Backpacks for pano ULF

[esearing]

Since I got my 5x12 I have been looking for ways to haul and hike with it. The camera will fit into most XL camera bags without the dividers but the film holders in their case are a bit too long or the depth too shallow. I would love another Atlas pack but the built in ICU is too shallow for this format.

I am looking at the Kelty 5500 but it is way to big. The Kelty redwing 50L seems to have about the right specs and can open flat rather than being 100% top loader, and I could use a small to medium ICU for lenses, meter, etc.
Looking at other tactical and external frame packs but not finding what I want yet. Depth is a concern when camera and holders are in the pack, but once the camera is on tripod the pack needs to be able to collapse.
Need at least 18hx10wx8.5depth (front to back) for the camera and holders + room for lenses/smalls. The camera and holders have protective wraps so not overly concerned with heavy padding. Waterproof and water resistant YKK zippers would be nice.
And need a way to place the FLM tripod.

[Greg]

For backpacking my 120 panoramic camera equipment (NOBLEX PRO 6/150UX, Motweiller P.90, Fuji GSW69111, and extras) I use a ThinkTank Airport Ultralight V2.5. Might be tight fit though because the height is around 16+ inches. Maybe another larger ThinkTank model? They conservatively list the inside dimensions of their backpacks, unlike some brands.

[Keith Pitman]

Take your camera, holders, lenses and other gear to REI and try out the packs. Oh, wait, if you don’t have a pack, how will you take all that stuff to REI? Anyone? Anyone?

[esearing]

Take your camera, holders, lenses and other gear to REI and try out the packs. Oh, wait, if you don’t have a pack, how will you take all that stuff to REI? Anyone? Anyone?

I did that and all they had were top loaders like the osprey, or little packs. It fits nicely in a duffle bag but not the best hiking solution.

[Vaughn]

I have the slightly larger version (Trekker II) of this for 8x10:

https://meipacks.myshopify.com/products/trekker-i

Five to six film holders (8x10) fit in the detachable daypack and should fit the same number of 5x12 holders. One big compartment inside -- I have created two compartments and additional padding.

I have been using it for 25 years for 8x10, including air travel before 9/11. All straps, etc hid away...it is a travel pack meant to be carried as a backpack. Zippers and all have held up exceptionally well. Loaded up with about 45 pounds (occasionally more) with just about as much off-trail time as on.

The waist belt does loosen up a little over time, I am always tightening it up a little it seems. Could have replaced the buckle years ago if it was an issue to me.

[CreationBear]

I keep trying to talk Bryan into a shiny new Mystery Ranch, but apparently the dude just keeps buying cameras instead...:) At any rate, MR packs feature a bomber suspension and usually have pack bags that are some variant of a panel loader. Here's a new model that caught my eye (note the first review is from an LF'er):
https://www.mysteryranch.com/terraframe-3zip-50-pack
This particular pack is marketed toward general backpackers, but MR also has dedicated hunting and tactical lines as well--the latter might be useful if you can leverage a molle field (though of course Berry compliant packs can get spendy.)

[Corran]

LOL

Well the 12x20 certainly causes a new problem in that regard! Current solution: carrying the camera and one film holder inserted into the back in one hand, tripod in the other, rather small backpack for lenses/accessories :).

Eric - not sure this helps, but I discovered that bagged rice sold at Costco comes in these very high-quality woven bags that are tall but not terribly wide - might be a nice fit for your holders. I wouldn't want loose holders in any backpack. You can try the Mei pack I have if you want, but it's just a big open pack with nothing to separate areas, but perhaps some well-placed inserts would solve that. Looking forward to seeing your new camera.

PS: I was told Clyde Butcher strapped his ULF cameras to a bare backpacking frame and hiked with them that way. I assume the holders and/or other accessories were carried by another assistant!

