Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Gear Forum :: Does Anyone Use Duluth Packs Anymore?
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gcvsa |
Having gotten the chance to compare the two companies' products up close, I will definitely save my money and go with a Frost River pack, although I would actually prefer the tan waxed canvas and the black on black versions that Duluth offers. But, I just can't justify $490 for something I can get in a functional equivalent for $260. I also stopped at Faribault Woolen Mills the day before and got myself a gorgeous wool blanket from the Mill Store. I gifted to my daughter for her birthday a few weeks ago. |
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wa0yle |
Gary |
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HansSolo |
quote wa0yle: "Absolutely. We use a #4 for any number of things. " #4 Duluth Packs Rule! :-) Hans Solo |
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L.T.sully |
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ppine |
Leather straps holds up if they are taken care of. |
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Frenchy |
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removedmember1 |
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shsylvester |
"Duluth Pack" is just the term for an open bag pack with straps and no suspension system, internal or external. They can be very different (envelope or square/rectangle, canvas or nylon, leather corners or nothing, waterproof liner or not, etc.). Many folks have formed opinions having used only the simple, stripped down packs. |
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aholmgren |
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mc2mens |
quote Dan Cooke: "John and his brother ran CLG enterprises out of the Twin Cities, down off Hiawathaa I believe. They made a extensive line of rodeo gear and sold some of their leather to Aarcee rental who was making Canoe Packs called Portage Pack. That line of Packs was purchased by CLG who made that model as well as the ones with the best leather straps I have seen in their Quetico Superior line of packs. Hey Dan - I love your stuff. Keep up the good work old man. |
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TriTodd |
quote Jackfish: "quote TriTodd: "Even Moderators will push one brand over the other. No worries Pete. I wasn't targeting you. I made a general reply without going into specifics. Didn't mean to offend you if I did. Keep your posts coming... |
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mc2mens |
quote BigMac: "quote tumblehome: "quote mc2mens: " They look cool but I can't get past the prices - way too high for me. " I hear you, but there are cheaper USA made options (CCS/Kondos) that cost less, made with lighter, more durable fabrics and are more comfortable. That said...isn't it great we have so many options to choose from? If you like a Duluth Pack brand of portage pack, then buy it and use it for as long as it does the job. If you like a China-made Granite Gear portage pack, then so be it. As long as it does the job and you're a happy camper, who cares? I am reminded of BMaines recent thread. There a more important things to get concerned about than which brand of pack we all use. |
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mfliehr |
They are TOUGH, extremely waterproof with the pack liner system (I have had a pack in the rain all day, then fully immersed, and the contents were bone-dry) If something goes wrong, Duluth Pack can repair them. |
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Copperdog |
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Beaverjack |
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Longpaddler |
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saltdog |
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Arlo Pankook |
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TuscaroraBorealis |
quote kanoes: "quote TriTodd: "I have been using them since 1999. Every year since my first trip. I like them and find them to fit comfortable and do the job they were made to do, carry heavy loads. I don't know of many packs that are the size of the Paul Bunyan pack. Not trying to start an argument here. But, I think what he may be referring to is, at the very least, inconsistent statements that have been made? If you take what Jackfish says on this post only. A person (who likes/uses Duluth Pack) may not like to hear it? In the end you have to say he's just voicing his opinion on his experiences with the product. But when you couple that statement with the one he recently made in this thread. Is where it gets perplexing. Perhaps he misspoke? But, if not? It becomes obvious that he's never actually tried a Duluth pack. Or at the very least, not used it properly with a tumpline. So how can a person say a pack, "doesn't make the cut", or "have the overall comfort I'm looking for." When he has, by his own admission, never used a Duluth pack properly. It's one thing to have in the field experience with a product & say what you don't like about it & why it doesn't work for you. But, to just go ahead and say it's not a good product without ever using it properly? Qualifies as "dogging on" in my book. BTW... Just for the record. I have nothing personal against Jackfish, nor necessarily against anyone who doesn't like Duluth Pack or, for that matter, any product. But, IMHO I think it is a disservice to us all when someone "dogs on" (or even brags up) a product without having first hand knowledge. Once again I want to reiterate that I'm not trying to start an argument. I do respect Jackfish. And, heaven knows I have made my share of mis-keystrokes on this site. I guess this just happened to be the straw that broke the camels back. This type of thing seems to be especially prevalent in the gear forum. Where, it seems, there are always strong, unbending opinions. Like I said earlier, I'm all for a person voiceing their opinions on any product (positive or negative) as long as they have used the product as intended. Not just throwing comments out there when a person has no actual experience with the product. I think everyone would like to be able to base their decisions on factual opinions from people who have actually properly tried said product? Or am I wrong? If so I apologize. |
