Topic

GG Gorilla vs Arc Haul. Stupid question?

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Don Burton BPL Member
PostedSep 30, 2015 at 9:53 pm

Most of my trips are 3-4 days and I've been using the current version of the Gorilla (26 oz). Overall, I've been really happy with it but above 22lbs it becomes uncomfortable. I've carried it's max load of 25lbs a few times and I would say it's much more uncomfortable and at the end of a long day I can't wait to get it off my back. It feels great at 20lbs and less. Because of work, I most likely will be able to take longer trips next year and I've been thinking about the Arc Haul. My base weight is 10-13 lbs depending on the trip. Usually on the high end because of a bear canister. I use the BV 450 and plan to use it on longer trips too. For a 5-6 day trip I can see carrying 25-28lbs the first day or two depending on water availability, need for a bear canister, luxury items, … Can an Arc Blast or Haul handle these loads well? Better than the Gorilla? I'm considering a 52L Blast or seeing if Zpacks would make a 52L Haul (they only list a 62L Haul on their site). The Arc would be a couple ounces more or less than my Gorrila depending on the version, size and accessories. This weight difference would not factor into my decision. I'm more concerned about whether or not an Arc is worth the extra money. Does it Haul that much better at those weights? If only slightly better, I'd be inclined to just continue with my Gorrila and deal with the discomfort for a day or two.

PostedSep 30, 2015 at 10:03 pm

I want to see the replies as I'm in the same boat with my Mariposa, albeit at a higher weight.

Ralph Burgess BPL Member
PostedOct 1, 2015 at 1:18 am

I haven't used an Arc Haul, but the Arc Blast has been my principal pack for several years. I find that it transfers weight to my hips just as effectively as any heavier suspension. The "sweet spot" at which this pack is unbeatable is 20-25lb – at those weights I barely notice it's there. But I frequently go much heavier – I routinely carry 30lb at the beginning of trips, for which it's fine for a day or two (and I often do high mileage). And I have carried 40lb for short sectors when hauling water – even the Arc Blast is strong enough to take that weight, although 40lb is not comfortable with Arc Blast padding for more than a few miles. So, if you're planning on sub-30lb, I don't think you even need Arc Haul – Arc Blast would be comfortable. I'd be inclined to go for the larger volume pack, especially if you frequently carry a bear can. The only size difference between the different volume packs is front-to-back, and the larger volume pack cinches nicely closer in to your back when you don't need the volume. When carrying a bear can, I usually insert a cut-down Sitlight pad (about 1.5oz) inside the pack between the can and my back for comfort. With a bear can in there, you have to reduce the flex of the Arc struts, but that doesn't affect carry or weight transfer, it just means there's less ventilation space at your back.

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