[David Schaller]

I keep trying to talk Bryan into a shiny new Mystery Ranch, but apparently the dude just keeps buying cameras instead...:) At any rate, MR packs feature a bomber suspension and usually have pack bags that are some variant of a panel loader. Here's a new model that caught my eye (note the first review is from an LF'er):
https://www.mysteryranch.com/terraframe-3zip-50-pack
This particular pack is marketed toward general backpackers, but MR also has dedicated hunting and tactical lines as well--the latter might be useful if you can leverage a molle field (though of course Berry compliant packs can get spendy.)

This. I am using an original Dana Terraplane, for my 8x10, and Bomb packs for 4x5. I would love to get new Y zip models, but can't justify the expense because my 25+ year old packs are in perfect shape. You will not find better load bearing frames.

[Kiwi7475]

I did that and all they had were top loaders like the osprey, or little packs. It fits nicely in a duffle bag but not the best hiking solution.

I use a REI Ruckpack 65L for my 8x10 and I think it would be good for you. It’s not a top loader so it’s very practical. You can carry a tripod on the side or the front (which centers the weight better). Very comfortable, good support, rugged. I fit everything in it, including 4 holders and 4 lenses.

I spent a lot of time at REI trying many brands and once you impose the constraint of “not a top loader” the options are greatly reduced.

Unfortunately this model seems it’s just been discontinued... bummer.

[wyofilm]

I keep trying to talk Bryan into a shiny new Mystery Ranch, but apparently the dude just keeps buying cameras instead...:) At any rate, MR packs feature a bomber suspension and usually have pack bags that are some variant of a panel loader. Here's a new model that caught my eye (note the first review is from an LF'er):
https://www.mysteryranch.com/terraframe-3zip-50-pack
This particular pack is marketed toward general backpackers, but MR also has dedicated hunting and tactical lines as well--the latter might be useful if you can leverage a molle field (though of course Berry compliant packs can get spendy.)

Every time I look to Mystery Ranch, they and all retailers are out of stock. The same appears to be true for this model, as well. Please let me know if you know of a place where this model is in stock.

[CreationBear]

I am using an original Dana Terraplane, for my 8x10, and Bomb packs for 4x5.

Ha, I'm still running a Bozeman-era Astralplane on an XL frame as my winter hiking bag--I've tricked it out with an aftermarket hipbelt and shoulder harness, but I'm guessing it will swallow Bryan's 20x14 Wisner with no problem. (MR is currently making a new version, the T 100, but I'm not sure of the pack bag dimensions.)

Otherwise, for myself my dayhiking loadout is the same as my light backpacking load so I tend toward larger packs, anyway.

[Drew Bedo]

Anyone ever look at something like this? I would guess that a 5x12 would fit in there.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1498604-REG/hazard_4_evc_prc_blk_photo_recon_tactical_optics_sling.html?msclkid=15608b82227716058bb7d47f9e8c31e0

Not actually a backpack, but it looks rugged.

[esearing]

that mountain ranch terraframe looks interesting but is sold out everywhere. Their 55L duffle has shoulder straps but no waist belt, but since this gear is much lighter than my 4x5 kit it may suffice. The Coulee doesn't compress and the scree is too small.

[CreationBear]

but is sold out everywhere.

As I was telling wyofilm, my initial search showed that Campsaver.com had several of the MR packs we've been discussing, though their "Availability" search function is a bit kludgy. Here's a link to their MR page:
https://www.campsaver.com/mystery-ranch-brand.html

Teraframe 65 in XL
Sawtooth 45 in all
Beartooth 80 in medium

At any rate, good luck with your search--and you definitely might check out the Sawtooth 45.

Addendum: As Bryan will attest, I'm a bit of a pack obsessive:): after another search for the Beartooth 80, Schnee's seemed to have a full range of sizes:
https://schnees.com/beartooth-80/?gclid=Cj0KCQiArvX_BRCyARIsAKsnTxNYiBzypL280BVQThcWywqeb4KEe1dk5Q9yGln5dKbGcULi9nOad-MaAsbZEALw_wcB

Again, no experience with any of these vendors but hopefully something will present itself soon.

