I’ve crossed paths with world champion shooter Lena Miculek a few times over the years as I walked the exhibit hall at the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, and one time even coincidentally rode an elevator with her. If I didn’t know who she was, she would have just blended in with the tens of thousands of other NRA members celebrating their firearm freedoms at our annual show. That’s not to say Lena isn’t distinctly recognizable to those who have followed her career; she just naturally blends in—even as she makes her way to one of her meet-and-greet appearances at the SIG Sauer booth where hundreds of fans await her arrival.
Regular readers of this site know that Lena is immersed in activities related to her affiliation with the ROSE by SIG Sauer brand which has evolved into a line of firearms and gear, a full seminar schedule, and even an annual ROSE Retreat. She is one busy champion!
In Atlanta, however, during the 2025 NRA Show, I had the opportunity to participate in a unique small-group hands-on concealed carry seminar, "Masterclass Training to Elevate CCW Skills with Lena Miculek," sponsored by Vertx, along with MantisX and CrossBreed Holsters, during which Lena demonstrated the proper use of the new Vertx Everyday Carry Fanny Pack 2.0, an upgrade from the original pack featured in Vertx’s signature Lena collection of concealed carry accessories.
Too say I was skeptical that I would find significant differences in this pack over the many … many … pieces of carry gear that end up in my “island of misfit CCW items” bag is an understatement. But I’m always optimistic that I can be proved wrong. And this time I was. Admittedly I had not tried the original version of this fanny pack—even though I have for years been a fan of the Vertx line of clothing and gear—but if you own the original model or are familiar with it, here’s what’s different:
- A new exterior fabric adds a sleek aesthetic and superior water resistance.
- A Rapid Access Tab and Modular Holster Retention system ensure it's ready for immediate action.
- A new ultra secure buckle system ensures essentials stay on you while you’re on the move.
Initially we engaged in standard drawing and re-holstering exercises with the pack worn on our waists, which is the most natural position for pack-CCW, but the big eye opener for me was when we changed the positions and wore the pack high on the chest. This was a departure for me, but I went along anyway, convinced it would be awkward to carry in that manner, let along be able to deploy a pistol from that position. My mind was completely changed, however, after Lena walked us through the drills and demonstrated why the design of this 2.0 version of the pack made it entirely possible to not only carry and be able to deploy a CCW this way, but to do it faster and more efficiently than ever. I could outline it in words, but the best way is to share this video from Vertx and Lena. I promise it will make sense to you when you watch it and practice this draw yourself. Just when I think I can’t learn anything new, Lena Miculek and Vertx come along to make a liar out of me!
By the way, if you are drawn to the stretch flannel and shirt jacket that Lena is sporting—you are not alone. Even though we are heading into summer months, we will cover that product in time for you to be ready for cool fall outings. We'll also take a closer look at the new MantisX TitanX.
For now, check out Lena as she demonstrates the new Vertx Everyday Carry Fanny Pack 2.0. It comes in four colors—Black; Wolf Grey; Bone White and Oxblood. MSRP: $64.99
—Ann Y. Smith, Editor in Chief
