I haven’t tried the Tokeen/Access bag combo in practical use. The positioning is about the same as on the full Xcurve frame so I thini the results would be about the same. To me it would depend on how heavy of items you carry in it. Bulkier light items like rain gear, puffy, gloves would be...
I’ve lashed a rifle to the side using just the straps. Some mild slippage after a couple hours in rough terrain but I should have used auto locking buckles. Pack carried it very well
Some comparison pics of the Avail and Tokeen. The extra height of the Tokeen does help a lot with carrying weight. I found the usable interior volume to be significantly greater with the Tokeen with its more symmetrical shape. The rounded hump shape of the Avail is more difficult to pack and...
It detaches pretty easily. It’s one size fits all though so there will be a lot of slack but you can route that under the Xpac section on the hipbelt. The shorter frame on the Avail will be good for smaller people
I’m hoping for a hybrid Ambient with an uinsulated back panel and underarms like the Evo. Feels like Sitka was testing the waters for hybrid designs this year
Haven’t tried their hiking socks but the Buffalo Wool Co beanies and gloves are very high performing warmth to weight. The Buffalo down doesnt absorb much moisture and dries fast. Similar to what I’ve read about alpaca but higher performing. The beanie and gloves outperform the alpaca socks that...