[esearing]

Mystery Ranch says more of the TerraFrame 50 coming mid February.

[CreationBear]

Mystery Ranch says more of the TerraFrame 50 coming mid February.

Excellent, I can and have lived without toilet paper, but this particular supply chain disruption seemed particularly harsh.:) Otherwise, I'll keep plumping for an 80L pack (at least) for y'all on the assumption that you can always compress a big pack if needed, but a smaller pack loaded to capacity for a sunny summer day can be a challenge during "shoulder season" or an impromptu overnight back-of-beyond, planned or no.

[esearing]

Found a store full of Mystery Ranch packs, Mission Source. They even had the Terraframe 50. The MR 3 zip packs have some design flaws.

The Cons:
1) TF 50 can not stand on its bottom unless fully loaded. Even fully loaded it tends to fall over.
2) When you lay it down the hip belt is so stiff it basically lifts the bottom higher than the top, so that when you unzip it, all your stuff slides down to the top and out of the pack.
3) if you were to use an ICU, most of it would be in the bottom of the pack and would have to be pulled out to access lenses or accessories.
4) no way to attach a tripod except by just cinching it down on the side.

The pros:
it is a well made bag for hiking where you would not need to get in and out of it often. The Terraframe design would be ok for hunters but it seems like a lot of trouble and depending on the weight already in the pack could get outside heavy.
Hip belt is thick and takes the weight to the point the shoulder straps do not even rest on the shoulders if you need a break.

[CreationBear]

The MR 3 zip packs have some design flaws.


Nice write up--there's really no substitute for trying on a pack with your preferred load-out.:) Otherwise, a few random thoughts:

1.) I hadn't thought of the MR belt being problem, though they're certainly a company famous for throwing in a lot of padding. A hipbelt doesn't have to be overbuilt to transfer weight--I put Hill People Gear "Prairie Belts" on most of my packs for instance that are much lighter--but you might find you're running into market forces that equate bulk with mechanical efficiency.

2.) It's definitely a pain "grounding" your pack here in the soggy Southeast, especially if it has to go suspension-down. One thing I do is to keep a contractor's trash bag in a belt pocket that I spread out on the ground before doffing the pack.

3. Internal organization is a classic "no free lunch" scenario--I tend to accept a little extra weight and use various "load cells/stuff sacks" since it gives me a bit more control of the load. It would be interesting what you would think of using those in conjunction with, say, the Beartooth 80's 270-degree opening bag.

I'll be interested in what you come up with!

[esearing]

Here is my basic 5x12 kit in a 20.5in x 13.5in box. Gear sits at 7.5in high inside the box.
Camera wrapped, 3 holders in cases, 2 lenses in yellow bag, meter and notecards in small pouches.
I tend to carry a few tools, gloves, and other small stuff in the pockets.

211888

[Joshua Dunn]

Eberlestock (https://eberlestock.com/) is expensive but they are made in America and well built. It takes a lot to sort through all of their packs on their website however they have a lot of unique designs. Made mostly for hunters and Military applications they do have some large pack options. If you find a model you like search for them used on evilbay. Sometimes they are half as much used.

[David Schaller]

I have the MR Sphinx 60 for backpacking. I've only done a couple night trips, but it's been great. It might be big enough for an 8x10, and it has the middle zipper. The tripod could strap to the bottom, or on one side. So bigger capacity and less expensive than Terraframe 50.

[esearing]

Currently leaning toward the Shimoda X50. It has about the correct interior dimensions without an ICU, 11.6W x 21.9H x 8.1D in. The Tripod can be mounted on side with hidden pocket or down the front using a split strap or even at an angle. My tripod is a tall and thick tripod so the split design is appealing (Maybe). Side compression would allow me to compress the bag while the camera is on the tripod and I am working several shots in an area and moving around since I do not want the holders flopping around inside. I like the rear opening feature. adjustable shoulder straps and waist belt seem well thought out and have good overall reviews from users.

