Help buying a new pack.

The pocket can hold Powerade bottles, 32oz Nalgenes, probably anything. I love the new 2009 Jam and think it's a huge improvement. As far as the Ohm, it looks great, but you might not get one until the ULA guy is back up to making them (several months, December?). So that might just make the decision for you.

Rich: "I know the Jam 2 can hold said bottles, but I don't like the fact that some reviews mentioned the outside pocket almost becomes useless if the pack is stuffed."

With the updates for 2009, the Jam got stretchier side pockets (especially the elastic top). So it's easier to get bottles in/out and you can still fit large bottles when the pack is stuffed. My 32oz Platy bottles easily drop in with one hand while I'm hiking. Virtually no effort required. Much easier than the earlier Jam side pockets.

One thing to mull over is whether you'd like a foam back panel or not. The Jam has foam in the back which is great if you aren't creating a sleeping pad frame. With this pad, you can load up the pack fairly quickly and not be too worried about stuff poking you in the back. The Ohm does not have this foam pad so pretty much need to using your sleeping pad as a frame so it's comfortable. The foam panel is easily removable in the Jam if you want to save a few ounces.

Along with the Jam 2 and the Ohm (which I am disheartened by the fact that I would have to wait untill December to get), I'm adding the Gossamer Gear Mariposa to the list.

About the Jam 2…the outside zip pocket. Can you still use it if the pack is stuffed?

Yes and no.

If the main compartment is stuffed to the hilt, then you will not be able to stuff the front pocket much, but it still has extra volume. There is nothing but a piece of fabric separating the two compartments, so one can bulge into the other, but the total volume will remain the same. Still, the outside pocket adds some volume. You can certainly stuff it more if the main compartment isn't as packed, but it's not totally useless if the main compartment is stuffed.

I use it for maps, a few snacks, windshirt/poncho, water purifier, even when the main compartment is stuffed.

Same thing with the OHM If the main bag is packed tight, the front pocket can only stretch so far.

You should consider the total volume that you require. The OHM is a little bigger overall as per specs, but the Jam seems to swallow more (I have both).

Any one that knows me knows i'm gonna say-check out the Gossamer Gear packs. Lots of smart features, low weights, lots of volume, side pockets can fit a gatoraid bottle, comfy, compressible so as the trip goes on your load stays put, plus you look way cooler with a smaller company's pack. I mean if you're gonna be on the fringe… I carry a huge 3 man tarptent and it can fit in the mesh pocket on my mariposa plus. Great success! No wet tent in my pack.

in the same class as those 2 packs, and i seriously looked at the Ohm and the Circuit, I chose the SMD Comet. WOW! It carried very well with a full load of 30 lbs. The pack is substantial and larger than the 2 mentioned but is more in the class of the Circuit (very similar size, features)

I used it 4 times on one weeklong trip. it has seen about 30 miles, and is in very good condition, as new.

want it?