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nctry |
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kanoes |
quote TuscaroraBorealis: "quote kanoes: "quote TriTodd: "I have been using them since 1999. Every year since my first trip. I like them and find them to fit comfortable and do the job they were made to do, carry heavy loads. I don't know of many packs that are the size of the Paul Bunyan pack. wow...i dont think my entire post history equals that many words! :) |
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gcvsa |
quote Sparetime: "I really like my Duluth Packs. However, the recent price increase was rather steep. I had been looking at a front portage pack which was about $115 or so, stopped to pick it up and they were $190. This was in about a year or so. I understand there are labor and material price increases, but this was rather steep. " For the last several years, I have been patiently replacing my plastic equipment with natural materials, but I can't really justify replacing things that are still in good shape, so it's been a slow process. I have really wanted a Duluth Monarch or Northwoods for a long time, but less than two years ago, the Northwoods cost $205.00 USD; today, it is $360.00 USD. I understand price increases, I've managed businesses and owned them, but a 75% increase in less than two years? That's outrageous. If you look around on the Internet, you will note that Duluth Pack's sales have been increasing through the recession. The only thing that I can possibly make of this is that like Filson, Duluth Pack has caught the eye of rich hipsters, and Duluth is cashing in on that fact. Here in Seattle, Filson bills itself explicitly as a luxury brand. This is bad news for those of us who simply want the sort of quality traditional gear that our grandparents took for granted. What companies will be next? I expect now that Faribault has been taken over/rescued by Dairy Queen's CEO, they will pursue the luxury market, and their prices are reflective of that. $200 for a not-even-big enough wool blanket? $310 for a twin-size Hudson's Bay blanket that's 15% cotton?! I just bought a vintage queen size (might have actually been a king size that someone shrunk?) Kenwood 100% wool blanket at the local Goodwill for $15.00. It's salmon pink, but I guess I'll have to live with it. One thing's for sure, it's much thicker than the somewhat more affordable blankets sold by Pendleton. Fortunately, this type of gear tends to outlast the plastic crap, but still, $405.00 for a waxed canvas Northwoods is a high barrier. Maybe I should just see if I can buy a used heavy duty sailmaker's sewing machine. |
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otter1 |
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jwartman59 |
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bwcadan |
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dprochef |
Still like my other packs but they aren't the quality that this one is. FYI - did a 515 rod portage with the bushcraft and front portage packs. 70# total. Felt better than my trip across the same portage with my Merlin II . |
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woodsandwater |
With the plastic liner in the bag they are waterproof. They are comfortable to carry. They lay in the boat easily. Expensive, yes, but as we all know good gear cost money but it lasts almost forever if you take care of it. And, yes, Duluth Pack does have a life-time guarantee on their products. Used one of my #3's last summer for some gear and a strap broke. Sent it back to Duluth Pack and they repaired it for free. |
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Beaverjack |
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vk |
I also use some traditional internal frame backpacks for the smaller items. If there wasn't a "Duluth" pack on a trip I'd feel like something was missing. ;) |
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jwartman59 |
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HansSolo |
Wow, beautiful pictures jwartman59! The bow shot and the picture with the young gentlemen looking down the lake with the red canoe to his right are stunning! Definitely taken on the East side of the Gunflint Trail. Nicely done Sir! Hans Solo |
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togue |
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ECpizza |
With 'my' scouts, I had camp lists that had the "minimum requirement" and the "long term investment". Synthetic shirt is a minimum requirement for camping, a merino wool shirt is a long term investment. Raingear required, Gore Tex an investment. Etc. I've canoed with people who use "dry bags" and everything is soaking wet. My old Duluth pack with a pack liner never a problem. If packed right (flap folded and tucked in the front) they float and will hold out water long enough to retreive them. I still wrap everything in one more bag to be sure, but I've never really needed to. |
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Sheepdogged |
I use my Frost River Lewis & Clark portage pack every time. |
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Ragged |
quote HansSolo: "If it ain't broke, don't fix it! " Blasphemy! |
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sweetfancymoses |
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AndySG |
quote markaroberts: "We insist that clothes, sleeping bags, and things that must stay dry go in dry bags. Some use sealine boundary bags. Others put dry bags in packs. " Waterproof pack liners work just as good. |
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HansSolo |
I still use Duluth Packs and I love em'. Unfortunately, they're too big and bulky for use in ANY of my solo canoes, but for use in my tandem canoes, they're great! If it ain't broke, don't fix it! Hans Solo |