Not sold on the roll top or the bags waterproof nature but a rain cover would alleviate some of those issues. I wish it had a top cover with pockets as that is where I would tend to store stuff I don't need often like gloves, tools, medKit, etc...

[CreationBear]

Currently leaning toward the Shimoda X50. It has about the correct interior dimensions without an ICU, 11.6W x 21.9H x 8.1D in.

Very much hope that works out for you--there are so many variables to sift through when it comes to load carriage that it's hard to know what will fit your needs until you take the plunge. After eyeing the Shimoda's suspension, though, I do hope you like the Chris Evans/Captain America "swole" look, because too many trail miles are going to leave your traps jacked.:)

[esearing]

Tried the Osprey Kamber 42Liter pack this weekend whose main feature is dual zippered rear backpanel access . It held the 5x12 and holders but not much else. Might be good for 4x5/5x7/4x10 gear. it had all the comfort associated with the Osprey packs. With an ICU would be a good 135 or 220 gear pack.

Kinda still leaning toward X50 but Tilopa has some features I like. The more I see users who actually use packs and not just video reviewers I can see the flaws in both.

[esearing]

Found something interesting. Mammut has two different backpacks with similar name.

Trion 50L [$125] is a light weight ski oriented rear opening pack that has no ICU . It comes in one size but is fairly comfortable and seems about the right size to carry my 5x12 setup. Not many external pockets and nothing internal for lashing or compression other than external side compression.

Trion Spine 50L [$325] has a much more advanced suspension system that allows separate movement of hips and shoulders. Spine 50 is front U zipper opening and gives ample access to interior, but I wonder about tripod mounting. Suspension height is adjustable. Neither appear to be water proof and Mammut does not offer a rain cover.

Both might be large enough for an 8x10 or possibly a 7x17 based on Chamonix models. Hood is large and removable. Gear loops on hip belt instead of pockets. Lacking in padding so would have to make sure camera and items are in protective wraps or cases.
There are also 35L and 70L versions.

[CreationBear]

Trion Spine 50L [$325] has a much more advanced suspension system .

That looks like an interesting option--for load control, the classic Dana "ArcFlex" suspensions made use of fiberglass wands on each side of an HDPE frame sheet that had a single aluminum stay, so this might be doing something similar. FWIW, I saw the 50L as being discounted at REI, but I'll continue to plump for the 70L should you ever consider a foray into my neck of the woods.:)

[esearing]

I ended up purchasing a Shimoda Explore 60 pack with no inserts. I got a fair deal right at $200. I was thinking the extra 10 liters would allow me to carry more stuff when needed. This model has been replaced by the Action X50 with some improvements so you might find it on sale very soon everywhere. I got mine off the auction site as an open box item.

Pros -
the 5x12 camera and 3 holders Plus lens/accessory bag all fit in the main compartment.
Large roomy top section still would allow carry of small items or things like gloves and jackets. It can be open or closed to the lower main compartment via a zipper
roomy top outer pocket for small items
Seems waterproof and the zippers certainly are.
front shoulder strap pocket will hold my Iphone 7 but just barely - no whipping it out to get a quick snap if big foot crosses my path . Other pocket may
be fine for a pair of glasses but probably would not use it for that.
lots of useless attachment points that I will likely never use.
straps on side do cinch the pack to about 1/2 its normal thickness.
Belt and shoulder straos adjust with ease as do tensioners
Front U shape pocket could hold water bladder system - but I don't have one.
Comes with an accessory pocket for waterbottle or tripod holder but not really well thought out places to attach it.
Not as comfortable as my atlas pack but carries the weight well enough.

