Herbie Murray
Military sleeping bags have been popular among outdoor enthusiasts due to their durability and affordability. The Modular Sleep System (MSS) bags, for example, come in four or five parts, including a lightweight patrol bag, an intermediate bag, a compression bag, and a bivy cover. The bivy cover, or bivy sack, is a lightweight, portable shelter that can be quickly set up to protect from rain, wind, and snow. It is compatible with the sleeping bag system and can be used independently or together with the other components. While newer sleeping bags are lighter and more versatile, older military sleeping bags are still sought after by some. Are the new generation military sleeping bags compatible with older bivy systems?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To provide a good night's sleep for outdoor enthusiasts |
| Traditional bivy bag | Lightweight, compact, tube-shaped shelter that encases a sleeping bag, with a small opening for the face |
| Hooped bivy bag | Lightweight, flexible pole creates a dome-like structure, providing more room for the upper body |
| Bivy cover | Waterproof, windproof, anti-mosquito, and useful in emergencies |
| Modular Sleep System (MSS) | Four or five parts, rated between 50 and -50 degrees Fahrenheit, customisable, relatively low maintenance |
| Patrol bag | Lightweight, rated between 30 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Intermediate bag | Rated for 30 degrees to -10 degrees Fahrenheit, newer "urban gray" model is lighter than the older black model |
| Compression bag | Modern addition that compresses the MSS to one cubic foot |
| Compatibility | Newer and older military sleeping bags can be used together or independently |
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What You'll Learn
- The Modular Sleep System (MSS) is customisable and can be used in varying weather conditions
- The MSS is heavy and bulky when packed together, but components can be used separately
- The bivy cover is waterproof and can be used in emergencies
- The MSS is more expensive than civilian bags but offers better insulation
- The MSS has improved in weight and temperature rating over the years
The Modular Sleep System (MSS) is customisable and can be used in varying weather conditions
The Modular Sleep System (MSS) is a US Military sleep system designed to allow soldiers to remain in the field under a wide range of conditions. The system is highly customisable, with components that can be used independently or in combination.
The MSS is made up of four or five pieces, depending on the model. The four-piece system includes two sleeping bags, a bivy bag, and a stuff sack. The five-piece system includes the same components as the four-piece system, with the addition of a compression bag. The compression bag is a useful, modern addition that can compress the MSS down to one cubic foot. The two sleeping bags included in the MSS are the Patrol bag and the Intermediate Cold Weather bag. Each bag is fully functional on its own and can be used in combination for additional warmth. The Patrol bag is designed for warm weather use and is rated for temperatures between 30°F and 50°F. The Intermediate Cold Weather bag can be used independently in temperatures down to 10°F and can be snapped inside the Patrol bag for additional warmth in temperatures down to 30°F.
The bivy bag is another key component of the MSS. It can be used alone in warm weather or snapped over the patrol and/or cold-weather sleeping bags to provide protection from wind, rain, snow, and wet ground. The bivy bag is made of waterproof and windproof Gore-Tex™ fabric with heat-sealed seams, ensuring that users stay dry. The fabric is also breathable, allowing sweat to evaporate instead of condensing inside the bag. When all three components of the MSS are used together, the system is rated to provide four hours of sleep at -40°F. With the addition of some extreme weather clothing, the system is purported to accommodate temperatures down to 50°F.
The MSS offers a highly customisable and versatile sleep system, allowing users to adjust to varying weather conditions. The system can be adapted to provide comfort and protection in a wide range of environments, from mild weather to extremely cold conditions. The interchangeable nature of the components ensures that users can tailor the system to their specific needs and preferences.
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The MSS is heavy and bulky when packed together, but components can be used separately
The Modular Sleep System (MSS) is a military sleeping bag system that offers versatility in different weather conditions. It is designed to provide insulation in a range of environments, from mild to extremely cold weather. While the MSS is a comprehensive system, its bulkiness and weight can be a drawback, especially when packing for outdoor adventures. The MSS typically consists of multiple components, including sleeping bags and a bivy cover, which can be used individually or in combination.
The MSS usually includes a lightweight patrol bag rated for warmer temperatures, an intermediate bag for colder conditions, and a bivy cover for additional protection. These components can be used separately, depending on the weather and specific needs. For instance, in moderate weather, the patrol bag and bivy cover can be utilised without the intermediate bag, reducing the overall bulk and weight.
The bivy cover, a crucial component of the MSS, serves as a personal tent. It is designed to be water-resistant and breathable, protecting the user from rain, wind, and snow. This cover can be used independently in emergencies or during hot weather when a sleeping bag is not required. The bivy cover's versatility allows for a more comfortable night's sleep in various conditions.
While the MSS offers flexibility in its component usage, it is important to consider the weight and bulk of each item. The patrol bag, for example, may be rated for warmer temperatures, but it still carries some weight. Similarly, the intermediate bag, designed for colder temperatures, will add bulk to the overall system. Therefore, when packing for an outdoor trip, it is essential to carefully select the components needed to strike a balance between comfort and portability.
The MSS provides a customisable solution for military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts facing varying weather conditions. By using the components separately or in combination, individuals can adapt to their specific needs. However, the weight and bulk of the MSS remain a consideration, especially when packing for extended trips or in moderate weather conditions. The ability to use the components separately offers a degree of flexibility, ensuring that users can stay warm, dry, and comfortable without always having to carry the entire system.
