Black Diamond Bandit AvaLung Package - 2008 BCS

Picked one of these up this past winter and was psyched. I don't get to go this light on too many days, but when all you need is the basic avalanche gear this pack is nice. Limited space keeps you honest on what you really need. I've ended up strapping layers to the outside and tying stuff to the skis to get by, but it's worth it for a pack you hardly know is there.

This is definitely a pretty killer package if you are looking for a good pack with an avalung and a solid shovel and probe that all fit well in the pack. This pack is small but it is perfect for a resort day-pack or a off resort sidecountry pack. I did have trouble with it fitting well to my back at first but as I broke it in it worked better. I wish it had some bungies on the front so you could strap on a jacket because it doesn't fit inside. It does have a nice cross-pack ski carrying system as well. The shovel included is easily deployed as well as the probe. So if you are looking for a great package deal for those long resort days or those close sidecountry missions I would recommend this package.

This is an awesome set up. Having a light pack like this is great when you want to head to the side country. The avalung is a great system and i would never head out of bounds without it. The only down side is that the pack is super small and you cant fit that much into it.

This is the perfect small pack for quick tours or sidecountry days. I've also started wearing it more in bounds on big days so I've always got my avy stuff with me, or it's great to have in the truck in case the backcountry gates open on a day you're weren't planning on going out.

this is the perfect overall package as well, the deploy 3 shovel is small and well designed and the probe is top notch. The shovel fits into the front pocket of the pack perfectly - it's a nice compact setup, BD did a great job designing the whole set-up. There's a little extra room for lunch, water, skins, or a few other items. plus having the avalung right there with you at all times is a great added bonus. Skis attach easily via a diagonal carry system, the top strap is detachable and the bottom strap stows away nicely.

If you're looking for something bigger or one do it all backcountry pack go a little bigger with the outlaw or Covert from BD.

It kills me to see people give products poor ratings for size when the size/capacity is listed! Yes, it is 690cu in small, but I have been able to pack (1) pair of gloves, (1) pair of sunglasses, (1) Sigg 0.6L water bottle, (1) hat, (1) light fleece underlayer, (1) transceiver, (1) 2-way radio, (1) ziplock of jerky, dried mango and fruit snacks and (1) wallet...all at the same time w/o any trouble! I could probably fit some skins in there too. This is a slick, well designed, minimalist pack that makes a lot of sense for all those who know how to pack a pack and don't want/need to look like a sherpa. If you need more capacity, check out the Outlaw or Covert.

Great pack very with low profile so you barely notice you have it one. The bandit is best suited for side country or short backcountry trips because it does not have much space for more than the essentials (probe, shovel, nalgene or bladder, extra layer, and extra goggles. Look into one of the larger packs like the agent or covert if you need more room.

Yes it is a bit small. But light day trippin' is fine. You have to provide the water pouch/camelback addition which is a good idea to save room/crap hanging off the outside. Strapping your skiis to the pack and off the pack can be a bit tedious and pow skis do not/BARELY fit in the bottom loop (you have to binding rig it). I have never been comfortable with skiis on the back with this for extended periods...but again, day trippin'. The shovel and it's pocket kick ass as a spine protector as well, just have the water pouch, extra beanie or base layer inside the pack...avoid hard bulky objects they hurt the kidneys.

Bought this for my kid before we left for a trip to Europe. We planned on doing lots of guided side country stuff, no real extended tours. The Bandit pack and Avalung was the perfect thing for just such a task. Held a snack, goggles, an extra layer, sunscreen, avy tools and a small Camelbak. Thank God we never needed the Avalung feature. But like any old Boy Scout will tell you; be prepared. Cheers.

Great package for those starting out venturing past the boundary ropes or looking for the perfect package when speed and weight count. The probe is damn near idiot-proof and the deploy-3, while on the small side is well designed and durable. The pack is small (skins,granola bar, midlayer) but holds its own with skis loaded on for a hike.
I've since upgraded to the Covert, but still keep the bandit close by for quick trips.

I use pack for mountain biking, rock climbing assoult, skiing, etc for many years. This is the best pack I ever had in terms of fit (ergonomics), lightness and function. For an agressive off-piste freeride where you need to carry avalanche gear, I don't see a better pack!

I should have bought the next size up. I have no clue how I'm supposed to attach skis to this.

I won't fit a sweater or anything; some small nicknacks, climbing skins, and a couple power bars is about it. It's all about what you want I suppose.