Looking at backpacks

[Telperion]

I'd like to a get a good large backpack sometime, and I really like the Camelbak BFM and Lightfighter's RAID pack. Anyone have thoughts on how they compare? This is what I've been thinking:

BFM pros:
Already as most of the pouches and pockets you'd want
Some limited webbing for even more stuff

Cons:
Would like a brown pack
Zippers on everything don't allow for the fastest access

RAID pros:
Modular and can be built to fit whatever needs
Hydration bladder can go off to the side

Cons:
All those pouches easily send the price north of $250
Still a long wait to get one?

 

[Zak Smith]

Also look at the Kifaru packs.

 

[Telperion]

Kifaru makes good wares, but I like the interior design on the BFM and RAID more. The integrated interior pockets seem more useful for me than the PALS webbing on your Marauder.

 

[NMshooter]

Make sure you get a waist strap if it does not come with one.

(Can't remember if the RAID comes with one or not...)

 

[SJG26]

Add MAXPEDITION to your choices..................

Careful-----they're addictive!

 

[VaughnT]

I've never handled the BFM, but the word I get is that it sucks. While the pockets are nice, and the size is good, the shoulder straps are hell, especially when the pack is loaded.

Now, I do have the RAID pack and have to say that I'm very impressed with the overall quality. The size is a little big for my needs, but that might not hold true for you.

Given the choice between the two, I would get the LF pack and build it up as you need it. Personally, I don't have any need for more pouches on the outside....yet.

The biggest question to ask is - what are you going to do with the pack? The BFM is larger than the RAID. The RAID is smaller than the Kifaru Marauder. If you need something for an everyday-carry, you might want to look into a smaller Maxpedition or something from PPM (I think their SAP is just about right for my EDC needs)

 

[knowledgegreen]

I'll second Maxpedition, their stuff is definitely rugged. I have a Falcon and its awesome. Here's a link.

Maxpedition packs

 

[Mugsy90/10]

Another vote for Maxpedition here as well. The Condor and Falcon are both very good quality and well engineered.

 

[NMshooter]

If I recall, the RAID is the Eagle AIII with PALS webbing.

If you don't need the PALS all over you might look at an AIII.

I have one, it makes an excellent medium sized pack.

 

[Telperion]

PALS webbing on the outside is appreciated, but I don't see the point of having it on the inside.

Pack will be used for daytripping, or BOB storage when idle. I'm leaning toward the RAID at this point; I don't see the need to go crazy with pouches, but it would nice to have a fast-access pouch I could get open one-handed.

 

[sheepdog_556]

Pals webbing on the inside of the pack is used to attach pockets to the interior, allowing you to seperate and manage your load.

I have Kifaru, Ealge and Maxpedition packs, as well as an older LF RAID. I also recieved a BFM for Christmas last year.

The camelbak pack is good enough if all you want is a decent pack for short hikes. The shoulder straps and general construction of the pack aren't anywhere near the quality of the other three. I tried the BFM a couple of times...right now, it's hanging in my gear storage closet, unused. The only time it comes out is when I get a neophyte that's going to be with me on a short trip, a 'la dayhike only, or a campout and they just need a place for their stuff.

Once you start down the road of packs with PALS webbing, you will never go back.

As far as Kirafu goes...anything from the Pointman to the Navigator will make an excellent BOB. I personally own a Zulu, Marauder, Navigator and an EMR. I can't say enough about the quality or versatiltiy of Kifaru packs.

The LF RAID is also a fantastic pack, as is the Eagle IIIA.

Maxpedition packs are maybe a half-step down. I have a Falcon and a Fatboy, along with a bunch of their pouches that I use for storing gear I want quick access to on my other packs.

Again, PALS pouches are the bomb. You can attach quick-grab med pouches, water filtraion, extra ammo etc etc etc to the outside of your pack w/o having to dig through a bunch of stuff. Interal pals webbing lets you organize all your gear...no more diggin down to the bottom of the pack to find stuff that has migrated.

Lasty...you might want to look at Mystery Ranch packs. From what I am hearing, they are THE last work in fullsize, external frame packs and some of their smaller stuff looks very nice.


Sheep

 

[Thrash1982]

+1 Maxpedition

 

[Monty]

+2 Maxpedition

Only have a Fatboy and a Rolly Polly but both are excellent construction. Would not hesitate buying one of their packs if I was in the market for one.

Have a pack from Black Bags LLC and it has held up well so far.