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Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Gear Forum :: New Pack
 
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timatkn
05/16/2018 02:09PM
 
I’ve used both, the Superior one in my opinion is a way better pack. It has a lot better suspension system that makes carrying easier.


REI has sent out 20% offcoupons to help your cause that start on Friday—you probably already know, but just in case.


As others mentioned you could let the dividend wait and pick up a different pack, but probably won’t find the discounts you will with REI.


T
 
tarnkt
05/15/2018 04:45PM
 
I have somehow managed to not blow all of my REI dividend money yet and want to use the rest for a new portage pack. Since I have to use my dividend the only options I have are what REI carries, so please no CCS recommendations ; )

The two contenders are the granite gear Superior One and the Traditional #4

Has anyone used both of these packs? If so, what are the pros/cons of each?

My main questions are is which one is bigger (specs make it seem like a coin flip) and is the superior significantly more comfortable and easier to carry?

Thanks everyone!
 
bfurlow
05/15/2018 04:58PM
 
I have not used the GG #4 pack, but have used the superior one pack a few times. Very roomy, very comfortable strap system and seems pretty durable. I have used Kondos and CCS packs as well and it is mostly comparable from a quality standpoint. Uses a lighter material, so not sure how it compares for durability but I have not had any issues with mine.
 
Ausable
05/15/2018 05:16PM
 
I own a Superior One. It should be more comfortable on long portages. You don't have to use the REI dividend at REI; you can convert it to cash after June, I think.
 
boonie
05/15/2018 07:33PM
 
I don't understand your statement about the specs making the size seem like a coin flip . . .


According to the links, the Superior One is considerably bigger - 7,400 cubic inches vs. 5,000 for the Trad #4, which is nearly half again the capacity of the Trad #4. I have used a Granite Gear Quetico 5000 (it's 5,000 ci, same as Trad #4, but the dimensions are different), the little brother to the Superior One. It was plenty big enough for my needs and carried nicely. The Quetico has a few more bells and whistles than the Trad #4 - I found the front pocket useful and the lash points/D-rings on the flap. It also has a framesheet, which probably improves the carry.
 
OCDave
05/15/2018 07:52PM
 
tarnkt: "I have somehow managed to not blow all of my REI dividend money yet and want to use the rest for a new portage pack. Since I have to use my dividend the only options I have are what REI carries, ...!"


You can request your dividend balance in cash at your nearest REI store between July 1 and January 3, subject to cash on hand at store location.


Your patience will be rewarded.
 
tarnkt
05/15/2018 08:08PM
 
boonie: "I don't understand your statement about the specs making the size seem like a coin flip . . ."


I always take manufacturer volumes with a grain of salt. Consider your comparison of the quetico 5000 and the trad #4, listed capacities are both 5000 cu in but the dimensions are significantly different. Also when you change the unit of volume from cu in to liters they show different capacities (82 vs 98). Something funny is going on so as far as I can tell the best way to determine capacity is LxWxH. Envelope packs are a different story obviously as they would have 0 volume using this method.

LxWxH of the dimensions of both packs shows the trad #4 is slightly bigger at 5671 cu in compared to 5500 for the superior.

I guess I need to find somewhere that has them both in stock and check it out.
 
boonie
05/15/2018 08:40PM
 
Best if you can actually compare side-by-side. Here's the Granite Gear website page - click on specs for an explanation of the discrepancy.
 
mc2mens
05/15/2018 09:09PM
 
I have not used the Trad #4, but have the Superior One and have used it the past 10 years. It's a great pack. Very large and comfortable. I try to pack lighter but bulky items in this pack so that it doesn't become too heavy. I also have a GG Quetico pack and it's also a very good pack.
 
IowaGuy
05/15/2018 09:38PM
 
I have the #4 and have used it on ~10 BWCA and Quetico trips. It is a fantastic, simple pack and I would by another one in a heartbeat.
 
DanCooke
05/15/2018 10:55PM
 
Superior 1 will carry better than a tradition#4. You can fit more in a traditional #4 than the Superior 1; but the shape the #4 will take when you fit more in will make it carry terribly compared to the Superior 1. A #4 traditional is a very wide pack and tends to accentuate/ magnify the hip movements no matter who manufactures that wide of a pack. A #4 will not carry well unless it is full.
 
jeremylynn21
05/18/2018 09:02PM
 
I have both. The 4 holds a little more but the superior is much more comfortable.
 
tarnkt
05/21/2018 07:19PM
 
Thanks for the info everyone!


Going to go with the #4. While it won’t be as comfortable it’s bigger and cheaper and will certainly be an upgrade compared to what I’m used to. Also I’m primarily a base camper so I don’t mind carrying a bunch of crap I don’t need : )