Howdy folk!
Sorry for my absence, it's been a busy couple of weeks getting things ready for a wholesale expo.
But I got some cool new gear to add to the Kephart collection!
Traded some leatherwork and tomahawks I don't use any more for some killer vintage packs, both of which are contemporary to Kephart's time and are mentioned in Camping and Woodcraft.
Got an external frame Norwegian Telemark Bergen/ruck. These things are terrific, and very comfortable with the frame and hip brace. Lots of attachment points for bed rolls and the side pockets are attached just along the sides, so you can carry axes, rifles, skis etc...
The next is a vintage Trapper Nelson Indian Packboard. Wooden frame and very large canvas pack! It's roughly the same size as the Duluth, but a bit more versatile, especially as the pack can be removed and the frame used for bulky or unwieldy loads.
Also got a mosquito net and silky saw in the trade.
I now have most of my Kep outfit put together. I'll get some photos once we're back from the expo.
I think the Duluth is going to be delegated to Canoe pack duty. That is what they were originally designed for. For trips afoot, I'll pack the same kit in the far more comfortable carrying Telemark, and use the pack board for trips during big game season.