On the reverse side I have no experience with PacSafe. However, Tom Bihn products are very well made and very well thought out. I am a loyal fan. I own or have owned many items from Tumi, Briggs and Riley, RedOxx, Kifaru and Hartmann and none of these come close to Tom Bihn. With either material available for the Pilot (Ballistic nylon or Halcyon) if you had an assailant trying to cut the bag you would have larger things to worry about if they were able to cut the bag effectively as these materials are very tough and are put through numerous tests. Adding a metal cable or mesh to these bags would be unnecessary and just add weight. Both brands have loyal followings and I'm sure you would have a great experience with either one.