Alex

First Millet pack. Got a great deal on SAC, but would pay the BackCountry.com price as well.

Pros:
- Diagonal and A-Frame carrying. I've only climbed with the A-fram, but the diagonal seems really solid. The diagonal straps are stowable, so they won't get tangled up when not in use.
- The "Touring pocket"/outside back pocket. Collapsable pocket with hole in bottom to drain snow. Not sure if it can fit an avi0shovel, but its great for skins.
- Ice axe holder. Great for ski/trekking poles too.
- Comfortable strap system. (i'm 6' and 170, fit my torso great)
- Good size for a full day of back country winter activities. Works for winder hiking, snow shoeing, or skiing. Can fit some dry layers, H20, crampons, and food for the day with plenty of room to spare.
- Top and bottom access. Extremely convenient. Just be aware you can't get in the bottom when u carry diagonal.
- Seems extremely durable. Strong waterproof zipper; inside of ski carry loops are rubberized for protection from ski edges; Strong buckles; durable straps.

Cons:
- No hook or clip for bladder. Seems basic, but not sure if my pack is missing one. It was easy to rig one.
- Only one hip pocket. The left side has nothing on it, not even a gear loop, seems like a real waste of space. The wast pockets are convenient so a second on would make it that much better.

Bottom line: Great pack and I would buy again, but the lack of way to hang hydration bladders and the wasted space on the hip belt makes this a 4 star pack for me. I don't think I could have gotten a better pack for the $$ (especially with SAC).

Had several siggs that (1) Cost more, (2) dented easier, (3) finish would peal after around dents, (4) were harder to clean than my laken.

I will say that it still does dent, but none of the fatal bottom crushing dents on my Siggs that would stop it from standing up straight and left me sending it back.

The Laken Prism is a much better value especially when u can grab it on sale.

I could go on and on about whats wrong and whats good, so let me cut to the chase:

PRO'S:They're pretty sweet looking and there tons of unique designs. It won't get tainted if you put various non-water beverages in them (unlike the plastic bottles). Also they are lightweight.

CON'S: While they are light weight it is at the cost of durability (especially when compared to other aluminum bottles, such as Laken's 1L bottles).

BOTTOM LINE: So in my opinion, if you don't need some crazy design and weight isn't an problem, go for a stainless steel bottle. However, if you're a weight weenie and want more bang for your buck, try some other brands. Sigg is high style, not high quality.