Badlands 2200/ Diablo or Eberlestock Halftrack

[elchris123]

Hey, I am getting a new pack for hunting/ backpacking purposes and I cant really decide between the Eberlestock Halftrack, Badlands 2200, and Badlands Diablo. I know they vary in size a bit but I know one of those three will suit me well space-wise, so the different sizes is not an issue. Ive handled Badlands packs several times before and they seem like they're up to the task, but Ive never used one. So far Ive narrowed it down to the facts that, I like Molle webbing but I also like the Badlands Camo. So thats a toss up there. I really like the Badlands Back vent on the Diablo, so plus 1 for them. Warranty-wise they both have a lifetime warranty, Badlands is a little better, but I take good care of my stuff so Im really not worried there, Ill count that one as a tie. And finally, when it comes down to material, I know how durable 1000D Nylon is. Ive used a Condor Compact Modular Style Assault Pack for over a year now as an EDC bag that i throw in the car or walk around with or whatever at least every other day. The rugged 1000D has held up wonderfully. No complaints there. So Im wondering how the Badlands will hold up to constant use (I know they have their warranty, but Id really rather never have to use it). I know these are bigger bags than the Condor so they wont be EDC, but lets just assume they will go through all that use.

And before someone suggests another brand completely, I appreciate that your opinion of that brand may be better than what Ive picked but Ive done lots of research and would like to know about these three packs specifically.

So: Have you had any problems with any of these at all? Which would you get? Why?

 

[Bowman1911]

I love my halftrack, but it's way too big to edc! Maybe a leave in the truck bag, but I'd hate to lug it full of stuff around all the time!

 

[elchris123]

Yeah, i figured. It would definitely not be an EDC, like you said, A leave-in-the-car bag. My Condor will remain my edc since it compresses to nearly nothing. Have you had any problems with it at all or is anything questionable about it?

 

[Bowman1911]

It's built like a tank! It wouldn't surprise me if it outlasted me, however it was ridiculously expensive! Somehow I got the crap end of the stick with mine though, I bought my wife a new $6k wedding ring set & she bought me the halftrack, the rifle bucket kit, 2 3liter water bladders, and the chest pack.

 

[razorsdescent]

The halftrack is bomb proof, alot of my buddies in afghanistan are carrying Eberlestock packs. I currently own three with a fourth on the way and I can honestly say that Eberlestock stands shoulder to shoulder with Kifaru and Mystery Ranch. I love my Halftrack, its a hell of a pack, it won the gear scout 3 day pack contest for a reason, its simply amazing. http://militarytimes.com/blogs/gearscout/2009/04/29/assault-pack-cordon-review-part-i-the-big-ones/

While its big, you could EDC an eberlestock hi-speed pretty easily and still use it quite handily for backpacking, Since the zippers are of such good quality on eberlestock bags you can really stuff them to the gills, step on them and tug on the zippers, aside form that Eberlestock tends to rate thier carrying capacity a bit low.

Badlands just doesn't seem like it can play with the big boys of the pack industry, I've never been impressed with any of thier packs except for the ox which i have never gotten to handle but looks monstrous.

Hope you enjoy whatever pack you get.

 

[camuleyhunter]

i have stuffed my badlands diablo full and it carrys weight well, of course you will have to adjust it to your body, it handles moisture and water well and has enough pockets for me to carry anything and everything. it holds plenty for me but the frame holds it back from its potential a bit. the pack is lightweight and durable, the frame keeps your back from getting sweaty and allows you to stay dry and comfortable on long hikes. my vote is on the diablo but its the only one i have used and abused. both are good brands and i doubt you can go wrong with either