View Full Version : Looking for new smaller pack
spfleisig
06-25-2017, 11:32
Any suggestions on a pack for a guy that is between 25L and 30L (not interested in larger or smaller) that has large mesh outer pocket and bottle holders and hip pouches on both sides? Oh and doesn't way too much.
ZimmerBuilt. Built exactly the way you want.
http://www.zimmerbuilt.com
Wayne
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cmoulder
06-25-2017, 19:22
You could add some hip belt pockets to this Superior Wilderness Designs (https://www.swdbackpacks.com/product-page/superior-25-with-side-and-front-mesh-pockets) pack (25 liter).
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7cc94f_5d340fc033f044e0ae1da229fcbbe10c~mv2_d_3024 _4032_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_413,h_551,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/7cc94f_5d340fc033f044e0ae1da229fcbbe10c~mv2_d_3024 _4032_s_4_2.jpg
Heliotrope
06-25-2017, 19:34
You could add some hip belt pockets to this Superior Wilderness Designs (https://www.swdbackpacks.com/product-page/superior-25-with-side-and-front-mesh-pockets) pack (25 liter).
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7cc94f_5d340fc033f044e0ae1da229fcbbe10c~mv2_d_3024 _4032_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_413,h_551,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/7cc94f_5d340fc033f044e0ae1da229fcbbe10c~mv2_d_3024 _4032_s_4_2.jpg
That's a sharp looking pack.
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fiddlehead
06-25-2017, 19:44
Yeah, I like the looks of that ^ also.
I just bought a "Burn" and am very happy with it.
But, if I could make a change, I would have ordered it with a larger mesh pocket in the back (like the one pictured above) and longer side pockets and also, I like the one strap closure on the pack pictured above (burn has 3 latches to undo everytime and they are quite small) (I worry about my hands which sometimes get slightly hypothermic when hiking being able to unlatch them)
But besides that, I love the size of the "burn" and it feels great.
One other change I would make if I ordered another one, is no hip belt.
I rarely fasten it and don't really see a use for it except to perhaps hold a pocket for a phone or GPS or something (which I don't do)
I might cut it off, but don't want to ruin the pack.
You can order the "Burn" to have it built the way you like, but I hadn't seen one first to know these things.
Good luck in your decsion. It's a big one. IMO.
cmoulder
06-25-2017, 19:53
yep, I like the Burn also, but it's a bit larger than requested by the OP. I don't have one but have a friend who uses it... I could definitely live with it. I have a Zpacks Zero about the same size as the Burn and I really like it. No longer available but its replacement, the Nero (http://zpacks.com/backpacks/nero.shtml), is a good looking pack although I don't like the new closure system. Simple enough to change it back to standard roll top, however.
Backpkrmn
06-25-2017, 20:25
Check out the one I did a review on here, Appalachian Ultralight can customize it to be whatever you like!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXqrjZNLbPg&t=257s
Quiksack adventure pack 26L 8.9oz.
http://gossamergear.com/quiksak-743.html
cmoulder
06-26-2017, 09:31
Looking at the current website, it seems Appalachian Ultralight (http://www.appalachianultralight.com/store/c1/ultralight-backpacking-store) (Cody Miller) has narrowed its line to the 20-liter Day Tripper and the 35- and 45-liter Thru Hiker and Reach Around packs.
Hopefully custom is still available for those who desire it.
spfleisig
06-26-2017, 12:49
What is a "burn"?
cmoulder
06-26-2017, 12:52
Mountain Laurel Designs "Burn" backpack (https://mountainlaureldesigns.com/product/burn-38l/) :)
Great pack but a bit larger than your spec.
https://mountainlaureldesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/BurnPack.jpg
Compare to Zpacks Nero (http://www.zpacks.com/backpacks/nero.shtml)
http://www.zpacks.com/images/backpacks/nero/nero-army-angle-l.jpg
Yeah, I like the looks of that ^ also.
I just bought a "Burn" and am very happy with it.
But, if I could make a change, I would have ordered it with a larger mesh pocket in the back (like the one pictured above) and longer side pockets and also, I like the one strap closure on the pack pictured above (burn has 3 latches to undo everytime and they are quite small) (I worry about my hands which sometimes get slightly hypothermic when hiking being able to unlatch them)
But besides that, I love the size of the "burn" and it feels great.
One other change I would make if I ordered another one, is no hip belt.
I rarely fasten it and don't really see a use for it except to perhaps hold a pocket for a phone or GPS or something (which I don't do)
I might cut it off, but don't want to ruin the pack.
