Thanks in advance for your help!!


I am in the market for a new warm weather day pack (1500 to 2000 cu in, about 24 to 26 L). I am a geophysicist/geologist by trade and so I carry rocks and tools & need a rugged bag, not the ultralight stuff that is so common on the market. I have tried panel loading packs in the past with little luck, The zipper is carrying all the load and fails very quickly. The recent review of the GoRuck GR1 has lead me to believe that I may try one again.

The bag can be top loading or panel loading, should be relatively clean and narrow, needs some sort of frame and/or back protection and must have the ability to lash long items (poles to support a Magnatometer or GPS mostly, but sometimes a Polaski or other tool) on the side (one of the things the GR1 lacks). I would prefer a leather bottom (or at least extra heavy/double fabric), light color (this is my summer bag) and a non-military look. I would like the availibility of a waist strap (not a hipbelt).

Any help would be appreciated.

Jerry

Have you tried Major's Surplas? The toughest packs I've found are the canvas military models and they het them from all over Europe.

Estwing makes a geology rock bag that ought to be about what you would want. It isn't cheap, but it should be durable. I have no direct experience with it. I would consider mounting the bag on an external frame purchased second hand, something like a Kelty, Jansport, or Camp Trails. You could mount just about anything on the frame in addition to the rock bag. I have carried fossil mammoth tucks on one and other weighty fossils, and they would be perfect for a Pulaski or similar tool/ They would also be easy to customize.

I would also consider just sewing one up, using good, durable Cordura. That would be cheap and satisfactory.

I like the camel bak military (molle) line - tough and carries a hydration bladder

http://www.mysteryranch.com/adventure/900-2500-cu-in/fuze-pack

Also, lots of options here - check out the little brother: http://eberlestock.com/Tactical%20Master.htm.

I've used some of the larger eberlestock packs and they will carry anything you can fit in them or lash on them.

If they make one in a size you need, check out True North Gear. I have a Double Diamond and [the sadly now discontinued] SERAC SAR. Best packs I've ever used!

Consider the LL Bean classic rucksack. A great buy and very versatile. 2000 cu. in.
http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/54123?feat=506845-GN3&page=classic-continental-rucksack

Also have a look at the North Face Recon. Around 2000cu. In. Cost is $100-$125. Great features. In my experience, packed in balance, it is one of the most comfortable packs of this size to wear all day.

Thanks all for the excellent ideas. I ended up with a GoRuck GR1.

Hikermor, I have had several students with the Estwing bag, OK but I wanted a backpack. My old Gfeller shoulder bag is still in use. As for the Frame, I still use an old Kelty and use it when the rock load is going to be high.

Drahthbaar, The Eberlestock (I think the X-2) is my idea of an ideal hunting pack, but the style and appearance did not fit my needs here.

Phaedrus, I have used the True North many times on the fireline. GREAT bags but the hip style (great when you are doing fireline duties) is not my favorite for everyday wear. I looked in hopes they had a fireline quality ruck, but the only one they show right now is in ripstop, which does not stand up well in my use.

tomfranda, I like the idea of the Bean, but I am concerned about the wear.

acropolis 5, The NF Recon looks like a great bag, much like my London Bridge, but the look is too military in some places.

Thanks again for all the good recommendations, I will soon write a short after action on my first use of the GR1.

Respectfully,

Jerry