Some photos may show the frame that the Grootsak used to be issued with - the frame is not included.

The P83 Rucksack, colloquially known as the grootsak (“big bag” in Afrikaans), certainly lives up to its name. It is technically a Bergen Rucksack, an alpine-style bag popularized by the British SAS. If a mountain bag seems far from home in desert warfare, well you'd be right. During the Border Wars the SADF had a habit of judging equipment by usefulness. Not by how pretty it looked, not where it came from, or who used it. If it was effective the SADF would take it---from Chicom rigs, which inspired the P83 chest rig, to all kinds of Mad Max style technicals and mine resistant vehicles.

The Grootsak fits neatly into this practical mindset, a large comfortable bag suitable for long range patrols---but equally fast into action. Notably, it is the first bag of it's kind designed specifically to be worn with a chest rig. 

While the Pattern 83 Battlejacket was intended for those brief, high-speed, hide and seek operations, the Pattern 83 Rucksack/Chest Rig combo specializes in long-term patrols, sometimes lasting multiple weeks. The spacious bag allows the soldier to carry 8 Liters of water along with a full complement of food, ammunition and equipment. In practical use, the SADF often hiked in their own mortars... 

Despite its large size the Grootsak was highly innovative. Equally at home with foot soldiers and motorized troops, the bag features a unique quick detach buckle far ahead of it's time. In the close contact, ambush warfare so characteristic of the Border War---this allowed the SADF soldier to transition from ruck march to firefight far faster than a similarly equipped opponent. This was the genius of the Pattern 83 Field Pack/Chest Rig system. Every soldier was always ready for rapid movement and counterattack.

An emphasis on storage and durability makes the P83 rucksack a strong contender for long outdoor hikes, rough-and-tumble camping trips, and even just daily use as a high-quality travel bag. Its 77-liter capacity allowed SADF forces to deploy with authority---literally carrying everything into battle. 

While all grootsaks were originally issued with a metal frame designed to aid paratroopers, many soldiers removed it to lighten the pack and improve comfort. This field modification became so popular that most packs were stripped in the field, and eventually bags were issued without the frame to all but airborne soldiers.

 

Specs

• Durable Nutria Brown Cordura nylon
• Top compartment, bottom compartment, and four side compartments 
• 70L main compartment, 77-liter overall capacity
• 3.14lb unloaded with a maximum recommended weight of 77 pounds (Note that this is for your comfort, the bag can take quite a bit more in a pinch.)
• Top compartment for lightweight items such as extra clothing, wet weather gear, etc.
• Bottom compartment for heavy weight items such as rations, ammo, boots, etc.
• 4 side compartments designed for SADF 2 litre canteens but can be used for other items
• Rain flap with document pouch
• “Caterpillar type” padded back designed to conform to your body and provide even airflow across the entire back.
• Adjustable quick-release waist buckle and chest strap
• Designed for simultaneous wear with the P83 Chest Rig and (occasionally) P83 Battle Jacket 

 

Condition Guide

Like-New+

• The item has been used, but remains in like-new condition. Suitable for discerning collectors and reference use.

Excellent+

• The item has barely any cosmetic blemishes, abrasions, or other signs of use.
• The item may exhibit internal/external writing. This may include rank, serial numbers, etc.

Great+

• The item has only minor cosmetic blemishes, abrasions, or other signs of use.
• The item may exhibit noticeable internal/external writing. This may include rank, serial numbers, etc.
• The item may have minor field repairs, or field modifications.

Good+

• The item has clear cosmetic blemishes, abrasions, or other signs of use that have not compromised a significant majority of its functionality.
• The item may exhibit clear internal/external writing. This may include rank, serial numbers, etc.
• The item may have minor or major field repairs, or field modifications.

Serviceable+

• The item has significant cosmetic blemishes, abrasions, or other signs of use that have not compromised a significant majority of its functionality.
• The item may exhibit clear internal/external writing. This may include rank, serial numbers, etc.
• The item may require minor repairs to either a seam, or to the fabric to restore 100% functionality

Note: A “+” following any of these conditions indicates the product has also been freshly laundered.

Instructions

Featured here we have the original SADF field manual containing adjustment, handling and maintenance information on all P83 equipment. This can be viewed here. Field Pack usage information can be found on pages A5, A18-A22, and A47-A52.