Backpacks

Hi guys,

I'm pretty new around here, so hello to all.

I'm about to complete the Otter Trail and I'm looking for a second-hand hiking pack. Here are a couple of ideas around requirements I''m looking for:
- Size: 65litre +
- Make: good quality... First Ascent, Black Diamond, Osprey, North Face
- Condition: the newer the better, but good quality packs last a long time
- Price: R500 - R1000
- Location: Gauteng

I was quite keen on a First Ascent Jupiter 65l but that model has been discontinued.

Any help would be much appreciated - I'm leaving in 2 weeks.

Thanks.

have a look on Gumtree and Junkmail etc.
I haven't seen many of those brands being sold 2nd hand in SA

I splashed out on a new pack today (www.ospreypacks.com/en/group/mens/aether_series) - I'm super chuffed.

Thanks for the reply.

Hi All

My Mom In-law went to the US over Xmas and I ordered and paid from here for a Black Diamond Epic 45l back pack. It was delivered to the address that she was staying at within 2days. I can't wait to take it out for its first hike in the Berg.

I purchased the 45l after much deliberation instead of the 35l because I am wanting to use it for a fast and light 2night 3day hike at some stage but it can still be used as a day pack with extra space.

Nice pack that has had lots of thought that has gone into it by the design team

Regards
Selous

Nice pack! I anguished over my decision in December between the Epic 45 and Mission 50. I also looked at the Osprey Variant 38 and 52.

All 4 packs weight much the same but I like the Black Diamond harness systems as I already have the Mercury 75 which is the most comfortable big pack I've used.

In the end I went for the Mission because its very comfortable and there is no weight penalty for slightly more capacity if needed. I love the design of the Epic though and all the reviews I read by Alpine climbers gave it very high praise so enjoy!

I had a friend bring back the Osprey Mutant 38 from the US for me two years back. Very comfortable and well designed pack. I especially like the floating lid and the z-compression straps which allow the pack to be used as a big day pack or a 45+litre pack for more extended missions.

The Variant 52 looks like a nice pack. I took a 55l on my 2013 4 day winter trips and it worked out pretty good.

going back a while to Osprey Variant 52 vs BD Mission 50 discussion. I have now given the Mission a good testing and I can say that it is exceptionally comfortable and fits like a glove.

It's very easy to position and moves well with the harness cant feature when scrambling. I went big here and it's really superb and easy to control. Back panel is smooth and doesn't rub. It also stays well off my back and sweating was minimal.

Packs more gear than expected with room to spare and only weight 1.6kg. After a tough 2 days I had no sore spots on my hips or collar bones either.

Materials seem top notch as I bashed into a long list of stuff and it looks completely unscathed and new still.

It's one of those pieces of gear that just works. Every zipper and strap works and feels seemless. Best rating I could give it is 5/5 - love this gear!