K2 Loadmaster

I bought the K2 loadmaster by mail order after reading Backpacker magazine's review thinking it would be a great pack like everyone said. I never read a negative review yet so I feel I must speak up. I just can't imagine how anybody can say this pack is comfortable. My Wilderness Experience internal frame is like a Cadillac compared to this thing. When I put it on the poorly designed fiberglass cross piece behind the lumbar pad dug right into my back and the lumber pad slid right out of place to make it worse. Also the angle of the shoulder straps were not adjustable and dug into my shoulders. I tried everything I could think of to adjust the pack to my body including calling the retailer for help, but there was no way to keep the lower fiberglass cross piece from digging in and the lumbar pad from slipping. I can only conclude that it is a poor design. I am 5'7" and 145 lbs. with medium build. I learned a good lesson from this. Just because someone recommends a piece of gear don't always think it will be good for you. Always try before you buy and buy what feels best. I sent it back that day.

Sorry about the other reviewer but I have two and I think it's one of the finest frame packs made for heavy loads. Heavy, yes, but can carry knee-buckling weight with great comfort.

I like some of the bigger Jansport frame packs but they are not as well made as the Dana Loadmaster. Carried most of a woman's gear who wanted to learn to backpack on the PCT in northern Washington and this pack made it feasable.

Great frame pack, not real thrilled with the top pocket arrangement but it works.