purcelce 11 Posted December 29, 2002 Share Posted December 29, 2002 Has anyone used the large GI packs on backpacking trips? Would like some feedback,as I'm in the market for a new backpack, but don't want to blow anymore money if the ALICE pack will do the job. YIS Cary P Link to post Share on other sites
nldscout 18 Posted December 29, 2002 Share Posted December 29, 2002 I have a large ALICE that I use from time ti time for different things. I would not use it for serious backpacking. They are just not that comfortable. Link to post Share on other sites
KoreaScouter 13 Posted December 30, 2002 Share Posted December 30, 2002 I have both a large and a medium ALICE, in addition to the next-generation internal frame military backpack, and several commercial internal frame systems. The ALICE is very sturdy, and the external frame really lets you load on the weight. It's what I call a horizontal pack, though, in that the pack tends to fill out from side to side. That has caused me some balance problems on uneven surfaces, and has sometimes gotten in the way when using trekking poles or traveling on narrow trails. I've made my ALICE more comfortable with cut up sections of sleeping pad on the shoulder straps, and an internal waist belt cushion...both make it easier to carry The newer internal frame military backpack gets a bad rap with some who accuse it of being flimsy. I haven't found that to be the case. The thing has a huge internal volume (I'd guess 6,000 CI easy), but it's not usually filled by a GI with the ultra light-weight backpacking stuff; it's got radios, batteries, ammo cans, claymore mines, and other junk with a very high weight-to-volume ratio...then the frames pop out. I'd say, get whatever's comfortable and will carry your stuff. KS Link to post Share on other sites
hops_scout 9 Posted December 30, 2002 Share Posted December 30, 2002 I also am planning to buy one. I think it will be a good buy. You can buy better shoulder straps for it and other things to make it more comfortable. http://www.imsplus.com http://www.rangerjoes.com http://www.majorsurplusnsurvival.com I have found backpacks and other military type items at these sites. The latter one has a less expensive ALICE packs. Link to post Share on other sites
hops_scout 9 Posted January 16, 2003 Share Posted January 16, 2003 KoreaScouter, Would the large ALICE pack be good for backpacking? I'm looking for my first pack and our troop is planning a backpacking trip. I have seen them fairly inexpensive at some places and was wondering if it would be a good buy. Link to post Share on other sites
KoreaScouter 13 Posted January 16, 2003 Share Posted January 16, 2003 Hops_Scout; It's difficult to give you a definitive yes or no. I don't know you, how big you are, how far you're going, how much you're carrying. Anyway, here goes: The ALICE is an external frame backpack, aligned horizontally. If you're backpacking off prepared trails or bushwhacking, it will get hung up on brush, vines, branches, etc. The standard frame is a light metal alloy, and is not adjustable except for the kidney pad -- the frame is sized for a man. If you're not yet fully grown, it likely won't fit you properly. There are aftermarket frames made of a plastic-type material that are adjustable, but they're expensive. There are two sizes of ALICE packs that will fit the external frames. The medium has just three external pockets, and can be carried with or without the frame. The large has the same three external pockets as the medium, and a row of smaller pockets above the other three. It can only be used with the frame. If you can, check out both. Check the frame carefully; it shouldn't flex or creak, and all the rivets/welds should be tight. Scratches and stuff, especially on the bottom, are normal. Check the pack itself to make sure the snaps all work (many on used ones are dented so bad they won't close), the drawstrings work, the map pocket on top still has its waterproof plastic intact, and that there are no worn-through spots, especially on the back adjacent to the radio pocket on the inside. If the pack and frame are not assembled together, take the time to put them together to make sure all the d-rings and straps are there and they work. Make sure the kidney pad and waist belt are attached to the frame and they all work. Remember, if you're buying from a surplus place, many of those packs have taken a lot of punishment. The ALICE is rugged, will hold a ton of stuff, and can work for you, too. I wouldn't pay more than $50 for a large in very good condition, with a good tight frame. If you have an army post near you, perhaps someone you know could check the military clothing sales store there -- they may have new ones for not much more than a used surplus one. KS Link to post Share on other sites
hops_scout 9 Posted January 17, 2003 Share Posted January 17, 2003 Thank you very much for your input. I am planning to buy one out of a catalog which is supposed to be brand new for just under $50. I have a friend who has a medium pack and was very satified with it. Link to post Share on other sites
KoreaScouter 13 Posted January 17, 2003 Share Posted January 17, 2003 Just under $50 for a new large, with an alloy frame, kidney pad, straps, and belt? Not a bad deal if that's what you're in the market for. How's their return policy? KS Link to post Share on other sites
hops_scout 9 Posted January 17, 2003 Share Posted January 17, 2003 I'm not sure about their return policy, but I think it is a good one. I'll look later maybe. htt://www.majorsurplusnsurvival.com Link to post Share on other sites
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