I recently purchased a GG Gorilla to accommodate my transition into lighter weight hiking. I used it on one 5 night trip so far and mostly liked it. I found it very comfortable, I barely felt the pack with weights of something like 14 up to 26 lbs.
I think the pack is a little overkill for the weights I tend to/will be carrying. I’d like to shave off some weight from the pack, and so far all I’ve done is ditch the top floating lid (never really planned to use it). Unfortunately, the top closure system with criss-crossed straps is messy and cumbersome. I’d like some simpler alternative to securing the top after tightening the drawstring. The solution that seemed simplest to me is removing the criss-crossing straps and adding a central top closure strap. This could attach to either the mesh pocket on the front of the pack or to the pack body fabric slightly above the pocket. I’m also interested in cutting out the bladder sleeve and experimenting with hiking without the sit light pad.
I’m curious if anyone has done any similar modifications on this relatively new model. I have no experience permanently modifying gear, so I’d appreciate insight. I’m a little hesitant to take the scissors to my new pack. An alternative plan could be selling it and getting a simpler alternative. The KS50 is especially appealing.
