Gregory Pack - Appalachian Trail

imported
#1

Im thinking of getting a Gregory Balto 70. Anyone using it? Or have any opinions on it?

SmokeEater

#2

As a prior user, I can attest that Gregory makes bomb-proof packs. But they are very heavy for the volume they provide. In my opinion, on most typical hikes, no fancy features, padding, or other bells and whistles justify carrying a pack that weighs 5 1/2 pounds empty. You can get the same carrying capacity at a lighter weight (and ergo, a more comfortable ride).

Matt

#3

For those of you who have used Gregory backpacks, how comfortable have you found their suspension systems, relative to other brands?

Thanks, Conan

Conan

#4

I’ve used Gregory packs (Palisade, Z, Triconi, and several daypacks) for about 18 years or so. I like Gregory because they made “bomb-proof” packs as Matt mentioned. They have great pading and plenty of adjustment straps to fine tune your load, heavier materials, and so they are heavier packs. Lots of todays packs are using thinner materials and thinner pads, few adjustment straps, and tend to carry heavy on the shoulders. I like to carry the bulk of my load on my hips, but that’s a personal preference. An older Z and a Triconi 60 went along for the ride on my GAME08 AT thru. Matter of fact, I have a brand new, never used Triconi for sale if anyone is interested. Just drop me an email.

Brakeman

#5

I just finished a sobo through hike with a gregory. I started with the baltoro 70, loved it at first but when you are carrying a 32 lb pack and 5lbs 9 oz is just the pack it makes you consider going for something lighter. Anyways its comfy so I stuck with it…first problem the metal frame ripped through the bottom of the pack. Gregory replaced it with a Triconi which is the same pack without the side zippers…all their water proof zippers are the same and they suck. You have to baby them or they’ll rip apart easy. So I was glad to get rid of 2 zippers and a little weight. The 2nd pack held up from VT-VA where all the hardware on the left hip belt broke off…2 rivets and a clasp button. Called Gregory again and no problem they asked for an address where they could ship a new triconi. It held up for the rest of the trip.

So heavy use I had some issues with the pack but Gregory was very helpful in replacing them. I’m 140 with no hips so I liked the big hip padded hip belt. Also later on in the trip when weight wasn’t an issue I started carrying more food, winter clothes and toys. It was good to have the extra space and not have to tie things to the outside. It does rid like a dream and floats above your shoulders well. I’d recommend it even with all the troubles it gave me. Loose the brain and thats one less zipper to worry about.

Ozzie