User Review: Osprey Argon 70

Osprey Argon 70
Above: The current Argon 70, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed April 30, 2008 by Ultralight Packmule

Rating:
Design: Long Backpacking Trip
Size: 70 liters, 4272 cu. inc.
Number of Pockets: lots
Max. Load Carried: 60 lbs.
Height of Owner: 5'9"
Price Paid: $320

The Cadillac of backpacks. The Argon is a beast of all trades. Versatile in most every way, the pack soars to the top of my favorite gear recently. Features to mention: day pack, compression system, harness, waistbelt, comfort, and frame design.

Osprey packs have always suited me well. I'm of the opinion that in the world of backpackers either an Osprey or a Gregory will fit you perfect, rarely both, and I am an Osprey man.

The 70 liter pack is big enough for a weeklong expedition if packed with some sense and planning, and the pack holds the weight well. The lid converts to a day pack with a waist belt that is hidden under a square of closed cell foam that acts as a frame sheet when the lid is removed. It has two pockets with welded zippers and they are big: I fit raingear, a bladder, a water filter and some granola just fine with no zipper strain.

Additionally, the straps at the bottom of the pack that would hold the sleeping pad/etc. unbuckle as does the bladder sleeve and they combine to make another day pack, much simpler--now just a bladder sleeve with shoulder straps.

The straight jacket compression system is one of my all time favorite Osprey innovations, and the Argon twists it slightly. Rather than cordura pack material making up the strap attachments, they are made of a thin super durable material that I have put loads of strain on and they show no signs of budging. The harness is incredible comfortable as well as the hipbelt. They both give the feeling of being hugged without a choking feeling.

The bioform hipbelt is heat moldable and feels amazing with or without being molded (although I recommend it).The frame design is pretty cool too, being shaped to stay open or collapse as a triangle against your back longways if your load is lighter/smaller than needed.

Overall I rate this pack as excellent, and plan on it lasting forever.