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Posted: 7/12/2009 8:41:23 PM EDT
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......Jumbo or Colossus Versipack.
I am returning to college in the fall due to severe lumbar back problems ending my previous career. I am trying to find a shoulder slung bag large enough for a mini laptop, a couple books and misc. classroom supplies. The problem is that I need it modified. I want to add a wide belt to transfer the bulk of the weight to my hips. Thus I could carry it slung for short periods of time and use the belt when walking any distance. I wrote the folk at The Wilderness Tactical as I was an early customer when they first opened their doors. (Time.....she sure does fly.) Is there anyone else that does this kind of work? Or make something like this already? |
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Quoted:
with back problems I would think a regular two strap backpack with waist belt would be much better for you. I have thought of this. As a balance between carrying, access and useability I would like to stay away from a backpack, though it has the advantage of being easy to find. If I can't make this idea work, that will likely be the way I go. |
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I should have added that I am trying to avoid a backpack style for other reasons.
Part of my lumbar problem is some facet joints that are 'shot'. So any backward pressure, even from the shoulder straps of a pack can cause a signigant increase in pain. I put a fair share of thought into this question and can't find the pack that is exactly what I want/need, thus the modification question. |
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While I am certain it could be done, I think the time/effort involved to get it to work properly and be strong/stable enough might warrant looking at getting something else that does what you want it to do from the outset.
Just adding a waist-strap to a Jumbo/Colossus won't transfer/support the weight on your hips, like you indicate you want, and adding a weigh-bearing belt to them would probably cost more than getting a new one. Below I've listed a couple of alternatives. I have a very old version of the Mountainsmith Tour pack, that I've had for 20+ years now. It's a great pack, rides REALLY well snugged up into my lumbar area, and has a removable strap I can sling it with. While not as big as a backpack, it's at least as roomy as a Jumbo/Colossus...in fact, I'd say more roomy. If I remove my 9-cell battery from my IBM Thinkpad X61 laptop, I can just fit it inside. A netbook would easily fit in there, along with assorted odds and ends for school...but I wouldn't count on carrying any textbooks...but you wouldn't be able to do that with a Jumbo/Colossus, either. Other ideas include the Maxpedition Sabercat, which is a larger version of their Proteus, but I don't know if it'd hold a Netbook-sized object. Kifaru makes some awesome lumbar packs...a friend in the Az National Guard has a Scout that he is able to carry a lot of gear in. Good luck. Mountainsmith Lumbar packs Maxpedition Sabercat Kifaru Scout Kifaru Tailgunner 1 Kifaru Tailgunner 2 |
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OK, the Mountainsmith 'Day' and the Versipack Sabercat made the short list.
I am concerned about centering all the weight on my back vs. my idea of moving it to the hip and shoulder strap but these are readily available. I think I'll order one tomorrow. That will let me use it for a few weeks to see if I think it will work before the first day of class. Meanwhile I wait for a reply from The Wilderness about my original idea. I'll hold it in reserve in case the lumbar packs don't work. Thanks Tim!! |
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Quoted:
Between the two, I'd lean to the Mountainsmith pack, only because I believe it's bigger. As for the WIlderness, they don't do a whole lot of custom anymore, AFAIK, because they're so busy making stuff to sell. If that makes any sense. :) For a trial idea I also like the Mountainsmith as it is a bit less expensive. I had heard that Wilderness was very busy. I used to hang out at Legendary Guns and their store almost daily when they were on 19th Ave. It has been a long time and I doubt the remember me, but in my email I tried to remind them.  I also mentioned the custom work they had done and few of the items I purchased over the years.
Between that and the lumbar issues, I am hoping to make them feel good about helping me out. 
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Tim,
It took me awhile but I finally ordered the pack tonight. So while I'm checking out it asks for a coupon code. WTH, I Google 'Mountainsmith coupon' which turns up a page showing FF50 as 50% off entire order. I should have ordered something else as it worked like a champ. So if you need something, you can thank me later.
I ordered the: Mountainsmith Lumbar Day ––- CLICK HERE Thanks for all your help!! |
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Quoted:
I was wondering if you'd ever pulled the trigger on an order. Thanks for the info. make sure to post up a review when you get it and have used it for a bit. Missed your reply. After a few months of daily use. Absolutely the best $40 I could have spent with my condition and for my personal use. It took a little while for me to adapt to its use, various straps, etc. Once I did, I REALLY like this thing. I now use if for school five days a week. You will need the largest size for textbooks and folders. With books it is large enough that you need to be careful not to put to much weight in it. For a healthy user this may not be an issue. I have also started using it for outdoor activities (and will be purchasing another) as I can cinch the belt tight enough that when using it I can avoid use of the 'support' belt I use when walking, hiking or hunting. Plus all my dog stuff, ammo, water, etc fit easily. Thanks again Tim!! |
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