The MOLLE II Rucksack system was a solid upgrade into a more modern rucksack mainly with comfort and adjustability compared to the older ALICE frame. The flexible frame with adjustable hip and shoulder straps made it more comfortable with heavy or larger loads, and offered better weight distribution. The main bags (4,000 to 5,000 cubic inches) storage capacity allows for more internal organization including an internal sleeping bag compartment and MOLLE for pouch addition and customization. Soldiers however do state they miss the simplicity and the ALICE gear hog feel.

The system is modular and quite simple. It requires attaching the main pack to the polymer frame, then adding the shoulder harness and hip belt  in that order. The modular design uses straps and buckles that insert into the frame slots. This also allows for easy replacement or repair of parts when needed, break a hib belt and easily replace the assembly in the field. The MOLLE II frame is the official frame for all MOLLE II rucksacks, also making them interchangeable. See our video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vtWi1HVv4M&t=19s

The frame system is made to handle heavy loads, typically 80-120 pounds when properly distributed. The bag is around 4,000 to 5,000 cubic inches (approximately 65 to 82 liters) which can be extended with the attachments of sustainment and other MOLLE pouches. The best feature of the main storage compartment may be the extra large backpack extended material used to keep your gear in and debris out. This also allows you to overstuff the main bag if needed.

Frame packs are designed to carry a majority of the weight on its hip belt so shoulders also do not get sore. This means packing heavier items lower so the frame can do what it was made for. Here is a great video to also help with this. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vtWi1HVv4M&t=3s