User Review: The North Face Big Shot

The North Face Big Shot
Above: The current Big Shot, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed January 28, 2007 by nationalparkman

Rating:
Design: Front Loading 3/4 Zip
Size: 2,100 cu in
Number of Pockets: 5
Max. Load Carried: 25 - 30
Height of Owner: 6' 4"
Price Paid: Pro Deal

Great pack for just about any occasion and it has surprising amounts of room. The Pro's and Cons are listed below

PRO'S:

Durability:
I am not sure what you could do to this pack to hurt it. It has seen its fair share of abuse in the past 3 years and still looks GREAT. It is my standard choice for all my client guiding trips.

Support:
I would max this pack out at 25 - 30 pounds. Beyond that you are pushing it. There is a fair share of back support and the cushioned shoulder pads make up for the flimsy and almost non existent hip belt.

Space:
I was surprised how much I could shove into this pack. Ideally i would like to see it as a top loader so I could blow it out, but as a 3/4 zip it does alright. There are plenty of compartments and storage areas hidden through this pack and it makes room for everything you can think of.

Zippers:
All zippers are big and beefy and will close under extreme conditions (wet, covered in dirt, over stuffing, etc..)

CON'S:
Breathability - it does not do a good job allowing air flow and transferring the heat to keep your back cool.

Length - it's not the best choice for persons over 6' tall.

Overall it's a good choice for someone looking for an all-around pack that will still be hanging around four years from now.

Where to Buy

Buy Online We found the Big Shot at 3 online stores:

Store

Product Description

Price

Moosejaw 2 purchase options:	Big Shot Daypack (Spring 2008)	$89.00	Buy Now
Moosejaw 2 purchase options:	Big Shot Daypack (Fall 2008)	$95.00	Buy Now

Backcountry.com 2 purchase options:	Big Shot Backpack - 2100cu in	$88.95	Buy Now
Backcountry.com 2 purchase options:	Big Shot Backpack - 2015cu in	$94.95	Buy Now