HMG backpacks. Waterproof? What do the owners say?

I've had the same HMG 2400 SW Sidewinder for about 2 years. It's waterproof in all but the most severe all-day storms. That being said, I always use a GG polycro pack liner to be extra careful with the down layers.

Based on about 16 hours of use, I can prematurely conclude that my 3400 Southwest is "pretty" waterproof. But this was 16 hours of a sustained, moderate rain (similar to standing in the shower) without a break. I did have a down jacket in a cuben dry bag, but everything else was loose and there was no detectable moisture on any gear or the inside of the pack. I seem to remember reading about leaking during an extended submerged test. But I would be pretty comfortable doing a quick swim with this pack as long as my mission critical gear was still in a dry bag. I see no reason to use a pack cover.

After 3 years of use, I agree with others that it is pretty waterproof. I still use a light pack liner to help compartmentalize dry insulation from damp tarp, etc.

I have had both the Porter 3400 and the Summit Pack for about a year each now and have used each one extensively for backpacking, day hikes, commuting on my bike and multi-pitch climbing. I do live in the desert so when it rains here it's normally very hard but for a short period of time.

I've had no leaking yet in these types of situations. Also, I took my Porter on a 5 day trip in the Weminuche Wilderness (Jon's neck of the woods!) and it rained almost all day every day. I didn't use a pack liner, had a down jacket and sleeping bag inside in normal nylon compression sacks and had no problems whatsoever.

This was only a few months after I purchased the pack and very little use on it. Overall, like the above posters said theses packs are definitely more waterproof than any other type of lightweight material that's been sewn. I think it's great if they start taping the seams but so far I've had no problems.

Although for my next long trip in a wet climate I may also toss in liner or just pick up some of HMG's roll top cuben stuff sacks for my down articles. Love love love the Summit Pack!

All,

Thank you for your comments based on your experiences in the field. It's always good to hear from the owner of a piece of gear who has put some miles on it. The general consensus is reassuring. I really appreciate your help. I think I will try the Summit first. Cheers!