https://imgur.com/a/BK6KbAW

This is a MYOG ultralight load hauler backpack for packrafting, winter expeditions, and extended trips.

The design intent for this pack was to build as light a pack as possible that still carries big loads (50+ pounds) comfortably. It draws inspiration from Superior Wilderness Designs, Seek Outside, McHale, Bedrock & Paradox, and other MYOGers. I also wanted a modular design where all suspension components can be stripped from the packbag, leaving a rolltop bag that can be easily strapped to a packraft bow using the gatekeeper compressions straps.

This is the third version of this pack I’ve built. The first two have been used a total of 6 days of overnight trips plus many test hikes. Once I felt comfortable with the design, I built this one from Ultra 400 fabric. It’s been used on one 7 day ski/packraft trip where it hauled 45-60 pounds comfortably. I was very happy with how it performed!

Details:

  • 2 pounds 10 ounces. Lighter than an HMG Porter with front pocket and 500% more comfortable :-) I know, I’ve used an HMG extensively.

  • Approx 85L. 40″ bottom circ, 46″ top circ, 42″ unrolled height.

  • Built from Challenge Ultra 400 fabric. All seams are taped except for very bottom seam at base of back panel. High-stress areas reinforced with bonded Ultra 200 on inside of pack. Side pockets and suspension components are Robic 420D.

  • Frame is 1/2″ by 1/8″ 7075 aluminum. Vertical stays are 25″ and the bottom of the “U” is 12″. Hanging hip belt bolts directly to frame on a 7″ center to center spacing. Stabilizer straps connect the sides of the hip belt to the frame corners as well. All bolts are stainless steel with lock nuts. Frame inserts into webbing sleeves and the bottom is held in place with a velcro flap.

  • Pack is roughly a “large”. The shoulder straps are attached 20″ from the bottom of the hip belt. This fits my 19″ torso perfectly. The belt is just big enough for me and I’m 37″ around where my belt sits (see photo). It should fit down to a 32″ waist. I have other belts that are a bit smaller and bigger – please inquire.

  • Hip belt is 1/2″ thick EVA foam with 1/8″ inverted spacer mesh. It has two independent 1″ buckles. Shoulder straps are 3/8″ EVA with inverted spacer mesh.

  • Large side pockets will carry two nalgenes comfortably even when the pack is full. Design and shape is similar to SWD Big Wild. Pockets are Robic 420D, bungee sleeve is Ultra 400. Bungee cord is replaceable.

  • Includes 4 gatekeeper compression straps and one longer gatekeeper/hook over the top strap. Up to three compression straps can be added per side, and the front panel has tabs for lashing a PFD or similar. Additional straps can be purchased from Seek Outside (among others).

  • Rolltop has plastic stiffeners.

I am not a professional sewer, but rather a serious MYOG enthusiast. I feel the craftsmanship on this pack is good. I have built a number of large backpacks, several of which have seen heavy use. It was constructed on an industrial machine with heavy-duty Tex 70 bonded poly thread. If something related to the construction on it fails, I’ll fix it.

Asking $300 shipped to the U.S. This price will cover materials and shipping and leave a (very) small amount for my time. I primarily sell my projects to fund the next one :-) I’ll cover the Paypal 3% G&S fees