Another backpack question.

[Songyun]

Sorry, another backpack question.
Since my 8X10 arrived, I am in the market for a new backpack. Here is what I want,
1. good suspension. (I really like the suspension on osprey atmos 35, but the inside is not flat, it works good with my 4X5 system, but may not work well with my 8X10)
2. front zip. (That will probably cross out a lot of good backpacks, also I have to cross out kelty 3100, coz it doesn't fit my back very well. I have a granite nimbus, I think it is a little bit narrow for 8X10)
My local outdoor stores doesn't have many backpacks.

My project is to have a custom made tray directly fit the backpack.

[Ron Marshall]

Try an outfitter such as REI, see if you can find a Kelty 4750, which is what I have. The 3100 didn't fit me either. Also, the 4750 has a better suspension than the 3100. It is also a better size for an 8x10.

[Songyun]

Try an outfitter such as REI, see if you can find a Kelty 4750, which is what I have. The 3100 didn't fit me either. Also, the 4750 has a better suspension than the 3100. It is also a better size for an 8x10.

No REI local store.
All I have is two local outdoor stores, one of them is more of trailer/RV kind of store. The other one has a few Osprey Gregory backpacks.
I will go to Dick sports to see if they carry 4750.

[Ron Marshall]

REI allows returns and their shipping is $9.99, so if other options fail.

The closest REI to you is in Ann Arbour, 150 mi.

[BarryS]

Backpacks are highly personal--you *have* to try them out. Get in the car and haul off to Ann Arbor because REI rules. Plan B--go to the Denver REI because it's one of the flagship stores, get your pack, and do some shooting in the high desert of western CO for a few days. Cars rent cheap in Denver and it's worth the ticket.

[Songyun]

Backpacks are highly personal--you *have* to try them out. Get in the car and haul off the Ann Arbor because REI rules. Plan B--go to the Denver REI because it's one of the flagship stores, get your pack, and do some shooting in the high desert of western CO for a few days. Cars rent cheap in Denver and it's worth the ticket.

I am moving to NJ next month, I wouldn't be able to go anywhere now, as I have to finish up final draft of my dissertation.

[BarryS]

Ahhh, in that case, just wait till you get to NJ and get the pack there. You should be writing, not shooting. You can take the Cham out every so often and fondle it.

[Songyun]

Ahhh, in that case, just wait till you get to NJ and get the pack there. You should be writing, not shooting. You can take the Cham out every so often and fondle it.

I shot 4 sheets 8X10 yesterday.

[Vaughn]

I have the MEI Trekker II

http://www.meipacks.com/TravelPacks01.html

I find it very comfortable and works great for 8x10. The detachable daypack holds 5 8x10 film holders. The pack in a panel-loader. You would be able to design an insert to fit right in (I used closed cell foam to make it a camera pack.)

The next size up (China Clipper) is used by an 11x14 camera owner.

vaughn

This should be a photo of my pack opened with 8x10 gear

http://www.largeformatphotography.in...4&d=1197389961

And closed -- with attached daypack

http://www.largeformatphotography.in...3&d=1197389905

[Songyun]

I have the MEI Trekker II

http://www.meipacks.com/TravelPacks01.html

I find it very comfortable and works great for 8x10. The detachable daypack holds 5 8x10 film holders. The pack in a panel-loader. You would be able to design an insert to fit right in (I used closed cell foam to make it a camera pack.)

The next size up (China Clipper) is used by an 11x14 camera owner.

vaughn

This should be a photo of my pack opened with 8x10 gear

http://www.largeformatphotography.in...4&d=1197389961

And closed -- with attached daypack

http://www.largeformatphotography.in...3&d=1197389905

Are the Trekker packs padded or not?