Question for GoLite Jam Owners

Thanks for the Jam modification instructions, Michael.

Please excuse the hyjack.

Michael, Many thx here as well for the suggestions. I'd have to say any warrenty I had is long gone with my last mods so I might as well not stop.

I like a lot of the features on the Jam2. But many others are just adding weight. My perfect pack would be a cross between the Jam2 and the ion. About 2000 cu inches in size with mesh pockets on side and rear made from dyneema. Add a removeable hip strap and sternum strap and life would be great.

I'm thinking that the new MLD prophet made from dyneema will be the trick. hmm…how to explain to the wife my need for a 5th pack in a year:)

Jamie

hey, just get the pack, then give it to her with a dozen roses inside, when she disgards the pack you can kick it under the table to retrieve it later. she wont even notice it, 'specially if the roses are yellow

Michael seems to be offering up a 'great' suggestion… except something tells me he hasn't actually tried this stunt in person… :)

Ben, et al..
I just re-weighed my Jams and found something quite peculiar…
My Jam stripped down weighs 16.8 oz
My Jam2, larger capacity, with hip padding added, weighs 16.5
hmm..

Thanks for the info, Michael. Makes me wonder how the Jam 2 fabric compares with the old? Is it noticeably less robust perhaps?

Large Jam 2005 Version=24 oz.
My most cumfortable pack!

Hmmm CUMfortable??????

Ben, i think it could be a variety of reasons, most notably the daisy chains on the sides of the pack's back section, the style of mesh used on the pockets, and the heavier zipper. (on the jam)
Plus, factor in an ounce of grime on the Jam since it is, well, 5 years old… :)

I dont think the dyneema is less robust. At least I cannot tell by feel.
Add in the hip pockets to the Jam "3" and i think you have one of the best all around packs. This is my judgement compared to direct use of ULA, Gossamer, Zpacks, Granite gear, and Six Moon. I have not used MLD so cannot cross-examine. Ymmv?

For what it's worth, I used my Jam 2 over the weekend with 18 pounds and it was awesome. Love that pack!

Mike:

Thanks again for your insights. I eagerly await the Jam3.

I have the original Jam and used it a couple of times as a Wilderness Ranger for the Forest Service. Having to carry a lot of stuff not normally carried – radio, dozen spare batteries, shovel, folding saw – in addition to my personal gear, the total pack weight about doubled to 26-28 lbs. Not a great deal of weight, but given that I'd travel anywhere from 10 to 18 miles/day it was just too much for the thin shoulder straps. I love it for under 20 lb loads, but for this instance I reached for my Gregory G-pack. With its framesheet and beefier straps it worked out much better.