I am scouring the market for a mid-sized crag/approach pack. My last north face pack, which served me well for nearly 10 years, was torn open by a bear at the base of Moby Dick. Bastard!

Any suggestions? Thanks.

I really like the new BD packs. My L30 Speed pack is the perfect size for cragging and light enough for alpine aproaches/climbs.

I have two older North Face packs I am selling cheap, if you are interested give me an email.

I agree with Kevin. I have an older BD pack, can't remember
the model, but it's lightweight, strong, carries good sized loads
and has all the bells & whistles (crampon tiedowns, tool holders),
that one needs. I'm not familiar with their newer models, but I suspect that they're just as good.

BD Demon: Best damn crag pack I've ever owned.

http://www.bdel.com/gear/demon.php

I use my BC skiing pack as a crag pack, the DaKine Poacher. Super comfortable, lotsa tool-holding straps, easy access to the main compartment, and a handy camera pouch on the waist strap. Plus, it's got an insulated bladder hose that screws onto a Nalgene bottle. Might be just a bit bigger than what you're looking for in a daypack, but I've never wished I had something smaller, even when cragging sport climbs.

I used the Black Diamond Slide, which is actually a snow pack. This pack is awesome, because you can strap a set of snow shoes to it, tele ski's on the side, or even a light snowboard, but most important you can coil your rope and wrap it around the top through the side straps, and fill the inside with draws and a light trad rack, shoes, harness etc. There is still enough room for a guide book, water, light jacket and lunch. I used it all winter and summer for a light approach setup. edit - I forgot to mention that I payed $60when it was on sale - normally goes for $100

Thanks for the great suggestions.... looks like the consensus is for a Black Diamond pack.

Want simple, durable, and hand-made in the USA?

Cold Cold World

I've been toting the Ozone for a few years...