Molle and Alice are the military acronyms referring to a set of load-carrying systems. These are the two different styles of rucksacks used by army men of different especially.
These backpacks are categorically designed for military men to serve in the field with the necessary variations and specifications.
These military backpacks are not just confined to carrying the necessary tools used by army men. Nowadays, these have added to the styles of backpacks used by camping, hunting, boating enthusiasts, and other heavy outdoor activities.
Key Takeaways
- Alice packs are older military backpack designs, while MOLLE packs are more modern and modular.
- MOLLE packs offer greater customization options due to their PALS webbing system for attaching additional gear.
- Alice packs have a simpler design and fewer compartments, while MOLLE packs include more organizational features.
ALICE Packs vs MOLLE Packs
Alice packs are economical or cost-effective, while Molle packs are relatively expensive. Alice packs have two components, and Molle packs have three components. Alice pack is said to have more durability since it is made with metals, whereas Mole packs are made with plastic making it plastic.
Alice stands for All-Purpose Light Weight Individual Carrying Equipment was introduced by the US military in 1973. Presently, this style has been eliminated from the service except for a few people.
It is a two-component system that features many exterior pockets and one large internal compartment.
Molle stands for Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment, invented in 1997 by an R&D division of the US military. It is still used to the present day by the US Army as well as NATO armed forces.
It was not popular enough throughout the military until about the early 2000s. But it has taken over the former now.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparsion | Alice Packs | Molle Packs |
|---|---|---|
| Stands for | All-Purpose Light Weight Individual Carrying Equipment | Modular Lightweight Load Carrying Equipment |
| No. of Components | Two components, i.e., Existence load and Fighting load components | Three components, i.e., Hydration bladder, Fighting load and Modular pouches |
| Invention year | 1973 | 1997 |
| Size | 1456 to 3800 cubic inches | 2000 to 4000 cubic inches |
| Advantage | Strength and security | Accessibility, mobility and customization |
| Disadvantage | Inaccessible pockets | Fragile frame, not waterproof |
| Cost | Economical | Relatively expensive |
What is ALICE packs?
The expansion of ALICE is All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment. It was acquired by the US military in Vietnam in 1973. It is not used as much recently.
The minimum size of the Alice pack is 1456 cubic inches extending up to 3800 cubic inches. It is a two-component system that features many exterior pockets and one large internal compartment.
One of the components, that is, the Existence load component includes the belt system, two small cases for first aid dressing and small arms ammunition, entrenching tool carrier, a canteen cover, and suspenders.
The other component called the Fighting load component, includes the cover, frame, and the bag itself.
This style of rucksack is advantageous owing to its vigorousness. Because it can carry hefty stuff as it is made up of strong frames.
It can be used with the frame or even without it, as it consists of the external frame that manages the complete load.
This pack is moisture resistant and needs no zippers for enclosing lots of gear carried in only one large bag, making it convenient.
The disadvantage associated with the Alice rucksack is its feature of accommodating heavy loads as it makes it uncomfortable to bear on the back.
What is MOLLE packs?
The expansion of MOLLE is Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment. It was adopted in 1997 by the US military in Afghanistan and then in Iraq.
It is still in use by the US and many other military units, and in fact, it is most popular at the current time. The minimum size of the Molle pack is 2000 cubic inches extending up to 4000 cubic inches.
It has mainly three components, such as a Hydration bladder, a Fighting load, and Modular pouches for carrying lashing gear and equipment.
Molle system is based on PALS, that is Pouch Attachment Ladder System which is the system of nylon webbing used on modern gear.
Gear attachment is made easy, fast, and simple due to the reliable strap system, and it can also be customized as per the need.
It has multiple locking pouches to hold various items. It becomes easy to carry water with the hydration bladder.
This system possesses zippers for enclosing the gear, which is highly untrustworthy. And its weak external frame cast out of plastic is a major drawback that dwindles its durability.
Also, its external pockets are likely to obstruct during hiking.
Main Differences Between ALICE and MOLLE Packs
- Owing to its ruggedness, the Alice pack is said to have great durability with metal straps and a strong external frame. On the other hand, the frame in the Molle backpack is made up of plastic which makes it relatively less reliable.
- Alice is cost-effective as compared to Molle.
- In the Alice pack, pockets for stuff like water bottles are inaccessible, while the Molle pack is renowned for its modularity, i.e., it has several pockets for hauling some of the things.
- Alice has the strap system for enclosing the gear, whereas Molle uses zippers for the same.
- Alice promises security and strength. Molle ensures accessibility, modification, and customization.
- Alice’s size may vary from 1456 to 3800 cubic inches, while that of Molle may extend from 2000 to 4000 cubic inches.
Last Updated : 05 August, 2023
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Piyush Yadav has spent the past 25 years working as a physicist in the local community. He is a physicist passionate about making science more accessible to our readers. He holds a BSc in Natural Sciences and Post Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science. You can read more about him on his bio page.
The historical context of the ALICE and MOLLE packs is fascinating.
It’s always great to learn the background of these military pack systems.
The detailed overview of the structure and features of the ALICE and MOLLE packs is very informative.
I couldn’t agree more.
The advantages and disadvantages of both packs are presented very clearly. Thank you for the information.
I second that.
It’s interesting to note the different periods of adoption for these two pack systems.
Definitely.
The comparison has made it clear for me which pack would suit my needs better. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful.
Thank you for the comparison. It’s interesting to learn about the differences between the ALICE and MOLLE packs.
I agree. This is really informative.
This was a great read. Very informative.
The table provides a simple yet comprehensive overview. It’s helpful to see the key differences side by side.
Absolutely. The comparison table is very useful.
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The detailed descriptions of both packs are really valuable.
I couldn’t agree more.
This article provided an excellent analysis of the ALICE and MOLLE packs.
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Absolutely.