Maxpedition Janus Extension Pocket

I thought I would like the Janus Extension Pocket for my Maxpedition Gearslinger, but in truth I absolutely LOVE IT ! This unit has multiple ways of being attached to just about anything, but I normally have it slide through the shoulder harness. When I don't need it, it is pushed along to where it meets the Gearslinger. When I need something from it, the pocket easily slides up to where I can obtain the important things - the things I need right away.Here is how I use mine, and perhaps this might help you.There is a strap in pocket on the front and back, and this holds securely my wallet on one side, and my moleskine notebook on the other side. They are used frequently, but not as often as my cell phone, and my Blackberry Torch fits right between these two. At first I found that it was tight, and was afraid that I would "pocket dial" someone, but here is a trick. I have two USB sticks, one with applications that I use in the field, and the other holds data that I need from time to time. There are elastic loops that hold things in place. Why I do is place the USB sticks in so that they lay flat, but then turn them 90 degrees. This has for the past few weeks, made a pocket within the pocket. It keeps the sides from collapsing in on my touch sensitive Blackberry. This has worked very well for my purposes.There are additional loops and such to keep small items always very handy, but the details of this would be very much an individual thing.On the outside, there is a tight tube of material that very nicely holds my extra large Cold Steel Voyager Tactical Folder. It is largely out of the way so that things don't get caught on it somehow, and is not offensively in view. Yet, very easily taken out.The very bottom of the Janus pocket has another tight loop of material that would allow for "hiding" many things, but being far more academic than adventurer, I keep a sharpie which I load through one side, and an all important red pen from the other. They fit there securely, and have very good accessibility. You would be surprised the number of things that need my initials or signature on any given day. This I have found to be exceptionally convenient.The bungee like cord that crosses the hook and loop field, has held my leather gloves previously. When I start off hiking, I am already warm from the car; but with time it can get cooler, or even cold. Having such quick and ready access to my gloves is another advantage, and lets me keep walking without having to stop, and go through my pack. Even when I walk to work, this is a wonderful feature. I am sure that there are other uses for that; but this is the one that I use.Like all Maxpedition products, the pocket is made to very high standards. I am very happy with this purchase, and can see that it will easily be a permanent fixture to whatever pack I am using for the day.

I bought this to carry my cell phone in an oversized waterproof case on the shoulder strap of my backpacking rig. It performed just fine for that, despite getting caught in a rainstorm. Since that adventure it's become my "go-bag" for when I'm on call for work. It holds my essential tools, spare cell phone batteries, ID's, cards, and keys in a compact package that's easy to toss in the trunk or in a pack.The pocket is not waterproof, but does drain well.I've found the extension strap makes any of my Maxped bags' straps too long, so I don't use it. I'm 6'2" - 6'3" 220 lbs, medium build.The pouch works just fine attached via the webbing or slung on the existing strap on your bag or pack.Materials are all top of the line, reinforced where necessary and well assembled.This pouch is easy to overstuff.As with all Maxpedition pouches and bags, it is expensive for what it is. It's also the only one you'll need to buy because it will probably last the rest of your life.

Great workmanship great material used. Is as advertised.

Good all around pouch with lots of options

I use this on my bicycle bag / laptop bag every day. It is a convenience item and does a good job. As with most Maxpedition items, they come with a premium price tag and this item is no different. 100% honest, I don't like the price even at $27. BUT... it is one of the most useful and flexible Maxpedition items I have purchased. A couple points:1. This is fully reversible, up, down, open left, open right, velcro out, MOLLE / PALS out... you can do it anyway you want.2. You do not have to use the extension strap. Remove it with a butter knife and you can slide it on any strap within reason. Belt, backpack, onto PALS webbing... it will do it all. Heck, buy the UTG knock off bag and slip this on... it will work.So lets hit some pros and cons:Pros:** As with all Maxpedition stuff, it is made very well with heavier than normal material.** Flexibility of use is really great. See my above comments.** The size of the product makes it very useful. Cell phone and small items are perfect. Almost big enough for a Glock 26.** The extension strap works with Versipacks nicely and it easily removed.Cons:** The shock cord has very few uses and it more of a hassle. Removal is simple though.** Too many little pockets on the inside. Could have cut down on these and kept the same level of usefulness.** Cost... still think this is over priced.

Maxpedition makes quality gear, no questions about that. Lightweight, sturdy and compact. What else do you need?