Need some backpack recommendations

[8200rpm]

Neither of which is available from Gregory. Anything in their current catalog that's comparable?

The only holdover that shares the same construction as the Reality and Shasta is the Denali Pro 105. But, the Denali is an absolute monster.

Size wise, the Baltoro 65 and 75 seem comparable to the Reality and Shasta. I'm not sure if there's been any drastic updates to the suspension system. Plastic hip supports shearing is not good news.

[91Bravo]

If you atre looking for a military (and inexpensive) pack consider the USMC ILBE pack designed by Arcteyrx. You can get them off ebay.

It's far and away more comfortable than my old ALICE large. I bought a Recon version ILBE recently and consider it bombproof. My only objection to it is that it's extremely well built and as a result heavy, 6.5lbs for 5000 cu in. My most frequently used pack is a Lowe Contour IV at 5.5 lbs. But it is also too heavy. I have looked at the Ula untralights (2lbs) but can't seem to get by the lightness of the fabric. 1.9oz ripstop won't survive much bushwacking.

Packs are a huge compromise. IN 40 years I have not found one that is completely satisfactory.

[theblackknight]

If you atre looking for a military (and inexpensive) pack consider the USMC ILBE pack designed by Arcteyrx. You can get them off ebay.

One good thing about the ILBE and you can put most of the weight in the hip belt, run the shoulder straps light, and save your shoulders.

[OldState]

These Granite Gear packs are AWESOME. I have one circa 2006. They have been very well reviewed for several years and were a favorite with thru-hikers on the AT. They are very minimalist (mine didn't have a top flap; it just synched!) and is really one big bag. I have owned many packs over the last 25 years and this is hands down the best I've used. I organize with diddy bags. I have gone out for 4 days in the White Mountains NH (you usually need to pack extra clothes for this area) and 3800 ci is enough for 3 season backpacking.


They are very light but the shoulder straps and belt are over built and very comfortable.

http://www.granitegearstore.com/Nimb...ian-P13C7.aspx

Even looks like they have a tactical line now.

[omega21]

I'm surprised no one has mentioned the CFP-90. They are easily found and cheap (just got one on this forum for $100) which is a criteria rjacobs mentioned. I know they are a bit large, but I've had good experience hiking with mine and distributing the weight well onto the hips. Others have thoughts about this pack?

[Grand58742]

I'm surprised no one has mentioned the CFP-90. They are easily found and cheap (just got one on this forum for $100) which is a criteria rjacobs mentioned. I know they are a bit large, but I've had good experience hiking with mine and distributing the weight well onto the hips. Others have thoughts about this pack?

It's hit and miss with those. I've had two blow out on me, particularly the yoke yanking out of the frame. Another I had started tearing in the cloth (not at the seams). And I've seen more than a few broken. For me, it's not worth the time, money or trouble of using it. Others apparently have have better luck with theirs.

Having said that, the original Lowe Alpine versions are apparently G2G. I picked up on a while back out of a DRMO box and it seemed to be better quality than the SDS versions. Haven't used it yet, but the problems with the SDS versions (in particular the yoke) are missing with the Lowe version.

[Det-Sog]

How about the Camelbak BFM? http://www.camelbak.com/Military-Tac.../2011-BFM.aspx

The Motherlode is a hair smaller and cheaper. Both look like viable candidates.

I'm needing a better pack for hiking/camping. Being here in Texas (HOT), me thinks the hydration being built in will be a huge plus. Gotta carry the water anyway, right? This looks easier than carrying a canteen separately.

I have the small Camelbak ambush pack for LE work and small jaunts on the bike trails. They Make quality stuff.

Glad I found this thread.

[Dave L.]

Does anyone know if the OD green Medium Alice Pack (Brand New, made in USA) is still available?
Brigade Quartermasters was the last company I knew of that carried them.

[docsherm]

Does anyone know if the Medium Alice Pack (Brand New, made in USA) is still available?
Brigade Quartermasters was the last company I knew of that carried them.

PM sent

[Jteck31]

I haven't heard any comment on mountainsmith packs. I picked up bridger 4000 about three years ago and its been an excellent pack. I've used the mollies and ilbe military packs alot but switched to a lighter pack and can't complain. Great pack for 100 bucks.