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ozarkpaddler |
quote markaroberts: "I have red this whole thread. (waiting on my wife). I do have an observation. it seems that none of the packs mentioned are waterproof. Our group has been coming up for several years. First year we had a capsize with one canoe. Temps were 50s and water cold. (mid May). None of the clothes or sleeping bags got wet as they were in dry bags. We insist that clothes, sleeping bags, and things that must stay dry go in dry bags. Some use sealine boundary bags. Others put dry bags in packs. " I still use my old Duluth Packs and Superior Pack (long gone out of business). We used the pack liners, but for things like the tent that are o.k. getting a little damp. Things that need to stay absolutely dry are in waterproof packs inside the Duluth packs; things like sleeping bags, clothes, etc. I have varied brands. I bought some new, lighter weight Sea to Summit ones at Stone Harbor last year that are REALLY nice. I sold two of my oldest DP's (not pictured) to someone on the board a few years back so betcha they are still in use too? |
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nightmike99 |
The first time I was taken to the BWCA, I was one of those “New Guys” who was given an old Duluth pack to carry. It worked fine and I didn’t know of anything else so I had no reference to compare. The bag itself has some heft to it, but you could tell it was bomb proof. I don’t have any strong bond to the brand so I can’t see spending the money for a new DP. I was able to pick up a couple of #2 CCS packs off a youth camp that was selling them on craigslist. Even with a couple of squirrel holes in them they work fine and weigh at least half of what the DPs weigh. I only trip once a summer so DP longevity doesn’t mean as much to me. I've also found Army bags at Fleet Farm for $10. They work great for preteen boys who can lift more than a school back pack but not a full size portage pack. Last Xmas I was able to get a CCS Hybrid Pioneer pack and I’m in love. Feels much better on my back and lots of handy features. Everyone has different needs but this one meets all of mine. My Xmas, bday, father’s day lists always say the same thing. More tripping gear please. |
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saltdog |
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markaroberts |
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gutmon |
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BKBlair |
First pack I bought was a Grade VI Avant, used from CBO - still have/use “Big Blue” and it has since made 7 Q trips and numerous local river outings. It's huge and sometimes holds too much. It is showing wear, however I’ve gotten my money’s worth. Next came a BWJ/Kondos Guide Pack - love this little pack, use as day pack, it holds a lot. At the same time I bought 2 SealLine Pro Packs - I find these packs to be a little uncomfortable and they don’t hold much for their size, mostly pack soft items - bags and clothes - in them. No leaks yet, however I plan on phasing these packs out of use. Then at a friend's advice I bought a CCS Guide Pack (and tarp) - love the quality. Pack handles well and fits comfortably. Will purchase additional gear from CCS when need arises. After borrowing a friend’s DP Paul Bunyan and Wanderer packs, for a larger group trip, and reading some Cliff Jacobson’s books, I added a DP #3 to fill a need - use as a “kitchen” pack. I too believe they have a traditional look and feel to them that newer packs lack. I like the pack and the leather straps are fine for me. After tripping with a friend and seeing how he treats and handles his gear, these packs have to be tough as nails. I will also purchase more from Duluth Pack if they fit a need and are in the budget. I would also consider using an Army duffle bag if it would fill a need. In fact, I’ve told others to use ‘em as a “starter” pack. Next pack I buy will be the pack that best fits the need and the budget - simple as that. This is a very interesting thread. I think it all comes down to what you’ve got/used, what your first experience with a canoe pack was, what your personal choice is and what your budget allows. Nobody is right and nobody is wrong. If it works for you and you are happy with it, how can anyone tell you you’re wrong! Good trips everybody. |
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MHS67 |
These were really tough packs and they got a huge amount of abuse. They had to carry approx. 55 to 60 lbs. of hose and brass. They were made at Inmate camps by the prisoners. If one got damaged you just sent it back for repairs and it was good to go. Then, canvas got expensive. The camps started to make the packs out of the new material like most backpacks are made of. These new packs would not last even a year. The camps tried to repair them but couldn't keep up. We finally had to drop from 3 lengths of hose to 2. This new material just wasn't as tough as canvas. All my packs are still in good shape so I will continue to use them. However if I had to replace them I would consider other types of packs. The materials have improved quite a bit. |
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Savage Voyageur |
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buzz17 |
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gsfisher13 |
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kanoes |
quote TriTodd: "I have been using them since 1999. Every year since my first trip. I like them and find them to fit comfortable and do the job they were made to do, carry heavy loads. I don't know of many packs that are the size of the Paul Bunyan pack. i dont think anyone is "dogging" on duluth packs. they are just stating what they dont like about them and saying what they chose instead. |
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jwartman59 |
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gopher2307 |