You can order the "Burn" to have it built the way you like, but I hadn't seen one first to know these things.
Good luck in your decsion. It's a big one. IMO.
The MLD Burn has gone through several variations that include longer/shorter rear shovel pockets, height of side pockets, top closures, and a few more things. One consequence of these changes is usable volume. I'd say the MLD Burn(s) I currently own (2) usable volume is closer to 32-35 L(without addING hipbelts) than the 38 L currently advertised. Extending the cowling to its max ht for a load makes it too top heavy IMO. At one time the Burn was offered in slightly different volumes too and still the with the current version there's some slight volume diffetences based on torso length ordered.
FWIW I too was concered about shovel pocket ht/volume but the ht my custom xl torso versions arrived with a higher ht than currently depicted on the MLD site. Ron advised me well as well as Cenazas Burn review.
I also knew with my intended load wt I didn't need/always need the hip belt which are just wings so I ordered with a removable webbing belt. That lowers my wt by an oz or so when I remove it. I still have MLD hup belt pockets for it though which I sometimes include.
For the volume and wt the pack has served me well in Dyneema X. I like the tweakability and durability. It's like it's not there provided I stay within the design parameters. Again, to help I don't see it as a 38L pack.
If on the cusp of torso size I've found out the hard way (ate one long torso custom Burn) as result of not following Rons wise recs concerning torso ht required for frame less packs.
Don't gram weenie the torso ht. Order as Ron recs!
cmoulder
07-01-2017, 07:25
"if in doubt, SIZE UP!"
Definitely a pack for someone who is "all-in UL"
And I think you're correct concerning the volume... just eyeballing it in person, it seems somewhat smaller than my Zero, therefore very close to OP's desired spec.
I also have a MLD Core (1700ci/28L) but did not mention it because it doesn't have side pockets or mesh panel.
Kaptainkriz
07-01-2017, 07:55
I have a Sierra Designs Discovery 30 I like a lot for day hikes or short weekends. Not an ultralight, but It carries great and has the features you mention.
Any suggestions on a pack for a guy that is between 25L and 30L (not interested in larger or smaller) that has large mesh outer pocket and bottle holders and hip pouches on both sides? Oh and doesn't way too much.
Check out the one I did a review on here, Appalachian Ultralight can customize it to be whatever you like!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXqrjZNLbPg&t=257s
Good vid w/ lots of fair minded(not overly biased) perspectives.
"if in doubt, SIZE UP!"
Definitely a pack for someone who is "all-in UL"
And I think you're correct concerning the volume... just eyeballing it in person, it seems somewhat smaller than my Zero, therefore very close to OP's desired spec.
I also have a MLD Core (1700ci/28L) but did not mention it because it doesn't have side pockets or mesh panel.
How do you like the Core? I haven't seen it yet. For what kinda trips do you use it?
I'll throw this into the mix. https://ulgearblog.com/2016/01/30/2015-mountain-laurel-designs-burn/
There are lighter wt carriers in this general 25-35 L volume though especially if you go to Dyneema Composite. The MLD Burn suits my UL, financial, and durability included desires though.
These are very customizable packs though SWD, MLD, GG, Zimmerbuilt, etc not mass produced so knowing what one wants carefully decided before ordering is IMO paramount or one might be getting a pack that is only rarely employed.
A surprisingly well equipped 28 liter pack, relatively light at 23 ounces and under $100. From Kelty of all people.
https://www.moosejaw.com/moosejaw/shop/product_Kelty-Ruckus-Roll-Top-28-Pack_10306432_10208_10000001_-1_?irgwc=1&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_source=AL&utm_campaign=3184&cm_mmc=Affiliate-_-AvantLink-_-na-_-3184&ad_id=Avant&avad=3816_aee82705
Wayne
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I'm having link problems.
The pack is the Kelty Roll Top Ruckus 28 Pack.
Hopefully this link to Moosejaw works.
https://www.moosejaw.com/moosejaw/shop/product_Kelty-Ruckus-Roll-Top-28-Pack_10306432_10208_10000001_-1_
Good luck.
Wayne
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Last try. Review at Section Hiker.
https://sectionhiker.com/kelty-ruckus-roll-top-28-backpack-review/
Wayne
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BuckeyeBill
07-02-2017, 21:48
Wayne, I found all three of your links.........wait for it............wait for it..........Work just fine!:banana
I'm sorry. The first two wouldn't work for me.
It's a cool pack at a decent price. If it fits.
