Kelty External Frame for Backpacking my 16x20 camera

[Hugo Zhang]

Hello Everyone,

I have a Pelican hard case to haul my 16x20 gear around my car on paved roads. But I feel I will need a backpack to carry the gear for occasional hiking trips.

What do your guys use to haul your big gears? I am talking about 40-60 pounds of loads, not including my Ries A tripod with its head.

I have done some research and it seems Kelty Tioga 5000 will fit my need. I can squeeze my 24" wide camera into this bag and may have some space for a couple of holders.

Any suggestions?

Thanks.
Hugo

[Drew Wiley]

The older US mfg Kelty frames are better than the new ones, and can sometimes be
found used in good condition on Fleabay. But you need to find a frame which fits your
own shoulders and back, then customize the bag as needed. I am a strong believer in
external frame packs for heavy loads. My typical daypack with a Ries and 8x10 system
is around 75 lbs. Some of this is outdoor gear I just always leave in the pack so I don't have to worry no matter what the weather. The newer (imported) Kelty packs
have a tendency for the straps to bust with heavier loads.

[Vaughn]

I use a MEI Travel pack (Trekker II is the closest recent model to what I have.)

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

I use it to haul 45 to 55 pounds of 8x10 and stuff -- Ries A-100 tripod over my shoulder.

Internal framed packs seem to be easier to take on and off in the field -- with any design there will be trade-offs.

Vaughn

[evan clarke]

I use a Bull Pac frame for my 11x14. This frame has a perpendicular bottom shelf on it which gives a bottom support for the camera to rest on. I have rigged quilted fabric on the frame which allows me to fold fabric over the camera like you would a lens wrap, corner to center. I fixed 2 quick release nylon straps to the frame which goe around the camera and cloth to hold everything in place. I place the camera on the frame, resting on the bottom shelf, the folded dark cloth on top of that, 3 holder on top of that, wrap the cloth and secure the 2 adjustable straps. It's a breeze to use..Evan Clarke


http://www.bullpacs.com/ The link

[Robert Oliver]

I use the Kelty Super Tioga 5500 for my regular backpacking with 4x5...

should work great for your usage. It carries a heavy load very easily, and can be had inexpensively.

Hugo, let me know if you want to borrow it to give it a test run. I'm up in Orange County every once in a while.

[Sal Santamaura]

...it seems Kelty Tioga 5000 will fit my need. I can squeeze my 24" wide camera into this bag and may have some space for a couple of holders...I'm not so sure about that. While Kelty specifies the width

http://www.kelty.com/p-40-tioga-5000.aspx

at 24 inches, that's probably an outer, overall dimension, incliding side pockets. I use a Kelty Super Tioga

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.campmor.com/wcsstore/Campmor/static/images/packs/60678.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.trailspace.com/gear/kelty/super-tioga/&h=264&w=245&sz=26&tbnid=08YSFOQi7QbJ9M:&tbnh=112&tbnw=104&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dkelty%2Bsuper%2Btioga&zoom=1&q=kelty+super+tioga&hl=en&usg=__OC1ty1RjeUvB9yTmDfnG3XBrf2Y=&sa=X&ei=0zi_TJTTMYHmsQPh_6SIDQ&ved=0CBkQ9QEwAQ

which appears about the same size. However, the top compartment's hold-open bar (which is also present on the Tioga 5000) limits one to cameras no wider than 13 inches.

I suggest that you consider having Chamonix sew something that custom fits your big new camera :) and is compatible with the Kelty Cache Hauler frame:

http://www.kelty.com/p-272-cache-hauler-frame-only.aspx

[Robert Oliver]

took a tape measure to mine... doesn't look like you'll even be close

[Hugo Zhang]

I'm not so sure about that. While Kelty specifies the width

http://www.kelty.com/p-40-tioga-5000.aspx

at 24 inches, that's probably an outer, overall dimension, incliding side pockets. I use a Kelty Super Tioga

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.campmor.com/wcsstore/Campmor/static/images/packs/60678.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.trailspace.com/gear/kelty/super-tioga/&h=264&w=245&sz=26&tbnid=08YSFOQi7QbJ9M:&tbnh=112&tbnw=104&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dkelty%2Bsuper%2Btioga&zoom=1&q=kelty+super+tioga&hl=en&usg=__OC1ty1RjeUvB9yTmDfnG3XBrf2Y=&sa=X&ei=0zi_TJTTMYHmsQPh_6SIDQ&ved=0CBkQ9QEwAQ

which appears about the same size. However, the top compartment's hold-open bar (which is also present on the Tioga 5000) limits one to cameras no wider than 13 inches.

I suggest that you consider having Chamonix sew something that custom fits your big new camera :) and is compatible with the Kelty Cache Hauler frame:

http://www.kelty.com/p-272-cache-hauler-frame-only.aspx


I was looking at this last night. Maybe I just wrap my camera in a sleep bag and strap it to this frame.

