View Full Version : Rucksack wanted....
Dirty Karlos
21-06-2008, 21:31
Hi, I'm after a good ruck sack for day trips and staying over in the woods for a couple of nights. I'll be carrying a tarp, various clothes, small cooking stove etc, etc.... I have to admit to being a bit of a kit tart and don't mind paying for quality. I was going to buy an Osprey 'Kestrel' as featured in country walking but I'm just wondering what you hardened bushcraft types are using.
Thank in advance.
sandbender
21-06-2008, 21:46
I have to admit to being a bit of a kit tart and don't mind paying for quality.
If money is no object, then Kifaru seem to be the kit tart's rucksack manufacturer of choice.
:)
http://www.kifaru.net/MGXray.htm
I've yet to be tempted to spend that much money on a pack and make do with a one of these...
http://www.crux.uk.com/en/crux_rucksacks_ak47.php
Very tough and very light.
irishlostboy
21-06-2008, 21:47
well if you REALLY dont mind paying you could go for a lowe alpine saracen. its what i use. its massive, and brilliantly built and comfy. but this is overkill unless you carry a lot of kit and/or go out for long trips. the smaller lowe alpine mili packs such as the stingray etc will probably suit you better.
but there really are a lot of options. use this forums search function to see previous threads dealing with packs. there is already a wealth of info on them. things to look for would be. is it comfy. is it well constructed. will it hold your kit. is it green :)
maverick moocher
21-06-2008, 22:44
http://www.endicotts.co.uk/product_info.php?cPath=95&products_id=95
Berghaus Cyclops grade1 the best £50 you'll ever spend ;)
sandsnakes
21-06-2008, 22:57
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/German-Military-Woodland-Flecktarn-80-L-Combat-Rucksack_W0QQitemZ380037626402 QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item380037 626402&_trkparms=72%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C6 5%3A12&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14
of all the sacks I have owned (5) this has proved the most comfortable. I have had expensive and cheap and this does it just fine. An I love the groovy spots!
Sandsnakes:)
Dirty Karlos
22-06-2008, 16:56
Thanks for the recommendations chaps, I'll check them out.
Dougster
22-06-2008, 17:24
I have a Kifaru ZXR which is superb and comfortable.
If you want a 45 I would look at the Zulu, but my thoughts are moving to the Express which looks superb.
The addition is that with MOLLE you can cut a line in a quick release buckle and mod bags to add to it. Worth a look
http://www.kifaru.net/MGexpress.htm
http://www.militarymorons.com/equipment/kifaru/kifaru6.html
The Military morons page shows modifications.
I always give same advice that you should try some on in a shop with weight.
_Geraint_
22-06-2008, 21:37
http://www.endicotts.co.uk/product_info.php?cPath=95&products_id=95
Berghaus Cyclops grade1 the best £50 you'll ever spend ;)
Wow that's a bargain, thanks for that.
Dougster
22-06-2008, 21:42
I always give same advice that you should try some on in a shop with weight.
That's what I always used to say. I went out on a limb with the Kifaru and until I put weight in it I didn't really see where the £360 went..........:o
What you have to understand is that at least once a year I spend 4 days straight in the mountains with 60lbs on my back, which is sure to increase now the kids are likely to be able to join me soon.
I always used to say spend good money on your boots and your bed - if you aren't in one, you're in the other, but I'd have to add bags to that, 'cos your boots and bed are normally in it.
bushscout1
22-06-2008, 22:14
I use the Karrimor Sabre 45 with PLCE side pockets. I'd definitely recommend you add it to your list of consdierations & check out the reviews of it (mostly favourable IIRC).
It's not quite as expensive as the Kifaru, but not cheap either.
Happy shopping.
Karrimor SF!
...but then I would say that!
Kifaru are very good, if a little heavy. If you want something that is lighter and sourced closer to home, it's worth having a look at Aiguille Alpine sacks. Despite appearances, they can be made in olive green and are superb.
If money's no objection, you should definitely consider the Arc'Teryx Bora as well. Most comfy with heavy loads, top notch quality! Up there with the best!
The Bora comes in sizes from 35l, through 50l, 65l, 80l and 95l.
I've got a Bora 95 which is so roomy, it doubles as a bivy bag :D
Mike
oh it has to be the Karrimor Sabre 45, awesome rucksack.#
Trust me you will not be disapointed.
http://www.bushcraftuk.com/index.php/Carrying-stuff/Karrimor-Sabre-45-Rucksack.html
And here is a trick that will save you money and time:
http://www.endicotts.co.uk/product_info.php?cPath=95&products_id=95 Buy this Berghaus Cyclops as well, it's only 50 Pounds, BUT you will be able to use the Sidepockets from the Cyclops with #
the karrimor Sabre 45 (the Sabre 45 comes without sidepockets and they cost you I believe 20Pounds each) so this way you get another bag (for friends or as a backup) and can use the sidepockets on both.
oh it has to be the Karrimor Sabre 45, awesome rucksack.#
Trust me you will not be disapointed.
No, but you might have a little wait. The small sabres are only just coming back in stock after a bit of dry spell. Karrimor SF (aka PRI) are only getting them in later on this week.
the karrimor Sabre 45 (the Sabre 45 comes without sidepockets and they cost you I believe 20Pounds each)
£27.50 and the price is for a pair.