"I own several packs to cover a variety of seasons and distances. When it comes to a high volume/heavy cargo choice, the TerraFrame can't be beat. It's hybrid design provides the weight distribution and separation of an external while keeping the frame to a mimimal size.
When I hike in areas where there is limited or no water source and I must travel with up to 3 days of water - think an additional 15 pounds beyond your regular load - I really value this monster's support and comfort. Under moderate loads - for example winter bulk clothing with excessive weight, the pack is absolutely delightful.
Got big loads? Get Terraframe."
"This is one of the best packs out there period. This hybrid external combines the positive qualities of externals: coolness, comfort, load carrying capability, upright stance; with the fit and slim design of an internal. This pack has gold fiberglass rods that pull the pack twords your back for the fit of an internal. It is a great pack."
"I am high volume in the perspiration department and wanted a pack that breaths a bit so Exterior frame became my focus and the Teraframe has proven a good choice. My frequent hiking buddy thought I was crazy going external because bushwacking here in the Northeast can snag most internmals let alone an external. The proof of the wisdom of my choice was evident when we bushwacked our way to Camel's Hump in the Adirondacs, right after the severe blowdown of Hurracaine Floyd. I was able to slither around all the obsicles without a hanup with the top crossbar removed. I have added a OR water bottle holder to take care of the small pocket problem. My only complaint is that the pack squeaks at times even when well compressed. I guess that is what you get with an external. Put the load rides so fine with the golden rods placing the load on the fron of the pelvis. The pack doesn't ride nearly as high as most externals making it a good companion on moderate technical stretches. I picked the pack up at Campmor for a little over $100. I couldn't believe my good fortune. That was a onnce in a lifetime deal. I find it hard to believe that so many packeres won't even consider an external. My buddy is now a believer."
"At $329 the pack is over-priced and needs panel access and an internal hydration pocket to support that number, but for the $99 that Northern Mountain Supply is selling the 2001's for, it's a steal.
I'd rate it a 5 except that the $300+ msrp is too much for too little. It would be rightly priced at around $225-$250."
"Best Pack ever for the $99 I paid via KillerDeals. I am a scout leader and have to carry a lot of stuff at times. This pack can handle heavy loads, has the fabric to take on tough country, use, etc. The frame provides the right amount of rigidity and yet has rounded corners when transporting. I gave one of these (size M) as a present to a scout when he earned his Eagle.He has used his extensively and reports he will keep on using it because it is so functional and the fit is so supportive for his 5'9"" frame."
"I, too, got this great hybrid at Northern Mountain Supply several years ago. External frame packs have really gone out of style. Too bad there is nothing like this available from any manufacturer (as far as I know). Maybe Mystery Ranch (Dana Gleason) will get back to the external design in their new line(?).
I find this pack overdesigned for my use. So, I have cut about 1/2 pound off of it by removing unused padding and buckles, replacing metal parts with plastic, taking the gold sheaths off of the lifter rods, etc. This brings its weight pretty close to a comparable Terraplane internal frame model.
For a week trip, I pack everything inside of the "monster" except for my sleep pad. Water and fuel in the mesh side pockets.
The narrow design allows for easier movement through the bush.
The frame is made of 1 inch aluminum tube. It could be lighter and still carry nearly 100 pounds! The waist belt is like a clamp around my waist. No pain at the heaviest loads. Externals are always a little top heavy and tipsy, but the Terraframe is pretty stable if adjusted properly.
At $99 ($319 list !) this beauty was an absolute steal. I encourage anyone interested in big externals to shop Ebay for one."
