Recommend to me...

both Maxpeditoion and Camelbak make some nice gear, much of it has MOLEE, and most of it is available in earthtones.

but i don't really have anything like what you're looking for. i do have a Camelbak HAWG, and a MULE (mil spec versions, which are completely different than the civi versions with the same name). really like them, but they're day packs, hard to stretch it to anything longer.

unless i was on a super tight budget, i wouldn't be using a $15 pack from wally world for a BOB..

the ESEE Junglas or Kifaru packs have good reputastions, and while they are spendy i expect you get what you pay for.

but i think from your description, you might be better served by two packs. one for single day stuff, one for weekender trips.

i also wouldn't suggest one pack for two people. even if you have a petite GF, se'll need at least a Camelbak type pack for water, snacks and essentials.

+1 on "buy quality, cry once"
 
Not to be rude but I have more than enough experience to identify, when in hand, whether an outdoors item is quality or not. If I didn't think these would do for now, I would not have wasted money on them. Are they up to kirafu or whatever standards? No, I'm sure they're not. But they're not junk that will fall apart the first time you take it out either.

However that is part of the reason why I am looking for a more solid pack, that I don't want these to be in that position forever.
 
IMHO, most of the cheap packs these days are made as well or better than the expensive packs from years gone by.

A size upgrade from the WM Remingtom pack for not a lot more dollars is the WM (exclusive) Coleman Max 65 (65 liter). It has a lot of features found in $200+ packs for about $75.

It isn't bombproof like an ALICE, but it will last quite a while with ordinary care (and is much more comfortable to carry than the Alice). Drawbacks? Two color choices: Red and black, orange and black. It comes with a raincover, has a bottom compartment for sleeping bag with zip out divider, mesh water bottle side pockets, zip side pockets, rear daisy chain, several haul loops, hydration compatable, Ice ax/Hiking pole loops, torso adjustable shoulder suspension and very padded hip belt with zip pocket (for cell or camera), internal framesheet (with, I believe, two aluminum stays), side compression straps.

2la7uja.jpg


It isn't the best pack out there, but it will work well until you can afford to upgrade, which I will do. Then this one will be my "buddy pack", a loaner for friends and family who don't have gear but want to try hiking.
 
Someone recommended me a Blackhaawk STRIKE Cyclone. It looks good, thinking of going with that. Perhaps worth looking into?
 
basb said:
Someone recommended me a Blackhaawk STRIKE Cyclone. It looks good, thinking of going with that. Perhaps worth looking into?
Click to expand...

That one is less than 2000 cu in capacity, but BLACKHAWK! bags get fair to good reviews. It also has the MOLLE if you want to add pouches and compartments, which you would have to do to increase capacity for multi-day outings. Nice to be able to customize, but that shoots the (relatively) low initial price ($125-150).
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top