USGI MSS Bivy Cover

The Modular Sleep System (MSS), follows the US military's trend of modularity and adaptability in an elegantly simple and effective way. Comprised of 4 pieces, a light-weight Patrol Bag for chilly nights, a thick Intermediate Bag when temperatures drop below freezing, a Gor-Tex Bivy Bag shell to protect the wearer and the sleeping bags from the environment, and a compression bag to squish all of it down into a dense ball to easily load into a rucksack. The modularity comes from the ability to mix and match the pieces together by way of numerous snapping points throughout each component for varying results. Wet early Spring nights may call for the Intermediate Bag and Bivy while a warm, dry Summer night may prompt one to carry the Patrol Bag and nothing more. With all pieces combined, the MSS becomes an extreme cold weather solution for sub-zero temperatures as low as -30f. This modularity allows users to carry only as much weight as they need to suit the situation. 

While not technically part of the MSS, sleeping mats are obviously a wise addition to any sleep system set up, and can be inserted into the Bivy Bag itself.

The Modular Sleep System comes in two different flavors, Woodland and UCP. Although the color scheme is vastly different, they are the same in terms of effectiveness and can be mixed and matched seamlessly.

The term Bivy is derived from the word bivouac, a French word unfortunately which itself follows a long etymology which roughly translates to "patrol", "night watch", or fire guard as many of you may recognize. Today, bivouac is used to describe a camp site which is temporary, hasty, and often improvised in nature, and is strongly associated with soldiers and those who are constantly in motion (cowboys also come to mind). 

The Bivy Cover, or Bivy Bag, represents the outer most shell of the Military Sleep System. Unlike the soft and fluffy texture of the sleeping bags, the Bivy has more of a jacket or tent like feel to it, and behaves in much the same way. This bag is meant to envelope the rest of the MSS and the wearer to provide an added level of protection from mud, dirt, wind, and most importantly, moisture. It's constructed from genuine Gore-Tex membranes, meaning that it is entirely waterproof, yet allows moisture to escape. This prevents moisture from becoming trapped inside the bag for a superior level of comfort and dryness. If you've ever used cheap rain gear for more than a few minutes, you probably realized that it left you only slightly less wet than you'd have been directly exposed to the rain. This moisture also has the effect of amplifying the negative attributes of temperature as well, leaving you feeling sticky and muggy, or slimy and shivering. Gore-Tex avoids all of this. It's also naturally very durable, comprised of a rip stop construction that will resist tearing, punctures, and abrasions, which are an ever present threat in the field. 

The Bivy is enclosed by a YKK zipper which extend down most of the right side of the bag, providing easy access, and is protected by a generous storm flap. Snaps can also be found strafing the length of the zipper, allowing you to interface the bag with the other members of the MSS. However, even if you're using a sleeping bag from a foreign military or a civilian option, the Bivy provides ample room to accommodate pretty much anything, enhancing your protection and capabilities. Alternatively, its not uncommon to see the bag in use by itself or with nothing more than a woobie or wool blanket, especially in warmer, wetter conditions (don't forget about that nasty morning dew). By itself, the bag rolls up amazingly small, and weighs a measly 2 pounds for the massive value it provides. A bivy coupled with a rain poncho can provide a highly effective and low weight alternative to tents, allowing you to retain a great deal of shelter in a small space while on long range expeditions. 

Whether you're manning a patrol base, biking through the mountains, or LARPing in your back yard, the value and utility of the Bivy Cover can not be understated. Its a must have piece of gear for anyone planning on spending the night in the field. 

Features

• Genuine Gore-Tex membrane: waterproof and moisture wicking
• USGI surplus which Interfaces with all members of the Military Sleep System
• Exceptionally durable rip stop construction to prevent tears, punctures, and abrasions 
• Lightweight at approximately 2 pounds
• Spacious at approximately 78"x34"
• YKK zipper extending along most of the right flank and protected by generous storm flaps.

Condition Guide

- All Bivy Covers are in good condition and may show some minor signs of use, but are completely free of any damage that would impact form or functionality.