The second generation of the Ratel model is crafted from highly durable 500D Cordura, which resists abrasion and physical damage. The rucksack features a spacious main compartment equipped with a dedicated pocket for a water tank, allowing for external tube routing. Transport by hand is easy thanks to the wide transport handle.
Two external pockets with thoughtfully designed organizers offer secure and accessible storage for extra gear such as magazines, knives, or maps. Comfort during prolonged carry is enhanced significantly by a specially developed back stiffener. All storage sections are secured with two-way YKK® zippers.
The backpack’s front, bottom, and lateral sides are equipped with stitched PALS (inch-wide straps) MOLLE attachment system (straps sewn at one-inch intervals), making it possible to mount essential items or oversized gear externally. D-rings (closed D-shaped loops) located on the shoulder straps allow for the addition of tactical accessories.
A velcro panel on the front is provided for attaching patches or emblems, such as national flags, unit badges, or Morale Patches, giving the backpack a personalized touch.
The carry system includes anatomically shaped, adjustable-length shoulder straps, a chest strap, and a detachable waist belt.
Thanks to compression straps with Woojin® buckles—two on each side—the exterior size of the backpack can be adjusted in line with the quantity of gear stored inside. Tightening the straps compresses the pack, for instance, when the main compartment is empty but smaller pouches are in use, ensuring consistent stability and a neat appearance.
Please note, the water tank visible in the images is not included with the backpack.
Technical data Model: Ratel Mk2 Color: Olive Green Material: Cordura Capacity: 25 l Dimensions: 51 x 29 x 15 cm Weight: 1350 g Manufacturer: Helikon-Tex, Poland
Militaria.pl is the official distributor of Helikon-Tex.
Helikon-Tex is a Polish company founded in 1983, specializing in the production of tactical, military, and outdoor clothing. It offers a wide range of products such as clothing, backpacks, bags, and tactical accessories, which have earned recognition among both uniformed services and outdoor enthusiasts. Its range includes standout lines such as: Bushcraft - dedicated to survival enthusiasts, Law Enforcement - designed for uniformed services, and Range - created for shooters. Helikon-Tex uses modern camouflage patterns such as MultiCam, ATACS, and PenCott, ensuring adaptation to different terrain conditions.
This is a solidly made, versatile backpack. The fabric is quite soft, so when it is not completely full or only has a few heavier items inside, it does not hold its shape. I use it both for school and for trips.
A...
Review confirmed by purchase
80%
Review for model:
I bought it on sale for 250 PLN, and for that money it's great. It's spacious, the shoulder straps are wide and comfortable, the back stiffening increases comfort, and the spacer mesh on the back means sweat doesn’t run down my back. The hip belt is wide, but it could sit a bit lower, and the belt attachments catch on my back after removing the belt. If you stuff the main compartment full, it's hard to put anything into the larger front pocket. The MOLLE webbing on the sides could be positioned differently, because after attaching a pouch and a first-aid kit, the compression strap overlaps them and you can't attach a sleeping mat or a sweatshirt on the side. The zippers and buckles are solid, and the backpack itself is durable. In the forest it withstood rubbing against trees and branches; for the city it's a bit too big.
M...
Review confirmed by purchase
100%
Review for model:
The backpack is very well made, I use it as an everyday backpack for work. The large, capacious pockets can be used and divided for various items. Comfortable straps with a chest buckle do the job.
S...
Review confirmed by purchase
100%
Review for model:
The backpack is worth considering. It is definitely more spacious than suggested by the manufacturer. The reinforced back and carrying system are a plus.
In my opinion, the backpack is much better suited for the outdoors, expeditions, or travel rather than for everyday use in the city. I definitely recommend it!
A...
Review confirmed by purchase
100%
Review for model:
The backpack is very well made and has an interesting design. I had wanted to buy it before. However, when it went on promotion, I ordered it right away. I have a backpack of the same design by Condor, but it will be retired. This one will replace it, and I am curious to see how it will perform over the years.
J...
Review confirmed by purchase
100%
Review for model:
At this price, it's an excellent backpack! Very solidly made, as is always the case with the Helikon brand. No loose threads, zippers work perfectly. The backpack seems to have a larger capacity than the stated 25 liters – I think that refers only to the main compartment. You can really fit a lot inside, which can make it a bit unwieldy. However, if you don't pack it full, the compression straps let you reduce its volume, making it more compact. It's good to have extra space, even if you don't always use it. I definitely recommend this backpack!
P...
100%
Review for model:
Today I received the backpack from my wife for my birthday. The material is thin but that’s a plus, because the weight is lower. Workmanship is ok. For me, the backpack is definitely not suitable for urban use, but for all kinds of nature trips, I absolutely recommend it.
P...
Review confirmed by purchase
100%
Review for model:
Very good backpack, spacious and made of good quality materials. Used regularly during trips to the mountains or walks in the forest, and it is also perfect for school.
R...
Review confirmed by purchase
80%
Review for model:
Backpack bought for school plus trips outside the city, looks nice, the workmanship is definitely a plus. The cords attached to the zippers are, in my opinion, too short. The black color "attracts" dust, which is visible, but that's just the charm of black color.
R...
Review confirmed by purchase
100%
Review for model:
Backpack bought for school plus trips out of town, it looks nice, the quality is definitely a plus. The cords attached to the zippers are, in my opinion, too short, but you can figure something out with paracord and that's it. The back is rigid, the color is great.
L...
Review confirmed by purchase
100%
Review for model:
The Helikon Ratel Mk2 25 l - Olive Green backpack is an interesting option among backpacks. I can definitely praise the material it is made of (i.e. Cordura). Surprisingly large capacity for its size is also an undeniable advantage. I also rate the molle system and the organizer inside one of the pockets positively. Useful features also include the sternum and hip straps and the reinforced back of the backpack. What I miss is a separate pocket for an A4 folder or laptop in the main compartment.
P...
Review confirmed by purchase
100%
Review for model:
Firstly, the color - it's rather closer to RAL 7013 than to shades of green, but that doesn't bother me. It's a bit 'soft' but that's the trade-off, lower weight, and now the most important things: comfort and capacity. It's really comfortable, the stiff back makes a big difference even under load, and the capacity – I have many backpacks of various sizes, but Helikon really surprised me here. For 25 liters, it's a cavernous pack. My old 25l Bergson would fit inside completely, and I could still cover it with a cap. Really recommend.
D...
Review confirmed by purchase
80%
Review for model:
Definitely a plus for the capacity, because although it seems inconspicuous, you can fit a lot into it. The organizer in the external pocket is quite functional. Other than that, there are no surprising additional features. A good backpack for a reasonable price.
J...
100%
Review for model:
I've had a Helikon backpack for over a year now; it's been with me on many trips, from ordinary travel to forest outings and carrying gear. I recommend it—perfect for packing for a few days as a bug-out backpack.
+ very comfortable to use
+ Cordura
+ MOLLE on the sides
S...
100%
Review for model:
Very good quality. Stiff back panel. Possibility to insert an additional pouch into the main compartment. The only downside is that the strap adjustment loosens and you have to tighten them from time to time because the backpack 'slips down.'
