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Atlas Molecule 50 - Structure and equipment
Since we were out for 2 days on a hike with an overnight stay in the forest camp and another in the garden of the Schweizerhof in Großerlach, we received the Trekking backpack Molecule 50 from the Atlas Lightweight series.
This backpack is available in two different sizes, Regular and Long, for that reason it is not adjustable in size. Regular has a volume of 48 liters and weighs 1050 grams, the back length is 55 cm long. Long has a volume of 53 liters and weighs 1160 grams, the back length here is 64 cm.
| Regular | Long | |
| Volume | 48 Liter | 53 Liter |
| Weight | 1.050 g | 1.160 g |
| Back Length | 55 cm | 64 cm |
In addition to the two outer mesh side pockets, there are numerous attachment options for poles, ice axes and helmets. The roll-top closure with zipper allows the backpack to hold an additional 15 liters of extra volume. To save weight, the lift lid, the side pocket on the hip belt and all unnecessary cords can be removed. This allows the backpack to be slimmed down to 900 grams.
The Survival Trip
The first thing we noticed was how much more room we had in the Molecule compared to our own backpacks. Suddenly there was space for sleeping pad and sleeping bag, some of could even pack their tent into the backpack. Putting on the backpack, we experienced the next surprise, it was much lighter than our own.
Perfectly packed, with the wide comfortable hip belt to take off the weight of the back and the chest strap to have the backpack close to the body, we set out on the first day hike. Divided into three groups, we had to solve different tasks every day. These had to be mastered successfully and quickly in order to arrive at the destination as quickly as possible. We had to reach this destination independently using just a map and compass.
Contrary to my fear that shoulders and neck would hurt in the evening after a 4-hour hike with full equipment, my body recovered after a short while and we were able to go in search of wood for our campfire. After our delicious dinner and Douglas fir tea we could recharge our batteries in our tents.
As expected, the second day was more challenging. All teams were sent on different routes with different challenges back to the Schweizerhof. On a march of about 20 kilometers, with mountain slopes that we had to pull ourselves up, as well as larger and smaller detours, a gorge was waiting for us. As a final highlight we should cross it hanging on a rope together with our backpacks. My backpack handled it better than I did! But even after this long tour, my feet and legs hurt, but neither my back nor my shoulders.
Challenge Day
The last day our backpacks were allowed to take a break until departure. We again got the chance to show our courage and endurance in various challenges. First, we had a second breakfast with different grasses and (unfortunately) also some proteins in form of dried maggots. In further tasks we had to prove our skills in knot tying and slingshot shooting. With a lot of effort, we had to rescue people and rope them down. The last task was probably the hottest. Here, a fire had to be stoked with self-gathered materials from the forest. First it had to melt a cord and, after a transport, bring water to boil.
At the end all teams got prizes for the effort. Many thanks here to BACH and 'Live the wilderness'. After a last culinary highlight, this time really, a vegan buffet from Anja, who had already spoiled us on arrival, the farewell followed. We felt very comfortable at the Schweizerhof, with Anja, Michael and Fanta (a German Shepherd). Exhausted, but in a good mood, we started in all directions after this great, exciting, fun and perfectly planned event. We are already looking forward to the next WildernessNight.
Conclusion about the backpack
The BACH Molecule 50 not only scored very well with me, the feedback from the other participants was also very positive. Everyone was impressed about how comfortable and lightweight it is and still robust. The reinforced material in the areas which are more worn is also easily washable. That was necessary after our trip in the forest. The silver inner liner is extremely convenient for finding stuff faster. The many closure options are also very good, as the backpack is only ever as big as necessary and does not require heavy closure buckles. The Molecule 50 is available in blue, black and yellow.