Wayne
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fastfoxengineering
07-13-2017, 19:39
yep, I like the Burn also, but it's a bit larger than requested by the OP. I don't have one but have a friend who uses it... I could definitely live with it. I have a Zpacks Zero about the same size as the Burn and I really like it. No longer available but its replacement, the Nero (http://zpacks.com/backpacks/nero.shtml), is a good looking pack although I don't like the new closure system. Simple enough to change it back to standard roll top, however.
How to change it back to the simple roll top closure? I've grown to dislike the closure system on the Nero. Wish I could just roll it up and clip it together. I'm confused because the compression cord uses the roll top
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saltysack
07-13-2017, 19:55
How to change it back to the simple roll top closure? I've grown to dislike the closure system on the Nero. Wish I could just roll it up and clip it together. I'm confused because the compression cord uses the roll top
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I originally ordered my MLD prophet with a closure like the Nero and didn't like it either so I sent back, Ron happily changed back to stock...surely ZP would do same as seems as easy as changing a buckle to male/female and terminating compression straps to pack.
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cmoulder
07-13-2017, 20:38
How to change it back to the simple roll top closure? I've grown to dislike the closure system on the Nero. Wish I could just roll it up and clip it together. I'm confused because the compression cord uses the roll top
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Not surprised... when I saw it I was wondering why they were messing with perfection! :o
OK, to fix... you're going to need the 1/2" buckle set.
Use some wire cutters to carefully snip out the LL3s... DO NOT cut the grosgrain loops!
I do not have the exact hardware but I have similar items to demonstrate how this is done. The basic description is to slide the grosgrain loop through the buckle, wrap it around the buckle cross piece and tie it off with some cord. Trim the cord tails and melt with a Bic. Another option is to make a bunch of loops through the grosgrain with some polyester thread and soak it with some Krazy Glue. Or you could use a zip tie. Or you could stitch it with needle and thread. Or something else you might dream up.
I once did a similar field repair on somebody's pack waist buckle and it held for the duration of the trip. And this was 'back in the day' when we were carrying 75lb packs in the winter!
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fastfoxengineering
07-13-2017, 22:21
But how does that help with compressing the pack?
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cmoulder
07-13-2017, 23:42
With a pack this size there really isn't much to compress.
The stock arrangement in effect has only one compression cord on the side that runs diagonally. The point where it attaches to the LL3s simply pulls the top down. So if you need that one diagonal compression cord on each side you could put a LL3 on each of those upper grosgrain loops and anchor a cord to the lower grosgrain loops (the ones next to the back).
You might want to see if you can live without them. I had some compression straps on my Zero but found I never used them and cut them off. Haven't missed them at all.
saltysack
07-14-2017, 08:56
But how does that help with compressing the pack?
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Appears same issue as prophet, have to sew at terminating point for compression to attach https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170714/76d5d39959f04109f6caf15810ab51f2.jpg....I'd send to ZP but I can't sew...
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fastfoxengineering
07-14-2017, 10:02
I definitely prefer having a snap buckle roll top closure and an over the top strap after spending a few months with my current nero. The neros closure system works though.
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cmoulder
07-14-2017, 12:44
I too find the strap over the top extremely useful.
It is really nice for a water carry with my 1-liter Platys because the strap can be wrapped around the "waist" of the container to hold it very securely.
39869
On the rucksack packs I've used(GL Jam 2, ULA Conduit/CDT/Burn, ZP Nero, etc) with non stock suspensions/frame sheets when opting for the roll down(and maybe drawstring top closures) I've had to learn to be careful the load isn't packed away from the body(back) at the top or sags away from the back in this area(not compressed correctly) and the virtual suspension is adequate enough(stiff enough) and that load volume is significantly close to the specked for design load(unless the pack a has a volume reducer system) or the pack sags pulling away creating a forceful stress pt on the top strap resulting in tears to areas like the shovel pocket and where the top strap is attached.
Before noticing and rectifying this as I ascended the rucksack learning curve I had top strap seam failures and incorrect pack positioning too far away from my back putting excessive stress on my shoulders and spine. I did this ignorantly for so long it made my shoulders stronger and great foot balance though that I can now go 25 lbs for most of the day without a hip belt even on shifting tread but resulted in bone misalignment in not only my back but hips which later had to be corrected in chiropractic and physiotherapy rehab...that began with ignorance from a damn top strap and rucksack use.
cmoulder
07-14-2017, 19:57
I'm OK with the Zero up to about 18 lbs or so.
But if carrying more than that, the 36 liter volume is likely going to be inadequate anyway so I will be using the Arc Blast.
