Tuesday, 5 Feb 2008
| Rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Design | internal frame Field Pack |
| Size | large |
| Number of Pockets | 3 |
| Max. Load Carried | 45 lbs |
| Price Paid | $115 |
| Pack Weight | 6.5 lbs |
| Total size | 4026 – 4250 cu inches w/o Patrol Pack |
The CFP-90 was my second foray into US Army rucksacks. The medium ALICE Pack was not comfortable for even short(er) hikes, and I wanted something with an internal frame and a hip belt. I looked at several civilian internal frame backpacks at local retailers, but none of them ‘turned me on’. The suspension systems were well designed, the size was right, but they were either too expensive, or ugly, or ‘just not right’. I then looked online for various military designs, and saw some very well made packs in the $300-$700 range. These bags were simply out of question! I am used to buying surplus military gear way below retail prices, and somebody wants $300 for a backpack? No way. After some more searching on the internet, I came upon an obscure pack made for the US Army, and never used. The CFP-90 was designed as a replacement for ALICE gear, but never adopted. The Army started using MOLLE gear instead. Which, I suppose, is good for the Army, and great for the civilian hiker because surplus Army gear became even cheaper and easier to get.
I purchased the CFP-90 on eBay for a little over $100 including shipping. The seller stated this was a genuine US Army issue pack, and not some copy. I did see many sellers advertising “improved” versions of the CFP-90, but having read these types of bags are usually inferior, I did not even look at them. My pack arrived a few days later, and after inspecting the tag, I believe this is the real deal. It is made by ‘Specialty Plastic Products of PA’. After a few searches online, this company appears to be SDS (Specialty Defense Systems), a known manufacturer of Army gear.
The best feature of this pack is the suspension system. It is composed of two aluminum mainstays, and a vertically adjustable shoulder strap attachment system. The best way to think of this is like a ‘modified zipper’. There is a plastic ‘ladder’ and the internal triangle rides up and down, and then securely fixed at one point with two large screw heads. The shoulder straps are also attached at the top of the pack. There is a foam pad that rides in the small of your back to keep the backpack away from the body, to maximize air flow, and minimize sweating. This may look strange, but works great. The hip belt is 5″ wide in the back, and narrows to 3″ in the front. It is heavily padded for maximum comfort while carrying heavy loads. There is 3/4″ of padding sewn inside the hip belt. There is a strap that goes on the outside of the entire hip belt, and it can be used to attach ALICE compatible gear all the way around. The shoulder straps are 3″ wide, and also have 3/4″ of padding inside. These are an enormous improvement over the old school ALICE shoulder pads. There is a old style quick release buckle on each strap, as well as a metal ‘clamp’ to adjust the length of the shoulder strap. The CFP-90 also has a sternum strap, which has become standard in all modern packs. Because of the design of the suspension system, this pack is very adjustable. It can ride high, or low on your back, and be as close or far away from your body as you like. Because of it’s size, in order to carry a large load, one really needs to tailor the suspension to fit your body. There are two openings on either side of the shoulder straps for a radio antenna, or a drinking tube for a water bladder.
There are two main compartments. They are separated by a false bottom, so if you had to carry an oversize item inside, the two compartments can become one. Fully expanded the top compartment measures 20″ x 14″ x 8″. This is possible because there are two draw cords on top, for two levels of ‘fullness’. If it is stuffed to a ‘less full’ level, the top compartment measures 18″ x 14″ x 8″. The 8″ depth is measured on the side, if you were to stuff a rectangular box inside. Because the pack is usually stuffed with clothes, and other irregular objects, the actual size is somewhat different. The pack stretches to accommodate whatever is inside. This compartment is compressed via two cinch down webbing in the front. The lower compartment is designed for the sleeping bag. It is a little bit deeper than the top compartment, and measures 10.5″ x 10.5″ x 14″. This compartment is closed via dual YKK self-healing zippers, and cinch down webbing with buckles. If the false bottom is undone the maximum pack size is 31″ x 8″ x 14″.
On the right side there is a large pocket that measures 18″ x 6″ x 3.5″. It is closed via a draw cord, and a flap on top. The flap is secured by a cinch strap, and there is a second cinch strap closer to the bottom. You can fit a small tent, or a bivvy bag inside. On the left side there are two smaller pockets. They measure 9.5″ x 6″ x 3.5″, and are also closed via a draw cord, and flap on top. There is a cinch strap that secures the top flap, and compresses whatever is inside the pocket. There are two loops sewn in on front, above the sleeping bag compartment. They can be used to attach a sleeping pad, tent, or anything else you can think of. On the bottom there are two rows of webbing to attach even more gear. You can hang a tent, sleeping bag, etc there. They are far apart, so this is not a MOLLE compatible configuration.