quote Scout64: "I use Quetico-Superior packs. They have waterproof bottoms, waist belt, a map case on the cover and nylon sewn/riveted straps with padding. They are great. Don't think the company is around anymore. The waist belts have always been too big, but I can't find anything smaller to replace them with. " I have one of these too. I wasn't familiar with CCS until reading these posts, but after reviewing their website, my "Quetico-Superior" brand pack looks pretty much like the same thing. Canvas duluth pack style with HD plastic buckles and fabric straps instead of leather and metal. We also use a waterproof pack. I think a canvas pack, no matter the brand, is still a critical need. You can just cram so much stuff in them that would rip another type of pack. I wouldn't feel near as comfortable about putting my stove, camp saw, and hatchet in a water proof pack. Oh ya, gotta say my gf picked up a sweet duluth pack sweatshirt at their store last fall just to keep it real. |
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Royce |
quote hopalonghowie: "I use a heavy duty #4, #3 cruiser combo, rambler, scout and when my wife went back to college I talked her into their school bag so I could use that too. I just love the ruggedness." You forgot to mention the canoe seat pack made by Duluth pack... |
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KcMcWrench |
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Sierra1 |
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sst6313 |
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KerryG |
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gkimball |
Still got a couple of these things myself. Innovation is OK but there's nothing wrong with traditions that worked for years and still do if they feel good. |
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Pinetree |
quote Grouseguy1: "The difference between a DP#4 and a Kondos or CCS #4 is not even close to the same as the difference between Kevlar canoes vs. old ones, or heavy canvas tents vs. new stuff. Are Kondos still made? |
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Grouseguy1 |
I may as well be taking a horse and buggy to the entry point ! |
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Grouseguy1 |
quote KerryG: "quote Grouseguy1: "The difference between a DP#4 and a Kondos or CCS #4 is not even close to the same as the difference between Kevlar canoes vs. old ones, or heavy canvas tents vs. new stuff. Wow. I've got great respect for you getting it done at 64, especially for those time periods ! I've never been in longer than a week.....and nowadays I wouldn't be able to chew up that much vacation in the BWCA ....it would kill my time off for bird season! Retirement is only 33 years away..... |
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SaganagaJoe |
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Grouseguy1 |
Still an interesting topic. After spending some time reading everyone's commentary on CCS packs via the magic "search" function ......I'll buy one of those next. I do have some kiddos who will need them soon. They look great, and I've never used one. I'm only experienced with Kondos, DP, and the the cabelas offerings (not impressed) . Can't knock it before I try it! |
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GraniteCliffs |
quote Grouseguy1: "This is a prime example of what the interwebs call "necro-threading" , sorry mods : ) Interwebs? Necro-threading? No wonder I still use Duluth Packs most of the time! |
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gkimball |
quote GraniteCliffs: "quote Grouseguy1: "This is a prime example of what the interwebs call "necro-threading" , sorry mods : ) Had to search what that one means...doubt there are too many 'necro-posts' when it comes to canoeing traditions! |
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Grouseguy1 |
My packs are all older than me. For the same reason I prefer over under shotguns as opposed to semi autos, waxed canvas upland gear as opposed to newer cordura/nylon, old school hand made dog bells, etc. It's hard to explain. |
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SaganagaJoe |
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Grouseguy1 |
I'm not sure if that will happen in my lifetime though. I do use a big Cabelas Boundary Waters II pack. It's cool that it's totally waterpoof an something like 7150 cu. in. I've had to have stuff fixed on it twice in 4 years already though. It's a matter of time before it gets a hole in it. |
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Grouseguy1 |
The day using a Duluth pack stops me from tripping, I'm probably already dead ; ) |
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gkimball |
quote Grouseguy1: "Are wood paddles antiquated too now ? Geez. I must really be behind the times. Oops... Should have said "Straight shaft beaver-tail wooden paddles"... I still have one...a beauty that I don't want to wreck so I don't take it on trips. Now I use a kayak paddle with a solo canoe. Yes some innovations are great! |
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Grouseguy1 |
I noticed my thermarests are about 2x the pack size as the new ones. Time to upgrade those I guess. The DP's are just too much to give up for me right now though : ) That being said, the new prices are atrocious. If i ever buy a brand new pack and want canvas, ill get a frost River. By the time I need one maybe weight will be more of a concern and I'll go CCS There's no shortage of good deals on used DP's though, so who knows. |
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KerryG |
quote Grouseguy1: "The difference between a DP#4 and a Kondos or CCS #4 is not even close to the same as the difference between Kevlar canoes vs. old ones, or heavy canvas tents vs. new stuff. Well, that's for you and more power to ya. All I'm saying is I could never do it. When I go in for 3 or 4 weeks, my main pack starts out at 85+ lbs. I just couldn't manage that using a traditional Duluth pack. The Ostrom pack I use is an integral design that incorporates the traditional tump with a padded hip belt, shoulder cinch and padded shoulder straps. So, for me, it's not just a question of weight - because you're right, the difference between the Duluth and the Ostrom is marginal - but the whole design. I really believe that modern equipment has extended my ability to trip by 10, hopefully 15 years - I'm 64 now and I'd really like to be doing this well into my 70's (although I'm not sure how my wife is going to feel about that.) But please understand, I'm not suggesting you or anyone should do anything besides what your'e doing if it works for you. That's why there's chocolate and vanilla. |