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The bivy cover is waterproof and can be used in emergencies
The bivy cover is a crucial component of military sleeping bag systems, providing essential protection from the elements. It is designed to be waterproof, ensuring that individuals can remain dry even in harsh weather conditions. The waterproof capability of the bivy cover is further enhanced by its ability to repel water, as evidenced by reviews of the Modular Sleep System (MSS) by Tennier Industries.
The bivy cover's waterproof feature makes it particularly useful in emergencies, where it can serve as a temporary shelter. Its compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for emergency situations, as it can be quickly set up to provide immediate protection. The bivy cover can be used independently, without the need for a full sleeping bag system, making it a versatile option for emergency preparedness.
In addition to its waterproof capabilities, the bivy cover also offers breathability, preventing moisture from building up inside the sleeping bag. This feature is crucial in preventing hypothermia and ensuring the user's safety. The bivy cover's design includes a small opening for the face, allowing individuals to breathe comfortably while remaining protected from the elements.
The bivy cover's compatibility with older and newer sleeping bag systems makes it a versatile option for military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts. Its durability and ability to withstand varying weather conditions make it a reliable choice for emergency situations. Whether used as a standalone shelter or in conjunction with a sleeping bag system, the bivy cover provides a vital layer of protection in challenging environments.
Overall, the bivy cover's waterproof capabilities, breathability, and versatility make it an indispensable tool for emergency preparedness, ensuring that individuals can endure harsh conditions and increase their chances of survival. Its lightweight and compact design, coupled with its durability, make it a valuable asset for military personnel, hikers, and campers alike.
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The MSS is more expensive than civilian bags but offers better insulation
The Modular Sleep System (MSS) is a modern military sleep system that offers better insulation than civilian bags. It is made by Tennier Industries and comes in four or five parts, including a lightweight patrol bag, an intermediate bag, and a bivy. The MSS is designed to provide insulation in a range of climates and conditions, from mild to extremely cold weather. It is rated between 50 and -50 degrees Fahrenheit, with the lightweight patrol bag rated for between 30 and 50 degrees and the intermediate bag rated for 30 degrees to -10 degrees.
While the MSS is more expensive than civilian sleeping bags, it offers superior insulation and protection against the elements. The synthetic insulation used in the MSS allows the bag to dry quickly and retain heat even when wet. This is especially useful for camping in cold and wet environments, as the bag will keep the user warm and comfortable even if the interior gets damp. The MSS also features a water-resistant outer shell and a Gore-Tex bivy cover, providing additional protection against rain and snow while maintaining breathability.
The MSS's durability and toughness set it apart from many civilian models. It is designed to withstand harsh conditions, including drenching monsoons and thunderstorms, and its camouflage pattern is useful for military personnel. The MSS is also sized to accommodate most sleeping bags, making it a versatile option. Its generous cut and length allow it to serve as a good over-bag for warmer civilian inner bags.
While the MSS offers excellent insulation and protection, it is important to consider its weight. The system is on the heavier side, weighing around 2.35 lbs, which may be a factor for those looking for lightweight sleep systems. However, the MSS's durability and insulation capabilities make it a reliable choice for those facing challenging conditions.
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The MSS has improved in weight and temperature rating over the years
The Modular Sleep System (MSS) is a combination of sleeping components designed to allow soldiers to stay in the field under a wide range of conditions. The system consists of two sleeping bags, a bivy bag, and a stuff sack. The two sleeping bags and the bivy can be used independently or in combination.
The MSS was introduced around 1988 and has changed little since then. Over the years, the MSS has improved in terms of weight and temperature rating. The newer "urban grey" intermediate bag is much lighter than the older black model due to improvements in fill material, but it retains the same temperature rating. The full MSS kit weighs around seven pounds, but newer models are estimated to weigh closer to 5.5-6 pounds assembled.
The MSS has a temperature rating of between 50 and -50 degrees Fahrenheit. The lightweight patrol bag is rated for between 30 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, while the intermediate bag is rated for 30 degrees to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. The MSS can be further customised to withstand colder temperatures by inserting the Intermediate Cold Weather bag inside the Patrol bag, which is compatible with the vapor permeable bivy cover.
The bivy bag is very basic in design, with a zipper and button snaps to attach it to the sleeping bags. It is water-resistant and has a cover over the face, which is useful in cold weather. The simplicity and versatility of the MSS are appreciated by users, who note that it can replace a tent in some conditions.
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Frequently asked questions
Bivy is short for bivouac, which means temporary shelter. It is a lightweight, compact, and portable shelter that can be quickly set up to protect you from the elements. It is designed to cover your sleeping bag and provide an additional layer of protection against rain, wind, and snow.
The new Modular Sleep System (MSS) bags are made by Tennier Industries and come in four or five parts, including a lightweight patrol bag, an intermediate bag, and a bivy cover. They are lighter than the older bags and more versatile, but also more expensive. The older MSS bags are heavier and bulkier but have the same temperature rating as the newer ones.
Yes, the new generation military sleeping bags are compatible with older bivy. The bivy cover is a separate component that can be used with different sleeping bag systems. It is water-resistant and has a cover over the face, which is useful in cold weather.
