User Review: Gregory Baltoro 70

Gregory Baltoro 70
Above: The current Baltoro 70, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed November 29, 2006 by XcarlX

Rating:
Design: front-loading internal
Size: large
Number of Pockets: several
Max. Load Carried: 48 pounds
Height of Owner: 5'11''
Price Paid: $260-ish

Used this pack for a two-month trip through Central America, and it was the only piece of gear I brought which didn't break down, and I abused the hell out if it. It survived days and days of being crammed on top of, inside and all around sketchy buses, up and down a two-day trek up Cerro Chirripo (a 12500 foot peak) in Costa Rica, and lots (I mean lots) of time being hauled all around over and through the jungle. I never used a pack cover, and my gear never got wet ever! I even wore it while waking under a waterfall with no problems.

My only complaints are:
1. They could of easily cut down on weight by removing a few internal straps, flaps, and cords, which I don't see anyone ever using.

2. The suspension has this plate (looks like carbon fiber but probably is not) which squeaks with every step, annoying the hell out of everyone around you. I think this what might have been breaking for the other users on this site.

3. If u use a larger hydration pack, there is a bolt (yes, a bolt) which I could see rubbing a hole into it. This didn't give me any problems though.