ALICE Pack - Anyone got/use one?

**MattTheMudder** · 02-23-2008, 02:07 AM

You know the old military-issue ALICE backpacks? I figure with so many servicemen (and servicewomen) on JF, some of you would have an opinion on this pack.

I'm starting to figure out what type of backpack I need for longer trips. Besides Mt. Rainier, where I will definitely rent an internal-frame backpack, I'm trying to decide between an internal and external frame pack. Two other trips high on my list are Mt. Kiliminjaro and Wrangell-St Elias in Alaska (no mountaineering on that one). From what I hear, the ALICE is a very durable pack, with no zippers to burst or thin material to wear. I've heard it's uncomfortable, but I was thinking of picking up an ARUC frame, which is much more comfortable. Either an Army surplus pack, or the MALICE pack from Tactical Tailor and the comfier belts and straps. How did anything think it was, and if it was bad, do you think the ARUC/Tactical Tailor mods are worth it? They have a good rep from the military personnel who buy them and other hikers. Just a few pounds heavier.

**SlimShady** · 02-23-2008, 02:10 AM

You couldn't pay me to use one of those pieces of garbage again.

There are way too many manufacturers out there today that make much better stuff. Out here in Iraq we're able to get some in the PX's (occasionally anyway) that hold almost as much as my Medium Alice did and are way more comfortable.

**MattTheMudder** · 02-23-2008, 02:14 AM

Do you not like external packs in general? What made it uncomfortable?

**SlimShady** · 02-23-2008, 02:58 AM

The design on the frame, at least for me, led to the edges of it digging into my sides rather than supporting the weight across your lower back. All of the straps hanging off of it get annoying after awhile and they never stay tucked into the little elastic bands they give you. The plastic "click and lock" type of closures on the pockets WILL open up on you at an inopportune moment and whatever is in those pockets will end up in the nearest puddle, stream, lake, or whatever else is close that will render said items useless until thoroughly cleaned.

The two packs I've purchased out here so far are great, every thing is zippered. One large compartment, one medium compartment, one small compartment and a mesh external compartment. I use it when I travel between bases or back to the states, carries my laptop and external drive, PSP, all associated power cords and transformers, some games, 4 days worth of clothing, any small parts or documentation I need to travel with and plenty of room for snacks. Depending on how full you pack it, it will also pass the "carry on baggage" test so it never needs to be checked.

Fits my back great, although I haven't (and don't intend to) taken it out on a ruck march or anything of that nature...............as I'm no longer a green suiter I don't have to do that crap anymore. hehe

**Ski01xj** · 02-23-2008, 03:17 AM

Alices' restaurant?

**Rezneck** · 02-23-2008, 09:01 AM

I use a large ALICE. I don't mind the bag at all but, like most everybody else, I don't like the frame.

**Whybu1** · 02-23-2008, 09:18 AM

Large ALICE bag is good, frame can be painful after a time. I'd go with a civilian one with internal frame myslef.

shunt · 02-23-2008, 09:18 AM

There a much better choices out there........

xxxflhrci · 02-23-2008, 09:38 AM

A good internal framed pack is like wearing nothing at all.

trailblazer2003 · 02-23-2008, 10:39 AM

Never used an Alice but many people who have and also backpack definitely prefer a commercial pack. Shunt has it right, there are batter packs out there. I started with an external about 20 yrs ago, that was the standard then. I loved those and had a hard time making the switch to internal a few yrs back. Unfortunately manufacturers have pushed the need of internals, so that 99% of the makers only make internals. Therefore your choices are limited for externals, try Kelty, Jansport, Coleman, unless you shop ebay for a used model.

In the end, it is your hike, so take what fits and wears the best for you. If you haven't tried any/many backpacks then do so now. Nothing worse that getting a new pack, and trying it out on your first trip.

**default_user** · 02-23-2008, 10:54 AM

Definitely go with a "backpacking" pack...I live and die by Osprey. Any size pack you want and the quality is very good. I still use the one I bought in 1992. Below is my "newer" multi-day pack...adjustable for a comfortable fit and big enough for 4-5 days if you pack right.

Military packs are generally more durable and less comfortable. I have a few "tactical" packs, but they sit in my Jeep and are my "bugout" bags.

**Matt Gertsch** · 02-23-2008, 10:58 AM

Pure junk. I've got thousand of miles under one. There is no way in hell that I will ever carry one of the uncomfortable pieces of **** ever again. Look at Campor or REI if you need a back pack. You shoulders, spine and knees will thank me.

This should help you: http://www.rei.com/learn/Camping/rei/learn/camp/rghbkpk3f?vcat=REI_EXPERT_ADVICE_CAMPING

**sparkchaser** · 02-23-2008, 11:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ski01xj

Alices' restaurant?

I heard you can get about anything you want there. Except Alice.

**MattTheMudder** · 02-23-2008, 03:24 PM

Internal would be better for steep terrain, but you have to hunch over slightly to wear one. And an external will carry very heavy loads better. I'm still undecided. What types of packs do you all use? And any recommendations?

**default_user** · 02-23-2008, 03:32 PM

No one I know uses external frame packs anymore. There have been great advances in the suspensions over the past 30-40 years.

02-23-2008, 10:54 AM	#11
default_user It's a Roobicon Join Date: Jul 2007 Posts: 1,677 Profile Gallery Classifieds My Jeeps	Definitely go with a "backpacking" pack...I live and die by Osprey. Any size pack you want and the quality is very good. I still use the one I bought in 1992. Below is my "newer" multi-day pack...adjustable for a comfortable fit and big enough for 4-5 days if you pack right. Military packs are generally more durable and less comfortable. I have a few "tactical" packs, but they sit in my Jeep and are my "bugout" bags. Last edited by default_user; 02-23-2008 at 03:31 PM..

02-23-2008, 09:38 AM	#9
xxxflhrci Registered User Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: South Posts: 3,643 Profile Gallery Classifieds My Jeeps	A good internal framed pack is like wearing nothing at all.

02-23-2008, 10:39 AM	#10
trailblazer2003 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Wisconsin Posts: 70 Profile Gallery Classifieds My Jeeps	Never used an Alice but many people who have and also backpack definitely prefer a commercial pack. Shunt has it right, there are batter packs out there. I started with an external about 20 yrs ago, that was the standard then. I loved those and had a hard time making the switch to internal a few yrs back. Unfortunately manufacturers have pushed the need of internals, so that 99% of the makers only make internals. Therefore your choices are limited for externals, try Kelty, Jansport, Coleman, unless you shop ebay for a used model. In the end, it is your hike, so take what fits and wears the best for you. If you haven't tried any/many backpacks then do so now. Nothing worse that getting a new pack, and trying it out on your first trip.

02-23-2008, 03:32 PM	#15
default_user It's a Roobicon Join Date: Jul 2007 Posts: 1,677 Profile Gallery Classifieds My Jeeps	No one I know uses external frame packs anymore. There have been great advances in the suspensions over the past 30-40 years.