I’d probably get modular, removable vest style straps. Also the pack body could be like a semi circle shape, like if you had a cylinder then Cutaway half of it. That would then make this pack worth $400.
But it includes SHIPPING hahaha. Yeah I actually asked Austin about that. Basically materials and craftsmanship over price. It'd have to be my "forever" pack for that price though. :)
That's a tough call. I have both and love both. The CT is more adaptable because it doesn't build in as many extra features. But those cost even more if you want them for the CT. The Kakwa is not custom-made for your body measurements so the fit will often not be perfect. The feature list is also pretty different as far as materials go. So....if you like the Kakwa's exact features, materials, and the fit turns out to work for you, then the CT isn't objectively worth more. But that's a big if that only you can answer!
I've only carried an HMG once and it felt pretty good but I like load lifters. They seem pretty epxensive for what they are, but I know they're popular. I am not impressed with Zpacks - I had their Arc Blast and did not like the way the ventilation made the pack feel (I have a buddy who basically made his useless because using it gave him headaches). They were NOT easy to work with once I decided to return it either and their whiny advertising going after better gear companies is super annoying. As far as GG - do you mean Gossamer Gear or Granite Gear? I tried the Gossamer Gear Mariposa and liked it but not enough to replace the other packs I had. If you mean t Granite Gear, I loved the features on the Drop 60 version of the Crown 60 but it didn't carry heavier loads well enough for me to keep.
My custom pack is a Circuit and TBH I wouldn't pick either as the winner in quality. However, to your point, by the time you cumstomize it with these options and pay for shipping I think the difference is negligible.
@@BackcountryPilgrim you could combine your love of gear with your talent for rap by making rap video informercial/gear reviews of items such as malt liquor (which has the highest electrolyte content?), holsters (stand my ground, b!tch), and AR-15 straps. Diversify bro.