The fabric is said to be waterproof nylon. It does not look rubberized on the inside like my MOLLE Assault packs. I have carried around 45 pounds inside this pack, and it is very comfortable; surely heavier loads can be carried. Properly adjusted, a lot of the weight sits on your hips, so it does not feel nearly as heavy as a lighter ALICE pack without the hip belt. I have stopped using the CFP-90 for most of my camping trips because there is no need for so much space for a 2-3 day trip. If I was to go camping for a week, This pack would definitely be on my back. There is an optional Patrol Pack that can be attached to the top of the CFP-90 for extra storage, and for day hikes. The patrol pack is not comfortable because there is no framesheet, and everything bunches up and hurts my back. I never take it with me anyway, because there has never been a need for more space.
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April 29th, 2008 at 11:38 am
I have 2 LC2 w/frames One medium and one large, and one CFP90 the large LC2, I have loaded with about 60 lbs and done some 10 mi hikes, The frame makes a huge difference. The CFP-90 this is another story. I have done the same hike with this pack loaded down to 120 LBS with the patrol pack (and I looked like a bedouin nomad. ) extremely more comfortable especially under extreme loads.
Depending on the need and the time in the filed depends on the equipment
LC2 – Medium W/Frame. Max load 45 LBS Camping 1-2 days.
LC2 – Large W/Frame. Max load 60 Lbs Camping 3-4 days.
CFP-90 W/O patrol pack Max load 116 Lbs. Camping 4-7 days.
CFP-90 W/Patrol pack Max load carried 120 Lbs. Camping 7+ days.
This is all assuming a hike in of 10 Mi, on a 90 deg day, over hilly terrain and is the load I packed for and hauled over that distance. Now your mileage might vary, depending on your size, physical fitness, and sheer raw strength.
March 21st, 2009 at 2:44 pm
I read the CFP-90 review, and sounds like the pack for me.
Any suggestions about where to get the better quality one(made by Lowe, as I understand it)?
Thanks for the data.
March 25th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
From what I have seen, SDS is one of the better manufacturers of these packs. Stay away from “better than mil-spec” CFP-90. There are plenty of sellers online and auction sites that will try to sell you off-brand (imported) field packs. Make sure that any eBay seller has a genuine CFP-90 with a picture of the sewn-in care tag and NSN#. Check out one of my pictures to see what the care tag/NSN look like.
Some may come with the additional patrol pack, some may not. I have never used the patrol pack that came with my CFP-90. It’s un-padded, cumbersome and useless unless you attach it to the top of your main rucksack for extra capacity.
August 1st, 2009 at 5:48 pm
These packs were actually issued to the Army for a number of years in the very late 80’s up to the mid 90’s, maybe even later. I used this pack when I was with Spec Ops and also seemed to be issued to Rangers, Airborne, and other specialty units (or those willing to buy the pack themselves).
I have to agree this pack was the greatest. Lots of room, well made, and comfortable. This pack was made to bring all the civillian pack comforts and more to the military and succeeded in doing this more than just about any piece of gear I had used.
I would give my right arm to have one of these bags again. Adding some pals strapping on the inside and out would make it totally unbeatable.
Frank
September 16th, 2009 at 2:21 pm
Agreed, this is a good pack. I just recently bought one to replace my old Jansport, which finally had the hip belt come apart after many years. I have to wonder why the Army ditched these.
I found a good issue one made by Specialty Defense on Ebay, and I like it so much that I’d like to buy another one in ACU so I can use it on future ruck marches. Problem I’ve seen in examining modern production ones in ACU is they’re missing the vertically adjustable shoulder strap rail part. Are you aware of any modern production of these in the new ACU pattern? I’m only aware of Atlantco’s Tru-Spec, which I’ve already seen, and Rothco, and neither looks like they accurately copied the full spec.
September 23rd, 2009 at 1:25 am
Hi:
I’m about to get one of these pack:).What is the size of the hip belt will it adjust to
38 to 40 inches? I like this web site!!!!!!!
