Carryology & GORUCK Bring Back the GRXC2 Samurai GR1 Backpack

The partnership between Carryology and GORUCK backpacks is a dynamic fusion of expertise and innovation in the world of carry gear. This collaboration represents the pinnacle of functional design, performance, and price where the pioneers of Carryology bring their in-depth knowledge of carrying solutions and GORUCK’s commitment to rugged durability and versatility. Together, they aim to redefine the way we carry our essentials, forging a new frontier in backpack design that seamlessly blends form, function, and durability to meet the diverse needs of modern adventurers and urban nomads alike. A few years ago, the original SAMURAI dropped and now its back. So, if you want one before its gone, act quick, open up your wallet, and tell your wife your paying off the truck because the GRXC2 Samurai GR1 Backpack is going for $700!

GORUCK Coverage on AllOutdoor

GORUCK x Carryology GRXC2 Samurai GR1 Backpack

“Over two years of design and development. The second installment of the GORUCK x Carryology GRXC project has arrived. A legendary Hall of Fame icon inspired by the fierce samurai warriors of Japan’s past. Introducing the GORUCK x Carryology GRXC2 Samurai GR1.
Why samurai? There are nearly infinite warriors to choose from when referencing history and the endless human imagination. Selecting a suitable inspiration isn’t a science, but we did consider the previous GRXC1’s character in the process. “Guerrilla X”, our fictional soldier from the future that was brought to life via Dan Matsuda’s illustration. For GRXC2, we went in the polar opposite direction: a well-known, nonfictional, warrior from history.
We wanted to use the best example of Japanese cotton fabric on the exterior of the ruck that we could find. So we spent 19+ months developing the ultimate material to build our original, classic GR1 out of. Completely inspired by the samurai’s Yoroi Hitatare (clothing worn under their iconic armor), taking experts from Japan and the USA to create, it is Japanese Denim elevated. We call it JPXDP 17oz Black Samurai Sashiko.”

Patch handmade by Tatsuhito Imamura-san of Kyoto Armor in Japan
Samurai artwork designed by Jiro Yaguchi of Onizuka Tattoo in Los Angeles
Black leather base on top handle and on shoulder strap details
Quick access pocket under top handle
Redesigned rainflap for ease of use – denim will break in to be ultra smooth.
Custom Auxikko geometric pattern printed internally on hi-vis red 500D Cordura nylon
PALS webbing on extra-padded shoulder straps
Opens Flat making it easier to pack and organize
Extra Padded Shoulder straps and top handle to carry heavier loads more comfortably
YKK zippers with glove-friendly Japanese braided silk rope zipper pulls
Bombproof Laptop Compartment next to your back is extra reinforced and has a false bottom so that when you set your ruck down, your laptop won’t even notice
A removable, hard plastic frame sheet stabilizes the laptop compartment and allows you to carry more weight comfortably.
Multiple Pockets: 3 internal pockets: 1 large elastic pocket, 1 large mesh zippered pocket, and 1 small go-to pocket.
External Slant Pocket: 1 external slant pocket for quick access to keys snacks, and other small items.
Rainproof: Our rucks are highly water resistant aka rainproof.
Perfect Travel Size: TSA Compliant and fits under the seat in front of you.
Proudly overbuilt in the USA with USA and Japanese materials
Scars Lifetime Guarantee

Specs and Materials – GRXC2 Samurai GR1 Backpack

Primary material: JPXDP 17oz Black Samurai Sashiko
Back panel: 500D Cordura
Inner shoulder straps: 500D Cordura
Internal liner material: 500D Cordura Nylon
21L Dimensions: 11.5″W x 18″H x 5.5″D / 21L Weight: 3.05 LBS
26L Dimensions: 12″W x 20″H x 6.75″D / 26L Weight: 3.4 LBS
Laptop Protection: Up to 16″
Hidden Top Handle Pocket: 9″W x 4.5″D
External Slant Pocket: 21L: 11″W x 10″H / 26L: 11.5″W x 12.5″H
Internal Elastic Pocket: 21L: 11″W x 10″H / 26L: 11.5″W x 11″H
Internal Mesh Pocket: 21L: 11″W x 10″H / 26L: 11.5″W x 12.5″H
Internal Stash Pocket: 21L: 11″W x 6″H / 26L: 11.5″W x 6″H

While I do consider myself a carry snob at this point and do own a GR1 Heritage that costs around $400, the price of the SAMURAI seams pretty crazy to me. Maybe I’ll change my mind on it if I had one in hand and could test it out. If you are interested in picking up this one-of-a-kind backpack, act fast because this is one that is sure to be gone quickly.

Patrik Orcutt

Patrik Orcutt is currently a writer for AllOutdoor who has chosen not to write a short bio at this time.