Solid, smart multitasker for serious users.

By Matthew Agarwala Ranked #222 - Weekend Packs (3000-4500 cu in) April 19, 2010

This is my go to pack for ice climbing, alpine climbing, summer mountaineering, and backpacking trips of up to 3 nights.

Climbing features:
1. ingenious helmet carry ON TOP of the pack keeps the helmet secure and out of the way - avoids wasting space inside the pack and eliminates the clunky swing you get from clipping your helmet to the back of your other packs.
2. lid is removable to strip down for a summit push
3. smartest rope carry system i've ever seen. Rope is independently secured between the main storage compartment and the lid, but you have complete top side access to the main compartment without having to unclip & remove your rope.
4. Front and rear haul straps let you bring the pack up vertically, which reduces snags.
5. bomber crampon pocket lets snow/ice/water drain through the bottom, completely contains crampons adjusted to fit my size 47 boots, folds down and velcros flat against the pack when not in use (so it doesn't snag when you're in tight chimneys).
6. ice axe holders work equally well with my black diamond cobras and my petzl nomics (mixed tools with no adze/hammer). Sleeve keeps pick tips safe and out of the way.
7. padded hip belt is comfortable and has 2 sleeves for ice clippers.
8. padded hip belt can be replaced by an included lightweight hip strap (for summit days)
9. pack has a narrow profile to accommodate mid climb acrobatics & keeps the weight where you want it.
10. Sturdy frame lets the pack handle high density loads (ice climbing rack) with ease.

Backpacking Features:
1. due to an efficient use of space, this 55L pack holds more than most 70L packs.
2. Lid has 3 pockets (2 on the top/outside, 1 on the bottom/inside) - the small one (outside) is perfect for headlamp, cellphone/wallet, knife. The main lid pocket (outside) easily holds maps, guide book, camera, the day's trail snacks, bug spray, & sunblock. The inside/bottom pocket holds small first aid kit & TP.
3. Cavernous main compartment swallows everything you need for up to 3 summer nights.
4. Side access zip lets you get to key items.
5. crampon pouch is big enough to hold rain gear (jacket & pants - men's large)
6. side compression straps let you securely carry wands or tent poles on the outside.

Overall features:
1. Very durable outer fabric has taken lots of abuse scraping against rock and ice
2. I routinely fill this to 50 pounds with no problem. (I don't know of another pack that comfortably carries 1lb/liter.
3. remarkably inexpensive.
4. hydration compatible.
5. ski carry.

Cons:
1. the grommet from the lower of the two draw chord cinches on the top of the main compartment ripped out after about 8 months.
2. it does take a while to dry (though not longer than any other pack)

View Details: Black Diamond Predator 50 Backpack - 2929-3052cu in

Helpful Votes: 8 Yes