Don't know if this is ok to post here, but does anyone know anything about these packs? (www.emte.com) Prices seem ok - more reasonable than some. Interested in the Ridgeliner model. Any comments are much appreciated.

I'm not familiar with Epperson, but have used North Face, Dana Designs, and Mountain Hardware internal frame packs. I use a Camp Trails pack on a modified frame for packing game animals out.

Of all the internal frames, I really like the North Face. The Dana Designs and Mountain Hardware are also very good.

What will you be using the pack for?

alyeska338:

Thanks for the reply.

I need a pack that essentially does everything - haul in equipment and haul out game - the Epperson has the ability to strap on hind quarters and has a capacity of 8500 cu. in., good for my bulky cold weather gear and bag. I use Wiggys bag and jackets, so there is a lot of bulk in my normal hunting setup.

I'm looking at lots of packs, but so far the Epperson seems to be the most affordable.

Internal frame packs are becoming more popular in the mountains lately, it seems. I've tried them for that purpose and to be honest, I still prefer my external frame.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both, I guess. Balance is much easier to maintain with the internal frames, but they've never seemed rigid enough for me with a lot of weight in them. Probably the biggest disadvantage to internals though, at least to me, is that they are very hot on your back. Air doesn't circulate well between your back and the pack the way it does with an external.

For heavy loads, say 100+ lbs, I really prefer external frames. They are much stiffer and just like mountaineering boots, when packing heavy loads, the more rigid, the better. You also get better air circulation and stay more comfortable. Packing stuff outside of the pack is easier with a frame also, at least to me.

If you are set on getting an internal frame, I would go with the very best I could afford. Give a serious look at large packs from North Face or other high profile mountaineering packs. Epperson may be great, I don't know. I just don't know anyone that uses them. All the mountaineering guides and climbers up here use North Face, Mountain Hardware, Dana Designs, or some of the custom packs. An ill fitting, or poor performing pack is a real hassle when you are several days away from camp or home.