hrmm i guess im BTT'ing this thread...

i take a different approach than the most of you i guess. i have a gossamergear mariposa plus pack made of mostly all ripstop nylon. it has a 3600ci worth of space, top loader only and weighs 23ozs. its the main pack i use for my outdoor activities...ive found i dont really need bomber materials(i usually go for less is more) for my pack as i dont really throw it around...its either on my back or set off to the side. i have field tested it all over the southern US and the only damage it got was from a darn chipmunk trying to eat my muffin!!! if anyone is interested in a lightweight approach to backpacking shoot me a PM!

but this isnt to say i dont have a bomber proof backpack <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> my beloved TNF Lobster. i think it was a prototype model because i cant find ANY info on the web about it. ive had it since junior year in high school (almost 10years ago). and its as good as the day i bought it! id say its around 2000-2500ci of space and a total canvas bomber with heavy YKK zips sternum strap and a thin wasit strap. i like it more than those sling sacks because i can glissade down rough terrain hills without having to hold on to a bouncing pack (ie sternum and wasit strap). its super bomber proof...only bad part is the water bottle holders on the side have stretched out. stitching is SUPERB!! i dont really care for TNF stuff but if you find a Lobster its a keeper!

this mariposa pic is a stock pic not mine as my pack is in my "camping box". but the pics of the TNF are mine! i love packs! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />







EDIT: ok some companies i like: gossamer gear, Zpacks, Dana Designs, mountain laurel designs