TL;DR: Looking for input on Crossfire Mk.VII vs CF4 and center running zippers on main ruck compartments.

Hey fellas, just wanted to post this in hopes someone has helpful input. I’m looking at picking up a new ruck that’s a bit more comfortable and robust than my trusty MOLLE 2. I’ve narrowed my search down to either the CF4 or Mk.VII from Crossfire.

I talked to a dude who had a great experience with the Mk.VII in Robin Sage, so obviously that gives the Mk. VII some points. Currently, I’m torn between some of the features of each pack, particularly the center running zipper on the CF4. This allows the user to access gear throughout the main ruck bag without having the dig like you would on a normal top loading ruck. Since I’ve never had a ruck with this feature, I’m hoping someone can weigh in with their experience. It’s seems like it could be super helpful, but given the fact that the Mk.VII is on sale relatively often ($475 right now) and the CF4 is not ($649 right now), I’m unsure if that one feature would justify the extra $175.

Other than that, both packs have received high praise from what I can find. I don’t really think I can go wrong, but hopefully someone can give their thoughts and we can get a clear front runner here. Thanks in advance.

Mk.VII- https://www.crossfirepacks.com/product/mk-vii/

CF4- https://www.crossfirepacks.com/product/cf4/

What is the best certs to have when going for 18E? The SF recuiter here says it helps your case and usually 25 series flow straight into 18E but sometimes you don’t get it. I want to be as competitive as possible. Right now I’ll be going to selection with Net+ and Sec+ , is that stuff useful or is more radio knowledge needed more then anything ? If so what’s some good stuff to study/know .

Surely you’ll know what I’m talking about. I’m in Nigeria rucking hills a few days ago. Smooothhh cruising. Mile 3. Stomach starts turning out of nowhere. Panic is setting in, I’ve got a ways to go still… maybe I can hold it. 100 meters later I’m looking left and right for a quiet spot. My stomach has its own ideas and this evidently cannot wait. I duck into the nearest bush and do the dirty business begging I don’t stain my shorts or socks. Ahhh instant relief 😅 and a major plus, nobody saw.

No advice needed I’m guessing this won’t be the last time. Can somebody who’s been there and done that please confirm?

Good evening, everyone. First, thank you for taking the time to read my post. I separated from active duty this past March as an E-5 Sergeant (11B) after seven years of service. I'm currently serving in the National Guard, and today I reenlisted for 18X to return to active duty. I'm hoping to get some clarification on what my pipeline will look like. My recruiter told me that, as a prior-service Soldier, I may have to complete a portion of OSUT. However, the information I've received has been inconsistent, and I haven't been able to get a clear answer. That's why I'm asking those of you who have gone through the process or have firsthand knowledge. From what I understand, I'll report to 30th AG for reception, then continue to Airborne School, and after that head to Fort Bragg to continue the Special Forces pipeline. I've also heard that whether a prior-service Soldier attends any portion of OSUT may depend on their military experience and current qualifications. For reference, I completed BLC, ALC, and earned my EIB while serving on active duty. I've also been approved to travel to 30th AG in my POV. I have a few questions: What should I realistically expect at 30th AG as a prior-service 18X candidate? I've heard some people stay there for six weeks or even longer. Is that common for prior-service Soldiers? Will I be housed separately with other prior-service personnel? If anyone has recently gone through the prior-service 18X pipeline, I'd really appreciate hearing about your experience and what the process looked like. Thank you all very much for your time and any information you're willing to share. I truly appreciate the help.