The latest in the Dagger line of hybrid vest/pod packs comes in the form of the Dagger X.
The Dagger X combines the lightweight versatility of a pod pack, with the load-bearing capabilities of a full vest.
It has Molle on the front pouches and loops up the front straps, a 4+3 configuration, allowing you to carry up to 7 pods, and of course, the internal elastic belt and hydration bladder pouch.
This was what I carried with my to Oklahoma D-Day this year, and it served me extremely well! It was lightweight enough that I didn't feel encumbered like a full vest, and provided enough storage space for my 3L hydration bladder, which was a godsend in the Oklahoma heat.
It is adjustable and rode on my hips, making getting the pods back in a little challenging. While I enjoy having the +3 for carrying additional pods, getting them in and out is nearly impossible without having someone to help you out, it's in the middle of your back, and very hard to reach. Getting the pods back in to both the +1 and the regular holders make for a more interesting challenge, since the opening is nearly the same size, and the pods have to be practically vertical to get reinserted. As you can see on the left, the +1 holders held the pods very snugly in place, but the one in the center was extremely hard to use.
The Molle on the front provided the perfect spot for the pistol holster on my left, and a radio holder on the right. The pouches themselves held several energy bars, critical to playing all day.
Overall it is an awesome addition to my gear bag, provides a stable, yet lightweight platform to carry pods and other essentials. It has become my primary carrier when going with this traditional setup.
