Camelbak Products have been offering innovative methods of hydration for the past 25 years. Their products have been used from Navy Seals to the adventuresome mountain bikers.
Which product is the best for you? Let us compare the Camelbak M.U.L.E, a favorite of hikers and bikers, and the Camelbak HAWG, the epitome of durability.

Primary Features of the Camelbak Mil Tac H.A.W.G.

Materials

The Camelbak HAWG is part of the Camelbak’s tactile line. This particular backpack is frameless and is made of 500 denier Cordura backpack. This type of material is extremely durable and abrasion resistant.

The front panel features four columns and seven rows of PALS webbing. This form of webbing makes it simple to attach additional gear.

Because this particular backpack is part of the tactile line it tends to be much heavier than the regular civilian line of products. This is both a disadvantage and advantage. Though heavier, the HAWG is created to withstand rough handling and extreme conditions under which regular backpacks would quickly tear.

Suspension

The HAWG is designed for shorter action filled trips rather than lengthy hikes. This is apparent when one takes a closer look at the suspension system or lack of.

The HAWG does not have a frame as its size is intended for use as a daypack, also though it has an easily removed belt, this belt is made for stability rather than redistributing weight to hips.

This makes it cumbersome if used for extended periods of time, as shoulders carry the brunt of the weight.
Hydration

The Camelback Mil Tac HAWG comes equipped with a 100 oz. Antidote hydration reservoir. This reservoir is designed with an internal baffle design. This limits and reduces sagging and sloshing while on the move. The reservoir itself features the Quick Link ™ Exit Port and QL HydroLock ™ Bite Valve Adapter.

The hydration tube itself is covered with a neoprene sleeve. This sleeve helps prevent the water from quickly freezing in the tube. A mouthpiece cover is included as a sanitary feature to keep the bite valve clean.

Organization

The HAWG has a large internal compartment with no dividers but three hang loops. This provides the option to suspend internal pockets/pouches for additional organization.

The front internal compartment offers a deep pocket as well as organizational pockets for small items. This front pocket also features a fob to hang keys and a secured shock cord loop to keep breakable items or electronics secure in the case of a drop or fall. A third half-length pocket is included on the front of the pack.

The bottom of the pack features grommets to drain water in the case of a bladder leak or after water immersion. The bottom also has four loops that can be used as lashing points to secure a sleeping pad.

The Pals webbing located on the front of the pack allows you to attach additional gear and pouches.
Primary Features of the CamelBak M.U.L.E.

The Camelbak MULE is designed specifically with day hikers and mountain bikers in mind. It prides itself its lightweight and comfortable features. It is much narrower than the HAWG. This adds to the MULE’s maneuverability and light-weight.

Organization and Hydration

The Camelbak MULE features a blinker light attachment, media pocket, bike tool organizer pockets as well as a stash pocket for food and other gear. Four compression points are included to secure items and decrease the size of the pack.

A stretch overflow is included for additional storage of a helmet if needed.
Like the HAWG, the MULE offers an identical Antidote Reservoir with the same fluid capacity and center baffling as the HAWG.

Suspension and Comfort

The Camelbak MULE provides a generous amount of back padding with proper ventilation using air channels. Padding is also included in the waist belt and shoulder straps.

Conclusion

Both the HAWG and the MULE offer the same amount of hydration, the exact same Antidote Reservoir. The two backpacks, however, are designed for very different uses.

The HAWG is part of a tactical line of products that feature durability as their best feature. The MULE on the other hand is designed for lightweight use while on day hikes or bike rides.

If searching for a convenient and comfortable form of hydration, the MULE is certainly the better choice. It is lightweight, offers organizational pockets and trustworthy hydration. The HAWG on the other hand is best for those who need extreme durability and a bit more storage capacity.

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