Need help deciding on a gearslinger type pack

[myright]

Ok - I've said before that I'm not the biggest fan of Maxped packs because I don't like the amount of pockets, straps and zippers. That being said, I do enjoy my 10x4 bottle holder and my PFII - they both serve me well.

I got to thinking the other other day watching my wife carry the 10x4 that I really like the design of a sling pack for short hikes. I don't currently own one so am looking for some feedback.

It appears it would be less contact on your back therefore creating less sweat between the pack and your back. Can you switch shoulders you are carrying it over pretty easily? Does it create hotspots by only being slung over one shoulder?

I'm looking at getting the Remora but would love to see pics of the Monsoon to see if it is as big as it looks on the Maxped site.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

 

[FortyTwoBlades]

As long as you don't overload them you'll be fine.

 

[mymindisamob]

I used to have a Monsoon, and have regreted letting it go since. I will get another. They are easily carried in multiple postions and carry a lot for dayhikes. I experienced no real hotspots as I recall. It has been awhile and the only reason I got rid of it was to buy a Kifaru Scout (which was nowhere as comfortable and is now gone). Here are the only pics I have of it. Not how I carried it in general, but it's for reference of size. I am 5'9" and weigh around 220 in these pics.

 

[Billy516]

I bought a Lunada a few months ago and have been using it daily as my EDC bag. I have also carried it around Disney World in sweltering heat and I had no complaints. It's smaller than it looks on their website, but can still hold a surprising amount of "stuff". The sling on this one is reversible, but I never found the need to switch it around. Overall, I find it very useful and comfortable and I think it would work well for what you need it for. I also like it because it doesn't look too "Tactical Tommy" and doesn't draw alot of attention other than compliments.:thumbup:

 

[kvaughn]

Ive got the Maxped Versipak jumbo which I EDC as a BOB and also use it on day hikes. Like somebody said earlier, just dont overload the single strappers. My jumbo has a great CCW pocket.--KV

 

[wildmike]

I am awaiting delivery of my Typhoon today. Whoever Maxpedition uses to model their packs is small. That being said the Monsoon is a larger pack but not huge. It and the Typhoon have the widest shoulder straps which helps with the heavier loads.

milspecmonkey has a review of the Monsoon but be warned it looks huge on that guy.

 

[myright]

Thanks for the feedback fellas - I guess I'll just have to start buying some and see how I like them.

Thanks for the pics too!

 

[raylaconico]

I don't personally like the slinger type packs. I find regular backpacks a whole lot more comfortable and practical. Backpacks are a lot more stable, which is great if you're going through rough terrain (or any terrain really). It's also easier to carry the weight on a backpack like 10 lbs will feel a lot heavier on a slinger than on a backpack. Backpacks distribute weight on two shoulders and hips while slingers dangle on one shoulder and sway around when you're hiking. You may like it though so give it a try. A lot of people seem to. I did try a Maxpedition Jumbo Versiback one time for a short hike and I hated it!.... Just my opinion.

 

[mymindisamob]

Although I agree that weight distribution is better in a backpack, the Monsoon does not sway in my experience. I like it much more for urban type carry. My backpack is for really being outdoors.

 

[FortyTwoBlades]

milspecmonkey has a review of the Monsoon but be warned it looks huge on that guy.

Yeah. Clayton is a super tiny dude. Met him at SHOT this year and he's way shorter than me and I'm not that big (5'9"). Cool guy though!

 

[WalterDavis]

Check out the Osprey Flip, too. Mine's pretty comfortable, carries quite a bit, and is really great for trips where I'm in-and-out of the truck a lot. It's also very NOT tactical looking, which is nice in some environments.

 

[Pvt.snoballz]

im actually a big fan of the Remora, its my EDC and carry just essentials:
knife
g2 w/ malkhoff m60L
2 extra batteries for the light
8feet of paracord wrapped around the molle webbing of the front (top row only)
MRE accesory pack which brings matches, TP, wet nap, iodized salt and a drink mix (very small)
a white bandana
MRE cracker, MRE peanut butter, MRE dried cranberries
pen
pencil
breath mints
small compass
whistle
Wallet
Cell phone
Keys
and some misc. band aids and alcohol prep pad (my girlfriend get alot of blisters. she makes fun of my "purse" until she needs anything that i carry)
OH and a zeiss lense wipe (carry a camera sometimes)
even with this stuff theres still room for other things.
let me know if you want pictures too see it all.

its a small pack, but carries the essentials.

BTW it still has room for a compact ;]

G19 soon. :]

 

[myright]

Check out the Osprey Flip, too. Mine's pretty comfortable, carries quite a bit, and is really great for trips where I'm in-and-out of the truck a lot. It's also very NOT tactical looking, which is nice in some environments.

Osprey has some pretty cool sling types.. Thanks! I've never visited their site before. You're right, they are perfect for every environment especially some of the more crowded trails around here. I also like the fact that I can carry in to the office if needed.

 

[Dabling]

Two cents: I use a pack of some type usually a regular two strap (osprey or gregory or north face) more than the average person, I have walked over 3000 miles in the last two years. I have a sling which I use as my 'man' bag to carry my shiz to and from the office and around the town for errands. Once I loaded my sling (north face) up for a day hike with the lady, maybe eight pounds with water and camera. We hiked for a couple of hours in the Uintahs. Never again, tore my neck up and bothered my shoulder for a week. Long story short use two strap and keep the weight even. If you are worried about keeping cooler buy one of the ventilated ones. IMHO Gregory brand are the best.

 

[mymindisamob]

myright, Thanks for bringing this up. I am ordering a Khaki/Foliage Monsoon after payday. It will be my new Lunch/Work bag. I really have missed my old one.