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bwcadan |
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gcvsa |
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Red Beard |
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ozarkpaddler |
quote gcvsa: "A Duluth Pack Northwoods costs $360.00. Add $45 for waxed canvas, $45 for padded straps, and $40 for 8 d-rings and now you're at $490.00, to buy a pack that is equivalent to a Frost River Grand Portage...which costs $260.00." WOW, I'm darn near speachless! Never spent over one C-note for any of my Duluth Packs. Glad they last for decades! |
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pastorjsackett |
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campNgirl |
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Sparetime |
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tnthekids |
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jwartman59 |
here is a copy of a Francis Lee Jaques sketch in sig olson's the lonely land , this shows how to properly carry two packs on a portage. with two nylon packs that top pack is going to be a bear to keep from slipping off. i find it is next to impossible. to carry two nylon packs you may have to resort to something like this image. this photo was from google images, if it is yours (it might be), i apologize, i did edit it. |
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PompousPilot1 |
quote jwartman59: "and canvas just looks cooler. That bow shot on the right would sure look nice as a background. Wow. |
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rupprider |
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jwartman59 |
quote PompousPilot1: " duluth pack used this photo in their 2011 catalog. i'd have to go find it to be sure of the year. |
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Beaverjack |
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GeoFisher |
quote markaroberts: "I have read this whole thread. (waiting on my wife). I do have an observation. It seems that none of the packs mentioned are waterproof. Our group has been coming up for several years. First year we had a capsize with one canoe. Temps were 50s and water cold. (mid May). None of the clothes or sleeping bags got wet as they were in dry bags. We insist that clothes, sleeping bags, and things that must stay dry go in dry bags. Some use sealine boundary bags. Others put dry bags in packs. " I have ONLY used Sealline packs. I have had 2 failures with those packs. 1, I ripped off a strap. Sealline replace the entire 15 yr old pack with a new Sealline ProPack RS. The second, I put a burn hole in it from it being way too close to the fire. It was easily patched, and now is used as my vittles vault or gear carrying pack. Those two packs don't have to be absolutely waterproof. Later, Geo |
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crazd |
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Jackfish |
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Grandma L |
I love them like old friends. I carried them for lots of years and lots of miles but compared to my newer packs, they are too heavy, straps are not padded and they are just not comfortable. And they are high priced. |
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AndySG |
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ECpizza |
I was searching because It really hit me at the state fair that Duluth Pack has really jacked up their prices. I am a loyal Customer. My first Duluth Pack has been with me on every campout for 15 years. Love it. Got a couple utility packs and love those. Have 2 'synthetic' bags from other manufacturers, not a fan. Straps slide, plastic breaks suddenly and spectacularly. Neither 'synthetic' pack has gone a half dozen trips without failure of some kind. I also have a $15 Gander Mountain duffle bag that does quite well.i like what I like. So what I want to know is... Is there some cause like higher labor, or material cost? Or are they just cashing in? I personally would like to make my own someday. |
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PlumberDave |
They are the work force for me. |
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Savage Voyageur |
quote Sparetime: "I really like my Duluth Packs. However, the recent price increase was rather steep. I had been looking at a front portage pack which was about $115 or so, stopped to pick it up and they were $190. This was in about a year or so. I understand there are labor and material price increases, but this was rather steep. " I thought you were joking about the $190.00 price for the front portage pack, Wow they raised the price. 5 years ago I bought mine for $85.00 at their store and they sewed the strap on at the factory for free. and lets talk about the camp kitchen pack. I bought mine for under $200.00 and now they are $490.00. The same packs from Frost River are $310.00 for the Kitchen camp pack and $120.00 for the front portage pack. That is a savings of $190.00 over DP to go with the same packs from Frost River, Hmmmmm. |
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RaisedByBears99 |
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shsylvester |
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joetrain |
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PineKnot |
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BWPaddler |
I'll collect one some day, but probably use it for things where those features don't matter. |
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HowardSprague |
