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Sleeping bags. The only bag I've had and used for years is from when I was like, 11. It's shitty and uncomfortable, so I'd like to get something better. Immediately my mind jumps to military surplus shut, cuz that's the kind of person I am. Pic related, it's the Modular Sleep system, which is a light bag for temperatures down to about 40 degrees, the intermediate bag for down to like 5 degrees, and a Gore-Tex cover. All the items snap together to create one big bag supposedly good for negative temperatures down to -20. The entire system weighs about 10 lbs. You don't HAVE to carry the entire system, especially if you know what the weather will be like. So on to the actual question. I'm sure there are alternatives or improvements made for the consumer market, so can anyone point me toward them? Maybe post your own sleeping bag?
I iz a fatass
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I have this exact four-piece system. Light it's not, versatile it definitely is. You can find them used on Amazon for under $70. I've yet to use it, so as for its effectiveness I've no idea.
Anonymous
That's incredibly heavy, which is annoying. Military gear often is. Civi stuff is usually more expensive but by god it's higher quality and lighter. You could always make your own, with a lightweight summer bag and a 3 season bag. Combine the two for winter. That's what I do and it works fairly well, though I'm keen to get a proper down bag to replace the 3 season bag I have.
Anonymous
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Bump for more suggestions and info.
Anonymous
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hey guys, I came here after someone called me a newfag. What do I do???
Anonymous
The ECWS Sleep System actually is rated down to -40 degrees, but it specifically says when used in conjunction with your cold weather clothing. I'm assuming that doesn't mean all my cold weather clothing that I was issued because that would be insane. To put it into real world terms, it kept me warm down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit with just boxers on. I haven't been able to test it any lower than that, but I will tell you that as soon as you add a layer of clothing at 0 degrees you start sweating. Buying a used one may be different in that it might not have the same insulation properties as a new one (mine have been new or close to it). I still recommend a sleeping pad as that will make a huge difference in below freezing temps. There are better civilian bags on the market that are a whole lot lighter and more compact. I bought a 35 degree bag for 35 dollars on steep and cheap (Alps Mountaineering Clear Water) and use that for most of my outdoor activities.
Anonymous
>>125248 I carried that exact system in Iraq. Kept it when I came home. It's not the lightest thing, but it's so versatile it'll make your head spin. It will keep you comfortable well below zero. I slept in it in the teens during work-ups. The green intermediate bag is a patrol bag, and is comfortable in the 50's & high 40s. The goretex bag is solid, has a hood that seals you in completely, so unless the water actually enters the zipper, it's dry inside. I wouldn't want to carry it for weeks at a time, but I will never give it up. I'm thinking of getting one for my wife.
Anonymous
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>>126407 Forgot to add- The versatility is the seller here. Carry 1, 2 or all three. 6 Combinations available.
Anonymous
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>>125318 depends on what you carry. the black sleeping bag is heavy and bulky, the rest of it is not.
Anonymous
This thing is fuggin so legit it's like 150 bucks and pretty much you can only find it used but it's usually always in good condition definitely worth it if you live in a area that has alot of variable climate conditions (California i'm looking at you)
Anonymous
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>>126426 btw forgot to mention this shit does not weigh 10 pounds not even altogether
Anonymous
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>>125248 I was issued these while in the Army as well, and considering that the same grade and options bag is $300-$400 from REI? I prefer being able to tailor as necessary to what conditions I will be going into as well as that I can couple it with what snivel gear owned/carried to go into "worse" conditions. The bivy alone has been a lifesaver both while active and now during my retirement.
>>126144 Polypro top/bottom, watchcap, and socks + issued air mattress kept me good @ -50 in Alaska for a couple week field problem.
Anonymous
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It's really uncomfortable to sleep in because is always right in your face, there's no structure to keep it off you mouth. Sometimes I toss and turn and shifting while inside while it's zipped up is a chore. It also doesn't close up all the way so bugs can be a problem. They're great bags for the price but they definitely take some getting used too. I didn't have a good time with it because I took it out without ever testing it at home.
molot0v !CocKTAILBg
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Are you set on something like in your OP? I have a civilian bag good down to just below freezing or so. In the summer (only had it for a month) I just unzip it and use it as a down blanket. It's retardedly light (<2lbs) and packs down to a little smaller than a volleyball. Ran about $280.