dynamic movements.

There is also an elasticated fastening cord at the bottom. This allows you, for example, to carry a light jacket or other suitable items on the outside. This leaves the internal storage space free for items that are better stored in the main compartment for greater protection.

MultiCam® for versatile camouflage

This version features the well-known MultiCam® camouflage pattern. The pattern has been developed using a combination of various earth, green and transitional tones, making it ideal for loadouts used in a wide range of natural environments.

MultiCam® is also a popular choice for airsoft and milsim, meaning the Guardian Smallpack can easily be combined with plate carriers, combat clothing, pouches and other kit in the same or a similar camouflage pattern.

The actual effectiveness of the camouflage depends on the terrain, vegetation, season and lighting conditions. Unfortunately, even MultiCam® does not yet have a button that makes you completely invisible.

Part of the Guardian system

The Guardian Smallpack forms part of the modular Helikon-Tex Guardian system. This system is built around various components of a tactical loadout, including belts, chest rigs, plate carriers and rucksacks.

The combination of MOLLE/PALS and VIS makes it possible to adapt both the exterior and the interior to a specific application. This means, for example, that the same Smallpack can be configured differently for a standard airsoft skirmish, a milsim event, an outdoor activity or training.

Airsoft, milsim and outdoor use

For airsoft and milsim, the Guardian Smallpack offers plenty of space for items such as water, a poncho, spare clothing, BBs and other support kit that might be needed during a long day of play.

The combination of its compact size and plate carrier integration is particularly appealing to players who need more storage space than a few utility pouches can provide, but don’t want to carry a large rucksack.

The design is also ideal for outdoor activities and tactical training. Thanks to the detachable shoulder straps, the same Smallpack can easily be used as a standalone compact rucksack outside of a tactical loadout.

Practical insights

The Helikon-Tex® Guardian Smallpack MultiCam® really comes into its own when you’re deliberately trying to keep things compact. Its 7.5-litre capacity is more than enough for essential support gear, but stops you from automatically packing all sorts of bits and bobs that end up sitting unused on your back all day.

When attaching gear to a plate carrier, it is a good idea to decide in advance which items you need to be able to reach yourself during the game. A hydration bladder works very well in this position, but a speedloader, tool or other frequently used item is best placed in an easily accessible spot on the front or side of your gear.

Use the compression straps to keep a partially filled Smallpack compact, and use the elastic cord for a light layer of clothing. VIS on the inside and MOLLE/PALS on the outside then offer plenty of options for further customising the configuration without losing its original compact design.

Who is the Helikon-Tex® Guardian Smallpack MultiCam® suitable for?

The Helikon-Tex® Guardian Smallpack MultiCam® is ideal for airsoft and milsim players looking for a compact, modular rucksack that can be used either on its own or integrated with a plate carrier or chest rig.

It is also ideal for outdoor and training use where 7.5 litres of storage space is sufficient and flexibility is key. For users of the Helikon-Tex Guardian system, the Smallpack is a logical addition thanks to its compatibility with other modular components of the platform.

The MultiCam® version is particularly appealing to users who want their rucksack to match an existing MultiCam® loadout or who are looking for a versatile camouflage pattern suitable for a variety of natural environments.

Specificaties

• Note: Helikon-Tex®
• Model: Guardian Smallpack
• Product type: Compact modular tactical rucksack
• Guardian system: Yes
• Total capacity: 7.5 litres
• Main material: Cordura® 500D
• Material composition: 100% nylon
• DWR treatment: Yes
• Water-repellent treatment: Yes
• YKK® zip: And
• Woojin® components: Yes
• VIS (Versatile Insert System) compatible: Ja
• Internal soft hook-and-loop lining: Yes
• MOLLE/PALS compatible: Ja
• Internal zipped pocket: Yes
• Hydration bladder compatible: Ja
• Hydration tube outlets: Left and right
• Removable shoulder straps: Yes
• Attachment to a compatible plate carrier: Yes
• Attaches to a compatible chest rig: Yes
• Compression straps: Yes
• Compression strap fastening: G-hook
• Elasticated fastening cord at the bottom: Yes
• Dimensions: Approx. 17 × 38 × 25 cm
• Kleur/camouflage: MultiCam®
• Applications: Airsoft / milsim / outdoor / tactical use

Common mistakes

• Don’t expect a large assault pack; the Guardian Smallpack has a deliberately compact capacity of 7.5 litres.
• Do not regard the DWR treatment as providing complete waterproofing.
• Don’t assume that a hydration bladder is included as standard.
• Please note that VIS inserts and additional MOLLE/PALS pouches are sold separately.
• Don’t put items you need regularly solely on the back of a plate carrier if you can’t easily reach them whilst wearing it.
• When attaching the item to a plate carrier, check that all attachment points are correctly and securely fastened.
• Do not overload the external MOLLE/PALS webbing; additional pouches increase the total weight and volume.
• Make sure that any clothing attached externally is securely positioned beneath the elastic cord.
• Consider Cordura® 500D to be hard-wearing and robust, but not indestructible.
• Do not expect MultiCam® to provide the same level of camouflage in every environment and every season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capacity of the Helikon-Tex Guardian Smallpack MultiCam®?
The rucksack has a stated total capacity of 7.5 litres.

What are the dimensions?
The stated dimensions are approximately 17 × 38 × 25 cm.

What is the Guardian Smallpack made of?
The main material is Cordura® 500D, made from 100% nylon.

Is the rucksack waterproof?
Not completely. The fabric has a DWR water-repellent finish that limits moisture absorption. In the event of prolonged or heavy rain, it is advisable to use additional waterproof protection for sensitive items.

Can I carry it like a normal rucksack?
Yes. Thanks to the detachable shoulder straps, the Guardian Smallpack can be carried on its own.

Can the Smallpack be mounted on a plate carrier?
Yes. It is designed for mounting on a compatible plate carrier or chest rig and has been specifically developed as part of the Helikon-Tex Guardian system.

Is the rucksack suitable for a hydration bladder?
Yes. The main compartment has space for this, and the drinking tube can be routed out either on the left or the right.

Is a hydration bladder included?
No. A hydration bladder is not listed as a standard included item.

What is the VIS system?
VIS stands for Versatile Insert System. Compatible inserts can be attached to the soft hook-and-loop lining to organise the interior as desired.

Can I attach extra pouches?
Yes. Thanks to the MOLLE/PALS-compatible webbing, suitable modular pouches and accessories can be added.

What are the compression straps for?
The compression straps stabilise the contents and help keep the rucksack more compact when it is not fully packed.

Can I attach a jacket to the outside?
Yes. There is an elastic cord at the bottom which can be used to secure, for example, a light jacket or other suitable items of kit.

The Helikon-Tex® Guardian Smallpack MultiCam® combines 7.5 litres of compact storage with Cordura® 500D, VIS, MOLLE/PALS, hydration compatibility and plate carrier integration in a versatile MultiCam® design.