I'm in the market for a new one. got a lot of years use with a cabela's brand but now all the strap on patches have gone brittle and broke, most of the 2 way zippers only go 1 way and most of the pull tabs are broken, surprised the shoulder straps never broke. I like em on the large size with a leather bottom in camo with compression straps. never tried a hydration system. anyone have 1 they really like/recommend.
I have had this pack for awhile, and haven't experienced any of the problems the reviews have said. I have loaded it up with 30lbs of sand and rucked 6 miles w/o a problem. It has a section for a 3L hydration pouch, and has good padding. Lots of compartments to isolate small gear inside the big areas. Not exactly what you were looking for but figured I would throw it up here.
http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/MOLLE126-1.html
thanks, it looks like all I need and then some.
I've been using a CamelBak HAWG for past few years and would recommed it to anyone who needs a good quality medium size backpack. I originally got it when my son was about 6 months old to use as a diaper bag when out for a day. It will hold everything you need inside including 3 ltr. water bladder. Even with a heavy load it is very comfortable to carry on the shoulder. It is very well made and everything on it is heavy duty with plenty of adjustments. It has plenty of those loops in the back and on the side so you can add additional pouches if needed. I have a medium size first aid kit that I carry and it attaches to the top area easily and securely. I sometimes use it as carry-on luggage when travelling and without the water bladder it has plenty of space. Mine is tan color so it doesn't attract attention from people but they have it in several camo pattern/color too. It's not cheap but well worth every penny... I highly recommend it to anyone who needs a good pack.
Here is the website for the pack
http://www.camelbak.com/Military-Tactical/Packs/2011-Hawg.aspx
FYI, all the FieldLine products have a lifetime warranty,(to my knowledge anyway). They have a ton of different models to choose from. I sent a back pack in to them a few years ago that the shoulder strap broke on, and I got a brand new one in the mail
Having said that, next time I buy a new pack, I am going military. The Army surplus store has a ton of them, and most of the stuff in there is negotiable on price, so you can probably mix and match and customize a pack the way you want it
