I am not completely sure what the new Mountain Light series is all about, but they look like the older models 4000 and 5200.

I have logged over 2000+ miles on both of the original models and they are the best packs I have owned. They are comfortable(I am 6 ft), and VERY lightweight. I think my 4000 is 2lbs5oz and the 5200 is 2lbs10oz. 5200 is for Winter, the 4000 is for everything else.

You should plan on not abusing your pack because they are not OVER built, so if you are abusive, get something else. I think too many people were abusing the original MountainLight Series and this new series may be more durable. But they may weight more too. I don't know.

Concerns about the thin straps and belt may be misleading. Balance is the key and everything will fall into place. My son is 6'5" and says that those skinny hip straps are the most comfortable he has ever worn. I belive a light weight pack is for lightweight travel. If you load the 4000 with more that 40lbs you and the pack will suffer(25-35 is the range or less). 5200 = 45lbs max, maybe 50lbs in a jam 1st day or two out.

Excellent packs and still going. My packs were expensive, it looks like the price has come down so the packs may be an excellent value. Hope this gives some insight.

Customer Service

Customer Service is above excellent. I popped a stay through the bottom and I was given a loaner and my pack was expertly repaired. Conversations with Mountainsmith were very customer oriented, no snobs.

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I like the pack. It has great capacity, although the removable lumbar pack( cover) doesn't fully protect your gear from the elements. Also, I have a large chest 52in and I was told that they didn't have x-large straps. Is this true?

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This is the most comfortable internal frame pack I have ever worn! I have had 2 Dana's, and various others but this one tops them all. It has no odd pressure points...just carries nicely on the hips and rides snug and secure.

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