How To Choose a Military Sleep System (MSS) For Your Mission

Finding the right Military Sleep System (MSS) can make or break your mission success.

A good sleep system keeps you warm in temps down to below 0°F with proper layering. I’ve found that the Elite Survival Systems Recon 2 and Recon 3 bags give you top options for different weather needs to help insulate your body.

These trusted sleep systems pack small but deliver big on comfort and protection. In fact, they barely take up much room in my pack.

So, what should you get? The answer that no one wants to hear is… “IT DEPENDS.”

Let’s break it all down in this gear review.

And no, you don’t need to be in the military to enjoy these products. This is 100% civilian gear (it’s essentially backpacking gear) that you can own. This is not strictly military equipment unless you purchase a legit military issue military sleep system from a reputable surplus dealer.

Key Takeaways

• A complete Military Sleep System (MSS), like what is issued, has three main parts: sleeping bags, a bivy cover, and a compression sack. The bags work from 50°F down to -30°F with proper layering.
• The Elite Survival Systems Recon 3 handles temps down to 23°F and includes an outer shell for waterproofing.
• A standard military sleep system weighs 7 pounds total and packs down to 24 x 17.9 x 10.3 inches in the compression sack. The bivy cover adds 10 degrees of warmth and weighs 1 pound 14 ounces.
• Clean your military sleep system with mild soap and air dry it. Store it loose in a cool, dry place. Pack it in compression sacks only during missions to keep the insulation working well.
• The patrol bag works at 40°F, while the intermediate cold bag handles 10-20°F. Together with the bivy cover, they protect you down to -30°F in tough weather. You can mix and match layers to suit your mission.

Key Components of a Military Sleep System (MSS)

A Military Sleep System packs three vital parts into one tough bundle for your outdoor missions. It’s considered the gold standard, and it’s what is issued to our military.

On the other hand, you have the Elite Survival Systems Recon 3, which stands out as my go-to choice. I’ve used it in harsh weather, and its mix of warmth and light weight makes it perfect for both patrol work and camping trips. Best of all, it’s small enough to easily fit into my Kelty Redwing 50.

1. Sleeping bags and temperature ratings

Military sleep systems offer specific temperature ratings from 50°F to -50°F. The Patrol Bag (green) works great, and the system is rated at 40°F, while the Intermediate Cold Weather Bag matches a 10-20 degree civilian bag.

The US military modular sleep system includes both bags to handle different weather needs. If you want multiple bags from Elite Survival Systems, you’d need to actually purchase two individual bags.

An Elite Survival Systems Recon 3 sleeping bag stays warm in tough spots. I pack my Recon 3 for most missions because it keeps me cozy even in cold spots. But I’ll talk about this in greater detail towards the end of the article.

The right temperature rating makes a big difference in your comfort. Military sleeping bags need regular fluffing to keep their insulation working well. Your patrol bag fits inside the intermediate bag for extra warmth on cold nights.

Circling back for a moment, the Elite Survival Systems Recon 2 works best in mild weather, while the Recon 3 handles colder temps. I’ve tested both bags in the field — they’re tough and reliable. The compression stuff sack helps you pack these bags small for easy carrying.

But if you can only afford a normal sleeping system or down-filled sleeping systems, you can make anything work to keep you warm and protected from the elements. Grab yourself a bag and a sleeping bag liner, and you’ll be good in many conditions.

2. Bivy cover for waterproofing

A Gore-Tex bivy cover or any waterproof bivy cover shields your sleeping bag from rain and wind. The cover adds 10 degrees of warmth to your setup and weighs around a pound. The bivy should feature tough YKK zippers and snap fasteners for quick access.

The 80-inch length fits most sleeping bags perfectly. You’ll find these covers in ACU/Universal or M81 Woodland Camo patterns.

I’ve tested both the Elite Survival Systems Recon 2 and Recon 3 bags inside my bivy cover. The waterproof and windproof design keeps me dry in harsh weather. My favorite part is how the bivy’s nylon outer shell stands up to rough ground.

The compact size lets me stuff it in my pack without taking up much room.

3. Compression sack for portability

Your military sleep system needs a strong compression sack for easy carrying. The standard military sleep system compression sack measures 28” to 30” long and 12” to 14” wide, perfect for tight packing.

It comes with 9 compression straps to squeeze your gear down small. The heavy-duty nylon material keeps your sleeping system safe and dry during transport.

The Elite Survival Systems Recon 2 and Recon 3 bags fit perfectly in these sacks. I pack mine down to about the size of a basketball using the built-in compression system. The oval shape helps it sit better in your pack, while the water-resistant coating adds extra protection.

The nylon drawcord lets you close it up tight and secure.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Military Sleep System

Your choice of military sleep system must match your mission’s needs and the weather you’ll face. The right system will keep you warm in cold temps and dry in wet conditions.

1. Mission environment and weather conditions

Military sleep systems must match the exact weather you face in the field. The patrol bag keeps you warm from 35 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, while the intermediate cold bag works from minus 5 to 35 degrees.

Combine both bags to stay cozy down to minus 30 degrees. The bivy cover blocks wind and rain to keep gear dry in tough spots.

I tested both the Elite Survival Systems Recon 2 and Recon 3 bags this winter in Pennsylvania. The Recon 2 I would not recommend for the winter. I would say it’s more of a spring/summer/fall sleep system when you aren’t expecting the temperatures at night to drop below 40-50 degrees. That said, I was comfortable in the Recon 3 below freezing.

It should be noted that Elite Survival Systems makes sleep systems that are rated for extreme cold weather (I haven’t been able to try those to tell you my thoughts or experiences).

