Wanted: GPIW (Chouinard) Ultima Thule backpack

I am interested in a size XL, in good to excellent condition. Thanks!

There is one for sale currently on ebay (I'm not the seller). http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=140165749179&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=004 I recently picked acquired an ultima thule and am excited to use mine in the field.

Yes, I have seen that one. Unfortunately it is a size L (22 inches). Thanks for the note!

Perhaps my memories is off, but while the pack on eBay is appears to be "Chouinard Equipment", it does not like the version of GPIW Ultima Thule that I recall.

I would expect to see the Great Pacific Iron Works logo, the main section of the pack with a vertical partiton (like the Jensen / Rivendell pack ) and a flat top pocket.

Perhaps it's some test model that is signed by the old coonyard himself??? -- or perhaps I am mistaken, its been a long time.

I've seen several versions of the pack, I think they messed with the design a bit over the years. I have the GPIW version that is more like the Rivendell you describe. The side pockets on mine are attached, not removable, as the ebay pack. The logo on the ebay pack is also different. I wonder if the alternate logo was for Europe and Asian markets. If I get around to it I should check the size on mine, if it's an XL I could buy the ebay pack and sell you mine. An XL would be too large for me.

Alan,

Thanks for the thought, but I just saw your post and the auction is over. The one in that ad looked like a "rogue" project. The dragon logo that is shown was never stitched on to any of the Ultima Thules that I saw, and you are correct about the pockets and overall design points.

I saw an interesting article by Doug Robinson that described a little of the design process that he and Tom Frost went through to take the original Jensen design and then fabricate the UT. If I find it again, I will post it here.

For those that are interested, here is a version that I haven't seen very often - the single tie down strap version ("Y" shaped)at: http://cgi.ebay.com/Great-Pacific-Iron-Works-Ultima-Thule-Pack_W0QQitemZ130164305158QQihZ003QQcategoryZ1299QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Unfortunately for me it's a Medium. And, he's asking way too much, especially for the condition that it appears to be in. But if any of you are interested, have a look.

Alan,

Just a quick note on sizing - this is from the 1976 catalog:

"A good fit is important so we offer four sizes measuring from the nape of the neck to the small of the back. Extra Small-18", Small-19", Medium-20.5", Large-22", Extra Large-23.5".

If you are not convinced that you have the correct size, and find a replacement, I would be very interested in yours if it is an XL.

Thanks!

I've not had a chance to look at the sizing on my pack, hopefully I'll make it into the basement this week.

I've seen the Chouinard dragon logo on the UT's on ebay from time to time, perhaps on 25% of the UT's I've seen.

I'd love a copy of the Robinson article.

I checked my pack last night and it's a medium. Rivendell Jensen's are available new in any size if you want that pack.

Alan,

Thanks for checking. Sorry I am a bit slow on the replies, but I have a crazy work schedule.

I contacted the gentlman who is building the Jensens, and ordered a "Giant" from him. I should receive it in about a month, so will provide feedback.

I will go find that DR article again, and post a link to it here. Check back in a bit...

While you are waiting, check this out for some history you may remember: http://www.supertopo.com/climbing/thread.html?topic_id=382806&msg=383206

Alan,

Here it is:

http://books.google.com/books?id=LzDwFVGaJxIC&pg=PA124&lpg=PA124&dq=chouinard+ultima+thule+doug+robinson&source=web&ots=23CKBvapL0&sig=gIcK_4IW8QZel5W_cUgjZ4owGAg#PPA10,M1

Oman, thanks for the book link, it will be on my next order.

one on ebay right now !!!!

starting bid is 300 ???????

if its worth that much to you.......

The pack on ebay looks quite nice. I got mine for a lot less than $300. I'm sure someone will bid on it eventually.