Kahakka, or Little Battle, aptly describes a compact tactical backpack. The 'specialty' of these packs is that they are not 'special' at all. They are serious, well-constructed basic backpacks. The Kahakka is designed for the 99% of users who need a straightforward, versatile day/field pack that is adaptable for various tasks.
Kahakka backpacks are built with military usage in mind. At Savotta, we've been producing gear for the Finnish Defence Forces for over half a century, where gear is expected to endure rigorous use for over a decade. Kahakka packs are robustly durable, yet we have not compromised usability or simplified features for the sake of durability. Kahakka packs are a unique blend of functionality, comfort, and traditional Savotta durability.
The 25L volume of the Kahakka, with side pockets filled, is approximately 30 liters. Additionally, various external loads can be attached. There is ample space for essential task and personal gear, including bulky winter clothing, which is crucial for practical use here.
Details and Features
The main compartment features a flap closure secured by two SR buckles, making it reliable and quick to open and close. As fast as a zipper, yet fully operational under constant exposure to mud, sand, and snow. Inside, there is a reservoir/radio compartment with two attachment loops above and one hydration access hole. Each side of the backpack has an exit for tubes/antennas/cables.
The folded side pockets allow for effortless carrying and handling of items like water bottles, field shovels, or bolt cutters. Each pocket has a capacity of about 3 liters, designed such that the top compression straps close the opening. When empty, the pockets neatly compress down. Webbing loops atop the pockets keep the side compression straps in place. The pockets also feature drainage holes at the bottom.
Two steel G-hook side compression straps on each side allow for both securing the pack and attaching additional gear or long tools externally. With these straps, you can also attach extra loads like pockets or pouches to the Kahakka.
The Kahakka 25L has two external zippered pockets. The top one has a volume of about 3 liters, suitable for items like a night vision device or water bottle. The flat pocket on the front has a webbing loop with a D-ring, ideal for small items and valuables. The zippers feature two pulls, and the pulls have generous cord loops that minimize jingling and facilitate handling while wearing thick gloves.
PALS webbing on the front and bottom of the pack allows for attachment of additional loads using rubber bands or loose straps. Gear can also be secured to the webbing loops above the side pockets using cord, spring hooks, or loose straps.
The back panel is padded and reinforced with a thick, sturdy plastic plate that sits in an open compartment on the outside of the pack. The padding can be quickly removed and used as a seating pad. This compartment can also be utilized to carry a tarp or rain poncho.
Padded, shaped shoulder straps attach to sturdy D-rings. Thanks to the D-rings, the shoulder straps can pivot and conform to different body shapes. The shoulder straps can be detached and swapped if necessary. The chest strap is removable and adjustable as needed.
A 50 mm wide waist belt helps support the pack as needed, equipped with an extremely easy-to-use and reliable Berg buckle. The belt can be stowed away inside the back compartment of the pack.
Durable and Maintainable
The main body of the backpack is made from 1000D Cordura for exceptional abrasion resistance, while details like the side openings and back panel are made from lighter, less coarse 500D Cordura. The zippers are weatherproofed, and each zipper features two pulls for safety in case one breaks.
Shoulder straps can be easily detached and replaced as needed. The lower straps of the shoulder straps can be substituted with any 25 mm strap if required.
All plastic buckles on the pack can be easily replaced without sewing. The metal G-hooks of the side compression straps are nearly indestructible, allowing for quick attachment of additional loads to the back of the backpack.
Kahakka 15L vs 25L, which one to choose?
First of all, we are not experts on your carrying needs; you are. The significant difference between these two backpack models is, of course, capacity—25L is considerably larger than 15L and has a reasonably sized box-like zippered pocket on top.
If you generally need to carry bulky winter clothing alongside other gear, as is often the case here in Finland, we recommend the 25L model. If you want a compact, sleek little pack and do not need an extra 10 liters: go for the 15L. In any case, both models have plenty of external attachment points for additional loads, as well as robust compression straps to neatly cinch half-filled packs into a tidy bundle.
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