I bought the EMS 3000 as a second pack to my Gregory Shasta. I paid $80 for the 3000 and have no complaints. I use it primarily for hauling my rock climbing gear (ropes, pro, clothes) but found out that it also works great for warm weather weekend backpacking trips. It has so many great features that I'm aggrevated I didn't buy it sooner. I agree with the others that this is not suitable for bearing anything over 35 lbs., but for a light load, you CAN'T BEAT IT.

Customer Service

Broke the fastex waist buckle (I stepped on it) and EMS didn't even blink...They handed me a new buckle on the spot!

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Gregory Shasta

My style of backpacking is toward ultralight. The EMS 3000 is a well-built, boxy looking bag. High points: inexpensive, durable, EMS lifetime warrenty, Low points: Hockey puck plastic attachment points, non-floating lid, limited adjustment options. It doesn't look like much and requires some alteration, but it is a good value at this price point.

Customer Service

EMS is terrific for the weekend, I don't know anything about outdoors stuff, warrior as well as the seasoned Mt. Everest climber. Advice, support, and customer service is good. Weekend occasionally gets chaotic.

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Dana Designs Bridger, Dana Designs Bombpack,

Great all around pack. Enough room for a two-man tent, a gallon of water and all the necesities for a quick weekend hike on the Appalechian. Two compartments: one on the body of the pack and one on top. Could use more smaller pockets outside for frequently used items (first aid, TalkAbout, rain gear, etc). Durable contruction. Just don't over tighten it. Ripped off a strap. EMS was kind enough to repair it. Load-wise: anything over 40lbs. is not desirable. It doesn't distribute the weight evenly at that range. 30lb is more like the limit.

Customer Service

Brought it back twice to EMS for 'minor' repairs. Took about two weeks. They didn't even ask for the receipt.

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This back pac is a pretty good steal for the price. When packed up it can hold a lot, but it soemtimes can be a little uncomfortable when stretched out. It gets a little tipsy on the trail. I always try to pack the heavier stuff at the bottom but sometimes you just need access to that stuff and need it up top. There could be a couple of smaller storage compartements on the pack. BUt its actually great for holding skis, but only when the pack is full.

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