Earlier this week I did a 2-night trip and although the TPW was only ~14 lbs I used the Arc Blast anyway for the back ventilation — it was hot and humid as hell!
blue indian
12-11-2017, 22:38
I'm trying to decide between the MLD burn and SWD 25 currently.
The front pocket on the burn is the only reason I have pulled the trigger on one. It just looks.....small...Its hard to tell from any of the pictures or videos Ive seen. For some reason it seems that no one actually puts their gear in their packs when taking this pictures and videos.
Could anyone with a burn chime in with any comments or pictures??
I love the look of the SWD 25, (especially the front pocket) and ability to customize. But there arent many pictures out there, besides the ones on their website. But Im not so sure about the xpac material they like to work with. I could do a cuben hybrid but Im not so sure its worth it.
I would love to hear any comments about either pack or matierals used.
saltysack
12-11-2017, 23:12
My new burn should arrive any day.....be glad to send load out pics. Why not order and return if don’t like? I took a leap of faith as I made a few changes so mine is non returnable...Im planning a few FT sections this winter to try it out.
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blue indian
12-12-2017, 09:39
That would be awesome salty!
I could take a risk but like you, I would be make some modifications and that means no returns. I dont want to deal with buying two custom packs and trying to resell it if I dont like it
cockblock moses
12-12-2017, 13:38
Ive got a SWD 35. Although bigger than the 25, I love the pack, and the company itself is great and really helpful and has that personal feeling. The pack material is tough, I just did the PCT with it and i never had a problem with ripping on a tree branch or anything of that sorts
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saltysack
12-12-2017, 13:54
That would be awesome salty!
I could take a risk but like you, I would be make some modifications and that means no returns. I dont want to deal with buying two custom packs and trying to resell it if I dont like it
Talked to ron today....still a few more weeks as it’s only been 8 weeks......ugggg
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I'm trying to decide between the MLD burn and SWD 25 currently.
The front pocket on the burn is the only reason I have pulled the trigger on one. It just looks.....small...Its hard to tell from any of the pictures or videos Ive seen. For some reason it seems that no one actually puts their gear in their packs when taking this pictures and videos.
Could anyone with a burn chime in with any comments or pictures??
I love the look of the SWD 25, (especially the front pocket) and ability to customize. But there arent many pictures out there, besides the ones on their website. But Im not so sure about the xpac material they like to work with. I could do a cuben hybrid but Im not so sure its worth it.
I would love to hear any comments about either pack or matierals used.Check out reddit UL section, seems a lot of people mention having a Burn and several have mentioned the SWD. Might find what you need there.
blue indian
12-12-2017, 20:46
Ive got a SWD 35. Although bigger than the 25, I love the pack, and the company itself is great and really helpful and has that personal feeling. The pack material is tough, I just did the PCT with it and i never had a problem with ripping on a tree branch or anything of that sorts
Their customer service has been pretty good so far.
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Did you have the vx07? I heard there were problems with durability which is why Pa'lante quit using it. If I see a company move away from a certain fabric entirely it makes me hesitant...
blue indian
12-12-2017, 20:47
Talked to ron today....still a few more weeks as it’s only been 8 weeks......ugggg
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Man, those lead times are crazy. But I guess it means they are staying busy which is good!
blue indian
12-12-2017, 20:52
Check out reddit UL section, seems a lot of people mention having a Burn and several have mentioned the SWD. Might find what you need there.
Thanks! I frequent the forum, although Ive never posted. There are a few posts about both packs. The pictures that are there arent super helpful. Again, people seem to just fill the packs with a pillow which makes it look all pretty and tidy but that doesnt give a good perspective. Im just being picky though
saltysack
12-12-2017, 21:37
Man, those lead times are crazy. But I guess it means they are staying busy which is good!
Why not get order in.....cancel if you decide ya don’t want....assume full refund...
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blue indian
12-12-2017, 22:28
Upon further research, I found more threads that were helpful on reddit.
Im leaning heavily towards the SWD currently.
But that will probably change tomorrow..
cockblock moses
12-13-2017, 02:12
Did you have the vx07? I heard there were problems with durability which is why Pa'lante quit using it. If I see a company move away from a certain fabric entirely it makes me hesitant...
I have the tougher fabric. You have multiple choices.
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Upon further research, I found more threads that were helpful on reddit.
Im leaning heavily towards the SWD currently.
But that will probably change tomorrow..Lol, I understand that feeling! Eventually you just have to poop or get off the pot.