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walllee |
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Sierra1 |
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UncleMoose |
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tumblehome |
quote mc2mens: " They look cool but I can't get past the prices - way too high for me. " That's because you're paying an American worker a living wage. Two things about Duluth Packs and the company. They are still made exclusively in the USA and they are staying with tradition. While most other packs (except Frost River and CCS) are made overseas and/or made with synthetics, Duluth Packs are made the same way as they always have been. Tom |
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RainGearRight |
Newer packs are more comfortable, but Duluth packs smell better so its a tie. |
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nctry |
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kanoes |
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mc2mens |
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Jackfish |
I have no doubt that Duluth Packs are fine quality, but if the pack doesn't have the features and overall comfort that I'm looking for, I want the darn thing to wear out in a hurry. And to think they're priced at least $50 more than packs that I view as better buys. Thank you, Dan Cooke and CCS. (Just another happy customer.) |
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Drab |
Also Sealine packs and Filson (though no canoe specific product) I'm sure there are others as well. |
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Frenchy19 |
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RaisedByBears99 |
quote nctry: "I believe Kondos are made in Ely and Granite Gear in Two Harbors... Am I right? I'm going to be getting the CCS Pioneer pack next after seeing the quallity in my CCS Lean. Sure you pay up the nose, but you do that when quality matters. I started out with duluth Packs and they served me well as did my aluminum canoes. Times change and DP should have too." Ganite Gear is made in Asia. Repairs are made in Two Harbors. |
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Drab |
quote RaisedByBears99: "quote nctry: "I believe Kondos are made in Ely and Granite Gear in Two Harbors... Am I right? I'm going to be getting the CCS Pioneer pack next after seeing the quallity in my CCS Lean. Sure you pay up the nose, but you do that when quality matters. I started out with duluth Packs and they served me well as did my aluminum canoes. Times change and DP should have too." My Granite gear pack says "Made in U.S.A." on it. And according to the REI website it is made in USA http://www.rei.com/product/722914/granite-gear-quetico-canoe-portage-pack-regular Has something changed recently? I believe that their "traditional" packs are imported. |
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Ingvald |
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TuscaroraBorealis |
The Duluth pack(s) work perfectly well & are obviously is still going strong. (Not that I don't waste money on other things.) To me, buying another pack to replace one that works perfectly fine is money I'd rather spend elsewhere. Maybe they aren't the best thing going anymore??? But, they've sure helped me have alot of fun over the years. And, God willing, that will continue for many more. Recently I even added some permanent extra weight to them. :) |
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bojibob |
quote Jackfish: "When I compared quality, features, overall comfort and price, Duluth Pack never made the cut. Nearly the only thing I hear from Duluth Pack owners is their packs last a long time. CCS is THE pack.. period! |
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Mashuga |
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Cedarboy |
1- GG service was great, repaired at no cost. 2- GG changed form from using 1000D Cordura to 210(?) because it was cheaper to do so. The "new material" was less durable, easier to wear holes. 3- GG packs are made overseas. The old GG packs label said "Granite Gear Made in The USA". The new label just says "Granite Gear" because they cant label it that way anymore. You will not find a "Made in the USA" label anywhere on anything NOT made in the USA, against the law. I am with UncleMoose, after I discovered CCS my Duluth Packs get lent out to the newbies. Like the last player picked on the team in a pickup baseball game. CB |
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Frenchy |
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Drab |
quote Cedarboy: "The REI www is wrong. I had an old GG pack I sent back to GG for repair about 5 years ago and had a nice chat with a repair person in Two Harbors about it. I discovered 3 things. Well that is good to know. Looks like REI needs to get with the times on their site. I guess I am glad that I was able to pick up an old Made in U.S.A. one. |
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TriTodd |
This is an on-going thread on here. You either use them or don't. The ones who don't always seem to tell you all the reasons not to use them, and instead use another line that is talked about on here. Even Moderators will push one brand over the other. My advice to all, is to figure out what you want to spend, how much you're going to carry, and try different packs to meet your needs. No reason to "dog on" other packs you don't like... |
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pswith5 |
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Jackfish |
quote TriTodd: "Even Moderators will push one brand over the other. Todd, you might remember that you and I disagreed on a similar topic a year or so ago and I backed off. As soon as Adam says I can't offer an experienced opinion on this or similar topics, I'll stop offering them. But, I doubt anyone here thinks my opinion is worth more than anyone else's simply because I'm a moderator. |
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ozarkpaddler |
