looking for a suggestion on a new pack

[Kevin]

I need a new pack, the one I have now was given to me and it's a good for someone about 6 inches shorter (I'm 6' 3" and it's a tad small for me).

Been looking around but can't make up my mind, so I figure I'll let someone else do it for me.

Thanks!

[mtgoat]

Are you looking for and internal frame or external frame? What kind of capacity and how long do you usually go out for? What features dou you like and what don't you like?

[mtbnski]

RE: pack

I use the White Mountain Guide pack from LL Bean. It's not expedition grade, but it can handle most trips.

I'm currently bidding on another one on ebay. Here's the URL:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3636184795&category=36111&rd=1

BTW, I'm 6'2" and the large pack fits great!


Laters...

[Kevin]

Thanks!

That may be a little small, I tend to be a bit of a mule for the group when I hike as I'm usually one of the younger guys, so I last a little longer with the extra weight... I'm not even sure how 'large' my current pack is, can't be very as I end up tying much of my gear to it.

I'm not real savvy on gear yet. I've been piecing together a nice base of gear for 3 season hiking and, like I said, tend to carry the tent and cooking gear, so I need something rather large to carry that and all my personal needs/food, as well as the sleeping bag and mat... did the whole Gothics-armstrong-upper/lower wolfjaw with 50+ lbs on my back, and were more of my weigh on my hips, I'd likely have had a better time than the pain my upper body and shoulders experienced.

Prior to this summer I did little hiking and effectively had zero gear. So, in a matter of 6 months, I've accumulated enough to go soloing should I choose to.

I'd like something with an internal frame, and under $200. Needs to have places to tie things off. Needs to be designed with tall people in mind. Mine looks tall but is obviously designed for someone under 6 feet in height. Those are about the only requirements.

[mtgoat]

Have you ever looked at Kifaru? I linked you to the military side as most here might not want the hunting stuff. I learned about this gear while serving overseas. They make outstanding gear but it isn't cheap.

[Kevin]

Wow! Wonderful gear! Seriously, those are some of the best packs I've seen...

But...

Twice my price range... and I really can't afford more than $200 after spending $1900 plus accessories on my new laptop this week

I requested a catalogue anyway... maybe I can eat hotdogs for a month and get one of the $318 variety [I figure if it last for 15 years it's worth getting that over a $200 that may only last 10]

[DLHiker]

There are a zillion options out there, and there are lots of intangibles in determining whtihc pack is best for you. So try on as many as possible. Fit is everything.

Generally, though, I think you get what you pay for with this kind of gear. The high end gear tends bring high end performance (and customer service). Check out Gregory's packs. I love my gregory massiff which is enormous (7000 ci). Recently, I have become impressed with Osprey too. I just purchased an Osprey eclipse.

[ADackR]

take a look at Kelty, I'm 6'5" and use a Redcloud 6400ci fits perfect. I use this on week+ trips for summer without any problems. I also use this pack for 4-5 days in the winter...

For day trips I use a 3500ci Rok, it serves it's purpose well.

Have you ever looked into EMS packs. They have a great series right now. Some really nice internal frame packs and there service is impeckable

good luck

[Kevin]

EMS is certainly an options as we have 2 stores locally... I think I'll head down there soon and see what fits well so I have a better frame of reference... I have some other smallish items to pickup anyway, like some decent winter gloves/ski gloves, etc...

I'll look into the Gregory and Kelty line once I try on a few styles at EMS (will also note the dimensions so I can try to closely match them from one of the other comapnies).

I really want to do this right, as I don't want to have to get another pack anytime soon. I appreciate the advice, I'm taking any and all considerations very seriously .

[mtgoat]

Kevin,

Don't forget Lowe and Dana as they make some real high quality packs too. I never did figure out if you are looking for Internal or external frame. I also like looking at Outdoor Reviews to see how different products rated with the users. It is all user reviews so You get to see first hand and weed out the odd balls of course. I looked at the REI Cima 80 once and thought it looked real good too.

[Jeff]

I would have to agree with mtgoat on this subject. Although somewhat pricey, Dana Design and Lowe Alpine make some of the best packs out there. I'm not saying this because I'm biased, but I have done considerable research over the last five years and these keep coming up as the cadillacs of backpacks.

[ADKMan]

You might want to take a look at the Gregory Palisade pack. Campmor has them on sale right now for about $169 - that's a steal for a pack of this size and quality.

[DLHiker]

he's right

ADKman is right--that si a great deal on the Gregory Palisades.

[altec]

I am currently using a Gregory Shasta, and I love it. I have also owned a Dana Design and a Lowe Alpine, but this Gregory is where it's at for me. I'm a bit smaller than you (about 6'0), so it may not be the right option in your arena, but I will say that Gregory makes a great pack.....

[Jeff]

Sorry folks. I inadvertantly omitted Gregory from my list of top packs that one should consider. Thought about it today while at work and again was reminded as I read the new posts. Thanks for keeping me on my feet.