[Hugo Zhang]

I use a Bull Pac frame for my 11x14. This frame has a perpendicular bottom shelf on it which gives a bottom support for the camera to rest on. I have rigged quilted fabric on the frame which allows me to fold fabric over the camera like you would a lens wrap, corner to center. I fixed 2 quick release nylon straps to the frame which goe around the camera and cloth to hold everything in place. I place the camera on the frame, resting on the bottom shelf, the folded dark cloth on top of that, 3 holder on top of that, wrap the cloth and secure the 2 adjustable straps. It's a breeze to use..Evan Clarke


http://www.bullpacs.com/ The link

Evan,

Can you post a picture or two how you strap your 11x14 on your carrying frame?

Thanks.

[Drew Wiley]

That Bullpac link sure looks interesting. I'm very skeptical of the current line of Kelty
products - more for REI weekender types than for real loads. Right now I'm rebuilding
a few older pack frames etc so I'll have spares in coming years.

[Robert Oliver]

Have somebody sew you a custom canvas pack that attaches to an used external frame... just simply remove the pack that came with it. would be lighter and cheaper than buying a frame.

You might even be able to find a pre-existing pack built for another application. I could easily see the design merits of a simple flat piece of canvas with strategically placed buckles that would wrap up your camera like a lens wrap ( evan... great idea) then attach to frame.

Or go like Per and get a baby jog stroller (illegal on many national park trails)

[Jerry Bodine]

Hugo,
Maybe this will provide some useful ideas ... or not. I too have done basically what Drew has mentioned. I took one (have two) of my US-built Kelty frames from the 60's that I had installed Kelty's straight "roll bars" on at the top of the frame, and built a 24"-wide aluminum custom-compartmented box for my 8x10 Norma + 6 lenses and all other needed stuff (except holders). Then made an adapter to provide a flat interface for the box, since the frame has curvatures both horizontal and vertical. The adapter hangs by two hooks on the roll bar and has an angle crosswise at the bottom to support the edge of the box. Then the box is placed on the adapter and held tightly to the frame with strategically-placed cinch straps (using D-rings installed on the box) to keep the box from shifting in any direction. The well-padded film holder bag is strapped on at the bottom of the frame, and the Series 4 alum Gitzo + Sinar Pan-Tilt head (only slightly wider than frame when stowed) is strapped on horizontally between the box and the film bag. Kelty provided a current waist belt for the worn original. Makes a neat, secure, balanced, comfortable package that goes almost 75 pounds with 3 holders/raingear/snacks/16-oz water/the works. More holders means fewer lenses and some other bits. Obviously this setup was never intended for overnight backpacking and certainly not for bushwacking, but will suffice for a reasonable distance from the vehicle.

If my other unused Kelty frame may be useful to you, PM me and we can talk. I've used this frame to carry up to 82 lbs on long backpack trips, so I can vouch for its durability.

Jerry

[Hugo Zhang]

This may work. :)

http://cgi.ebay.com/VTG-CANVAS-LEATHER-CANOE-PORTAGE-PACK-BACKPACK-MPLS-MN-/330486565729?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4cf288cb61

[Robert Hall]

As I posted in another thread, I made my own backpack and attached it to a pack frame for my 12x20.

http://roberthall.com/backpack.jpg

It holds the camera, 2 film holders, and if I feel really hard core, 2 lenses, film, changing tent, and the tripod.

Cost me about $25 for the material and what ever the frame cost, like $50 or $75

[Hugo Zhang]

Robert,

That's a nice looking pack. :)

Thanks for the picture.
Hugo

[Milton Tierney]

40 years ago I could put 60-80lbs of gear in a backpack and hike all day,
today I use a mule. :D

[jeroldharter]

This may work. :)

http://cgi.ebay.com/VTG-CANVAS-LEATHER-CANOE-PORTAGE-PACK-BACKPACK-MPLS-MN-/330486565729?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4cf288cb61

Yes, for something that large, get a portage pack. These are commonly used in the Boundary Waters. You can get cotton canvas, waxed cotton canvas, or nylon depending on your tastes. Many of them are made in the USA and you could probably order one without shoulder straps to reduce cost/weight/bulk. I love the Frost River packs and have a few of them. They are indestructible but the Cook Custom Sewing might be your best bet for customizing, lightweight, and dustproofing. I have one of their Lean 2's and a tarp - high end quality and good people to deal with.

Here are some links if you go that direction:

http://duluthpack.com/outdoor-gear/canoe-kayak/canoe-packs

http://www.frostriver.com/canoe_packs/canoe_packs_menu.html

http://www.cookecustomsewing.com/hybrid.htm



http://duluthpack.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/5e06319eda06f020e43594a9c230972d/o/r/original-3-od.jpg

http://www.frostriver.com/images/products/750_No7_Packslg.jpg

http://www.cookecustomsewing.com/images/hybridpack-lg2.jpg

[srbphoto]

Don't forget the hunting stores. Hunters still use external frames (gotta carry out them heavy elk parts somehow). You will find more there than any of the backpacking shops.

[Drew Wiley]

Here in Berkeley we have a shop called Narrain's which specializes in sewing and
repairing outdoor gear. They have a huge selection of cordura, goretex, and ripstop
nylon and will make a customized pack if you provide the frame and specifics. They have a strong following with the climber/expedition crowd, and I have used their services for years. Not cheap, but worth it.

