Review: BD Covert 22L and Anarchist 42L (both with built-in avalung)

[Kellie]

So, is the Covert's design better for carrying skis? I think I'd have to get a 32L if I got the anarchist due to torso length, so it should be a wash on volume . . . I do a decent amount of bootpacking and hate being pulled backwards on steep terrain, as well as exacerbating any arch in my lower back. I also hate hitting myself in the head with my skis!

[homi]

So, is the Covert's design better for carrying skis? ...

yes. the covert has separate ski carry and lateral compression straps vs the anarchist which uses the same strap for both functions. So it's a fiddly extra step to unthread the strap through the rubberized loop and thread it back again (and then repeat to take the skis off).

And even if you do that, with the longer torso-length anarchist, the skis sit nearly vertical. I just attach the skis to the rubberized loop with an orange ski strap. they swing around a little, but they don't hit my feet as much.

[~mikey b]

check out the new Alias

http://www.tetongravity.com/forums/s...d.php?t=107597

[homi]

it's great they're expanding their line.
the alias moves away from my preferences (no clamshell, top load). hip belt pockets are cool though.

I wish they'd make a stealth/revelation with avalung. that's my fav pack evar.

[Hugh Conway]

I've a couple days on my Covert 32l received for Xmas.
plus-
-ski carry setup is nice, as is storage for avalung & hydrations system (though it still freezes )
-nicely sized, organized, easy to access shovel compartment

minus-
would like a bigger hip belt w/gear loops (nice for ski crampons/glacier gear)

I wish they'd make a stealth/revelation with avalung. that's my fav pack evar.

meh The Stealth (I have 45L model) bugs me for several reasons
1) the shovel/probe compartment expands into the main compartment - so the more you fill the main compartment the more difficult it is to get out your shovel/probe/etc
2) The straight zipper on the tool compartment is a pain for accessing longer/larger shovels/handles/probes
3) not a big fan of the top load w/o expansion
4) for a 45L pack the long thin wide profile never really packed well
5) those stupid side lashpoints. WTF are they for? Why couldn't they put some useful lashpoints on instead?

[Hugh Conway]

Hmm. Slight design problem with the Covert in my opinion. The sliding strap for the sternum strap is sewn into the fabric covering of the shoulder strap not webbing. So it'll break relatively easily (perhaps in a fall? dunno how the attached damage happened). It's ~$40 to have fixed at Rainy Pass

Oh, and strap retainers for the compression straps + waist belt straps would be much appreciated