looking for a larger pack.

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puddlepirate

Joined
Aug 19, 2011
Messages
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I am looking for a larger pack for extended trips. I was wondering which would serve me better in the 3 day range. The Maxpedition Vulture II or the Voodoo Reaper. Each look very well made, but looks and being well made, are two different critters, indeed.
 
First question is what do you carry for 3 days? And what seasons do you carry that gear during?

To me, those are assault packs, capable but maybe not the most comfortable or adapt at carrying larger items like sleeping bags and pads. But if you are a minimalist, then maybe.
 
I'm not familiar with either of the bags you listed however I do have maxpedition bags. If your going to be backpacking a considerable distance you just can't beat a good backpacking bag like kelty, or osprey or any of those type backpacks. "tactical" bags like maxpedition makes are outstanding bags but there no where near as comfortable on multi- day treks as a bag designed for backpacking and carrying a heavy load.

With that said, on day hikes and overnights I have been using a Maxpedition falcon 2. Probably a little small for overnights for the average person but I find it perfect size for me, organizes well and is super comfortable for me. It's been my go to bag for hiking and overnights for about 7 months now. I recently just picked up in a trade a Condor 3 day assault pack. It's very large and seems more than capable as a multi-day bag and I'm really looking forward to getting out for a couple days and comparing against my other "backpacking packs". I think it will be best suited for extended road trips though.

So it all depends what your style is. If you just want to be gone for a couple days with the car then I'd go with an assault pack but if your backpacking lots of miles a real padded hiking pack is worth it's weight in gold. So what do you plan to do with the bag?
 
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Good info! I pack really light, my overnighter fits my gear and my hammock, but no room for clothes. I was leaning towards "tactical" to molle my day pack, a butt pack. I have had my eye on the Osprey packs, for their suspension system. I like the idea of having a hydration bladder as part of my pack.
 
Have you looked at the offerings from Kifaru? I don't own one, but man are they well thought out. Look at their tactical/military bags. Lots of sizes, US made from US fabrics, stiching, everything.
 
+1 on the Kifaru. I bought a Express and added side pockets and an E&E. I can use just the pack for short trips and add the extra pouches for longer jaunts.
 
what's your price range? kifaru just started making ultralight (hunting) packs but they too are designed to carry heavy loads, much like their military line. but since you're a really light packer, i highly recommend looking at osprey if you don't want to spend that much...both are very high quality (but a nod goes to kifaru for being 100% made in the usa - they are berry amendment compliant) and excellent warranty. here's the review of my kifaru and osprey to give you an idea of their quality: kifaru g2 zxr, osprey manta 20.
 
I am in the same situation- I have used my Maxped DevilDog, Baby Condor and old Blackhawk 3 Day. After about 4-5 miles, I start wishing I had something with a frame and a good waistbelt.

I have not bought one yet but I am looking at the Camelbak Linchpin, Mystery Ranch Sweat Pea(thanks to blgoode) or maybe an Arcteryx Axios 50. I will keep a couple of smaller bags for some use.

Bill
 
adam0321 said:
osprey atmos
Click to expand...

Good suggestion, I actually just bought a Atmos 65 on sale for a screaming deal. I havent hiked with it yet but have went on some walks, the suspension works well and the pack overall has a cool design.

But the thing about packs is that everyone is a little different, a good pack for someone might not be a great one for someone else. Id take brand suggestions and go somewhere and try some on.

I dont think you can go wrong with Osprey, they make nice packs and have lifetime warranty that they stand behind. Something breaks or tears on the pack, send it back in and they will repair or replace it free of charge no matter how old it is.
 
Save up the extra bit for a more durable and ergonomic pack, it pays off in the long run. If you're going to invest 100, 150 dollars in a pack, it will be worth your while to spend just a bit more to get something that you'll enjoy using and that you'll pass on to your kids. Check out the Eberle V69 and High Speed/Lo Drag. Eberlestock has the best warranty in the industry (had recent experience with it, got a call from Glen this week about my recently fixed pack) and you get more for your money than any of the higher-end companies. Unlike Arcteryx and Kifaru, you get the awesome carry system in addition to all the bells and whistles from the factory-all the straps, all the modular pockets, all the little details that Kifaru charges hundreds of dollars for on top of the super-basic main compartment. I'd also take a look at the Karrimor SF series... I've had my eye on them lately.
 
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