[Ed Richards]

Go to a hunting outfitter like Cabela's or Bass Pro Shops or check them online. They carry frames like the Bull Packs for portaging, and you have a store nearby you could see what one looks and feels like.

[evan clarke]

Jaimie, this info is terrific. I looked for packs for weeks before I bought the frame for my 11x14. I just ordered a hybrid from cooke..Thanks..Evan Clarke


Yes, for something that large, get a portage pack. These are commonly used in the Boundary Waters. You can get cotton canvas, waxed cotton canvas, or nylon depending on your tastes. Many of them are made in the USA and you could probably order one without shoulder straps to reduce cost/weight/bulk. I love the Frost River packs and have a few of them. They are indestructible but the Cook Custom Sewing might be your best bet for customizing, lightweight, and dustproofing. I have one of their Lean 2's and a tarp - high end quality and good people to deal with.

Here are some links if you go that direction:

http://duluthpack.com/outdoor-gear/canoe-kayak/canoe-packs

http://www.frostriver.com/canoe_packs/canoe_packs_menu.html

http://www.cookecustomsewing.com/hybrid.htm



http://duluthpack.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/5e06319eda06f020e43594a9c230972d/o/r/original-3-od.jpg

http://www.frostriver.com/images/products/750_No7_Packslg.jpg

http://www.cookecustomsewing.com/images/hybridpack-lg2.jpg

[jeroldharter]

Jaimie, this info is terrific. I looked for packs for weeks before I bought the frame for my 11x14. I just ordered a hybrid from cooke..Thanks..Evan Clarke

Evan, Glad it helped. Are you planning to carry the pack on your back, stap it to one of the Bull packs, or put it on a stroller? Don't be afraid to call them to see if they can customize the straps to fit your needs.

If you are prone to any overnights, check out their Lean shelters. I have a Lean3 which is very light (~5 pounds I think), made of remarkable 1.1 oz sil-nylon, is completely waterproof, and is enormous. You could sleep 5 in it if you had to but for 1-2 people is is the Taj Mahal plus you can store a mountain of gear inside. If you really go lightweight, their tarps are the best, no question.

Jamie

[Fred L]

Canvas canoe packs for hauling heavy loads only work well if you use the tumpline. The leather shoulder straps will eat into your shoulders pretty fast and will not be fun. With a tump, I don't worry about schlepping heavy packs over portages.

[evan clarke]

Carry it on my back. The whole setup,camera,3 holders and dark cloth weighs only 25# with the frame. My 4x5 kit is about 35# right now. This pack will be perfect..TTYL..Evan



Evan, Glad it helped. Are you planning to carry the pack on your back, stap it to one of the Bull packs, or put it on a stroller? Don't be afraid to call them to see if they can customize the straps to fit your needs.

If you are prone to any overnights, check out their Lean shelters. I have a Lean3 which is very light (~5 pounds I think), made of remarkable 1.1 oz sil-nylon, is completely waterproof, and is enormous. You could sleep 5 in it if you had to but for 1-2 people is is the Taj Mahal plus you can store a mountain of gear inside. If you really go lightweight, their tarps are the best, no question.

Jamie

[Hugo Zhang]

Yes, for something that large, get a portage pack. These are commonly used in the Boundary Waters. You can get cotton canvas, waxed cotton canvas, or nylon depending on your tastes. Many of them are made in the USA and you could probably order one without shoulder straps to reduce cost/weight/bulk. I love the Frost River packs and have a few of them. They are indestructible but the Cook Custom Sewing might be your best bet for customizing, lightweight, and dustproofing. I have one of their Lean 2's and a tarp - high end quality and good people to deal with.

Here are some links if you go that direction:

http://duluthpack.com/outdoor-gear/canoe-kayak/canoe-packs

http://www.frostriver.com/canoe_packs/canoe_packs_menu.html

http://www.cookecustomsewing.com/hybrid.htm



http://duluthpack.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/5e06319eda06f020e43594a9c230972d/o/r/original-3-od.jpg

http://www.frostriver.com/images/products/750_No7_Packslg.jpg

http://www.cookecustomsewing.com/images/hybridpack-lg2.jpg

Jaimie,

Thanks for your suggestions. For my particular camera, I have just placed an order for a Lewis & Clark Pack.

Thanks everybody for their ideas as well.

Hugo

[Fred L]

I shoulda suggested Ostrom Outdoors packs...killer canoe packs

[jeroldharter]

Jaimie,

Thanks for your suggestions. For my particular camera, I have just placed an order for a Lewis & Clark Pack.

Thanks everybody for their ideas as well.

Hugo

The Frost River packs are great. Apparently they went out of business for awhile. I was really disappointed. When the re-emerged I bought a few more packs from them. The quality and durability are excellent. Like Domke cubed. They are old-fashioned so they won't be the most comfortable from the start, but they are good. Please post your opinions here. Same for Evan with the CCS Hybrid. Different ends of the same spectrum.

If you have a wood framed ULF camera, I think the Frost River is good aesthetically. Post some pics.