It’s fascinating, isn't it? How a relatively small operation from Southern California can cultivate such a fervent following for a single product. The GWA Citadel backpack, specifically, has this almost cult-like status within the EDC (Everyday Carry) community. When these packs drop, they vanish, and then quickly reappear on the secondary market, often at a premium. This isn't just hype; it suggests something genuinely special is going on.
I had the chance to get my hands on all three generations of the Citadel, plus a couple of special editions born from a collaboration with Superior Defense. Lining them up side-by-side, you start to see the subtle, yet significant, evolution. The overall silhouette remains remarkably consistent – a testament to the original design's strength – but the refinements are clear, each iteration building on the last.
What exactly is it about this 24-liter pack that gets people so excited? Let's break it down.
The Foundation: Design and Materials
The Citadel's journey began with a commitment to all-American materials and labor, a philosophy that underpins its initial launch after years of design and prototyping. At 24 liters, it hits that sweet spot for daily use, capable of swallowing a surprising amount of gear without feeling bulky. Its footprint is comparable to other well-regarded packs like the GORUCK GR1 26L or the Evergoods CPL 28, offering a similar carrying capacity.
From day one, GWA has opted for robust 1000D CORDURA® for the exterior, a material I personally appreciate for its durability. Interestingly, it doesn't feel quite as abrasive as some other implementations of 1000D CORDURA® I've encountered. Complementing the CORDURA®, you'll find panels of Tweave Durastretch® on the lower organization pocket and the exterior water bottle pocket, adding a touch of flexibility and resilience.
Functionality and Refinements
The Citadel boasts a full clamshell opening, making packing and accessing your gear a breeze. YKK #8 zippers are used throughout, providing that smooth, reliable action we all look for. The original pulls were made from gutted paracord, though the example I examined had been modified with GORUCK-style pulls. You'll also find external compression buckles, useful for cinching down the load or, if left clipped, allowing the bag to function more like a top-loader.
External quick-access pockets offer organization slots, but it's worth noting they don't have their own distinct volume. Anything you stash there will push into the main compartment, and vice versa. In the first generation, these upper pockets featured three equally sized slots, a detail that saw some alteration in later runs.
Comfort and Carry
Comfort is clearly a priority. The back panel features raised padded mesh sections designed to promote airflow and distribute weight evenly. While the padding is generally sufficient, I did notice that when the pack was fully loaded, the lumbar pad became quite pronounced. Your experience might differ, of course.
The shoulder straps are lined with that same grippy Tweave material, contoured for a comfortable fit, and include a non-removable 1" sternum strap. (Again, the example I had featured a modified Fidlock slider buckle). For added convenience, the back panel includes unpadded grab handles on either side, making it easy to maneuver the pack on and off.
The Water Bottle Pocket
Even the water bottle pocket is thoughtfully designed. It can comfortably accommodate larger bottles, like a 32oz Nalgene. The original generation featured an asymmetrical design with a single bottle pocket on one side and MOLLE attachment points on the other, offering a blend of utility and dedicated storage.
It's this meticulous attention to detail, the thoughtful evolution based on real-world use, and the robust construction that likely fuels the GWA Citadel's devoted following. It’s more than just a backpack; it’s a carefully crafted tool that resonates deeply with those who rely on their gear every single day.
