The Kahakka, which translates to 'little fight', aptly describes this compact fighting backpack. The 'special feature' of Kahakkas is that they are not 'special' at all. These are serious, reliable basic backpacks designed for military use. The Kahakka line caters to the 99% of users who need a straightforward, versatile day/combat pack that is multi-functional and customizable to meet diverse tasks.
The Kahakka packs acknowledge the realities of military application. For over half a century at Savotta, we have been crafting equipment for the Finnish Defence Forces, where gear is expected to withstand ten years of tough use. The Kahakka offers robust durability without sacrificing usability or complicating features for the sake of resilience. It showcases a unique combination of functionality, comfort, and traditional Savotta durability.
The Kahakka 15L, when side pockets are filled, has a capacity of about 20 liters, plus the exterior allows for the attachment of various additional gear. This compact backpack has ample space for essential mission-specific items, rain gear, and other necessities.
Details and Features
The main compartment features a foldable flap closure secured with two SR buckles, making it both reliable and quick to open and close. As fast as a zipper, yet completely reliable even when exposed to mud, sand, and snow. Inside, there is a hydration bladder/radio compartment with two attachment straps and a hydration bladder connector above. Each side of the pack includes an outlet for a tube, antenna, or cable.
The pleated side pockets easily accommodate water bottles, field tools, multi-tools, and more. The volume of one pocket is around 2.5 liters, designed to allow the top side compression straps to cinch closed. When empty, the pockets flatten neatly. Webbing loops above the pockets keep the side compression straps in place. The bottom of the pockets has drainage holes.
Each side features two steel G-hook side compression straps, allowing adjustments to tighten the pack and to secure additional gear, such as long tools, to the outside. You can also attach extra loads like pouches and bags to the Kahakka using these straps.
The Kahakka 15L has one external zippered pocket. The flat pocket at the front of the pack features a webbing loop with a D-ring, suitable for small items and valuables. The zipper includes two pulls with thick cord loops to reduce noise and make handling easier when wearing thick gloves.
PALS webbing on the front and bottom of the pack allows for additional gear attachment using bungee cords or loose straps. You can attach gear to the loops above the side pockets using cord, spring clips, or loose straps.
The back panel is padded and supported by a thick, stiff closed-cell foam sheet that sits in an open compartment on the exterior of the pack. The padding can be quickly removed and used as a sit pad. The compartment can also be utilized for carrying a tarp or rain poncho.
Padded, contoured shoulder straps attach to steel D-rings. Thanks to the D-rings, the shoulder straps can pivot and conform to various body shapes. The straps can be removed and replaced as needed. The chest strap is detachable and adjustable as required.
Durable and Maintainable
The backpack's main body is made from 1000D Cordura for high durability, while the flap sides and back panel utilize lighter, less coarse 500D Cordura. Zippers are protected, and each zipper has two pulls to safeguard against breakage.
Shoulder straps can be easily removed and replaced as necessary. The shoulder strap lower straps can be substituted with any 25mm strap if required.
All plastic buckles on the pack can be easily replaced without sewing. The steel G-hooks on the side compression straps are nearly indestructible, allowing for quick attachment of additional loads on the back of the pack.
Kahakka 15L vs 25L, which should I choose?
First and foremost, we are not experts on your carrying needs; you are. The main difference between these two backpack models is, of course, volume; the 25L is significantly larger than the 15L and includes a reasonably sized box-shaped zippered pocket on the lid.
If you typically need to carry bulky winter clothing in addition to other gear, as is often the case here in Finland: we recommend the 25L model. On the other hand, if you prefer a truly compact and agile small pack and do not need the extra 10 liters: go for the 15L. Both models have plenty of external attachment points for additional loads and quality compression straps that let you cinch half-filled packs neatly into a compact bundle.
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