Kifaru released the redesigned 44 Mag earlier this year, and I jumped at the opportunity to test it out and get a review up for Rokslide. The original 44 Mag was one of my favorite bags, and I have used it extensively in an array of different environments and conditions. It never let me down, and I considered it a valuable tool.
Kifaru 44 Mag
The 44 mag Gen 2 has a total of 4,720 CI volume if you include the two side pockets. The side pockets are big enough to hold my Swarovski 95 with the Ollin lens adapter. The bag is constructed with 500D Cordura, YKK zippers, and is 100% made in the USA. The total bag weight is 3 lbs 4oz. There are lighter bag options, but the 44 Mag has some nice features that I appreciate. See it here.
What’s New?
So, what changed in the redesign? At first glance, the most obvious change is that laser-cut laminate tracks have replaced the old-school MOLLE grid on the face of the pack. They work the same for attaching pockets, but are less expensive and cut weight. I often will use large pockets on the outside of a bag, and the new track works great. And who doesn’t like less weight on their back? There are tabs for attaching a Sherman pocket as well. I do think the traditional MOLLE is cool-looking, but the laser-cut version has its own style too. There was MOLLE on the inside of the gen one near where the bladder pocket is located; it has been eliminated.
No More Velcro
The top of the previous 44 Mag had Velcro for attaching patches, and while I get a laugh from some of the patches I have seen on others’ bags, I thought this was just extra weight. Gen 2 has no Velcro on top.
Built-In Weapon Carrier
There is a short sleeve at the bottom of the face and a slim ¾” strap with an auto lock buckle to carry a weapon or tripod. I used this to hold a bow in August and September, and it will see my rifle as soon as the season starts. This adds a little weight but is very useful and a great addition in my opinion. For more secure load hauling, I also crossed the top compression straps across the face of the pack. Kifaru sends the bags out with a male buckle on one side and a female buckle on the other; this locks in a large rack or bow securely.
Backwards Compatible
The Gen 2 comes with compression straps that are compatible with the ARK frame and also compatible with the Duplex frames using a K-clip compression kit.
Another Small Improvement
The upper inside mesh pocket’s zipper has been changed from vertical to horizontal. I like this change; items would fall out if you opened it up all the way on the Gen 1. The second, lower open mesh pocket has been eliminated for the Gen 2.
Faster Access
The location of attachment for the compression straps has moved to the outside of the main zippers. This might seem trivial, but it makes it easier to access items in the main compartment without unstrapping the compression straps. Grabbing a rain jacket for a quick shower or taking off layers and shoving it in the main compartment got faster.
I am not a huge fan of using a load shelf, but I can see how the new compression straps, not being sewn into the bag, would make the load shelf easier to use now.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the new 44 Mag is just under 5 ounces lighter than the Gen 1 bag. The changes are well thought out and are significant improvements. I have hunted a couple different states so far this fall and have six more to go. The 44 Mag Gen2 is holding up just like every other Kifaru has for me. This bag is a winner!
Comment or ask Tony questions here.
*Kifaru is a Rokslide sponsor
