The WWII-era M1945 field pack inspired our M Series (M22-24). For the M26, we took the crowd favorite M23—the top load, exterior pockets, front buckles, and bombproof laptop compartment—and shared some initial ideas for modifications with our favorite group of gear dorks (said with love!) on the GORUCK Subreddit. Hundreds of comments, suggestions and DM’s later, based on YOUR feedback which we never could have done ourselves, we finalized the design. This is the first time we’ve ever done anything like this, and we loved the process and are GRATEFUL for the input. Here’s where we landed for M26:
Lid QAP: Brand new Quick Access Pocket in the lid with a rain flap and an internal mesh organizing pocket. The volume for this is in the lid itself, not the main cavity. This means when you’re on the move you can access it … QUICK!
Side Zip Volume Pockets: Two side zip pockets, one with stretch woven elastic (ideal for a water bottle) and one with 420D ROBIC Ripstop Nylon. The volume on these is internal to the ruck, so they do not stick out - this is an elegant solution to carrying a water bottle and more.
Main Compartment: The zipper into the main cavity is extended for better access without opening up the drawstring closure (the zipper is even longer than shown in the rendering).
Zippers: No AquaGuard. We’ll use the burliest, best YKK zippers money can buy — across the board.
Materials: Two variations. 500D CORDURA (featuring a black metal patch) and Heritage Waxed Canvas (featuring an embossed full grain leather patch and top carrying handle). Back panels of both are built with the same fabric, and shoulder straps have MOLLE webbing for a classic GORUCK look.
Bombproof Laptop Compartment: If you have a 16” Macbook, go with the 26L version.
Surprise Commemorative Patch: Details not forthcoming at this time (also because we haven’t designed it yet. It will be badass and one of a kind as a THANK YOU to all who have contributed to this process).
PREORDER DETAILS
We are building the M26 one time and that time is now. We have no idea what demand will be, it’s 100% up to you. We’ve loved this process of taking your feedback and hope you’ll support us. We are NOT planning on ordering a lot, meaning -- however many preorders we get, we’ll build that many plus a little safety stock that will launch at full price. Then, come 2027, M26 will be in the archives forever while you enjoy yours by using it hard all over the world.
Pricing: Preordering locks this in at ~25% OFF MSRP
Shipping Timeline, to you: TARGETING Q4 2026. The world is a crazy place right now, though — it could be Q1 2027. We aim to under promise and over deliver.
THANK YOU for the support.
—jason and the team
Heritage Waxed Canvas Details
Colorway: Dark Oak w/ Coyote Brown
Patch: 3" x 2" M26 leather patch
External Material: 10.10oz Army Duck Waxed Canvas (including Laptop Compartment)
Side Zip Volume Pockets: right side in Stretch Woven Elastic, left side in 420D ROBIC Ripstop Nylon
Internal Mesh and Sleeve Pocket
Shoulder Strap MOLLE w/ Sternum Strap
21L Laptop Compartment: 16.5"L x 11"W
26L Laptop compartment: 18.75"L x 12.5"W
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The M26 PREORDER // Q4 2026 ETA is a dark green backpack with black straps and an "M26" label, inspired by the M1945 field pack. Made from durable 500D CORDURA. Concept render shown; final design may vary.
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Black "M26 PREORDER // Q4 2026 ETA" backpack featuring a top flap, rugged 500D CORDURA, front zipper pocket, bold "CONCEPT RENDER ONLY // NOT FINAL" text, and a bombproof laptop compartment for extra security.
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Brown backpack with tan straps and buckles, labeled "M26 PREORDER // Q4 2026 ETA." Features a bombproof laptop compartment and rugged 500D CORDURA. Text below says "CONCEPT RENDER ONLY // NOT FINAL.
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M26 PREORDER // Q4 2026 ETA: Brown backpack shown from the back with labeled pocket locations, made from rugged 500D CORDURA, featuring a bombproof laptop compartment. Concept render, not final.
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A black "M26 PREORDER // Q4 2026 ETA" badge on rugged 500D CORDURA fabric with text below: "CONCEPT RENDER ONLY // NOT FINAL".
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A brown leather patch with "M26" embossed, sewn onto rugged 500D CORDURA dark fabric; text reads "M26 PREORDER // Q4 2026 ETA // CONCEPT RENDER ONLY // NOT FINAL".
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A man in a tan shirt lunges on the beach, lifting a sandbag, while another person with an M26 PREORDER // Q4 2026 ETA pack faces him.
As an American business with Special Forces roots, we are proud to donate 1% of our annual top line revenue to non-profit partners who support those who serve.
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