The beginning of the year is the time of the most important global events for the shooting and shooting-related industry. In January there is the SHOT Show in Las Vegas (USA), and at the turn of February and March EnforceTac and IWA OutdoorClassics in Nuremberg (Germany). Surprisingly, the last of the mentioned trade fairs unfortunately seems to have been fading for years now and is far from the time when it rightfully matched the scale of the unquestionably dominant SHOT Show. Nevertheless, it still remains among the leading events and should also be mentioned. The situation is different with EnforceTac, which grows year by year and is becoming a much brighter star in the calendar than the former European leader, the IWA OutdoorClassics trade show. Although EnforceTac is primarily focused on exhibitors and visitors from the uniformed services sector, today the event attracts almost the same key players as the hunting and sport-oriented IWA Outdoor & Classics.
Three new 5.11 V.XI backpacks
The focus of the European division of 5.11 during the EnforceTac trade fair clearly shows the direction of the further development of this manufacturer’s offer, aimed at professional users (for more on this topic have a look at the previous article presenting the 5.11 exhibition during SHOT Show 2026). While in Las Vegas the company officially presented a series of new uniforms from the professional V.XI line created in cooperation with Beyond, at EnforceTac it showcased new backpacks from this line, more precisely, their prototypes. A common feature of the new backpacks is the use of materials adapted for camouflage in the near-infrared spectrum (NIR-rated), offered in Ranger Green and MultiCam colors. The front part of each backpack features a large MOLLE panel laser-cut into the laminate. In the largest and the medium model, the main compartment is secured with a extension collar that allows, among other things, increasing the backpack’s carrying capacity. The idea behind the new 5.11 V.XI backpack line is a division into a daypack, assault pack, and sustainment pack. In a way, it is a return to the roots in a modern form.
The largest of them, called the Sustainment Pack, has a capacity of 110 l. The main interior space of the backpack has been divided, similarly to the RUSH100 model, into two fixed zones, with the difference that when opening the backpack from the bottom it is still possible to reach the lower part of the main compartment through an opening left in the divider. Of course, the main load can also be accessed from the top and the front of the backpack, which offers almost unlimited possibilities depending on the need. The top access is closed with a large flap featuring a spacious pocket and the previously mentioned collar.
Large side pockets with a capacity of 13.5 l are attached with zippers and, once detached, can function as separate bags (each equipped with a carry handle). They can also be connected together to form a small backpack. The weight of the Sustainment Pack in the presented configuration is 4 kg.
The back panel of the Sustainment Pack is reinforced with a removable composite frame, and the carrying system somewhat resembles the one I know from the RUSH100 model, which I personally appreciate a lot. Wide, ergonomic shoulder straps suggest comfortable transport of a heavy load, whatever can fit inside the 110-liter capacity.
The medium-sized 5.11 V.XI backpack called Daypackhas a capacity of 35 l. This is therefore the capacity of a typical mountaineering backpack for use during one to several days trips, depending on the required equipment. Lightweight, weighing only 1.6 kg, the Daypack is a single-compartment model. It features compression straps allowing the shape to be adjusted to the contents, side carry handles, and loops for an ice axe (or trekking poles). From the top, the compartment is secured with a chimney and a large cover under which part of the essential gear can be safely transported (similar to the Sustainment Pack model). The main compartment is also covered on the sides with a laser-cut MOLLE panel. The hip belt can be detached if needed.
The smallest member of the new professional 5.11 V.XI backpack family is the Assault Pack. The backpack was primarily designed as a stand-alone pack with the possibility of system integration with a plate carrier, attachment to the larger Daypack, or mounting via the MOLLE system as an additional pouch wherever needed. Inside there is a dedicated pocket for bolt cutters, a MOLLE panel, and mesh pockets for better gear organization, as well as straps for securing AR-15 magazines. The backpack weighs only 800 g.
5.11 V.XI Plate Carrier once again
Also shown again was the new concept of the plate carrier from the V.XI line, mentioned during our earlier SHOT Show report. It immediately attracts attention with its large placard featuring two parallel MOLLE systems referred to (unofficially) by the manufacturer as “always center MOLLE”, a system ensuring that different pieces of gear can always be mounted in the correct position. In a standard MOLLE system, for example, a single magazine pouch can be mounted on the left or right side of the available MOLLE slots. In this case, an additional central mounting option is provided. The new vest will be compatible with most popular placard panels available on the market.
The 5.11 V.XI Plate Carrier was designed over the course of 1.5 years, and the main idea behind the design was to use only as many materials as necessary so that the final design would remain lightweight. The plate pockets were sewn taking into account the curvature of ballistic plates and although they resemble those already known from the manufacturer’s low-profile vests, the new 5.11 V.XI Plate Carrier offers the full functionality of combat vests. The stretch used in the shoulder strap construction is intended to ensure maximum fit to users with different body types while moving. Similarly, the cummerbund features optimal stretch inserts ensuring flexibility during movement without affecting the proper rigidity of the overall construction. The cummerbund also offers a greater range of angle adjustment and is detached at the front with quick-release buckles made by the Italian manufacturer Due Emme. Add to that removable comfort pads in the front and rear sections and it is said that this will probably be the most comfortable plate carrier on the market. We will find out next year, when it is expected to reach the market. The vest will be available in Ranger Green and MultiCam, and probably later also in Kangaroo and black.
All of the above innovations from the V.XI line will be available for on sale not sooner than in 2027.
Special 5.11 uniforms
It is worth noting that the company does not focus solely on off-the-shelf products, but also designs custom solutions for various services. In addition to the regular product range, EnforceTac also featured specially designed uniforms that have already been adopted by the police in Hamburg, Germany, and in Kosovo.
5.11 also offers off-the-shelf duty uniforms, and during EnforceTac the company presented a set aimed at paramedics in the characteristic PSNI Green (858) color. The set includes Quantum Temp Pant, the Professional Short Sleeve Polo, and the Duty Softshell Jacket. All are available in both women’s and men’s versions.
The 5.11 company has supported our work both behind the desk and in the field for years, which is why by visiting one of the 5.11 stores in Poland and perhaps making a purchase there, you also support our work. We encourage you to check out the list of the growing number of dealer stores in Poland!
This article was created as part of an advertising collaboration, however the authors of this portal respect their readers and always present their independent opinion, and no advertiser (even the best one) can ever influence it.
