In the last few weeks I have been really evaluating my pack. between doing the videos and Wildman getting his pack I have started to re-think a few things. The modularity of this system is a bit overwhelming at times; sitting here contemplating the possibilities really takes up a lot of available resources!
So here is what I am thinking. I have the Model 12 Peregrine Nylon, I use lumbar Alu. stays to attach the belt to the back panel; this is comfortable and I can carry just about whatever I want.
BUT...
I carry about half of the weight on my belt and front pack. My Winter load out is right at 25 pounds, 3 to 3 1/2 pounds on my front pack and easily 6 pounds on my belt, and I could get more on there if I wanted to.
So this got me to thinking. Maybe I could use the AngrySparrow model back panel, or Poly Peregrine back panel, and front panel; I mean, I'm not carrying that much weight on either one. Then switch out to the Heavier back panel when needed, like for back country hunting. I could also just switch out the front panel to the AngrySparrow front panel and keep the back panel I have now.
Additionally, with the plethora of Molly MacPouches now available I was thinking of using some of them for dedicated pouches. These would be pouches that never come off of the MacPack; like my first-aid kit and emergency/survival kit. These can either go on the back panel or on the belt permanently but removable if needed.
I have played with keeping these items on a separate, drop-leg platform (hooked to my trouser belt) so that no matter what happened my first-aid and survival gear is on me if I am separated from my MacPack. However, this adds complication to a simple system, adds weight and I am rarely REALLY in a position to be separated from my MacPack. If, for example, I needed to cross a swollen river I could easily remove the essentials and stick them on my trouser belt, just in case.
I am waiting on some Molly MacPouches to arrive to start playing with some of this stuff; and to finish out the video series.
Does it make sense to switch out to a lighter panel for a few ounces? What would the total be anyway, 20 ounces? Maybe less, a 29 inch pad belt, poly back panel and AngrySparrow front panel and poly cinch buckles...Hmmmm...
If it is 20 ounces, that would be almost a whole pound under what I have now.
Anyway, I needed to write this all down to get it organized in my head. But since I have started it I will document what I do along the way and what I settle (yea right) on.
Bookmarks