This description is long, but should include most details.
I have experimented with enough packs over the years to finally know what I’m looking for in a pack. The problem is no cottage manufacturer currently offers exactly what I want. Zimmerbuilt is always an option (and the direction I'll end up heading if I get no takers), but I thought it would be fun to put this out to BPLers first.
Basic specs:
I’m 6’2”, 185 pounds.
Torso: 20 1/4"
Hipbelt: 32”-34”. Having a little extra room is a good idea. So maybe a hipbelt that fits 32”-36”.
Pack materials:
I decided I am not sold on cuben for backpacks. I question the durability, though I have read several blogs in which hikers used cuben packs for entire thru-hikes. I recently received an HMG Southwest 2400 and it is a beautiful pack. Mine is the current 2014 stock version, but all black cuben. I used it for one overnight in the rain and it carried well. The quality is excellent. But cuben … I just don’t know.
Basically, I would like a pack that is a cross between the HMG Southwest and MLD Exodus design-wise, but in a different material. I have only recently discovered the Xpac material. I have read that it is waterproof. However, I have not verified this with experienced users. I know there are several iterations, including VX07, VX21, VX42 etc. We can discuss what you think is best for each part of the pack. We could also incorporate Dyneema where you think it is necessary.
I would like a pack with a frame. I am not expert enough to specify the exact frame dimensions, other than to say my HMG pack fits me comfortably. Aluminum seems to be the standard material. HMG assured me the pack could possibly carry up to 40 pounds. I have never carried 40 pounds into the backcountry, but I would like a pack that is capable of carrying up to 35 pounds for an extended trip in which I might need to carry 10 days of food, and between 3-4 liters of water. That would be the heaviest load I would ever carry. After that, I’m getting a pack mule (or an unwitting partner). On most trips, the pack will only ever need carry 20-25 pounds. Most likely 20. Preferably under that. These days, my BPW is between 7-9.63 pounds. I can go lighter in summer.
Volume: I think the MLD Exodus is a perfect volume for between 3-10 day UL trips. Main pack volume should be 2400ci. I would like a main mesh pocket as well (400 ci). Also, I want 2 side pockets that can fit my 1-liter Smart bottle, or any water bottle I may carry. Say 150ci for each pocket. Most manufacturers seem to add about 400-500ci for the extension collar. So about 3500ci total.
Outer pockets can be a cross between Dyneema or mesh. The main front pocket should probably be mesh to allow wet items to dry quicker. Side pockets can be solid or mesh. I would like MLD-style drawcords on the side pockets to cinch them down, but it is not a deal breaker. Especially if it adds a ton of extra work.
I want a roll-top closure system like HMG uses on the Southwest. This may somewhat negate the storage capacity of the extension collar, but it is still my preferred closure system for keeping out the elements. I do line all my backpacks with heavy duty trash compactor bags, regardless of material. I do not use rain covers.
I would like two compression straps on each side of the pack.
A haul loop is quite useful and I would like one included.
I do not want any shockcord on the outside (sides or front) of the pack. I never use the stuff and just end up removing it. That means I don’t need any eyelets or attachment point throughout the exterior of the pack.
I have not had load lifters on any of my recent packs. I’m not sure they are necessary for the loads I usually carry. We can discuss this option.
Hipbelt pockets are unnecessary. I would prefer not to have them.
No hydration port. I store my water outside of my pack.
Color: I usually prefer earth-tone colors, but am open to what you have available. Maybe it's time to add some brightness to my gear.
Total weight: Between 26-29 ounces. We can discuss this based on selected options. Obviously lighter is good, but I also want a comfortable carry. I now exclusively use an air pad, not a CCF pad.
Cost: We can discuss payment once we figure out materials and your expected time to complete my pack. Also, I would be willing to trade my HMG Southwest 2400 for this new pack. The HMG only has 1 night of use and 1 dayhike, so 56 miles total. It appears brand new. I paid $285 plus shipping, for a total of $298.35. BPL is not letting me post a pic, so I will try to post it after this initial post.
Thanks so much for taking the time to read this and I look forward to reading any responses.
