Need Suggestions for a Backpack

[JoeH]

I want to get a new backpack and really know very little about the subject.

The intended use is for 1-3 day travel. I will not be hiking with it. I will be using it for trips to the cabin, weekends away, and short business trips (air travel). I may also use it as a day pack when hunting.

I have a couple of nice duffle bags from North Face and Duluth Pack. I have a nice laptop backpack too that's big enough for a 17" laptop. But the padded computer compartment really dominates that bag.

I have a Maxpedition Sitka bag but it is way too small for this. I do like the quality, compartments, and "tactical" look.

So, what do I need? Does a 3-day pack sound about right for size? I'd like to stay under $200... about $100 would be ideal.

PS- I've wanted to get a Blackhawk pack for a while. Does anyone have experience with them?

Thanks,

Joe

[Pinnacle]

I would go to REI and look at a real backpack.... The TactiCool ones are NOT comfortable or intended for anything more than looking cool.

You will want a 35L or 40L bag.

[rugersol]

daughters jest got a couple of these the other day ... http://m.llbean.com/mt/www.llbean.com/llb/shop/62783 ... no ****!

lifetime warranty ... excellent construction ... check out the reviews!

they're very lightweight, too! ... trouble with more expensive packs is, they're heavier! ... why carry extra weight?!

I've got a Dana Design fer the rockies ... but if I was doing a 2-day deal, I'd be all over one of these! ... 'sept I already got more 'er less the same thing in a Jansport from REI ... fer 4x the money!

if ya wanna be more HSLD, ya could go with this one! ... http://m.llbean.com/mt/www.llbean.com/llb/shop/64779

this one says it's GTG fer carry on! ... http://m.llbean.com/mt/www.llbean.com/llb/shop/63246#ppMoreDetails

[Pinnacle]

Mystery Ranch makes some good products - theya re EXPENSIVE and HEAVY - moreso than they need to be. I would not over look some of the new Eddie Bauer First Ascent packs.

I have one and I like the heck out of it. I went all ultralight with my gear. There is just no need to carry more weight than you have to especially when something has a lifetime warranty and has proven to be durable to begin with.

I am not at all a fan of the Military type gear that is just Overbuilt beyond reason or practicallity. Commercial Gear is better suited to at least my needs.

[yuppiejr]

I'd just buy different packs for different purposes.... for hunting or any sort of outdoor hiking for which you are hauling more than the basics I still think surplus stuff configured intelligently is a great value. I've built 4 of the "Hellcat" rigs using ALICE frames + rucks with the newer MOLLE suspension (shoulder pads & waist belt). The ALICE rucks have attachment compatible with both ALICE and MOLLE gear so you can customize the pack for your specific needs/wants (hydration carriers, sustainment or radio pouches, canteens, first aid kits, ammo carriers, etc..). Buy the Molle sleep system carrier at Fleet Farm in their surplus section for $10, they run closer to $20 at the online surplus outfits...



http://libertytreeblogs.blogspot.com/20 ... om-us.html

If you want a solid, inexpensive 3-day pack I'd suggest looking at the LA Police Gear 3-day pack for $30... inexpensive but mine has held up to a fair bit of abuse and is still kicking:



http://www.lapolicegear.com/diplomat-3- ... pack1.html

You should be able to get both for right around your $100 desired budget.

[Pezhead]

Joe, check out REI. They have weights you can put in to see how they feel. I have a Jansport but also like the REI brand which carry a lifetime guarantee. REI in Maple Grove is no longer posted thanks to one of the members on this board.
The non tactile ones slow to bled in while traveling too.

[redaudi]

bug out gear also makes some great packs. I have a couple of them that have taken years of abuse through my deployment and the 4 years since.

[Pinnacle]

I got rid of all of my tactical looking gear here in the DC Area... It pays to keep a very low profile..

[rugersol]

It pays to keep a very low profile..

that's what I'm sayin'! ...

[goalie]

Go to REI. Buy a pack of the appropriate size. I am a fan of the actual REI branded packs. If it sucks for you, they take it back. Best return policy in the business.

[Humphrey Bogart]

Technical question (dumb):

See those horizontal bands of fabric?

They're stitched every inch and there's 3 rows.

What is the purpose of these bands?

Are you supposed to stick branches in there for camoflage?

Stick a ball point pen in there?

Clip a water bottle into the loop area???

I've NEVER seen them used....if they didn't have a purpose they wouldn't be there right?

[mrp]

Technical question (dumb):

See those horizontal bands of fabric?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pouch_Attachment_Ladder_System

[Pinnacle]

MOLLE Pouch Attachment Points. So you can carry MORE Crap you dont need...

[JoeH]

Go to REI. Buy a pack of the appropriate size. I am a fan of the actual REI branded packs. If it sucks for you, they take it back. Best return policy in the business.

I need to check this out. I'm getting a lot of REI recommendations.

[Dante]

Here is a small, inexpensive backpack...




http://www.fleetfarm.com/mff/detail/fieldline-montana-backpack-mossy-oak-infinity/0000000017801