I've been paring my gear down to go lighter. My current TNF pack is fairly large (I don't recall the exact volume) It will barely hold it's shape with my base load, nothing compressed and all the cinch straps pulled down tight. I was in REI the other day and tried on a Flash 50, which seemed very nice but the salesman suggested it would be too small and suggested a Flash 65, which they didn't have in stock. I like the cost and features of this pack. My hiking partner has suggested either a Mountain Laurel 3500ci or a Granite Gear Blaze AC 60, both being made in the US. The Mountain Laurel has only a minimal hip belt and no frame as far as I can tell. The AC 60 seems like a very nice pack but is also the most expensive.
I plan to use the new pack to carry a base weight of 25 lbs or less with a full up weight never over 40 lbs. I am a somewhat overweight, middle age, trail stroller, not into peak bagging or speed hiking. I'm trying to go lighter to allow me to stay on the trail as a age, not to beat everyone else to the top of the hill.
I'm sort of lost and can't afford to buy all three. Thoughts and observations?