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AR15.COM
8/3/2011 4:10:02 PM EDT
I'm looking for a 2-3 day back pack. I have problems from time to time with my lower back so I need something with real good comfort and weight distribution. Which one do you guys recommend?
Also, what's the proper way to measure for the proper size?
8/3/2011 4:29:23 PM EDT
[#1]
I personally plan on using a civilian mountain hiking backpack.  My wife has an Osprey as do i.  Super comfortable on long trips, built tough, nature like colors & doesn't stand out or look military.  Must companies will tell you where & how to measure bc sometimes they are never the same ways.  Mine was from your neck bone to the hip then just your waste.
8/3/2011 4:50:55 PM EDT
[#2]
I just received my Maxpedition Vulture II in the mail last week. It seems like it's going to be a kick ass bag. I have a two day hike next week so I'll give a little AAR on it when I get back.

PM me for super secret discount codes and free shipping.
8/3/2011 5:11:34 PM EDT
[#3]
Go to REI or a similar store and have them measure your torso length. They will then offer packs that will actually fit your body type.

The Kelty Redwing 3100 is a good 2-3 day pack for me.
8/3/2011 6:59:45 PM EDT
[#4]
http://www.skdtac.com/CamelBak_TriZip_Hydration_Pack_p/cbk.660.htm... big bonus is the frame... VERY easily adjusted for your torso , etc.  it is made by Mystery Ranch.

http://www.mysteryranch.com/s.nl/c.999464/it.A/id.2247/.f?sc=7&category=103509....look for the "Futura" frame !


This video shows what I'm talking about....http://www.mysteryranch.com/s.nl/c.999464/sc.12/category.24324/.f
8/3/2011 7:05:03 PM EDT
[#5]
I alway hit REI to test out packs before I buy.  REI is a little more expensive initially, but has a really good bang for your buck down the road.



I recently replaced a REI flash series pack that had seen 4 hard years of travel.  The pack had a velcro patch at the frame pull a stich, and I went to REI to repair or replace it.  The bought the pack back from me for what I originally paid because I happen to be a member.  I ended up picking up an Osprey Atmos 65 pack as a replacement for a whopping total of $38 with my dividend, 20% off, and proceeds from my old pack.  You cant beat that kind of customer service.



I like the Osprey series.  I am currently using a Manta 25 for a GHB.  Its a lot more compact than my Atmos and more in line with new newest AO needs.  I do wish the Manta was a little larger though, but it forces me to watch what I pack.
8/3/2011 11:24:36 PM EDT
[#6]
Expensive but a great pack: Camelbak BFM 500
8/4/2011 12:15:29 AM EDT
[#7]
Kelty Falcon 4000.
8/4/2011 12:38:36 AM EDT
[#8]
Quoted:
Kelty Falcon 4000.


I got this, very happy with it in my limited use thus far.
8/4/2011 2:22:02 AM EDT
[#9]
Quoted:
I'm looking for a 2-3 day back pack. I have problems from time to time with my lower back so I need something with real good comfort and weight distribution. Which one do you guys recommend?
Also, what's the proper way to measure for the proper size?


Ta-Daa!

REI Video- Finding Your Torso Size.

Go to a camping/sporting goods store with real knowledgeable people and try on several packs with weight in them.  Then decide what works for you.

ETA:  REI.com has a "learn" section where you can find info on choosing, loading, adjusting, etc. packs and all sort of camping/hiking gearlists.

8/4/2011 2:29:43 AM EDT
[#10]
Thanks for that link. I didn't see that when I was on their site.
8/4/2011 4:25:15 AM EDT
[#11]
Carbine85, you need a pack that is 1: long enough in its construction so that the hip belt actually rests on the hip bones, and 2: has stiff enough of a frame so that the weight up high can be effectively transferred to the hip belt. A lot of the glorified book bag type packs do not meet either of these parameters. I have a Mystery Ranch 3 Day Assault  that is heavy and expensive, but it is comfortable.
8/4/2011 6:06:54 AM EDT
[#12]
x2 on the Osprey.  I have four of them and I have not found a want or need to replace one yet.
8/4/2011 7:38:01 AM EDT
[#13]
Quoted:
Carbine85, you need a pack that is 1: long enough in its construction so that the hip belt actually rests on the hip bones, and 2: has stiff enough of a frame so that the weight up high can be effectively transferred to the hip belt. A lot of the glorified book bag type packs do not meet either of these parameters. I have a Mystery Ranch 3 Day Assault  that is heavy and expensive, but it is comfortable.

What are you calling heavy? 5-6 lbs? I was thinking in terms of a backpack around 4-4.5 lbs if I can.
8/4/2011 10:46:07 AM EDT
[#14]
The MR 3 Day Assault pack is listed at 5 lbs., 1 oz. The civilian version, known as the Sweet Pea, is listed at 3 lbs., 9 oz.

http://www.mysteryranch.com/s.nl/c.999464/it.A/id.2247/.f?sc=7&category=45
http://www.mysteryranch.com/s.nl/c.999464/it.A/id.13467/.f?sc=11&category=10
8/4/2011 1:44:59 PM EDT
[#15]
Northface Recon. Ive had tons of milspec packs the Recon is light and durable and blends in.
8/4/2011 7:02:46 PM EDT
[#16]
Arcteryx Bora.  Heavier, but has great suspension and load capability.

8/4/2011 7:07:46 PM EDT
[#17]



Quoted:


http://www.skdtac.com/CamelBak_TriZip_Hydration_Pack_p/cbk.660.htm... big bonus is the frame... VERY easily adjusted for your torso , etc.  it is made by Mystery Ranch.



http://www.mysteryranch.com/s.nl/c.999464/it.A/id.2247/.f?sc=7&category=103509....look for the "Futura" frame !





This video shows what I'm talking about....http://www.mysteryranch.com/s.nl/c.999464/sc.12/category.24324/.f


I used that mystery ranch pack in Afghanistan and it was awesome.  I also had an Eberlestock Halftrack, a bit heavy but tough as nails.   I'm looking forward to picking up one of the Eberlestock Destroyers now.



 
8/15/2011 10:06:58 PM EDT
[#18]
I took my new Maxpedition on an overnight hike the other day with a buddy and it did quite well. Held all my gear with room to spare.