Lodestone Mountaineering Iron Mountain 5500

Weight: 6,0

I almost didn't buy this backpack because the design is so different from almost any other backpack I have ever seen. It hasn't got any zippers at all, it uses a piece of climbing rope as part of the closure and suspension system, and there isn't any apparent adjustment for torso length.

But I absolutly enjoy this pack, it is the most comfortable I have ever used. It packs fairly easy, and keeps your center of gravity fairly low, similar to an ALICE pack.

It has a central storage compartment with a sleeping bag access (done with synch locks) and has a interior compression strap system for the sleeping bag that was big enough to accomadate my tent as well. Outside the sleeping bag access is a strap down pannel that had enough slack for my pad, poles, ground cloth, and fly. Plus this pannel has gear loops good for sandles, snap links, etc.

The top of the central compartment closes with a synch lock, and then has a compression pannel that runs from the top of the sleeping bag compartment to the top of the pack. This pannel also has interior and exterior mesh pockets that are great for putting those "need to get quick" items in, and being able to see where they are. This pannel also has a piece of climbing rope around the entire thing where the compression straps attach to it, this reduces the stress on the frabric greatly, and should help the pack last longer.

The suspension system is very adjustable and has more than adequate padding. It has great lumbar support and a sternum strap. The top of the suspension system also has a piece of nylon climbing rope to reduce fabric tension. This piece of rope and the one for the compression pannel work together to make a beefy carrying handle which is also geat for bear bagging the backpack.

Other features: mesh water bottle pockets, 3 different hydration compatible pockets so you can pack your hydration system differently based on your loading preferences, and extra rugged construction (according to one ad, the Navy SEALS are using them).

Disadvantages: High price, especially for a backpack that hasn't got a reputation yet (from what I could find, Lodestone Mountaineering is only 2 years old), and the packing system/load characteristics are unlike almost any other in this size range. The way this pack loads, it has a low profile (slightly over the shoulders when completely full) but has more than average overhang to the rear - similar to a large ALICE pack when loaded. Only comes in black.

Conclusion: I reccomend this pack for anyone that is willing to take the chance on a new company with a different design philosophy. I have used Army ALICE packs for 14+ years at work, and have had a Lowe Alpine backpack for 12+ years for backpacking, and without a doubt I prefer my new Iron Mountain 5500. I bought it and did its maiden voyage on 110+ miles of the Pinhoti trail, and loved the way it centered my gravity like an ALICE pack, but had the comfort of a good internal frame pack.

Rating: 9 of 10