Kelty Cache Hauler/Complete Review
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This pack needs a little more publicity than it gets on reviews! This thing is the hummer of packs, its not light (almost ten pounds) but it more than makes up for this by how well the weight is borne. I saddled it up with 60+ pounds and feel it can probably do twice that without flinching. Definitely not for everybody, I like the utility of having a fold down shelf, and the pack pops off by removing two pins in no more than two minutes. And the frame (with pack removed) can handle as a big a load as you would want to put on your back. You could easily use the flap/strap setup to attach a full size duffel bag, or a quartered whitetail to the system. The shelf is really nice for stashing whatever it is you may be stashing, I had my buddy put about half his body weight on it and i was still able to stand (+ the full pack) The cloth that the pack is made from is 900 denier (twice that of most packs) and the quality is second to none, very supple. Plus Kelty stands behind it with a lifetime warranty... Pictures really dont do it justice, this thing is bombproof and military simple. You dont see many folks backpacking with external frames now, but this pack lets you stand up straight in a normal comfy posture, something i dont think any internal pack can do with a significant load. And the load never touches you, so you can pack without worrying if something is going to be jabbing you in the back. You always have the same comfy back to pack connection. And, when you do roll up on some of those folks with their bright yellow arcteryx 3 pound internal frame packs, you'll make em look like they are riding a 6 year old girl's bike as you drop the pack part and bring back 100 pounds fire wood.
Kelty Cache Hauler/Complete Feature
- Kelty Cache Hauler/Complete includes an external suspension frame and packbag designed to carry large loads comfortably and comes with a blaze-orange rain cover
- Camouflage print packbag has shoulder straps and can be worn separately from frame
- With a carry volume of 3,450 cubic inches/56.6 liters, pack and frame fit torsos from 16 to 22 inches
- Hydration compatible packbag features top-panel access, spindrift collar, sleeping bag compartment, load compression straps, and multiple organizer pockets
- Lifetime warranty
Kelty Cache Hauler/Complete Overview
The Cach Hauler is designed to carry big loads comfortably. The frame and the packbag are also sold individually.
Kelty Cache Hauler/Complete Specifications
Designed for optimum versatility and the ability to carry large loads comfortably, the Kelty Cache Hauler includes a detachable external suspension frame, and a camouflage print packbag with a blaze-orange rain cover. Ideal for hauling your gear into the backcountry, the packbag has shoulder straps and can be worn separately from the frame once your reach your destination. The Mossy Oak New Break-Up camouflage pattern is a high-visibility, low-definition pattern that uses the latest photographic, computer, and printing techniques for maximum concealment in the woods. The included pullout, blaze-orange rain cover offers easy and convenient visibility in the field, or in camp as well as weather protection.
The Cache Hauler carries up to 3,450 cubic inches/56.6 liters of gear and fits torsos from 16 to 22 inches. The packbag features top-panel access for easy gear stowage and a spindrift collar with a load compression straps for load control. The hydration compatible bag has a large front pocket, a front-access sleeping bag compartment, zippered side pockets, and a map pocket for optimum organization. Lash straps allow you to attach gear to the outside of the pack, and a haul handle allows you to carry the bag easily by hand.
The external frame suspension system offers optimum ventilation on the trail and great stability for heavy loads. The Cache Hauler Frame has a moisture-wicking backpanel for additional temperature regulation. The frame is designed for comfort and adjustable balance with a padded waistbelt, padded shoulder straps, load-lifter straps, a sternum strap, belt stabilizers, and a Scherer Cinch.
