Camp Trails Moose Pack Bag w frame

Review Date
February 4, 2002

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Value Rating
 4 of 5

Reviewed by: Bill Tyner(Unregistered User) ,  Backpacker , from Grants Pass, Or. USA

Price Paid:  $50.00 at LL Bean

Summary:
I bought the Camp Trails Astral Cruiser V truss frame and Moose bag combo in 1973. I'm still using it and in fact just returned from a search and rescue effort in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness. The other 3 in my party wore internal frame packs.
By the time we finished the 16 mile RT into the snow line, the others liked the way my frame and ugly old orange pack clung to my back and did not shift as much as their internals did. This was especially important due to the "fast in and fast out"
trip we were forced to do because of the nasty weather and need to find the victim ASAP. When we stopped to rest, I could sit on a log and the legs of the frame would contact the log taking the load off of me. This is a huge advantage when taking
quick breaks where you catch your breath then move on. My rig is "old tech" and the hip belt is not as padded as the new ones. Still, I have nothing to complain about even though I think the extra padding would be "softer". What I have added to the
frame is a cross strap to connect the shoulder straps. Modern packs all have these and I find them useful. There is no provision for water carry and my partner has to remove my canteen from the side pocket if I don't want to remove the pack to get
at it. I carry a fanny pack in front with often needed items. The whole pack comes together in a tight and clean package that looks very much like a showroom display. I never have snagging problems in the backcountry. The extensive lash-up
compression system works great and allows you to hang wet clothes off the back of your bag as you hike. It may not be pretty but it's very functional! The lash cording is bomb proof but seal those ends with a match. None of the stitching has ever broken.
There is enough room to carry a weeks worth of food and clothing. It is completely coated and waterproof but rain will penetrate the pocket zippers if their flaps are turned up. I clean and dry the pack after each trip and store it inside. This is why it has lasted
almost thirty years. The only failure has been the little spring clip that secures the clevis pins on the bottom shoulder strap frame connection. I always carry a few large paper clips and simply stick one in place of the spring. The simple jaw clasp belt
"buckle" is discolored but works perfectly. My frame and pack weighs just 3 lbs total. My wife has th

Customer Service:
I have never needed customer service. The fact that the rig is still available after so many years is all the testimonial one needs about the product.

Similar Products Used:
This has been my only bag. My wife's Arc'teryx Bora 80 is more comfortable, has bells and whistles and more straps than
one knows what to do with, yet I'm always happy to put my external frame ba