A duffel bag is a canvas bag with a volume of about 30 liters, with shoulder straps sewn to it, tied at the neck.
Initially, in the army of the Russian Empire, he received the nickname "cider." He retained his design until the 50s, and then was somewhat modernized - screed under the overcoat was added on the sides, a pocket for small items and pockets for an identification plate were added in front.
The duffel bag was intended to replace bulky and uncomfortable backpacks within the framework of the mass army. In addition to the benefits in terms of cost savings in the production of cheap bags, the specifics of warfare were also taken into account. Often, the “cider” was preferable to a hard backpack due to its compactness and versatility.
A strictly necessary soldier’s minimum, calculated for 1-3 days, was supposed to be carried in a duffel bag:
1. Lingerie.
2. Footcloths.
3. Food (crackers, canned goods).
4. Weapon accessories, rags.
5. Personal hygiene products.
6. Ammunition.
In the modified duffel bag, side buckles were added, which around the bag secured the rolling of the overcoat.
It is perfectly clear why the duffel bags were put into operation - for such volumes of carried cargo, a satchel or backpack was simply superfluous.
Quality of the bag:
1. Reliability - you can spoil the "scam" only by spending inhuman efforts. The straps are not torn, he, unlike synthetics, is not afraid of fire.
2. Compactness. The bag folds easily and fits into the jacket pocket. With proper laying, luggage can be compressed to a certain size.
3. Maintainability. If you nevertheless managed to tear / burn the "scam" - you can easily sew it with ordinary threads. He does not "crawl", and the patches applied will hold well.
4. Universality and compliance with tasks.