ASAP 20 | Mystery Ranch’s Rapid Assault Pack

Assault packs play a beneficial role between a ruck and butt pack. There have been numerous times when I have conducted reconnaissance missions and patrols, where an assault pack has proven to be extremely handy for me. Late last year, Mystery Ranch launched the ASAP 20 bag as an upgrade to their original ASAP pack, and they were kind enough to send us one to review.

“With a focus to lighten the warfighter’s load, the ASAP 20 is now 2.6 lbs. Built with functionality and purpose in mind, this assault pack is also perfect for everyday carry.” ~ mysteryranch.com

ASAP 20 Overview

Starting at the ASAP 20’s external top, there is a 4” by 4” hook-and-loop tape for patches. The brain also features a zippered inner pocket that is useful for storing writing utensils or identification cards. Beneath the brain on the back, there is a zippered opening for feeding a radio antenna. The harness is a fixed system. The ASAP 20 also has a removable 1” webbing band. On the front of the bag, there are four PALS rows for extra pouches on either side. The pack has two external pockets with elastic loops for magazines. The elastic loops can hold two 5.56 magazines, and the pocket can hold two loose 7.62Xx51 magazines. I also found the pockets helpful in holding Nalgene bottles for extra water.

Inside the pack, the volume is 20L, allowing it to hold a variety of items. I have been able to store smaller targets, ammunition, eye protection, and ear protection when going to the range. At the back, there is a sleeve to store a 3L hydration bladder. Above the sleeve is a Velcro and PALS panel. This panel is handy for storing patches or smaller pouches, such as an admin pouch or IFAK. For example, I kept an IFAK in the pack to go to the range. However, when a pouch is on the PALS panel, some of the ASAP 20’s capacity is reduced.

“The ASAP 20 was designed to be a lightweight and efficient assault pack for the shortest missions.” ~ mysteryranch.com

ASAP 20’s Performance and Application

I have been using the ASAP 20 for several short hikes and as a range pack. During these events, the pack performed well. While it is not a 24-hour pack, during short hikes I can pack the essentials. When at the range, the ASAP was helpful because I could stage equipment at my truck and bring what I needed to the firing line in the ASAP.

In the same manner, if I had the ASAP 20 when I was a platoon leader, I would have used it for the shorter operations my platoon and I would execute during training. Particularly, there were several night raids, in both urban and wooded areas, where I would have used the ASAP due to its size and weight. Besides these training missions, the pack would have worked well for live-fire training exercises where I knew I would not be on the objective for more than several hours.

ASAP 20 Features & Specifications courtesy of mysteryranch.com

• VELCRO® / PALS panel on interior body panel for attaching accessories
• Port at top of body panel opens from either side for antennae, cables, and/or hydration
• One internal sleeve to accommodate water bladders up to 3L
• Zippered lid compartment with additional zippered pocket inside to keep small items accessible
• VELCRO® Brand patch on lid for identification and patches
• PALS on exterior for attaching additional accessories
• Removable 1” waist belt
• Recommended accessory: MYSTERY RANCH Radio Wrap and Removable Pocket Large
• Two-zippered external pockets with elastic loops for magazines
• Lightweight design considerations throughout
• Fixed harnessing
• 330D Cougar Nylon with DWR and PU coatings for maximum durability, UV, and weather protection
• Made with IR compliant fabric and YKK® zippers
• Weight: 2.6 lb.
• Volume: 1220 cu-ins
• Dimensions: 20.5 “x 10.7” x 9”
• MSRP: $375.00

Final Thoughts

After using the ASAP 20 for the past several months, I have been pleased with its performance. I appreciate the simplicity of the bag, as well as its lightweight design. I also appreciate the addition of the VELCRO/PALS panel in the interior to help with organizing gear. If you need an assault pack for short operations or hikes, consider the ASAP 20.