Cons -
I have to work to get the camera into the pack because of the rigid stays. It barely fits
No real side pockets for water bottles except for the big accessory one that tucks away - but its weird.
Not enough room to carry additional 4x5 kit if I wanted to unless I strap on accessory ICUs for things like film holders and lenses. I would carry less than normal anyway when carrying both cameras
Front straps are not going to solidly hold the tripod - especially the big ole FLM I am using now.
side zip pockets not going to hold much - maps maybe or note cards.
buckles feel like they will be weak link of all the strapping connections.
Even at XL height the should straps wrap around my upper back and shoulders - unlike most hiking bags where the straps attach to the pack at a higher point than your shoulders.
Hip belt is not as rigid as I had hoped.

with a medium ICU this might be a fine bag for 4x5 or 5x7. Not sure you would get an 8x10 in it.

[CreationBear]

Excellent, I'll start looking for some 5x12 shots then.:) FWIW, if you're looking for a bladder system, the Source "low profile" three-liter might be a good fit...I can usually find a place for mine in most all the packs I own.

[esearing]

Excellent, I'll start looking for some 5x12 shots then.:) FWIW, if you're looking for a bladder system, the Source "low profile" three-liter might be a good fit...I can usually find a place for mine in most all the packs I own.

I hate carrying water if I am walking a short distance. I keep some in the car usually. As for seeing shots... I may be able to go shoot soon but I am in middle of kitchen remodel and can not even get to my developing stuff due to all the stuff from the kitchen filling the garage. Hopefully by end of March.

Update: I took the pack and camera out for spin yesterday on a 1 mile round trip trail. I did a little bit of billy goatin' to get to the shoot point but the bag did not get in the way when ducking under a tree. The shoulder straps were cutting a bit at first but then I figured out how to loosen them. The hip belt does not fit my big belly nor take the weight the way my Atlas pack does so I may be looking for an alternative belt. Working out of the bag was not too difficult because I had my small accessories in small cases that came out as needed. Mounting the tripod on the front was ok with the accessory pouch attached and the feet sitting in it with two legs straddling the mid point of the upper strap. The 5x12 camera works just like my 4x5 Chamonix N2 so I had no issues there. I will have to get used to looking all the way across the glass to see the image.

[bernardlanguillier]

Hi guys,

Pretty new to the forum and new to 8x10 after doing a bit of 4x5 a long time ago. I have bought recently a Chamonix Alpinist convertible with 5 holders and 2 sets of lenses. The light one for outdoor use and the heavy duty for studio.

I just found this thread and it’s super useful, thank you!

My Osprey 65 was just too small (I should say too shallow) to carry the gear in the field with additional out door equipment. I have decided to buy from New Zealand an Aarn Natural Balance Pro with additional front balancing units.

I’ll report in the coming weeks about it’s usefulness. Users boast about it being one of the most comfortable packs on the market for ultra long treks with loads up to 50-60 pounds, which is more than I need.

Otherwise I visited the Mystery Ranch store in Tokyo yesterday and saw their hunting series packs, in particular the Metcalf 71L and Beartooth 80L. Those are heavy backs but the 80L may be just about perfect for ULF in the field.
- the opening is very wide
- it’s possible to carry very large pieces of equipment btw the back and suspension system with users reporting having carried loads in excess of 100 pound. It feels like it may be possible to carry a Chamonix 20x24 with a bit of thinkering. The store owner knew a few guys using it for 11x14 in Japan
- there is a large separate compartment that seems usable to carry enough clothing for actual outdoor usage.

[CreationBear]

I have decided to buy from New Zealand an Aarn Natural Balance Pro with additional front balancing units.


Excellent, I'll very much look forward to the review--those had caught my eye when I was doing a lot of backcountry flyfishing here in the Southern Appalachians, but I eventually decided that with Crotalus horridus being pretty thick on the ground, I'd better be able to see my feet.;)

Otherwise, I'm glad to hear the MR 80L packs seem to hold promise--20x24 might be pushing it, though! Most of the solutions I've turned over seem to hang up on having a circumferential compression strap having anchor points so much narrower than the loadout--definitely would like to hear what you come up with.

