Vic Firth Vic Pack

Vic Firth Vic Pack

I recently managed to get my hands on a new product called the ‘VicPack’, which I had previously seen on both the Vic Firth website and in the catalogue. Knowing that I had to travel to college on the tube everyday with sticks, books, pens, paper, laptop etc, I felt that by purchasing a bag that is said to be ‘For drummers with more to carry than sticks’, it would save me from struggling on my commute in and out of central London.

The first thing that I can say after having used the backpack for the past two weeks, is that this product does exactly what it says ‘on the tin’ (pardon the expression); it’s a bag for travelling drummers who may not have the luxury of a car.

One of the most obvious features of the VicPack is the detachable stick bag which easily mounts on the backpack using a heavy duty zip. The stick bag itself is of a very high quality, made from water resistant nylon and it features three inside pockets capable of holding 12 pairs of sticks at any one time. It also comes with two small zipped pockets on the outside that can be used for storing any smaller items needed. In some ways the stick bag featured is of a better quality, compared to some of the basic models that Vic Firth offers.

The backpack itself is made from the same water resistant nylon with heavy duty zippers. The bag dimensions are 21" x 13"   which may seem a little on the large side but, the bag includes two ‘full-zip’ padded compartments, one with a removable laptop insert, with enough room for a large practise pad and the other for music, books, files, CDs, valuables etc. These two compartments could also be used for carrying small percussion instruments, accessories or hardware. The shoulder straps are padded which make it very comfortable to use, and a mesh pocket on the side of the bag offers quick access to a water bottle.

The only downside to this product in my mind is the price. When I asked a large number of my class mates how much they thought the VicPack was, the average price ended up being between £50-£60. In fact the RRP is £95.50, which seems rather a lot for the products intended audience, that said if you phone around you should be able to pick one up for around the £80 mark. Virtually no shops in the UK hold this product in stock (maybe due to the price), but I understand the UK distributor, Korg, always have them available in their UK warehouse, so if and when you wish to purchase the VicPack just ask your local drum store to order one in for you.

This is a great product; and the first of its kind. It is very comfortable on your shoulders and doesn’t put any strain on your back when it is full with books and sticks etc.  It is well designed and manufactured to a very high standard, but in these times when people want something for nothing, you’re going to have to shell out for a great product such as this!

Alex Todd