Do you have a link to the THE Pack? (Not surprisingly, I'm having a hard time finding it. Getting a lot of Green Bay Packer results. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />)

I just started readingthis thread but will comment here on the basic question. I don't use bladders. I do carry nalgene bottles (NB) daily...I use them at work, running around town, in the field, etc. I also use the insulated covers made by OR (can get them at REI). The covers are a bit steep, but I have 4 that have been in heavy rotation for about 15+ years. And while some may find them not worth it, fully iced and loaded, you can get cold drink for HOURS...in fact I've tested them in hot cars in the summer and after 7 hours over 120 degrees, still had cool drink. Is that necessary? No...but little comforts can mean a lot.

In my emergency kits, I've added the Space Saver Cup (Campmor). They fit in the bottle jackets with the bottle.

Now, why NBs???

I figure the best tools are those you WILL use and have nearby. I am always with a NB so they are a given. I find them convenient and tough. I find them easy to CLEAN...something I find important. The wide-mouth access means I can use them for more than just water. In BOBs, they can also house "likes" such as instant mixes, purification pills, plastic tubing, etc. BTW, they also provide a waterproof place for stuff that needs to stay dry. With a couple of bottles I can purify one and drink another. I can settle out solids in one as well. Flooded areas suck for getting water.

All this said, bladders fold up well and can carry quite a lot.

But to me they're more difficult to handle and clean. Impossible? clearly not...just more hassle. I am considering a few as backups, but unless SHTF, I can't see ever using them. I've got a good number of NBs. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Oh...and I don't work for Nalgene!

I use a 1L nalgene and almost never carry inside the pack. The new insulated covers by Outdoor Research have a large velcro strap and will loop over anything...including carry straps, etc. It's pretty strong and I've never had it come off accidently.

I have a maxpedition Falcon (not falcon 2) that I no longer use. I will sell it for $60 + shipping (at the moment near Yuma az).

It is in very good condition. I am a Red Cross Volunteer and carried it to New Orleans during Katrina and Miami during Wilma. However I found that using a backpack in a vehicle is difficult. I have switched to a large "Range Bag" and no longer need the Max Falcon.

PM me if interested.

The slick sided version is from Texas Hunt Co, but I prefeer the molle version from SpecOps Brand. Different brands from the same company, that's all.

I have a SAW ammo pouch on each side of my THE, with a pair of nalgenes stuffed in each one. They fit nicely, and while it does make the pack more expensive, I think the pouches should have been there in the first place as a part of the pack.

That's a great price. Somebody should snap that up asap. The Falcon is a little small for what I need otherwise I'd be all over it.

I went ahead and sprung for the Vulture II for the extra space. I figure having the option for a bladder won't be a bad thing even if I don't use it all the time. Thanks to all for the recommendations! <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

We expect a full report, including pictures, of course! :-)

-john

Good deal! Yes, we all love pictures... <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />