[pct-l] Internal frame pack with bear canister

[giniajim]

I've been using a Golite Jam (large) the last few years.  Anyone else have any experience with that pack?
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Scott Williams 
  To: CHUCK CHELIN 
  Cc: pct-l at backcountry.net ; Rob Solorio 
  Sent: Sunday, April 10, 2011 5:06 PM
  Subject: Re: [pct-l] Internal frame pack with bear canister


  Hey Lone River,

  I started last year's thru hike with the Osprey Exos.  At 2 1/4 lbs, it was
  a delight.  I loved the air blowing across my back on the few days in the
  desert when it was hot, but it didn't hold up, and in 5 weeks the hip
  suspension was tearing out on both sides, and several other places were
  breaking down as well.  Possibly the need to carry water added up, but I had
  nowhere near a 45lb pack even with water.  I don't think it could handle the
  weight you hike with.

  I took it back to REI and they returned it without a hassle, and I bought
  the Osprey Atmos, at 1 1/4lbs more, it is more strongly built.  It worked
  fine, but never fit as beautifully as the Exos had to my frame.  But this
  pack could handle the gear you are hauling.

  Then at the Oregon border, I tried on a friends brand new, ULA Circuit.  I
  never looked back, made a call from the trail (thank God we had service) and
  had one shipped to Crater Lake.  At 2lbs, it's the most comfortable pack
  I've ever used.  No slumping forward.  Putting that pack on just
  straightened up my posture amazingly.  And Steel-Eye is correct.  It caused
  me to send more stuff home, as there wasn't room, and the lighter weight
  overall made it all the more pleasant.  That probably helped with the
  posture too.  I don't think it would carry 45lbs very well, and is not
  recommended for those kind of weights, but it is soooooo much more fun to
  hike with something approaching a day packs weight over long distances.  It
  did hold a standard old black bear can horizontally on top in the bag, if
  that is important to you.

  Good luck,

  Shroomer