Re[2]: [at-l] MountainTools FlexFrame: Any Experience?

[tmcginnis@ucclan.state.in.us (Thomas McGinnis)]

     I really appreciate your comments, especially in regard to the top v. 
     panel deal. I've only done my external till now, with a top load main 
     bag but lots of other pockets, and I'm thinking I am spoiled. I'd feel 
     more secure with a minimally seamed and watertight pack, though. 
     Thanks again!


______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: Re: [at-l] MountainTools FlexFrame: Any Experience?
Author:  "Tom Griffiths" <datto999@hotmail.com> at ima
Date:    9/29/98 12:35 PM


>     How much weight have you carried in it and how did you like it? 
     
I've attempted to carry 40 lbs in it but that was a dismal failure on 
the part of the hipbelt. At 35 lbs or less it's fine.
     
The real advantage to the top loader is the pack is usually much more 
solid because there isn't the chance that the panel loader zippers would 
pull out. Also, the pack would be a little better on watertightness. 
     
The downside is you have to take everything out of the pack when you get 
to the shelter at night.
     
I've gotten used to the top loader so it's no longer a big deal to me. 
But it was a hassle when I first got the Mlight 5200 (I'd come from a 
pack that had a separate sleeping bag compartment on the bottom).
     
>     I tried the Mountainlight against a Frostfire, an Osprey 
>     So how much weight?
     
Max of 35 lbs total pack weight including water, food, pack, everything 
inside the pack. Otherwise the hipbelt sags.
     
>     Top or Panel?
     
Toss up. I think the smaller size would be better (3500 - 4000 ci) for a 
thruhike. The 5200 ci pack is a little much. So whatever the smaller 
size pack has with it.
     
>     And how has it held up?
     
Okay, much better than I originally thought it would. I'm happy with it 
on this point.
     
>     AND and, would you get it again?
     
Yes. If it wasn't for the size (in ci) of my wintertime pack contents 
I'd probably have gotten the MLight 4000 (if I could have found one -- 
they are/were in very short supply around the country at one time).
     
Datto
     
     
______________________________________________________ 
Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com
* From the Appalachian Trail Mailing List |  http://www.backcountry.net  *
* From the Appalachian Trail Mailing List |  http://www.backcountry.net  *

==============================================================================