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During the American Civil War, soldiers carried their supplies in haversacks. In addition to the supplies transported by boat, each soldier was responsible for carrying 40 rounds of ammunition in cartridge boxes and four days’ worth of rations in their haversacks. A haversack consists of a rugged canvas sheet that folds around its contents, including a bedroll, clothing, daily rations, and personal items, all secured by flaps and adjustable buckle straps. Incredibly, more than 150 years later, the design of haversacks has changed little.
Old-School Oilcloth
The oilcloth pays homage to the haversacks of yesteryear. In a world filled with high-tech fabrics and waterproof membranes, the rugged simplicity of an oilcloth exudes undeniable romance. With its distinctive glossy finish, this time-honored material conjures images of adventurous explorers and weathered travelers.
Oilcloth, which boasts a long and storied history, originated from the need for durable, weatherproof materials. Traditionally, artisans created it by applying linseed oil to fabric, forming a water-resistant barrier. This process gave the cloth a unique character, with a subtle sheen that reflects light in an alluring manner.
Consider the classic haversack, a staple for both military and civilian life for generations. Crafted from sturdy canvas and often reinforced with oilcloth, it is the quintessential carry-all for tools, provisions, and personal belongings. Its timeless design features a wide mouth and an adjustable shoulder strap, ensuring a reliable and comfortable way to transport essentials.
Although modern materials may outperform oilcloth in waterproofing and tear resistance, it still retains a unique rustic charm. Its rustic aesthetic and inherent durability make it a favorite among those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and timeless style. Whether seen in vintage-inspired backpacks, stylish aprons, or furniture covers, oilcloth continues to secure its place in the modern world, demonstrating its enduring appeal.
Coalcracker’s Haversack
Known for his appearance on season three of Alone, Dan Wowak of Coalcracker Bushcraft combines the skills of a talented gear designer with those of a seasoned woodsman. Wowak emphasizes the importance of his haversack, stating that he won’t venture into the wild without it. That’s why Wowak recreated his version of the Oilcloth Haversack.
The Coalcracker Bushcraft logo stands proud on this rugged haversack, built from weather-resistant oilcloth. Its no-nonsense, single-pocket layout and over-the-shoulder strap keep fire starters, snacks, and other essentials close at hand, without tempting you to overpack.
Designed for ease and durability, the bag weighs just 6 ounces and features a 48-inch strap for comfortable carry on any trail. The 14×12-inch build offers quick, reliable access to your gear, making it a practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts who value simplicity. More than functional, oilcloth carries a certain grit and charm, evoking a time when gear was made to last. In an age of tech, this bag keeps you grounded in tradition.
Hidden Woodsmen’s Haversack
Based in Massachusetts, Hidden Woodsmen is led by Malcolm Coderre. He is committed to equipping the modern adventurer with exceptional “old world” gear inspired by the 18th and 19th centuries, using contemporary materials for construction. Every product from Coderre is designed and handmade in the United States, reflecting a commitment to quality and craftsmanship that you can rely on.
The Hidden Woodsmen Haversack measures 12 by 11 by 4 inches, and is an earth-brown color. Unlike the canvas material previously used, Coderre opts for 1000-denier (1000d) Cordura for the main construction and 500D and 420D liners for the interior.
The Haversack features a double-walled design with a front zipper pocket, two heavy-duty buckles, a Velcro front panel, MOLLE webbing on either side, and a wide adjustable shoulder strap. This MOLLE webbing is compatible with most modern tactical or military gear and allows for the attachment of carabiners, small lights, whistles, button compasses, or sunglasses.
Field Notes
Outstanding features of the Haversack include internal colored pockets for better organization and a heavy-duty loop on the back designed to hold a hatchet or tomahawk. When I slung the Haversack over my left shoulder, I found it easy to adjust the strap while walking; however, I had to remove it for adjustments when switching to my right side. On my first outing, I walked about six miles, and the Haversack remained comfortable until I filled my 2-liter water bladder inside, adding an extra 4 pounds that became noticeable on one shoulder. For lighter loads and shorter distances, the bag shines. Thanks to its robust wide nylon strap, it proved comfortable on shorter trips with less weight.
