GORUCK x Carryology GRXC3 Viking | Exclusive Release

The wind brings news. The Norsemen have landed again. 

And as promised, this time, they’ve carried the much anticipated GRXC3 GR1.

But that’s not all…

From the deep freeze of Drop 1, more treasures return.
Select pieces from the original GRXC3 release rise again —
for those who missed the first raid.

Introducing the GORUCK x Carryology GRXC3 Berserker Viking Collection.

FINAL RELEASE

< SCORE THE VIKING GR1 21L & 26L >

< SCORE THE VIKING BULLET >

< SCORE THE VIKING KIT BAG >

< SCORE THE VIKING FIELD POCKET >

< SCORE THE VIKING TRAVELER BOOTS >

GRXC PROJECTS

Before we chop into the details, let’s explain the GRXC project for more clarity. The letters ‘GRXC’ stand for GORUCK X Carryology, of course. 

What are the criteria of a GRXC project and what makes it unique? Three major elements:

1. It always includes the GR1 backpack: a Carry Awards Hall of Fame winner, an icon of carry, and a Carryology team and community favorite. 

2. The project codename will always be based upon either a fictional warrior or warrior from history, which will then influence the design of the end product.

3. It will follow the sequential naming system of GRXC#. 

The first was the GRXC1 Guerrilla X. 

The second was the GRXC2 Samurai. 

Now… the GRXC3 Berserker Viking. 

SEAFARING WARRIORS

So, why focus on the Viking, particularly the Berserker Viking? Each GRXC program draws inspiration from a warrior, and the Berserker might be the most fearsome in history. 

In the tapestry of Old Norse literature, the berserkers—known in their native tongue as berserkir—emerged not merely as warriors but as embodiments of a furious, trance-like state of combat. This ferocity would later crystallize into the modern English term berserk. 

And inside their Viking world it was one where magic and myth bled into the everyday, where the gods themselves seemed to walk alongside men.

This deep reverence for the mystical was matched only by an insatiable appetite for exploration—a hunger that pushed them beyond the fjords of Scandinavia to the far reaches of the known world and beyond. Their longships, sleek and relentless, cut through the icy waters not just in pursuit of plunder but driven by a need to conquer the unknown. 

And it’s this mythology that inspired the GRXC3.

PILLAGED BOUNTIFUL COLLECTION

This GRXC3 project has been a long time coming. Over the past two years, more than 30 people have worked tirelessly to bring it to life. What began as an intention to create just a GR1 evolved into something much bigger, as we realized it deserved more than a single form factor. The design decisions led to a versatile travel capsule collection, perfect for anything from a leisurely road trip through the Danish countryside to a grueling longboat ride through the icy Trondheim fjord.

For the first time in the GRXC program, it will include the six following products:

GR1 21L (Made in USA)

GR1 26L (Made in USA)

Bullet Laptop 16L

Kit Bag 32L

Echo Field Pocket 

Viking Traveler Boots

WORLD FAMOUS VIKING AXEMAKER (SWEDEN)

In our (admittedly biased) opinion, the GRXC2 Samurai patch was one of the most impressive ever made: designed by a renowned Japanese tattoo artist and handcrafted by Kyoto’s top samurai armor maker using centuries-old techniques. Competing with that for the GRXC3 patch was daunting.

We wanted to showcase the very best. A craftsman at the absolute pinnacle of their field. Someone who many consider the world’s greatest. An individual doing things the old way, the Viking way, to show homage to the inspiration of this project warrior muse.

After months of research, we found him: Nils Ögren of Ogren Axes in rural Värmland, Sweden—creator of collector’s axes and winner of Sweden’s "Forged in Fire" equivalent. Contacting him to make patches for a backpack project from an unknown brand seemed audacious, but after we spoke over video chat he agreed to try.

The best part about Nils, in my opinion? His process isn’t fast nor is it easy. Nils works directly with a specific supplier, who mines their ore from the same exact mines that have historical evidence of Viking ore mining. The same mine and the same ore that the Vikings made their axes from hundreds of years ago. And while Nils may have a few “modern” machines (some around 100 years old), he’s following the same basic methods of the Viking blacksmiths of the time. Fire, metal, sweat, and grit. The hard way. The right way.

