this is my first CCS pack and has not been on a trip yet. chosing this small pack has forced me to downsize my gear choices...a good thing.


a very high quality product.


i would like to see one change made though. i believe there should be 4 compression straps per side, not 3. imo there is too much space uncompressed with just 3 straps.


great pack.

Great size and the quality is exceptional. The pocket on the flap is huge and perfect for tent and rain gear.

I love these CCS packs,
I have all of them. That gives me the opportunity to utilize the size I need based on the gear I need. I also use them all when we have a bigger group. I use the Rucksack for solo's and put my Bear Vaults in there, and odds and ends. I use the Explorer for Solo for Gear or Sometimes the Pioneer. The Guide is HUGE...If you get one of those, you will have lots of room and the problem will be ,,,who is going to carrry it!
CCS makes good stuff and they Rock!

I've had this pack on 3 BWCA trips. Pack is very comfortable, having used it to carry loads of 35-45lbs. and shows no hints of wear and tear.


As far as what fits (for me):
- Clothing/Camp Shoes for 3 plus odds-n-ends or,
- Also used to carry a 3-man tent, two 2-man tents, 4 sleeping pads (2 Big Agnes, 2 traditional Thermarests), CCS Tarp, and a few odd-n-ends, or
- This will also hold a couple BearVaults side by side with a fair amount of room on top.


The top zipper compartments are nice for stashing rain gear or quick access items. All in all a very nice pack.

This is the smallest of the 3 hybrid packs, but is very roomy. It is perfect for the soloist who has planned well or as a personal pack for a group trip. The outer flap pocket is a perfect place to store your rain gear or tarps, or whatever you need quick and easy access to. The snorkel type inner top closes tightly with a drawstring. Next two flaps (one from each side) go over the top and are buckled together with quick release buckles. Finally the top flap covers everything and is secured with 2 quick release buckles. With 3 layers of protection you can rest assured that nothing will fall out. I add a 5 mil thick clear plastic liner to keep everything dry and safe. The numerous adjustments allow you to customize the fit for almost any type of load and body size. I also found that the Granite Gear Insulated Cooler Liner fits perfectly in this to turn it in to an insulated food pack giving it yet another purpose. This will definitely outlast me.