Black Diamond Octane Backpack

Great pack fit!
June 08, 2010

Hard to find a women's pack that was long enough to fit my torso correctly. This pack was a good fit for me.

Altrec and Octane Delivers
September 28, 2010

I purchased the Black Diamond Octane Backpack in April of 2010 after an extensive search for a day/overnight pack to fill the gap between my Gregory Z55 and Camelbak HAWG. This was my first order with Altrec and it went off without a hitch. Very prompt delivery and customer service answered all questions to my satisfaction prior to my order. I live in the Colorado Rockies and immediately put this pack to the test. Quick over night's and all day trips to high country lakes and waterfalls this pack has plenty of room and support for loads of 15-20 pounds. The pack comes in two pieces so you must attach the hip belt which was easy enough..I immediately was able to fine tune the suspension straps and belt for a very comfortable fit. I purchased the Large.The sizing chart included with the pack indicates that a large fits a 19.5-23.5 inch (50-57 cm) torso and a 34-39 inch (86-99 cm) waist. I am 5'11, 215 lbs with a 36in waist. The pack is comfortable while trekking up long switchbacks in RMNP, scrambling over boulder fields or up and down slick scree filled trails to the river. The pivoting suspension system is not a gimmick!! it works!! The hip belt remains stationary while the pack itself moves back and forth with your torso. Adjusting the "Free/Lockout" straps on the hip belt makes a big difference in how much the pack moves in relation to the hip belt. The padded shoulder straps are very comfortable. I like the size/width of them..they don't pinch!! A 32oz nalgene water bottle fits snugly inside either of the 2 side water bottle holder and a full 100 oz hydration bladder fits easily inside the interior hydration sleeve. At 1700 cubic inches and just 2lbs 11 oz I find this pack a joy to use for my excursions. I love using on long day trips with lunch stops in the middle as well as to fish in the Canyons of Colorado, the side pockets hold a 4pc fly rod case very nicely and I can pack my food, water, waders, boots and ENO Doublenest Hammock, rain jacket, jet boil, first aid kit and net easily for a dusk to dawn day on the water. The hip belt will hold a small camera and or some cliff bars which is nice as well. Easy access points and storage compartments, the tool loops work great for stashing my BD trekking poles when needed. I intend to use this pack this winter for days on the slopes skiing and snowshoeing. 30 trips or more this summer and I am pleased with the function and durability of this pack. Ventilation is decent as well. Good Luck on your decision I hope this review helps.

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