HANDMADE AXE PATCHES (SWEDEN)

Calling these “patches” really doesn’t do them justice. They are legitimate 2”x3” miniature axes with Velcro on the backside. Each one is carefully handmade by Nils Ogren in his small shop, using the same processes he utilizes when making his Viking axes. Once the steel blanks are cut, Nils heats each mini axe to a bright orange and hammers the custom stamp warrior illustration from Chip Baskin into the side. The final stage is grinding down and polishing the axe edge to a mirror finish. Nils shared some great insight, that we shouldn’t actually fully sharpen these edges when they ship for both safety as well as government shipping/import restrictions. So if you’d like, you can sharpen this mini axe to a crazy sharp edge, just like his world famous axes. But be careful, from experience sharpening my personal mini axe patch, they do get razor sharp.

Due to the labor and time intensive processes, the only products that will include a mini axe patch are the GR1 (21L and 26L). The other bags in the collection will ship with a subtle debossed matching leather patch with Chip Baskin’s Viking illustration artwork for a stealth aesthetic.

LEATHER ARMOR

When it comes to Viking lore, lots of myths have devloped over time. For example, Viking's have been shown in pop culture donning steel armour but only one chainmail tunic has been found in Scandinavia, and its Viking origin is highly disputed. Most researchers believe that Vikings crafted their armor from heavy cloth and thick leather, rather than metal.

And so like Viking armor, the entire exterior would be made from leather—not lightweight, flimsy fashion leather, but something more substantial. We tested dozens of leather samples and chose a thick 1.8mm cowhide leather for its toughness and the way it fills out the bag’s shape. Chrome tanned to a rich dark black, this leather is rugged yet smooth to the touch. It’s built to withstand wear and tear, shaping to your body like armor over time.

EXCAVATION BLUE

You asked, and we delivered: a liner fabric that isn’t orange. GRXC2 Samurai had a blood-red interior, but GRXC3 Viking features a rich ocean-blue.

Why blue? Contrary to TV portrayals of Vikings in brown and black, this is another myth. As expert travelers and traders, Vikings had access to exotic pigments. Archaeological evidence shows they used vibrant colors, including blaze orange. But for this project, we chose a historically accurate rich blue, or “blár” in Old Norse, made from vivianite.

We took this Viking-era blue, converted it to a Pantone code, and created a custom run of tough, water-resistant 500D Cordura nylon for our liner fabric. Overkill? Absolutely—but we’re talking about Vikings.

COMPASS TO LEAD THE WAY

Blue alone wasn’t enough. Like the GRXC2 Samurai’s red liner, the ocean-blue of the GRXC3 Viking provides an ideal backdrop for a custom geometric pattern that enhances visibility in low light, adding both function and visual appeal.

We chose the “Vegvísir,” a symbol famously associated with Vikings. Found in Icelandic manuscripts, it translates to “way” (vegr) “shower” (vísir) and is known as “The Viking Compass.” While Vikings relied on the stars for navigation, this symbol served more as a magical talisman to inspire confidence during perilous voyages.

Despite the debated history of the “Vegvísir” (mostly folklore), we’ve added this custom print to the blue liner of this collection, including the boots. We hope it guides you on your adventures.

VIKING PATCH ILLUSTRATION (ICELAND)

For the patch design, we insisted on an artist from the region of our inspiration. Just as we chose a Japanese tattoo artist for the Samurai, we needed a Scandinavian artist for the Viking. The choice was clear: Chip Baskin of Reykjavik Ink in downtown Reykjavik, Iceland.

I first met Chip in July 2016 during my solo trek around Iceland, where he tattooed a sea monster from a 1608 map by Abraham Ortelius. In 2021, during our Carryology Icelandic Expedition, I returned to get another sea monster tattooed by him.

After two tattoos from Chip, I’m a big fan of his work and Reykjavik Ink. So, when it was time to select an artist for our Viking patch, I reached out to Chip, and he was immediately on board.

I gave Chip minimal guidelines: he should create his vision of a Viking head or face with simplified linework, akin to a graphic or icon. With that creative freedom, he delivered a timeless design.

ZIPPERS (SWITZERLAND)

I’ve wanted to use Riri zippers for nearly two decades. Some laud them as the very best in the world (and their X2 price of YKK might suggest that). But what makes Riri zippers so special? Founded in Switzerland in 1936, Riri zippers are renowned for their quality and craftsmanship. Manufactured in Switzerland and Italy, Riri zippers have won numerous awards, including the Swiss Technology Award. They cater to clients in aerospace, military, and high-end fashion, offering a range of styles and technologies.