Thanks
Scott Hannah
September 24th, 2009 at 11:58 am
The belt will accommodate at least 38 inches, maybe as much as 48.
September 25th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Is it possible to get a “new never issued” CFP-90 pack made by Specialty Defense Systems? I found one on ebay and the guy shows the tag and everything, but I was under the impression that if you were going to get one from SDS or Specialty Plastic Products of PA, then you would be getting one that was used?? He’s selling it for under $100 so I’m wondering if its actually genuine??
[Edit: Yes, you can probably find a brand new SDS pack for less than $100. In fact I bought mine from eBay a few years ago for $99 plus S&H, and it was brand new. Watch out for the "improved" versions; those are usually knock-offs and worse quality. I am not an expert, but I believe SDS was the primary manufacturer, and I also believe Woodland Camouflage was the one and only color.]
September 26th, 2009 at 3:08 pm
My wife bought me this pack 4 years ago for a birthday present …. i still think its the most durable pack out there. I run about a 45-50 lb. load , that includes h20. I have a 3liter bladder inside w/ 2 canteen attached to back. There is really more room than i need in the pack for a 4-5 day hike. I carry all lightweight backpack gear ….. 2man tent , sleeping bag in lower compartment. In upper compartment i have 3 change of clothes , food , micro stove & lantern & mess kit . In outer lower small pocket i have 3 cans of fuel for stove & lantern plus fire striker & emergency tender . The upper small pocket carries my rain cover & poncho . I also carry a lightweight jungle hammock in long exterior pocket for times when tent is not practical . With all this gear and the terrain I cover I have never had pack failure . Yes it is as comfortable as a numerous civilian bags but on average the pack weight itself is about 2 to 3 lbs more. In my opinion well worth the weight compared difference because of the durability factor. I would suggest this bag to anyone who was serious about their gear!
October 4th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
Yes, this pack will definitely fit a +40″ waist and is a great pack. I generally go w/ minimal gear and can get buy w/ just the patrol pack but find this pack useful when I’m am acting as a mule for my family of 8. They carry their day packs and I carry the food, water, and heavy and or bulky gear. I purchased this pack in great condition for $75 from A&M Surplus in Bellevue, NE. I highly recommend the patrol pack; though it does not compare w/ the comfort of a civy day pack I use mine daily as a go bag (goes w/ me everywhere) and it is great to be able drop my lrg pack @ camp detach the patrol pack and go scouting or for a hike or ride. Mine is woodland camo and that is the only thing I would change as I would prefer one that is not so military looking for overseas travel.
October 8th, 2009 at 12:17 am
I just bought a GI CFP-90 combat pack on e-bay, but it doesn’t look like it comes with the entire suspension kit. I can see the metal staves and padded shoulder and hip belts, but I don’t see the adjustable triangle or lower back pad. Should the pack come with all parts standard or is this and ILBE? If so, do you know where I can get a different suspension kit? Thanks!
October 15th, 2009 at 9:12 am
I am not sure what you are referring too for the suspension parts. The shoulder straps are attached to the rucksack via the adjustable triangle. Do you have the label with NSN number, manufacturer and item name sewn in? Check and see what item you actually have on hand. Send me a pic (via email address in About page and I can try to help you out.)
October 24th, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Josh may be talking about a main pack that has been modified, like this one;
http://www.alleghenyoutlet.com/alleghenyoutletpics/packs/largeinternalframepack-mod.jpg
The black triangle has probably been removed and the straps sewn into the top of the pack, which completely changes the feel of the system and removes the benefit of the suspension. I purchased one like that on eBay for $69+shipping (it was incorrectly described as a PATROL pack modification, rather than a MAIN pack modification) and sent it right back. Might have to open a dispute.
I finally located a CFP-90 main/patrol new, but paid $150 incl. shipping. Worth it. Also made by Specialty Plastic Products of PA.
Thanks for this review – helped me decide to get a CFP-90.
November 2nd, 2009 at 6:22 pm
hi,great site for the cfp-90.does anyone know where i can buy one fromin the uk.best wishes .peter.
[Edit, no idea. Try UK eBay site, or perhaps regular eBay auction with international shipping.]
November 6th, 2009 at 10:26 am
Grest info, the gear has worked for me. Started in 67 with a WWII USMC combat pack, cargo bag, shelter half, web belt canteens. This is retired and hangs on the wall.
