Introduction

A hydration pack is a type of hydration system built as a backpack or waist pack containing a reservoir or "bladder" commonly made of rubber or flexible plastic. The reservoir contains a capped mouth for filling with liquid and a hose that allows the wearer to drink hands-free. Most hoses end with a "bite valve" that opens when the user bites down on it; the valve may be protected by a dust cover. Some hydration packs are insulated to keep water from freezing or becoming warm. Reservoir sizes commonly range from 1.5 to 3.0 liters. Some of the latest developments include hydration packs that have pressurized hydration bladders which will force water through an in-line-filter allowing the user access to clean water on the go. [Wikipedia excerpt]

The Hydramax MOLLE II hydration bladder is standard issue equipment in the US armed forces and features:
• Dimensions: 19″ x 7.5″
• M.O.L.L.E. II backpack pouch will strap or clip other items to back of carrier
• Carrying handle at the top and one in the center
• Cordura outer shell for abrasion resistance laminated to a foam insulated inner lining to help keep water cool
• Adjustable chest and shoulder straps
• Integrated shoulder strap assembly for carrying, and pull handles located on the top and front of the system to help locate when in rucksack or assault pack
• Quick slide release buckles
• D-rings for attachment points
• PALS webbing on the front allows for the attachment of MOLLE-compatible accessories

Review

This is a review of Live Resin’s latest offering in 1/35 scale: US Military Issue Hydramax Water Hydration Unit System on Tactical ITW Nexus Grimloc D-Ring Locking Molle II Carabiner [set LRE-35113]

Live Resin products come in a standard zip-lock plastic bag clamped in a cardboard 3D box-art. The front image is showing the parts layout, while the back image illustrates how to integrate the parts on a body armor also released by Live Resin.

The set includes 4 Hydramax bladders as well as 4 bite valves. The molding blocks are numbered 35113A for the bladders and 35113B for the valves. Like always, the casting is as superb. There are no imperfections, bubbles, no flash or any other types of defects in this sample. The molding stubs are very thin and it will be very easy to detach everything from the blocks. A few light passes with a sharp blade and you’ll be on your way.

The bladders are very sharp in detail. Everything is nicely molded. Each molding block features two bladders that even differentiate in the position of the pouring caps. Also featured are a center grab handle and some PALS webbing. To connect it to the back of the figure 4 GrimLoc karabiners are molded. These are very fragile, as evident per the photos in the review (mine got snapped off in transport). Check out the back of the packaging to see the way how these are supposed to fit together. The only thing you need to add is a drinking hose that leads from the bladder to the bite valve provided on a separate molding block. The valves are also very thin and need taking care while removing.

Conclusion

Very cool addition for your figures. I really love how LR things work together and bring attention and focus to figures. Usually neglected, the back of the figures give plenty of options to differentiate specific figures in a diorama or vignettes. Add assault packs, pouches and in this case hydration bladders and you’ll bring even more details to your figures. These are a very welcome release in the accessory department.