HMG Porter 4400 for most uses?

Works fine for me. Super versatile backpack.

My HMG 4400 SW has been the only pack I've used in the past year (I've sold everything else). I use it for everything from day-hikes to week long backpacking/fishing trips. It has less compression options than the Porter 4400, so I think it will be fine.

Like John, its the only pack I use whether 1 night, 10 nights, summer, winter, land trips, water trips, mixed trips, it doesn't matter, its the pack that always makes sense. I can't say enough good about it. For its weight, its adaptability and durability can't be surpassed.

Derrick

Good stuff, just what I was looking for. Thanks all.

One last thing, specific to those that have answered or have this pack:

How many miles do you have on it and how has it held up?

Thanks,

Kelly

Unless I've got my head screwed on backwards, the 4400 is listed as being lighter than the 3400 version, despite the 4400 having an extra framesheet? Is this correct?

I am seeing 33oz. for the 3400 and 38oz. for the 4400.

Yes, but the grams are different. What to believe? Stupid imperial systems!

It would seem that the conversion on the HMG page is not correct (37.6 US ounces = 1066 gms) my 4400 porter weighs in at 920 gms.

When did you purchase yours, Roger? Does it have pockets and a frame sheet?

I have about 300 backcountry Canadian boreal forest and tundra miles on mine. It is rough country. The load carried on those miles was never less than 45 pounds and sometimes as much as 65 -70. I have shredded a pair of goretex rain pants (at least a diozen holes and rips patched) and 2 merino shirts, and destroyed 3 trekking poles. Not a single tear or hole in pack.

Derrick

Thanks Derrick, just the response I was looking for!

Derrick –

Nice evaluation! Especially when accompanied with the damage report for the other gear.

Thanks.

Mine has the framesheet and the zipper pocket inside no other pockets. It was purchased in late 2012.

As for use I have used it for all my extended trips (mostly in Lapland). For short trips I do use a smaller pack (Windrider) but I agree that the Porter when tightened up could be used for such trips.

Hope this helps.

My original Porter with the 50D fabric showed some pinholes at the bottom of the pack quite quickly. The newer 150D fabric in black is an option and highly recommended. It really is lightweight bomber stuff. HMG also double layers the bottom of their packs now which helps with the durability. It is also one of the reasons why the weights of these packs have gradually climbed over the past few years.

Agreed that one pack can do it all. I have a SouthWest 4400 (I like the external pockets) and with its low weight, I use it for all my hiking & backpacking needs in both the Southwest and Alaska.

I

I just got my white 4400 porter today. I like the glossy white color;) Huge volume in the extended height. White compression straps can cinch to nothing. This size large is 1130g on my scale. The 150 fabric is stiffer and much more burly than my original windrider that's still working great.

I could probably bivy in this pack with a rain jacket overlapping the top. Its that tall. Good luck comfortably reaching into the bottom of the pack if you're kinda short; I'm 5'10" and its a reach with my arms. Not an issue for backpacking, but probably relavent to day-trip use.

Tape is 40" from ground. Wind rider (2400) vs. Porter 4400

I've got to agree with everyone who commented on the 4400's versatility. I went ahead and picked one up. I have cinched it down for overnights and it was perfectly suited to the task. I haven't had any long trips with it yet but I am confident I could go weeks and anything in between with this pack. Fits me like a glove as well.

And the fabric is amazing, very very strong. This pack will be my go to for years to come.

Thanks to all for the advice

Picking the right gear is so hard. Glad to hear its worked out. Being white, it is a pack that acquires character overtime too; its toughness combined with its scuffs and scars give it personality.

Derrick

I'm curious–what is the advantage to the Porter over the Southwest/Windrider series? Aside from the external differences (lash points vs. outer quick-stuff pouch), how does the suspension differ? I love my HMG Southwest 3400, but sometimes I wish the the outer dyneema pouch is just too bulk with excess fabric that bulges out unnecessarily.

Suspension is the same. The Porter has customizable lash points on the external body. It also does not have a hydration port so is theoretically more rain proof. The Porter compression straps are also thicker to encourage external lashing.