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  1. #1
    Registered User
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    05-11-2010
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    Evans, Georgia
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    Default Backpacks: internal or external frame?

    I have an older external frame pack that was given to me and I have a Texsport internal frame pack. Which one would be better for hiking short runs on AT?

  2. #2
    Registered User
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    01-28-2008
    Location
    Spokane, WA
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    Default

    Try them both and use the one that's most comfortable and holds your gear.
    "It's fun to have fun, but you have to know how." ---Dr. Seuss

  3. #3
    Registered User
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    12-05-2003
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    pennsylvania
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    Default

    I love external frames for on trail hiking. Keeps the load away from my back which means it's cooler, carries nicer with the frame and doesn't feel like a potato sack hanging off my shoulders. I only use an internal frame for off trail hiking.

  4. #4
    Registered User moytoy's Avatar
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    12-10-2009
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    Titusville, Florida, United States
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    Default

    FB and s005 give you good advice. One thing you might think about on the external frame pack. Older packs that were not made by the better brands didn't have great hip belts and shoulder straps. I custom made mine and installed them on my cheap external frame from the 1960's. I have all I need in a pack with the external frame.
    KK4VKZ -SOTA-SUMMITS ON THE AIR-
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  5. #5
    2010 complete
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    06-24-2007
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    hickory, nc
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    Default

    my external pack doesn't need to be stored in the tent or suspended at night. My external pack has multiple compartments and everything has it's own spot. It has great suspension based on my hips and doesn't hang on my shoulders.

  6. #6

    Default

    If you're not carrying a heavy load, an external frame pack will add several extra pounds to your load. It makes less sense to use one when your packing light. I use a small frameless pack for my 10lb load. Someone asked if it just rides on my shoulders. I unlatched the waist strap to see if that was true. I couldn't see much difference. I suggest for a more enjoyable trip, you aim for that kind of weight. You don't (and maybe in some places should not) have to reach it, just aim for it.
    Some knew me as Piper, others as just Diane.
    I hiked the PCT: Mexico to Mt. Shasta, 2008. Santa Barbara to Canada, 2009.

  7. #7

    Default

    I've hiked with both now and a well fitted internal frame pack is much nicer for me.

  8. #8
    Super Moderator Ender's Avatar
    Join Date
    12-12-2003
    Location
    Lovely coastal Maine
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    49
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    2,281

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Feral Bill View Post
    Try them both and use the one that's most comfortable and holds your gear.
    What he said. Whatever pack is more comfortable for you to carry is the one you should carry.
    Don't take anything I say seriously... I certainly don't.

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