[bernardlanguillier]

Excellent, I'll very much look forward to the review--those had caught my eye when I was doing a lot of backcountry flyfishing here in the Southern Appalachians, but I eventually decided that with Crotalus horridus being pretty thick on the ground, I'd better be able to see my feet.;)

Otherwise, I'm glad to hear the MR 80L packs seem to hold promise--20x24 might be pushing it, though! Most of the solutions I've turned over seem to hang up on having a circumferential compression strap having anchor points so much narrower than the loadout--definitely would like to hear what you come up with.

Indeed, I have the same concern about ground vision. I’ll see in what circumstances that works.

For now I have no intention to go larger than 8x10 so I’ll probably never know how large a camera the Beartooth 80L would be able to carry. Not sure if I’ll end up buying one. That will depend on the Aarn.

[CreationBear]

I was surprised at just how much weight that folks are putting in the two front "balance" pockets of the Aarn's--I could easily fit all of my Horseman 4x5 kit up front and not have to "ground" my pack (provided of course if I could keep my tripod accessible.) For 8x10 though, I suspect you might find the Beartooth easier to work out of--and perhaps nearly as comfortable if you're using trekking poles--though the Hida Mountains look as if they could sort your kit pretty quickly.:)

[bernardlanguillier]

I was surprised at just how much weight that folks are putting in the two front "balance" pockets of the Aarn's--I could easily fit all of my Horseman 4x5 kit up front and not have to "ground" my pack (provided of course if I could keep my tripod accessible.) For 8x10 though, I suspect you might find the Beartooth easier to work out of--and perhaps nearly as comfortable if you're using trekking poles--though the Hida Mountains look as if they could sort your kit pretty quickly.:)

Yep, it’s always very steep around here and you often get 4000~5000 feet vertical a day…

I’ll probably visit MR again with my gear and check how well it fits as well as how i could customize it to add some separation in the main compartment.

[Drew Bedo]

Haven't read everything so this may be redundant:

There is a nice looking backpack harness designed to mount to a Pellican hard case. Padded back panel, padded shoulder straps and waist belt. That might work. Look on Amazon.

[Greg]

There is a nice looking backpack harness designed to mount to a Pellican hard case. Padded back panel, padded shoulder straps and waist belt. That might work. Look on Amazon.

Make sure you match the backpack harness to your Pelican hard case model. Had to return the one I bought because my Pelican 1600 hard case did not fit snugly on the harness.

[bernardlanguillier]

Indeed, I have the same concern about ground vision. I’ll see in what circumstances that works.

For now I have no intention to go larger than 8x10 so I’ll probably never know how large a camera the Beartooth 80L would be able to carry. Not sure if I’ll end up buying one. That will depend on the Aarn.

My Aarn Natural Balance Pro and front pack and front poaches has arrived. First test indicates that I can fit my Chamonix 8x10 Alpinist in its Dan Stone case and 5 film holders in their Dan Stone cases at the bottom of the main bag compartment, which is just about perfect. I'll need to finalize the configuration, but the initial tests are very promising.

Feet vision is in fact not a problem, it's easy to see between the front poaches.

The pack is very well designed. I would say the best designed pack I have ever seen and I have used packs from quite a few major brands. It's significantly lighter than my Osprey 65, has full waterproof lining, many many attachment points, a suspension system that seems very comfortable and is more adjustable that any other. It seems very stable in my initial tests, but only actual usage will confirm.

I'll be testing this in the field in a few weeks.

Cheers,
Bernard

[CreationBear]

My Aarn Natural Balance Pro and front pack and front poaches has arrived. First test indicates that I can fit my Chamonix 8x10 Alpinist in its Dan Stone case and 5 film holders in their Dan Stone cases at the bottom of the main bag compartment,


Excellent, but "pictures or it didn't happen" as they say on the Internet.:) Otherwise, I'll look forward to your trail reports, and especially how you're organizing your loadout--to pick up on an earlier comment, you might roll with a tripod head or some big plasmats in the front pockets. (BTW there's a great 8x10 photo from Nagano on a couple of LF Flickr groups this morning--I can see why you're getting "loaded for bear" as we say in the States.;))