[at-l] New Backp0ack

[Charles Davidson]

Hi Gang,
           
              I have been thinking of buying a new back pack.  I have 
been using a Golight Race pack, it might be a speed model I forget its 
about 3300 cu in.  I got 3000 miles out of the first one and this one is 
relatively new. Sometimes I want a little more space like when I carry 
winter cloths and 4 days food. I like the bulky FrogTogs rain gear too. 
Most of the time everything fits inside along with a full length Z-rest 
pad. Other times I have to move the pad to the outside. Also I plan to 
hike the PCT next year and I read that sometimes I must carry a couple 
of gallons of water in addition to my usual gear. Also the requirement 
of carrying a bear canister in the Sierras makes me think that a  bit 
larger frame pack might just be more comfy.
    I have looked at two packs at the local outfitters. Both packs weigh 
3 1/2 #s and compress down nicely when the volume is not needed. The 
Gregory Z-55 seems to have a real nice breezy backpad thingy that seems 
like it would be nice in hot weather and maybe even less sweaty in cool 
weather too. It does seem to push the load out away from my back a bit 
though. The outside pockets are kind of funky and not many attachment 
points.  I also looked at a Granite Gear Nimbus Meridian I think it was. 
A plus is its removable waist belt (the Z has gull wing type belt) an 
lots of attachment points. Either pack will carry my normal less than 
30# pack weight easily. I tested both filled with 45# of sand bags and 
climbing ropes. That just happened to be what was available for weight 
in the store. I never carry that much even on work hikes.
    Anywho I thought I would ask the list what favorites are you 
currently using. Or have you used either of these packs? I hope to check 
out more at Trail Days.
     I met Snickers and the Energizer Turtle while I was out painting 
blazes this weekend. They started Mt Rogers hiking to Big K then 
returning to continue south. The Daleville Outfitter said about a dozen 
Thru-hikers have been through.

Chase