I own the Ranier, along with a number of other externals and internals. On most of my trips that are not day hikes, I choose my Ranier.<br><br>Best advice given to me: borrow or rent and try some out. <br><br>BTW, I removed the foam back pad and replaced it with two cross strings (lighter & cooler). I, also, drilled approx 410 1/8" holes into the aluminum frame, with no adverse affect, as of yet. <br><br>Xavier - Phoenix, AZ<br>