Size and Capacity Specifications:
- Torso Fit Range: 16-22 inches/41-56 centimeters
- Volume: 3,450 cubic inches/56.6 liters
- Weight: Nine pounds, two ounces/4.1 kilograms
- Length: 28.5 inches/72 centimeters
- Width: 22 inches/56 centimeters
- Height: 14 inches/36 centimeters
Packbag Specifications:
- Body Fabric: Mossy Oak New Break-Up 900D nylon packcloth
- Lash straps
- Pull-out, blaze-orange rain cover
- Hydration compatible
- Top-panel access
- Sleeping bag compartment
- Large front pocket
- Zippered side pockets
- Map pocket
- Load compression strap
- Bottom compression lash straps
- Spindrift collar
- Haul handle
- Packbag has shoulder straps and can be worn separately from frame
Suspension Specifications:
- Wicking backpanel
- Padded waistbelt
- Padded shoulder straps
- Load-lifter straps
- Sternum strap with whistle
- Belt stabilizers
- Scherer Cinch
Manufacturer Warranty
Lifetime warranty
About Kelty
Kelty is based in Boulder, Colorado, and uses the natural backdrop of the Rocky Mountains to test, create, and continually innovate within their diverse outdoor product families of Apex, Backcountry, Trail, Basecamp and KIDS gear. Kelty combines the best in new technology with a healthy dose of common sense to create exceptionally made, affordably priced outdoor products.
Amazon.com Backpack Guide
Finding the Right Backpack
For extended trips into the backcountry, there's no getting around the fact that you'll have to carry life-sustaining supplies on your back. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a backpack:
Internal vs. External
Up until late 1970s, external frame packs--which consist of an exposed, lightweight metal frame attached to a fabric pack-bag--were the only thing going. In recent years, though, packs that place the support structure of the pack inside the pack, known as internal frame packs, have boomed in popularity.
The good news about internal frame packs is that they hold the weight of your load close to your body, making it easier to maintain your balance on uneven terrain. Meanwhile, internals provide stiffness and support, but they are not completely rigid, which makes them more flexible when you're doing active sports. With the added flexibility comes a high degree of compressibility, meaning you can use the pack's compression straps to cinch down your load and keep items from shifting and throwing you off balance. Internals also sport slimmer shapes that allow for more arm movement in all directions--another big plus for off-trail bushwhackers, skiers and climbers. Last but not least, internal frame packs offer a greater range of adjustability in the shoulder harness and hip-belt than external frame packs.
There are some negatives for internals. First, once packed, it can be difficult to grab needed items out of them quickly. And because internal frame packs consolidate the load into a single, body-hugging unit, proper packing is very important. To distribute the weight properly, you should pack your heaviest items close to your back and in the middle portion of the pack-bag. Plan on getting a sweaty back with an internal, too, given the fact that they are pressed right against you. Finally, internal frame packs are priced higher than external models.
External frame packs are very good at focusing the weight of a load directly to the right place: your load-loving hips. While internals, when properly packed, do this effectively, too, you can always rest assured that an external will distribute the load evenly, no matter how unevenly packed it may be. Externals also offer easy access to your gear via multiple, easily-accessible compartments. Plus, because externals don't situate the load directly against your back, you'll enjoy far more air flow. Finally, if you're on a budget, or you're buying for a growing child, externals are more affordable.
If you plan on hiking on easy to moderate trails and you don't need a lot of body movement, you'll probably be fine with an external. But because externals are so rigid and inflexible, challenging trails or any kind of off-trail pursuit can become painful and frustrating. Also know that your balance is far more compromised with an external frame pack during activities like stream crossings and hops through talus fields.
Packs for Shorter Trips
In addition to backpacks designed for overnight trips, rucksacks are great for day-trips, warm-weather one-nighters, single-day ski trips, or fast alpine assaults. Some rucksacks blur the line between backpack and rucksack with integrated internal supports and sophisticated hip belts and shoulder harnesses. Choose a pack in this category based on your intended use. Short day hikers don't need an internal frame, while climbers and skiers with heavier loads likely do.
Sizes and Capacities
Packs in the 3,000 cubic inches and lower category are good for day hikes or overnighters in warm weather with minimal gear. Packs in the 3,000 to 4,000 cubic inch range are good for one- or two-night trips in colder weather. If you're going to be out for up to three days, look for a pack in the sub-4,000 cubic inch range. Choose a pack with 5,000-6,000 cubic inches for week-long outings. And finally, for trips lasting a week or more, you'll need something in the 6,000-plus cubic inch category. Keep in mind, though, that bigger packs weigh more, and since every ounce counts, you'll want to choose a pack that offers just enough space for your outings and no more.
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*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Mar 17, 2010 04:07:45
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