Questions on the comparison between the AGC Classic and the Classic Max.

[PShaw]

For the last few years I've been using the S4 lockdown harness but would like better protection for my new Swaro EL binos. I've been doing research and have narrowed it down to the Alaskan Guide Creations, specifically the Classic and the Classic Max. I like the feature of the Max with it's additional bottom storage but was wondering how much larger it is compared to the Classic. Was wondering if anyone one Rokslide has had the chance to handle and compare the two harnesses? I want to protect my binos but don't want to feel like I have a suitcase strapped to my chest. The S4 is very compact and out of the way. I'm not a bowhunter so something bigger that the S4 would be Ok. Just wondering if anyone can give me any feedback.
Thanks

PShaw

 

[Pro953]

I made the same transition from a S4 to the AGC with the basement. While it is certainly larger than the S4 it never feels like luggage on my chest. I keep my bino, range finder, lenses cleaner and wind indicator in mine plus license, tags.

I like having quick access to everything vs digging it out of hip pockets on my pack.

I would give it a shot. Worst case you don't like it you can certainly sell it in the classifieds. I thought I might miss the simplicity of the S4 but have not looked back.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[AlaskaEd]

Get the max for sure on whichever AGC you get. It doesn't add much and is great for keeping all that small stuff you need on you. I have 10x42 ELs and use the Cub max. Perfect size and the closure setup is much better then the clip on the classic IMHO. The bottom pocket is where I keep my survival necessities (compass, fire starting stuff, water purification, and other small stuff).

 

[rbljack]

I cant make a comparison, but I do have the classic Max with the basement pocket.
It is somewhat large, but I used it during my turkey hunt for the first time this past spring in the mountains of NM. For the first outing I really like it. Since then, I have worn it on my 4 wheeler while riding around and scouting for new areas, and a half day trip on horseback too. It has worked well in each application so far. Sorry I cant make any comparisons for ya, but I can tell you what will fit in the classic max and its a LOT....LOL

Here is what I run in mine and location of each item:

One side pocket contains a bottle of windchecker, small plastic case with diapram calls, and in a zip lock bag I have a carmex tube, 4 cotton balls, and a mini bic lighter.

Second side pocket contains my leatherman and my back up headlamp (primary goes in pack).
Main compartment holds 8x42 binos and my IPhone.
Small pocket in front of the main pocket will hold my leupold range finder or a GPS unit, depending on the situation.
Pocket behind the bino holds a pen, license/tags, 2 lens wipes, and a bit of TP!
The Max pocket contains my cheap emergency blanket, some paracord, 4 water tablets to purify water, a 1 gallon zip lock bag to contain the water, my primary compass, 2 Sure fires (firestarter), a whistle, fero rod/striker, and a granola bar!!

My concept was to have all the items I may need for one of those "OH CRAP" situations that I HOPE I never find myself in. I also wanted to set this thing up so I could grab and go with it as a minimalist set up.

 

[PShaw]

Thanks for all your replies, this is just the kind of feedback I was wanting. The Max is definitely the way I'm going with. I like the idea of all the storage for my things that is close and convenient but not too bulky.
AlaskaEd, it's interesting that you mentioned using the Cub with your ELs. I watched a review on youtube and the guy said that he initially purchased the Cub to use with his ELs but they fit too tightly and he returned then for the Classics which were a better fit. I didn't know about the different closure between the two either so I'll have to look into it
Again, thanks for all your input. A little more research to narrow down the one I want.

PShaw

 

[thinhorn_AK]

I got a CUB and while I like it, I wish Id gotten the KISS or stuck with my KUIU.

 

[AlaskaEd]

I wouldn't call it tight at all, they drop in and pull out with zero resistance, and I usually have the pockets stuffed full. Seems like any bigger would be too big? Maybe the YouTube guy keeps the rubber bino covers on? I don't know. The hood sits on the eyecups, but I feel that's a good thing, as it keeps them sealed up better from dust.

 

[PShaw]

AlaskaEd, I called BlackOvis today and spoke with a John and asked him what his opinion on the different models for the ELs and what the guy said about the Cub on youtube. He said that they would fit fine into all of them but the difference would be how tight the lid would close. He said that on the Classic the lid would close all the way and on the others there would be about a quarter inch gap. I wonder how much this gap would let debris into the compartment. He said he would go with the Hybrid, he liked the mesh pockets. I don't know whether I would like the mesh over the completely enclosed pockets though. Man, this is just adding more things to consider in my search. Too many options. He also said that there would be extra room in the Classic for the binos to move around. I don't too big either. I wish I could find someone close that has one I could get my hands on.
Thanks for the reply. Back to the search.

PShaw