2. Weight and packability requirements

Your military sleep system must fit your mission needs. The full MSS kit tips the scale at 7 pounds — a hefty load for long treks. The intermediate bag makes up more than half this weight. You’ll need to pack smart based on your mission length and terrain.

The patrol bag plus bivy cover works great for summer trips, cutting down total weight.

The nylon shell stands up to rough use while the down filling stays warm. Your gear must stay light enough to move fast but tough enough to protect you from harsh elements. Pack size matters — your military sleep system should take up no more than 25% of your pack space.

Tips for Maximizing Military Modular Sleep System Performance

Your military sleep system needs proper care to last through tough missions and harsh weather.

A clean, dry sleeping system will keep you warm and ready for action — store it loose in a cool place, and always air it out after use.

1. Proper layering techniques

Layer your sleeping bags properly to stay warm in cold weather. Put the patrol bag inside the intermediate bag, then place both inside the bivy cover. Snap all fasteners together to create one solid unit.

The bivy cover keeps moisture out and traps heat inside and the synthetic fill of the sleep system stays warm even if wet.

I tested both the Elite Survival Systems Recon 2 and Recon 3 bags in temperatures down to 20°F. Both sleeping bags include a compression stuff sack. The olive drab color that I got blends well outdoors if blending in with your environment is a priority for you.

2. Maintenance and care for durability

Clean your military sleep system by hand with mild soap. Air dry the bags on a rack to keep their shape. Mix distilled white vinegar with water softener to remove dirt build-up. Your sleeping bag system needs proper care to last longer in tough outdoor conditions.

I’ve found that the Elite Survival Systems Recon 2 and Recon 3 bags stay in great shape with regular maintenance.

Store your military sleep system in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Pack the components loose in a large storage sack at home or in a large storage bin. Stuff the bivy cover and sleeping bags into compression sacks only when you’re going out and need a sleep system.

The patrol bag and intermediate bag must stay clean and dry between uses. Regular checks for tears or damage help spot problems early. A well-maintained military sleep system keeps you warm and comfortable through countless nights outdoors.

My Thoughts on the Elite Survival Systems Recon 3

When it comes to choosing a high-performance sleeping bag for demanding conditions, the Elite Survival Systems Recon 3 stands out as a fantastic option for civilians, military personnel, survivalists, and outdoor enthusiasts.

It’s designed for efficiency and durability. This lightweight, yet robust, sleeping bag provides exceptional insulation and comfort in cold weather environments.

Key Benefits:

• Superior Insulation: The Recon 3 is built to keep you warm in temperatures as low as 23°F (-5°C), making it ideal for cold-weather camping, survival scenarios, and tactical deployments. Its ultra-thin Micro Loft insulation offers excellent heat retention without excessive bulk.

• Lightweight & Compact: Weighing just around 2.6 lbs, the Recon 3 is easy to carry without adding unnecessary weight to your pack. It compresses down significantly using the included stuff sack, saving valuable space for other essential gear.

• Durability for Harsh Environments: Constructed from 210T Ripstop Nylon, the outer shell is both water- and wind-resistant, ensuring protection from the elements in unpredictable conditions. The Teflon® coating adds an extra layer of resistance to moisture and dirt.

• Efficient Design: The tapered mummy-style shape and insulated hood help trap body heat efficiently while minimizing excess space. A baffle system along the zipper further prevents cold air infiltration.

• Versatile Applications: Whether you’re on a backpacking adventure, a military mission, or a survival training exercise, the Recon 3 provides the reliability you need. Its compact design and lightweight build make it perfect for long treks and overnight stays in rugged terrain.

Use Cases:

• Military & Tactical Operations: Designed for military professionals, the Recon 3 is a go-to choice for field use, offering stealth, durability, and comfort in austere conditions.

• Survival & Emergency Preparedness: An excellent addition to a bug-out bag or emergency survival kit, ensuring warmth in unexpected situations.

• Backpacking & Camping: Ideal for those who need a high-performance sleeping bag without excessive weight, making it great for multi-day hikes and cold-weather camping trips.

• Hunting & Outdoor Expeditions: Hunters and explorers venturing into the wilderness will appreciate its quick-drying materials and weather resistance, keeping them comfortable in changing conditions.

If you’re looking for a sleeping bag that offers elite-level warmth, durability, and packability, the Elite Survival Systems Recon 3 is a solid investment for any serious adventurer or survivalist.

It should be noted, however, that if you’re a bigger person (either muscular or overweight), you may find this system tight. For instance, I have more of an athletic build, where I have broad shoulders. What I’ve found is that the Elite Survival Systems Recon 3 is a little snug around my shoulders. It’s not a big deal, but it’s something to keep in mind.

I also own the Elite Survival Systems Recon 2, which is only rated to 41 degrees but has the same awesome features as the Elite Survival Systems Recon 3 sleeping bag.

Use This Gear Review to Find Your Perfect Military Sleep System

Picking the right military sleep system can save your life in tough weather where you’re caught in the wilderness (by your choice or otherwise).

The Elite Survival Systems Recon 2 and Recon 3 bags are incredibly comfortable, and I have no complaints about them. I could say they could run a little bigger, but I also understand most people are hitting the gym daily and, therefore, don’t require something wider in the shoulders.

Smart packing and proper care make your sleep system last longer. Choose a quality military sleep system to stay warm, dry, and mission-ready. Whether you go with a traditional standard-issue military sleep system or something like the Elite Survival Systems Recon bags, you really can’t go wrong.

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