CamelBak Mil Spec Crux 100oz/3L Short Reservoir - Tactical Hydration Bladder - Faster Water Flow Rate - Leak-Proof Water Bladder - Ergonomic Shape - Big Bite Valve - BPA-Free, Brown

I have an older CamelBak and the original bladder sprung a leak recently. I have the "Camelbak Ambush Mil Spec Antidote Hydration Backpack" and this bladder fits perfectly. It is the same size as the original. It says the bite valve provides more 25% water per sip - but it is the same as the one I had before. No big deal. I was just happy to be able to replace the bladder without having to buy another complete pack.

There's several reasons why this hydration pack is perfect (for me)!First, it's the perfect size for my hiking/outdoor activities. With the varying sizes available, it came down to how much more weight do I want to carry on a 3-5 hour day hike. At max capacity, the Camelback 85 oz (2.5L) Reservoir weighs 5.3 lbs of water. Together with my gear, 40-lbs of gear is the maximum weight that I prefer to carry in my backpack.Second, this size choice was based on what the recommended amount of water was needed: 16 oz (0.5 liters) /hr. I also want to carry extra water, just in case. So this size met my specific needs. So at 85 oz (2.5L) capacity, this will last me up to 5-hrs of hydration.Third, it's the Camelback brand. This model offers the superior manufacturing specs and quality design features for reliability and durability. I don't want failures staying hydrated with fresh water out in the field, especially on hot and humid days, nor do I want my gear to get wet inside the pack. This model offers that security.Overall, it's performed exactly as advertised and is exactly what I was looking for.

The Crux model replaced my previous Antidote version after several years good service. Love the durability, quality, insulation sleeve and covered mouth piece! However, the “corporate developers” have struck again because the unmarked screw down lid is easy to mis-thread.Update 2022: I got used to being careful about “misthreading” the Crux lid closure so no longer get spilled water over the kitchen counter. The insulated drink tube significantly reduces the tube contents from freezing on winter hikes. Time using this product caused me to raise to five stars!

My pack had loops on the shoulder strap for a hydration pack, but no port or designated spot to hold the bladder. The smaller crux fits in a spare compartment on the front and I can snake the hose through the velcro opening. The hose is long enough to fit through my loops. I love the quick release function too! You can fill the bladder without the hose attached and nothing leaks.

Overall great, the cap is more secure and leakproof than the previous generation. The handle is also more ergonomic when filling the reservoir. I dinged it one star due to the fact that the description states that it delivers 25% more water per sip. The hose mine came with is identical to the previous generation. My wife's Crux (sport) has a larger gauge hose and different style bite valve and shutoff. This is still a great product and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a 3L reservoir. It fits well in almost all of my backpacks including ones made specifically for the previous generation mil-spec short 3L reservoirs, such as the USMC hydration pack that is part of the USMC FILBE pack set.

Worked well at keeping 3 liters of clean water in my pack. Could hear it sloshing around while walking but never it leaked a drop and pairs well with a secondary filtration system. Easy to open and refill with the built in handle.

awesome

I predominately use Eberlestock kit for Tactical Operations because their packs have served me well. However, I have not been pleased with the Source hydration reservoirs they include for their hydration systems. Too many issues with leaking and sweating.I decided to replace the Source in my Eberlestock Dagger H7 with this one and I’m very impressed with the upgrade. Haven’t experienced any of the issues like I had with the other brand.For those looking to do the same with their Dagger or other pack model, I highly recommend it. As a note, this 85oz upgrade does fit in Eberlestock’s hydration pockets made for the Source 70oz, plus it gives you a 15oz boost in water capacity.Overall very happy with the purchase and it’s performance. Recommended upgrade.