Small pack suggestions

Will Power

Will Power

Joined
Jan 18, 2007
Messages
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Doubtless, people have asked after this before but I'd appreciate your views:thumbup:

I want a small back-pack preferably in the old school rucksack style but useful for a day hike or trip.Compact though. Looked at the Maxpedition pygmy falcon, a good pack but not struck on the style, I'm looking for something more old-fashioned yet practical. Saw some ex-Swiss army pack that might be alright BUT 2nd hand..and no shipping to the EU. Thanks!
 
I like the Snugpak line of packs, personally. I bought the Rocketpak and couldn't be happier with it. The cool thing about it is you can unzip the 2 side compartments and attach them to a PLCE yoke to make a smaller 30 litre pack. I'd check out their sleeka force which is, I think, 35 litres. If you need something really small or need to add storage, the Response Pak is pretty cool too.
 
Try the military surplus. The swiss generally make high quality gear and they don't let there stuff get torn up before they swap it out. I've been very happy with them. The one exception is that there large is not what I would call a large. For a day pack or a minimalist there great but if you want to do some long range back packing you need to look at something else.
 
I rather like my SpecOps THE Pack. Hang a SAW pouch off either side to carry water bottles. If I'm planning on being out overnight, my bag and hammock are in a dry bag gets lashed to the bottom. Only downside is that it is pricy, but I've yet to kill SpecOps Brand gear, unlike a number of the bigger names.
 
Maxpedition Condor...simply awesome. Gene
 
i just purchased a camelbak mule military model from brigadequartermasters.

i have not received it yet but this pack looked like the best size for day hiking and mtn. biking.
 
willgoy, what size (capacity) are you looking for? A small pack may be 800 ci to some, and 2000 ci to others. I suppose size will depend a little on what you want to take on your day hike or trip. Different folks hump different gear for similar-type outings.

And by old-school ruck style, are you looking for a single-compartment pack with a flap that covers a drawstring top opening? Would you consider any other style, or are you dead set on the ruck style?
 
LL Bean makes a "Continental Rucksack" in nylon, waxed canvas, leather or even wool. http://www.llbean.com/webapp/wcs/st...=1098&feat=bc&storeId=1&catalogId=1&langId=-1

I used to have a Sacs Millet canvas rucksack that is no longer made. They were simple and good.

If you are in Europe, Vaude packs are excellent. The Rock 25 is a great ultralight and small pack. I've had one and it has all kinds of bells and whistles for a small pack: http://www.vaude.de/hps/client/vaude/public/hxfront/index.hbs/outdoor/en

Click on products/mountain sports/backpacks/Extreme Alpin for the Rock 25, but do surf around.

Deuter is another maker that comes to mind. Very close to Vaude in offerings.


If you want a REALLY small rucksack, Jansport make this one: http://www.rockymountaintrail.com/detail.aspx?ID=9968 . I have one I use more like a stuff sack. It makes a perfect mini bug out bag or first aid bag.

REI makes the Flash pack-- more or less a stuff sack with pack straps on it. It does work. http://www.rei.com/product/747522

EDIT/UPDATE: Here is a REALLY interesting sire: http://www.duluthpack.com/index.aspx . Someone was looking for a shoulder bags-- these guys have ones that look really good-- classic canvas and leather. Not cheap either!
 
I'd agree on the Kifaru. For something with better social camo, the Kelty Redwood is great.
 
Hikeeba, think 23 litres would be big enough or smaller.Yes the European rucksack style is what I'm after:thumbup: Couple of side pockets, main bag that might have a small inner pouch and drawstring.

DaleW Thanks for the links, that leather rucksack really interested me but would come to 300dollars with the shipping...THEN our EU customs might get their noses in and want 8% standard plus 22% VAT as well:eek: Last time I had to pay customs duties I had a long row with the imbecile in a cap who tried to tax me on a 1 dollar = 1 euro basis! I actually had to show him on his comp that a euro is worth MORE than a dollar. Nice links like I say.
 
willgoy said:
Hikeeba, think 23 litres would be big enough or smaller.Yes the European rucksack style is what I'm after:thumbup: Couple of side pockets, main bag that might have a small inner pouch and drawstring.
Click to expand...

That's what I thought you were after. The old Sacs Millet bags were exactly that. REI must has sold thousands of PU coated nylon ones. They were cheap and perfect for day hiking. I'm really suprised they aren't still around.

And yes for $300US plus the shipping and duty, you could have one custom made to your specs.

Where do you live?
 
Finland.
Can't understand why I can't find what I'm looking for in europe though.
Time to resort to e-bay I supose.
 
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I'd recommend the camelbak motherload. It's tough and super functional. A touch on the pricey side though.
 
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