Just saw Kevin Callan upload this video today. Looks identical to Ostrom's packs which makes some sense since RBW worked with Ostrom to some extent in producing their own barrel harness, I think. I absolutely love my CCS packs and wouldn't trade them for anything else, but I'm happy to see new activity and competition in the industry.

Obviously I haven't been hands-on with RBW's packs, but I do have their barrel harness, and I absolutely love it. Even with a fully-loaded 60 liter, it is so easy and comfortable to use.

It looks like these packs were previewed in prototype form in this video of an absolutely ginormous pack liner.

rdgbwca: "It looks like these packs were previewed in prototype form in this video of an absolutely ginormous pack liner."

Bill Ostrom endorsed this pack liner. He recently told a friend of mine that he doesn’t intend to offer pack liners again stating he had too many complaints and returned liners when he produced and sold his.

I have had an Ostrom liner for a number of years and with reasonable care it has held up well.

Nice looking packs at a good price about 1/3 of the original packs by Ostrom.

T

rdgbwca: "It looks like these packs were previewed in prototype form in this video of an absolutely ginormous pack liner."

I was wondering how people knew Kevin Callan was doing the videos until I watched your link. It was pretty funny. I like dhow they didn’t do any out takes and just kept shooting video.

T

I think a fair question is "where are they made"?

Cedarboy: "I think a fair question is "where are they made"?
"

To answer your question Cedarboy, I posted this in the other Gear Forum thread:
Bill responded yesterday to my inquiry regarding country of origin for the current iteration of his packs:
"We have found a manufacturer in China who we can trust. We have worked with them for 5 years and they stand behind their work. From my perspective they consistently manufacture to my specifications and communicate well. So far, they have exceeded my expectations."

So connecting the dots. RBW are rebranded Ostrom made in China?

Cedarboy: "So connecting the dots. RBW are rebranded Ostrom made in China?"

Correct.