Tenzing pack TZ5000/6000 or rei xt85?

[Vortectoy]

Looking for a new backcountry backpack. Not really looking to spend over $350. The tenzing can be had for 300/310 and the rei for 290. Are the tenzing packs any good?  Anyone have one?  I've looked everywhere for reviews and have not come up with many. I used a smaller 65l pack last year and it was not big enough. Thanks for any info or help.

[romaknows]

The rei pack can be had for 225 if you can wait for them to go on sale ,it seems to be a well made pack for the money.

[romaknows]

I would also suggest to take a look at exomountaingear.com , looks like an exelent pack for a little more.

[couesbitten]

Haven't owned either one, but based on reviews that I have seen for both, the XT85 wins every time.  In about the same price range, I would go with a Horn Hunter Full Curl System, great pack made in USA.

http://www.amazon.com/Horn-Hunter-System-Backpack-Realtree/dp/B008F67JI2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398387219&sr=8-1&keywords=horn+hunter+full+curl+system

http://www.amazon.com/Hunter-System-Backpack-Mossy-Breakup/dp/B008F67JGO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1398387219&sr=8-2&keywords=horn+hunter+full+curl+system

[Vortectoy]

The exo mountain gear 5500 isn't available till July.  Want to get hiking and scout before then. Preferably with a new pack to get it all broke in.

[fair-chase]

If I had to choose between the two it would be the XT85 for two reasons. (1) The XT85 is over 2lbs lighter than the TZ5000. (2) REI has one of the best return polocies in the industry. While I haven't run the XT85, past experience with REI packs tells me that if you get more than 3 seasons out of them before they break down your doing good. But that's the beauty of it, you can just return it and get a new one. Only thing that really discourages me from REI packs is that the hip belts hate me. That is specific to the individual though, so don't let that sway you without trying one out.

With a budget of $350 you could get nearly any of last years top tier packs if you are willing to buy used and take a chance. Buying used also gives you the added benefit of recouping most (if not all) of your investment if you decide it's not a good fit for you. Kifaru, Mystery Ranch, and even Kuiu to a lesser extent will hold their value after the initial purchase depreciation (no longer new).

[jackelope]

The Kuiu Ultra 6000 is at that price point. 

[Vortectoy]

I've read of the kuiu breaking frames quite often. Was this a problem with older models and now fixed?  A other issue I have is how these different packs fit. Can't just go to the local store and try any of these on.

[WA1232]

I bought the TZ5000 used from another member on here a while back. I have not had an opportunity to take it on an overnight trip yet, but I have loaded it down with some weight and taken it on a few day trips into the hills. Very happy with it so far. I am planning on using it bunch this summer while scouting for the high hunt.

I would be willing to let you borrow it if you want to try it out. I'm out in the North Bend area.

[7mag.]

I've read of the kuiu breaking frames quite often. Was this a problem with older models and now fixed?  A other issue I have is how these different packs fit. Can't just go to the local store and try any of these on.

The new Ultra is a different frame. They ran over it 3 or 4 times with a truck, then loaded the pack with 60 or so pounds and through down a steep slope. It faired well. It hasn't been out long, but for the price, it should blow away any other pack in that range.

The Tenzing packs got bad reviews by back pack hunters. It seems the zippers break and the waist belt folds under heavy loads. There were other complaints, but I can't remember them.

Take a look at a used Arc'teryx Borah. They are a good, proven pack, and within your budget.

[Vortectoy]

Just watched the video of the kuiu getting thrown down the hill. Pretty impressive for such a lite frame. I'll check out the arcteryx. 

[SilkOnTheDrySide]

I've read of the kuiu breaking frames quite often. Was this a problem with older models and now fixed?  A other issue I have is how these different packs fit. Can't just go to the local store and try any of these on.

The new Ultra is a different frame. They ran over it 3 or 4 times with a truck, then loaded the pack with 60 or so pounds and through down a steep slope. It faired well. It hasn't been out long, but for the price, it should blow away any other pack in that range.

The Tenzing packs got bad reviews by back pack hunters. It seems the zippers break and the waist belt folds under heavy loads. There were other complaints, but I can't remember them.

Take a look at a used Arc'teryx Borah. They are a good, proven pack, and within your budget.

This.

[NWWA Hunter]

I have the rei pack and love it

[autodink13]

I've used an arc teryx bora 80 for 6 or 7 years now. Great pack!!! you can get a good deal on ebay or Craigslist.

[motg9_6]

i have the tz6000 and love  it also have a tz1200 great customer service and a great pack