For this project, we chose the water-resistant AQUAzip model with exposed teeth for the main zippers, size #8 for durability, and all black. We also selected Riri’s iconic all-metal zipper puller/slider for its superior appearance and function. For other zippers, we opted for YKK AquaGuard and reverse coil zippers to balance cost, weight, and performance.

DYNEEMA SAILING ROPE (NETHERLANDS)

Choosing zipper pullers is no afterthought; details matter. For the GRXC2 Samurai, we used silk rope from Japan, reflecting the samurai’s traditional armor attachments. For the GRXC3, we aimed for the same level of thoughtfulness.

After exploring many options, we chose Dyneema cord. This space-age material, used extensively in nautical vessels, is stronger than steel and incredibly lightweight. In fact, Dyneema is the strongest fiber on earth in terms of strength-to-weight ratio.

Vikings, masters of shipbuilding, relied on ropes and cords made from plants and trees. Dyneema represents a modern evolution of this essential craft. While Vikings would have cherished this advanced rope for their sails, we’re fortunate to use it today. Our Dyneema cord is knotted and heat-shrink-wrapped like the pullers on your favorite GORUCK products but is vastly stronger.

Fun fact, DSM, the makers of Dyneema, are based in The Netherlands, a region well-known to Vikings for trade and conquest.

REINDEER LEATHER (NORWAY)

Since its early days, GORUCK has featured a contrast-colored paracord zipper puller on the “inside logo accessory pocket” for visual contrast and easy access.

For the GRXC3, we wanted something special for this pocket. Research into Viking cordage led me to a unique method: twisting thin strips of reindeer leather into strong, durable rope.

I found a supplier of reindeer leather in rural Norway, and we chose a bright orange. This color not only nods to our Carryology brand but also contrasts vividly with the blue liner, echoing the vibrant hues Vikings used.

HARDWARE (AUSTRIA)

Although there’s scant evidence that Vikings ventured deep into mainland Europe, using hardware from AustriAlpin was the right choice. These all-leather backpacks deserved high-quality, not plastic, components.

We opted for shoulder strap hardware with Cobra Frame tri-glides made from CNC-milled aluminum and stainless steel, boasting a break strength of 18 kN (4,047 pounds)—more than a mid-size SUV. Heavy, costly, and exceptionally strong, these pieces are as robust and striking as the backpacks themselves.

QAP

Whether you need sunstones for navigation or just want to grab some Beech-Nut Fruit Stripe gum, Quick Access Pockets are now included in both the Bullet and GR1 backpacks. They’re also perfect for keys and sunglasses.

SORTA SLICK

Our small team at Carryology has owned A LOT of GR1s, in various styles and configurations. Through extensive use and feedback from our GORUCK collaborations, we’ve perfected the balance of a Slick exterior with the famed MOLLE/PALS utility. Both the GR1 and Bullet feature a clean, minimalist front panel with no webbing but feature MOLLE/PALS webbing on the shoulder straps for attaching accessories or gear.

BOOTS MADE FOR TRAVEL

The GORUCK MACV boots are designed for serious adventure, training, and events. For the GRXC3, we refined them for modern travel and exploration.

We eliminated drainage holes to prevent cold, wet feet in urban environments. A waterproof synthetic gusset on the tongue enhances water resistance, while the water-resistant leather construction keeps feet dry in deeper puddles.

We updated the boot’s aesthetic to a classic workwear look, adding a toe cap and heel counter, and streamlined the design to minimize stitching and potential water entry. A leather finger pull loop on the back stay makes donning the boots quick and easy.

The boots feature a subtle custom label in dark charcoal on black and a blue GRXC3 Vegvísir footbed liner. After testing in diverse climates and terrains, we believe these are the ideal travel and adventure boots.

DROP 2 AVAILABLE NOW

< SCORE THE VIKING GR1 21L & 26L >

< SCORE THE VIKING BULLET >

< SCORE THE VIKING KIT BAG >

< SCORE THE VIKING FIELD POCKET >

< SCORE THE VIKING TRAVELER BOOTS >

GORUCK ship internationally.