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TuscaroraBorealis |
quote RaisedByBears99: "quote Drab: "quote RaisedByBears99: "quote nctry: "I believe Kondos are made in Ely and Granite Gear in Two Harbors... Am I right? I'm going to be getting the CCS Pioneer pack next after seeing the quallity in my CCS Lean. Sure you pay up the nose, but you do that when quality matters. I started out with duluth Packs and they served me well as did my aluminum canoes. Times change and DP should have too." I have been told the same thing by the people manning their (Granite Gears)booth at a MWM expo a few years ago. |
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Scout64 |
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whiteh20 |
For what it is worth when comparing Frost River and Duluth Packs side by side it appears the Frost River is better made? I have not tested this theory but just looking at the stitching and the quality of the leather used, the Frost River seems to be of hight quality. The leather FP uses is not a high quality bridle leather. Pick up a FIlson bag or pack and see the difference in the leather. I kinda think DP is living on a reputation and they have a large following that use them out of tradition and loyality to the product. That is not a bad thing for a company to have going for them! Love the look, but I will continue to use my CCS stuff. |
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BigMac |
quote tumblehome: "quote mc2mens: " They look cool but I can't get past the prices - way too high for me. " Right on Tom |
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TuscaroraBorealis |
quote Jackfish: "Wow TB... can you tell me how you deduced from my post above (and the one you linked) that I have never used a Duluth-brand Pack? The link you shared goes back to the tumpline thread in which I said I had never used a tumpline. I said nothing about never using a Duluth Pack." My point was this. If a person has not used a Duluth Pack properly USING a tumpline (an integral part of such a pack). How can a person say it's uncomfortable? Or make a fair, or really any accurate, judgement about the product as a whole when they admit they never used it properly. Seems pretty straight forward to me? Of course this is just my opinion. I'm not a salesman for Duluth pack or trying to convince anyone to buy them or any other item they feel is inferior. In fact, my point is NOT at all about one pack being better than any other. But, I've seen a lot of instances in the gear forum where people weigh in on a given product only to find out later that they never even tried it, or in your case, didn't use it properly. So someone reading said post gets a false sense of what that product might offer bad or good. I guess I just used you as an example because it was very easy to prove that point in this instance? Look at it this way. If a person claims a vehicle is no good in the snow. Then we come to find out they never even engaged the 4 wheel drive before making that conclusion....... As I alluded to earlier, I guess this was just the straw the broke the camels back for me. More of a problem with the overall system (tendancies of people) than you as an individual. I'm sorry to have questioned your integrity. And it truly is nothing personal. |
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tumblehome |
quote whiteh20: For what it is worth when comparing Frost River and Duluth Packs side by side it appears the Frost River is better made? I have not tested this theory but just looking at the stitching and the quality of the leather used, the Frost River seems to be of hight quality. " I've recently fallen in love with Frost River packs. The quality and workmanship of their packs is unsurpassed. I think one reason they haven't been more recognized is due to poor marketing. They have an excellent product that not enough people know about. Frost River was started by ex-Duluth Pack employees that left the company, some not by their choosing, when DP was sold back in the 90's to a new owner. You will see many DP features in Frost River Packs. But to be fair, I own DP, Frost River, and Granite Gear (made in USA version). I love them all. Tom |
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ZaraSp00k |
Everybody has slightly different needs, therefore, there is no perfect pack for everyone I have gone on many trips with people who use different packs and they all proclaim them better than a Duluth (why else would have they obtained it rather than the Duluth?), but I have never been on a trip where someone said "hey this CCS (or whatever) is better than Granite Gear (or whatever) funny though, after the trip I am still glad I have my trusty old Duluth Packs, wouldn't trade them even up for anything I have seen on a trip |
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RaisedByBears99 |
quote Drab: "quote RaisedByBears99: "quote nctry: "I believe Kondos are made in Ely and Granite Gear in Two Harbors... Am I right? I'm going to be getting the CCS Pioneer pack next after seeing the quallity in my CCS Lean. Sure you pay up the nose, but you do that when quality matters. I started out with duluth Packs and they served me well as did my aluminum canoes. Times change and DP should have too." Layed off all their sew-ers, quite a few years ago. Last time I bought thread they told me they only do repairs and prototypes in Two Harbors. I was told, by former employees the sewing is now done in the far east. |
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RaisedByBears99 |
I wouldn't mind trying something else, but I'd have a hard time justifying it. With all their flaws, DPs are still the standard by which others are measured. |
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awbrown |
He who dies with the most toys wins. As my bones have gotten older, I have found that my packs have gotten heavier, so for my canoe trips (with portages) I have switched from Traditional "Duluth" style packs to the hybrid style. Of course, I have no intention of getting rid of my older packs. I just use them for different types of camping. Tie em on top of the Jeep for desert trips out west, river trips with few or no portages, etc. |