1973 Alice Pack med. Also have a olive seat pad that fits in the pack frame and pads my back. Installed the Enhanced shoulder straps for a better fit. Thinking about a padded waist strap with Alice clips. Still in use, overnighthers and my SAR ready pack
M-1951 H- harness with butt pack, pouches and 1 quart canteens. Still in service day, and some overnighters. Sometimes used when Mtn. Bike camping and will also wear my hydration pack.
Camelback Mule in woodland camo, day use but extend to overnight if I wear the M-1951.
CP-90 Pack with patrol pack. The patrol pack was not a good design it was square and quite small not in size but fit. Found antother patrol pack tear drop shape and a much better fit. I use the patrol pack as a stand alone day use pack. Iatttach the Camelbak Mule pack to the CP-90 Pack.
WWI and WWII mess kits, cookware set, USMC 2 person Combat tent and the Ind combat shelter. M416A1 Jeep trailer.
Been using the keyhole saw, after buying my first pack in 67 and I wanted a hatchet, and he bought me a keyhole saw.
November 6th, 2009 at 5:24 pm
I was issued a CFP-90 in 1987. We were light infantry an regularly did roadmarches of 10 and 20 miles with these pack loaded around 80lbs. They are durable, I still use the same pack I was issued, even though I’m long outta the Army.
We were the first units to get these packs. Mine has a model of “Experimental” and was made by Lowe Alpine Systems. Oh, and the originals were made of Gortex.
November 6th, 2009 at 5:28 pm
Also, the day pack is designed to clip into the load bearing assualt vest that was issued with the pack. The original day packs had plastic clips and snaps, the newer civilian ones may have straps now. They just weren’t designed to be used without the vest.
November 10th, 2009 at 7:02 pm
Great pack. I managed to get several never issued ones through base salvage when I was in Germany. I issued them to my guys for deployment use, and kept a couple for just in case. Carries as much as I need for 10 days and the extra pack makes a great carry for short shots. Compared the the Alice systems I used previously it was like suddenly modern bag. Why it didn’t become regular issue I’m not sure, but glad it didn’t so I could lay my hands on some.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:32 pm
I have the backpack, but i am missing the shoulder straps and aluminum mainstays. Any one know where to get these items with out buying the whole thing?
[Edit: Mainstays can be made at home from 1/8" aluminum stakes from the hardware store. Shoulder straps are unique, and probably have to be salvaged from another CFP-90. Try searching on eBay, or other online sites for them, or a ripped-up backpack you can salvage. Other users may have more ideas too.]
December 2nd, 2009 at 6:48 pm
I bought a military issue used cfp-90 pack at the local gunshow about 10 years ago. I have had many packs in the past ranging from my old Alice ruck sack when I was in the army in the late 60s, it sucked real bad! I have had some high end packs that were much better but still not (rough) enough for me. The CFP-90 was great!!! I can carry 150lbs with no problem and it is very easy to carry. Only one problem. I had about 50 lbs in it on a trip and when I grabbed it and jerked it out of the car trunk the plastic slid backing above the back pad ripped right out! I think the plastic got brittle. I took some JB weld glue to it and it is as good as new??? (Smile) This pack has the “Quick-Release” shoulder straps that allow you took dump the pack very fast. If your looking for a heavy duty “Military” pack that you can use in a tactical situation then this is the one for you. I paid $50 for mine. Best pack I have ever owned or used.
February 1st, 2010 at 11:41 pm
[...] have a CFP-90 backpack that can haul upwards of 90 pounds, but I don’t want to carry that much and couldn’t move well [...]
February 4th, 2010 at 9:04 pm
Great pack. Beware of the plastic adjustable slide spline. Mine just broke and it was barely used but over 16 years old though. Lowe told me that they no longer repair them but would send me a 20% off on a new pack. It was a great pack and probably the best I’ve ever worn or owned but is now useless. I think storing it in the attic with 120+ degrees for many years didn’t help matters. These packs were standard issue for SF and LRS army units in the early to mid 90’s. It was not uncommon to pack them with 120lbs. of gear. I use to take it on 30 day field exercises and not even dent the capacity of the pack. I’m frugal when it comes to changing clothes though and I didn’t have to worry too much about carrying alot of food since was usually already provided and had water points along the way. I believe you could easily live out of this pack for 2 weeks if you pack it with the essentials. At any rate, that is my pack’s eulogy. I’m just looking for a new one. If you have any incite other than JB weld (good stuff btw) please inform me.