I know your pain, the most expensive pack I have purchased to date. I just received my 3500 a few days ago with the cargo panel and the quality is apparent. I just hope it hauls weight as good as it looks.
I like the specs of their evolution/revolution models but can't seem to get ahold of a representative or have my emails replied to. Do they have a rep on the forum?
What pad are you using or referring to? I'm looking at the hyperlite LW which is under a pound and 2.75 thick inflated. What lighter options are you referring to?
I concerned about this as well. The specs look great but I don't want to blow a baffle a couple nights in. I'm over 200 and have read a lot of reviews recently (within the past year) of blown center baffles with much less weight.
I've used 3 Eberlestock packs, one being the Team Elk pack, from offerings on both the hunting and tactical sides in an effort to find the right fit....and I have finally learned my lesson.
Brand New in the plastic Kryptek Cadog Pant (Highlander) XL Long - $125/shipped
Brand New in the plastic Kryptek Merino Baselayer (Highlander) 2XL - $80/shipped
lightly used Kryptek Dalibor Jacket (Highlander) 2XL - $80/shipped
Take everything for $265/shipped
Sitka Set - New With Tags
I am selling all three pieces as a set (for the time being). All three pieces are New With Tags.
Sitka Mountain Pants 38T, Open Country
Sitka Core Zip-T 2XL, Open Country
Sitka Cap, Open Country
$250 TYD for all three pieces.