I have been loking for a pack for a while now and I keep buying a pack and looking for a new one. I am looking for a back pack that is panel loading(like a blackhawk or eagle assault pack were the front zips open), but I would like a lower sleeping bag compartment to allow entry to just my sleep system. I guess I am just really picky but I just don't like having to pull all my gear out to get to something. And it should have at least 2700 to 4000 cubic inches. Buy the way the best thing I have had was a korean made raptor pack, but I would like to have side compression straps like with the blackhawk assault packs and also top attachment straps and the ability to strap stuff to the bottom. Additionally I would like to find something in a color other than black, camo, olive drab. As when i find my wonder pack it will also be a constant companion on airline flights and I hope to do some out of country trips and don't won't the stigma that may be involved with a military pack. However on some things I am willing to compromise.

I don't wont much do I?
If you do know of anything that sounds like this let me know?

I've been using a Lafuma Cordillera 60 pack for weekend hiking trips. It's a 3600 cu. in. pack, with a separate bottom zipped area for a sleeping bag. The pack has a built in rain cover, and compression straps around each side, wrapping around a couple of full length pockets. It comes in a couple colors I think, mine is what they call graphite, it's 2 tone. I bought mine from a local dealer, but, it's available at several places online, here's an example I found online with a picture and specs:

http://www.sportsbasement.com/jump.jsp?itemType=PRODUCT&iProductID=6078

This is a modified panel loader pack. The dual zip front goes all the way to the top, where you have an extended waterproof collar that can be pulled closed with a drawstring. The cover, with zipped storage space, goes over that. There are loops on the pack to strap your ice axe and shovel. There's a sleeve inside the main pack for a hydration bladder, and a Vecro flap for the tube to be routed to one of your shoulder straps.

The waist belt, I think, is very comfortable, even on the second day, when I usually find my hips groaning.

It's not big enough for longer trips, unless you travel ultralight. I also find that in winter, I sometimes need to use a larger pack for the bulk of extra clothes, more stove fuel, a 4 season tent, etc. Still, for most of the trips I took over the past year on weekends with the Scouts, this was the pack I used.