Suggestions for internal frame backpack

[SBsasquatch]

I'm currently in the market for a overnight internal frame backpack.

-Something that is budget friendly and at least 3000 cubic in.

-earth tone colors preferably as I'll be using for hunting trips as well.

-hydration system compatible.

-trying to stay around $50-$150

-I'm a stout savage hence the handle, coming in at 6'2" 250lb 40'waist with a record of 6 - 0(jk)

ANYWAYS, recommendations are appreciated, and criticism is welcomed. Thanks in advance to all who read this.



Edit: still considering external frames

[LowThudd]

A bit pricey these days, but I like my Kelty Red Cloud. Though, I did tie the frame together at the top and bottom with some bar stock, it was fairly stable as is.

[ldsnet]

Quality 3000cu pack for less than $150? Not any more . . . 10 years ago that was do-able, but not today. Jut picked up a new Osprey pack, I love the size and weight, the color isn't bad (little brighter than I wanted) but hella expensive, close to $300

Most 3-day "assault packs" that would be considered an overnight pack are 2500cu or less and they seem to be built for a smaller person.

[Nor Cal Scot]

Six Moons Designs is still selling their last year packs at half off. 65 CI pack for $110? Crazy good. I have the pack as my backup and have used a few times. I'm about the same dimensions as you.

[FJ40 CRUZR]

Not internal frame, however for $100 how can you go wrong?

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=1102885

[not-fishing]

Look at a used Dana Design Arcflex. It was the standard of comfort, durability and load carrying ability by which other backpacks were measured.

Most pack don't even get used enough to be broken in unless you're looking at the superlights like Osprey which don't take much abuse.



Also they are sized and sexed so you have to know what size you are.

[Garv]

Backcountryedge.com
Kelty Redcloud 80 for 150

EBay and craigslist might be able to find one
Good luck

[gorn5150]

Check WOOT.com
The are always selling nice packs at great prices. There are several keltys up right now plus some other brands.

[seany]

I swear by Kifaru gear these days. A bit over your budget new, but they show up on ebay and their forums from time to time. The belts are interchangeable for what ever waist size you're rocking at the moment. The larger issue if you plan on actually putting real weight in it is the stay length. A lot of bags in that size range wont have any shoulder lift at all.

[echo1]

Craigslist is your friend. I've scored hard over the years.
Someone posted up a while back wanting to see some backpacks. Here's some of mine. Northface Renegade (Dana Designs Terraplane copy), Kelty Coyote 4750, Jansport Redline 45, Mt. Hardware Excodus (X2 one's hiding), Gregeory (another Terraplane style), Osprey Aether 70, stack of day packs, Jansport Sortie 38 (X2), Mountain Smith Crosscountry II, Northface Terra 50. Also have half a dozen Camelbacs in various sizes.


The external frames, crappy old pics, I've added a couple different Jansports since. I also have enough tents to shealter 32 bodies (1s, 2s, 3s, 5, and 8), mess kits for each pack, 4 Coleman 2 burners, a 3 buner and oven, 6 single stoves (MSRs, Coleman Apexs, others).



Most all bought second hand, some were never used or only used once. I pick up all the decent gear I come across. Since '04 I've put about 23 rookies on the trail. PAX

[SBsasquatch]

^^^Wow... talk about Sack envy! Lol

That's some collection. I've gotten by with only feather light day pack and a hand-me down external. I think a good 55 liter. internal would be a in between.

I even got a murse for when I chase quail in my super duper camo vest w/ quarry pockets

[Dingotech]

Outdoor stores are currently transitioning from Spring/Summer/Fall gear to Winter gear. Places like REI and A-16 have decent sales on packs right now. There are a lot of great makers, but find one that fits you properly. When you try a 3000 cu pack on, you will need at least 20-25 lbs of weight in it. Good luck!

[echo1]

^^^Wow... talk about Sack envy! Lol
That's some collection. I've gotten by with only feather light day pack and a hand-me down external. I think a good 55 liter. internal would be a in between.

I'm not far from retiring. One of the thing I'm going to do is outfit pack trips. I do already, but I'm going to have it as one of my supplemental income sources.

That, air-cooled VWs and cheap Saturns. PAX

[Solid Foundation]

I asked a similar question a few years ago and the Kelty was the winner for me.

[Forewarned]

Have a look at the USMC ILBE pack. You can get them on Ebay for $100 or the whole system for a little more. They do everything you are asking for in a pack.

http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1312.R1.TR11.TRC2.A0.H0.Xilbe.TRS1&_nkw=ilbe&_sacat=0