Backpack-O-Meter

“I seem to find myself without a backpack these days.

Any recommendations? I am thinking of the Mountainsmith Chimera. I had been using a Lowe Alpine before.

Am debating how light I want to go. And of course, are there any super deals out there? Or, anyone got a pack to sell that might be appropriate?

Thanks!!”

“Does it really matter, Liz? So many packs are so similar and so "state of the art" these days, I think you should grab one and go with it.
Here is where I should tie this into some controversy with a witty comment, but I'll let it stand, as is.”

“C'mon Dunadan, where's the wit? And you usually don't post this time of day. Sneaking some time off work??”

“Busted!
I wanted to see what it would be like to be a real TT'er.”

“Kelty Coyote”

“LOL!! How does it feel to be a REAL TT'er??? (BTW, I am off work today.)

Am debating a trip west this month or next, Dunny, Might be your way. GOODY FOR YOU!! LOL!”

“Just let me know. The welcome mat is out.”

“lizs, if the schedule and the potential interests you, you might want to consider the PNW. Check out Phil's trip planning page.”

“My next pack will be a Gregory. Not sure which one yet. Have you checked Gregory out yet Lizs?”

“I like the lowe alpine myself.....but dunadan is right their all about the same.”

“I'm with Mr.dunadan too.

Just watch out for the 7lb 7 oz packs...unless you plan on carrying over 40 lbs of gear most of the time.”

“I just got a Mtn Club Newsletter...for the umpteenth time...and Gregory packs are currently on sale.”

“My next pack will be the one that is on sale. Of course it should meet at least a few of my needs, but I am flexible.”

“Mountainsmith Chimera - my old pack is a Gregory and fits like a glove, BUT, its heavy. The Chimera is great if my pack is ~25-30 lbs. I carried 34 lbs this weekend and it dug in the shoulders a little on the uphill. Still learning to adjust the straps. I've used the pack enough now that I'm almost ready to cut off some of the dangling straps, which will make the pack a little lighter.”