The Haversack includes a main pocket with Velcro-flapped covers, a smaller mid pocket, and a front zippered pocket. I readily stashed a small Boy Scout mess tin with a lid and a signal panel in the mid pocket, which also works well for a map or GPS. I used the zippered pocket to secure essential items like money, identification, and keys. Overall, the Haversack perfectly balances utility and mid-weight carry, weighing about 1 pound when empty. Coderre has genuinely revolutionized the classic haversack design.
Tuff Possum’s Haversack
Though relatively new to many, Tuff Possum Gear has deep roots in the Ozarks of Missouri, stretching back several decades. Founded by Jayberry in 2017, who learned his craft from his father and received support from his mother, the company has steadily introduced innovative designs and materials tailored for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.
Inspired by Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton, a prominent figure in the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration, the Shackleton EDC Satchel caters to those who live by the motto “Go & Do.” This over-the-shoulder, messenger-style satchel is made with durable 1000d and 500d Cordura nylon construction. It measures 12 inches in width and 9 inches in length, featuring two interior pockets and two slip pockets on the sides for quick access. The adjustable, wide webbing shoulder strap ensures maximum comfort during use.
This haversack includes an internal Pouch Attachment Ladder System (PALS) — a patented webbing grid developed by the U.S. Army for securing gear to load-bearing platforms like vests and packs. The PALS panel facilitates modular organization using MOLLE, Velcro, or belt clip-mounted pouches. An additional 1/8-inch-thick padded back panel enhances comfort against the hip and ribcage, while the 2-inch-wide webbing strap provides secure support.
Field Notes
Wheras I typically prefer even weight distribution across both shoulders, the Shackleton EDC Satchel has been a welcome alternative, allowing quick access to items like gloves, cameras, and water bottles without the need to remove a backpack. The adjustable ITW Cobra buckle closure enables one-handed access and adjustments, which became increasingly appreciated, letting me adapt the satchel as needed while on the move. The deep slip pockets on each side add a layer of security for essential items. The weather flaps and ITW side release buckles proved invaluable during outings when unexpected sprinkles threatened my Canon DSLR.
Every 10 minutes or so, I found myself readjusting the weight and even switching shoulders. As a novice with this carry style, I recognized the advantages of the wide 2-inch webbing for overall comfort. Thanks to the back padding and size, the Shackleton EDC Satchel even doubles as an insulated seat on cold surfaces. This versatility embodies the essence of Tuff Possum Gear — functionality and innovation hand in hand.
Final Thoughts
Haversacks are versatile bags that blend functionality and style in modern life. Originally linked to military and outdoor use, they have evolved to meet the needs of today’s casual travelers, professionals, and city dwellers. IT professionals especially appreciate haversacks for their day-to-day needs. They accommodate laptops, tablets, and tech accessories. They serve as modern briefcases that transition easily from home to coworking spaces or client meetings.
The single-strap design allows easy access to essentials, making haversacks ideal for crowded public transport. They keep users organized and ready to grab what they need on the move. Haversacks’ unique aesthetic appeal makes them stand out in today’s fashion scene. With a variety of materials, colors, and styles — from classic canvas to sleek leather — there’s a haversack for everyone. They effortlessly transition from functional daytime bags to stylish evening accessories, proving they’re versatile beyond outdoor activities.
Transcending their traditional roles, haversacks are proving to be versatile companions for anyone living in the modern world. Whether for casual travels, daily commutes in busy cities, or professional settings, they encapsulate function and style, making them indispensable to contemporary life.
Sources
- The Hidden Woodsmen > thehiddenwoodsmen.com
- Tuff Possum Gear > tuffpossumgear.com
- Coalcracker Bushcraft > coalcrackerbushcraft.com
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Editor's Note: This article has been modified from its original version for the web.