The Black Diamond Epic 45 Pack. Top-loading guide-style pack for ice, rock or alpine missions with ergoACTIV suspension.
DECENT FEATURES of the Black Diamond Epic 45 Pack
ergoACTIV suspension with SwingArm shoulder straps and fixed torso length
Thermoformed, vented backpanel
Top loading with fixed top pocket and tuck-away rope strap
Ice tool PickPockets, 3-point haul system and welded crampon patch with removable bikini strap
Removable padded hipbelt with fixed 25 mm webbing belt
Hydration compatible
The SPECS
Type: Unisex
420d Velocity with 420d welded abrasion
The SPECS for Small
Volume: 2,624 cubic inches / 43 liter
Average Stock Weight: 3 lbs 11 oz / 1.67 kg
The SPECS for Medium
Volume: 2,746 cubic inches / 45 liter
Average Stock Weight: 3 lbs 11 oz / 1.69 kg
The SPECS for Large
Volume: 2,868 cubic inches / 47 liter
Average Stock Weight: 3 lbs 12 oz / 1.72 kg
OVERSIZE ITEM: We cannot ship this product by any expedited shipping method (3-Day, 2-Day or Next Day). Even if you pick that option, it will still go Ground Shipping. Sorry for being so mean.
It does not have any interior organization but the exterior is perfect for my ice rig (crampons, tools) and hauling a second rope (the first fits inside contained in my BD Super chute.) The exterior crampon setup works perfectly for securely hauling a Nalgene or shoes and temporarily (until sewing in some webbing) the interior hydration bladder sleeve can haul quickdraws. The ultimate feature of the pack though is the ergoactive suspension design…the hipbelt is on a ball joint providing 360 deg. of mobility; this equates to the most comfortable pack I have ever worn. The ergoactive design is simply brilliant; wearing my other packs will always be slightly disappointing from now on.
I used this bag in the Tetons for a few days and it performed very well. The suspension system distributed the weight well. The gear loops on the hip belt are convenient for when your harness' loops are covered. The rope strap is also a killer feature. I wish the brain on top of the pack was removable though and with a bear canister inside things can get pretty cramped. Just a burly, simple pack. Definitely recommended, I expect this should survive years of abuse.
I've used this bag for close to a year now on everything from day hikes in the middle of winter to weekend backpacking adventures. Pro:Light/durableGear Loops convenientSuspension system saves energy from balancingCon:Hood isn't adjustable/removable.Crampon strap didn't work with Petzl Vasaks.Tight fit for compressed synthetic bags. Bottom line: Great pack for day trips and ultralight weekend excursions, any time of year. Should be great for climbing too.