Just wanted to add a little update since I've had a change to use it on several hikes...

When I'm out on a short hike (usually to the hills near my home) I will only carry water, my PSK (which is basically a first aid kit and a few extras, nothing major) and rain gear. I will leave the Badlands Hybrid at home and carry this:



(Mine has a third row of MOLLE with loop Velcro in-between the webbing.)

It has worked beautifully as a small day pack. Very comfortable and will hold more than you think. I've added some light straps with side release buckles so I can strap a jacket on the outside if it's a bit chilly out. I'll get some pictures of my set-up tomorrow when I have a better backdrop than the floor of my office.

Anyway, I've found this pack online for as little as 25 bucks! The Mil bladder itself is worth $30. It's heavy duty with a bite valve cover and a quick-release insulated hose. I've been using the bladder in my Badlands (and a Mountainsmith Circuit) for 2 years now. It well is worth checking out!

Joe, what model is that?

Doh! Should have posted that, sorry.

It's the MULE. It's an older version but you can still find it. If you do a Google product search and then filter by "lowest price" you can find the one I'm referring to.

(Or PM me and I'll give you a link!)

I used it today and it worked great. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

Thanks. I posted about a gerber one a few months back and by the time I got done messing around and tried to order it, OUT OF STOCK! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/doh.gif" alt="" />

been using this Condor II for a few years now and it still looks brand new. took it on a few 6-8 mile hikes on my honeymoon in Yosemite.