Mission Workshop Fraction 14L Waterproof Rucksack

I recently received the Mission Workshop Fraction Rucksack for review. When I opened the box I immediately noticed that this is not the usual style of backpack I’d choose. I usually trend towards the military style packs from 5.11 and similar companies. This pack was a different animal, at least for me. I wasn’t going to be jamming my usual selection of gear that I carry personally or professionally into this pack. It’s a pack designed to be used in professional/casual settings where carrying a ton of gear isn’t called for.

The Fraction is the smallest in a series that includes the Sanction and the Fitzroy. The first thing I noticed was the material. It has a smooth non-abrasive feel to it but still strong. The interior is lined with a plastic or rubber-like material which keeps the contents dry even in a downpour. I tested this while running to my car after class in a total downpour and everything inside was bone dry. It is a fold-over top-loading design with two buckles. With one outside-accessible pocket located below the top fold. In the outside pocket, I stored things I wanted quick access to without opening the buckles such as my phone charging cable, power pack, flashlight, notebook, and pen.

Once you open the buckles the front wall of the pack exposes two zipper pockets and a slash pocket. These pockets are perfect for a small trauma kit, med gear, books, glasses. In the slash pocket I can fit my 12” iPad Pro. The main pocket is deep and can hold any assortment of daily EDC necessities. I kept my rain jacket, daily use items, and small hygiene kit in a zip lock bag with room to spare. There is also a zip pocket that runs along the back wall which can hold folders, books, a laptop and any other flat items. One of the things I like about this pack is the slim design are meant to keep you from stuffing more into it. You can but will quickly lose the low profile of the pack that gives it the mobility advantage in crowded situations.

I have been using the pack as my everyday carry pack for the past few weeks to go to meetings and classes I’ve been taking over the summer. It doesn’t raise an eyebrow in any setting from business meetings to college campuses. I like the low profile it presents which makes it ideal for moving through crowds in urban settings. The shoulder straps are padded and come with a sternum strap. The back wall of the pack is padded with a mesh type material and has ridged support making it comfortable to carry. There is also a pass-through section on the lower portion of the back where you could attach a waist belt (A waist belt did not come with the pack).

Mission Workshop products are made in America and come with a lifetime warranty against failures due to materials or workmanship. The Fraction is available in black, charcoal, gray, and static gray (the color I received for review); the price for a Fraction is listed at $275. This is a well-made pack that will blend into any setting and allows easy access to your tools, everyday necessities, and devices. I plan on using it for my everyday carry needs.