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tumblehome |
quote shsylvester: Well, not really. Until "Duluth Pack" made a Duluth pack, there was no such name to identify an open pack. I've never called any pack a Duluth Pack unless it was one. I didn't know people do that. I suppose it's like calling a tissue a 'Klenex". The Quetico Superior packs you mention were indeed very nice packs. The Canadain company that made them is out of business. Tom |
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Cedarboy |
Packs are no different than talking canoes IMO. Aluminum was the "standard" in the 60s until someone came out with kevlar. Same "basic" shape just a diff material to build with. Cotton was the "standard" until someone came out with Nylon. Same "basic" shape just diff material to build with. No one says "Duluth packs" arent made to a high standard of quality or that they wont last along time. There are just new materials and design that have improved a good basic design. We would use a suitcase and an old Lowe brand alum canoe as long as it allowed us to get out into the woods. I think we can ALL agree on that. CB Not meant to offend any Lowe owners! |
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Jackfish |
I have been a gear junkie for as long as I can remember. I'm also in sales which (I believe) can make me a tougher sell because I look at the features and benefits of a product - ANY product - a little deeper than the color or the tradition. I went years without owning a canoe pack. Tried a lot of different ones, including Duluth Packs. I'm sorry, but I don't remember the models. When I made the decision to buy a canoe pack, price was 3rd or 4th in the line of importance. I'm a firm believer that one gets what one pays for. However, what I found was not all canoe packs are made alike. The one's I bought were well-made, had multiple grab loops for ease of handling, had a pocket in the top flap for storing smaller and/or important gear items, had straps down the side with pockets at the bottom which were perfect for the Sven Saw or other flat gear items and the shoulder harness and waist belts were sturdy and comfortable. There is even a safety whistle on one of the shoulder straps. The fact that the packs were made by a smaller company in Minnesota also appealed to me greatly. Those features aren't on many packs, including the brand that is the topic of this thread. They were important to me in choosing the best value and this is an "opinion-type" thread. Therefore, I shared my opinion, just like the rest of the people in the thread. I choose my tents that way, my stoves, my sleeping bags and many other gear items that way. Decide which features I like, figure price into the equation and make a purchase. I'm not sure what prompted you to think I didn't have first-hand knowledge of Duluth Pack and how you (perhaps) question your respect for me, but if I unknowingly crossed a line, I'd like to know which line it was. |
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Spartan2 |
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RaisedByBears99 |
quote whiteh20: "Duluth Packs have a huge cool factor going for them, but that is about the only reason I can think of choosing them over CCS or Kondo's. I own and have used Frost river packs. Simply no comparison to the modern packs. Regarding leather: I have inherited a number of #3 DPs, all made prior to 1958. These were all outfitter packs and have plenty of patches, but the shoulder straps are harness leather. Unbelievable! 1/4 inch thick. I keep the leather well oiled and I'm sure it will outlast much newer packs. |
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shsylvester |
Could have been two different companies with very similar names. John Sulzbach, who owned and made Quetico-Superior packs, was a member of the church where I interned in the late 1980s. His company was in St. Paul. |
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Dan Cooke |
I used to use and repair Dulth brand packs as well as other brands of canvas and leather packs. I choose not to today. |
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shsylvester |
quote Dan Cooke: "John and his brother ran CLG enterprises out of the Twin Cities, down off Hiawathaa I believe. They made a extensive line of rodeo gear and sold some of their leather to Aarcee rental who was making Canoe Packs called Portage Pack. That line of Packs was purchased by CLG who made that model as well as the ones with the best leather straps I have seen in their Quetico Superior line of packs. Thanks for the specifics, Dan. As another Lino Lakes resident I keep intending to stop by to see your shop and goods (I was last by in when I was in seminary in '88 to buy a pair of mucklucks when Lino Lakes felt like it was halfway to Duluth). |
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hopalonghowie |
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BRic |
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lundojam |
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Woodtick |
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Woodtick |
quote KcMcWrench: "Very first trip to the B-Dub this weekend and I will be using my Grandpa's Duluth #3" Enjoy your trip! |
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RainGearRight |
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TeamTuna06 |
quote KcMcWrench: "Very first trip to the B-Dub this weekend and I will be using my Grandpa's Duluth #3" That's pretty cool! |
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ZaraSp00k |
quote RainGearRight: "Last weekend we had four Duluth packs and four GG packs. All the packs were within five pounds of each other. The Duluth packs were the first packs picked up every portage. Interesting... I'm not surprised I went on a trip with another guy who had GG pack, he was always grabbing my Duluth pack at portages yet he swore the GG was a better pack :) |