Super jealous of your thrift stores out east Mark! I go to Value Village and Salvation Army all the time and I've never been lucky enough to find an external frame pack. Nice setup!
The fit of a backpack to it's user is of most importance.......the distance from the waist belt to the shoulder straps (torso length). If you needed to adjust that........... I like load lifter straps as well. If they could be added.............. There is a lot to be said about those 70's era aluminum frames. A neat project to use one and modify it to suit your needs. Makes me want to do the same........ Just what I need, another pack! As always, Mark, another great video. Thanks for sharing.
Intersting! You modified your frame exactly the same as I modified mine a bit over 50 years ago. And, for very similar reasons. I sawed off the vertical tubing because the top load pressed against the back of me head, putting it into an uncomfortable position. I was backpacking in the Sierras. In mountains, there is a need to look upwards now and then. When I couldn’t tilt my head back to scan upwards, I would instinctively lean back. I would tip over backwards. In steep mountainous territory - tipping over can be hazardous. I also modified the shoulder straps. I lashed on pads of 1/2” thick felt on the under side, making the much moe comfortable. I’ll be 84 in a couple of weeks, and have two store-bought knees. I haven’t backpacked in quite a while. But I still have that frame, straps, and bag - just in case. Courtesy of Half Vast Flying
I also value a frame pack when I’m carrying lots of gear. I went to an old fashion pack basket with a liner. I got a back harness from an army surplus store and attached it to the basket. The advantage of a basket is that awkward items (like an axe) slide in easily. The other big advantage is the basket stands up when you take it off so it is easy to access. The disadvantage is there are no outside pockets so everything is together in the pack. If it is raining the liner can be drawn together at the top, but it is not waterproof. I use small light nylon bags color coded to keep the gear organized in the basket. For a normal day hike I use an Osprey 24 liter Stratus pack that stands off my back to keep me cooler.
Kevin, just a thought based on what I've seen another friend do. He attached a basket pack to an ALICE pack frame (bet you could do the same with an Lk35 frame) with straps that one might use to hold down a canoe or kayak on a roof rack. If using the ALICE frame one would need the shelf attachment for the frame so the bottom of the basket is supported. If using the LK35 frame you're good to go. I've often thought that such an arrangement wouldn't be a bad option either. Add a large dry bag inside the pack basket to keep one's gear dry and Robert is your father's brother. ;-)
Perhaps adding two loops to the rear side of the side pocket, one at the top of the pocket and one near the bottom. This would allow an axe or hatchet to be carried against the side pocket since it can’t slide behind it. I really appreciate your videos. They are always well done and full of helpful information! Thank you for doing the work to put them out there!
I don't know about Mark's aluminum frame, but many have the recurring holes that would be used to attach the pack using Clevis pins with. Those holes could be fashioned to create some way of attaching an axe or such.
I used to have a Trailwise full back mesh , full length Expedition pack, added an Alpenlite frame extension and a Camp Trails padded hip belt. Best pack I've ever had. Added a crampon patch and straps, more lash points, as well as an internal weather collar. I carried half my weight on an Alpine glacier climb in 1975. No problem.
Building your own pack is always fun. I've done something similar with an Swedish LK35. Works awesome. I gone to strapping an axe and saw vertically direct to the frame. Works a treat. Nate
Check out mcqbushcraft archives here on youtube he attached to LK35 to a new frame and modified it. He also has a great way to attach his axe to the frame as well! I will be doing the same mods to my external frame pack.
I like it, the biggest problem with a project like this is deciding when to stop. My present day pack is a Frankenpack made from a French army F1 pack mounted on a Swedish army ST rucksack frame which itself has been modified with a Swedish army harness waist belt. No 'butchering' was required to fit the components together so it can all be taken apart and re-used when I get bored with the set up. One of these days I'll buy something and not be tempted to modify it. ATB
US GI Alice Pack. If you see a large loop a the bottom of the pack like for a mountaineering ice snow pick/ hammer and small near top the small axe can be attached. Attach bow saw handle to the frame the use a rubber janaka strap ( long strip of a bike inner tube) to hold the blade against the bag or a bungee cord
A great video Mark. Silly me, just got rid of a couple of old World Famous external aluminum frame back packs I picked up at VV or Goodwill. Now I see the value of them, will have to go back and look for another to start a new diy project. Thanks for the ideas my friend. Cheers!
I got the same bag a few weeks ago! How annoyed is your wife when you bring in something with that old army surplus smell? 😀 I bought mine to use as is, for a winter day pack, where I could put in a big coat, or maybe even some blankets for the family. You know, light bulky stuff, but this is a great idea Mark. As for your project, one concern is that aluminum poles don’t have a ton of strength on their own, so those two sets of holes, so close together, both carrying weight, would worry me over time, but it does look like a solid frame. Still, I would have considered strapping it to the uprights, if that was doable. Great frame and awesome straps you found for it. I’ve never come across anything like that, but your VV is one of the best thrift stores around. As for any further mods? Without trying it myself, I don’t think I can come up with anything. They’re pretty much just made the way they are. Like the pockets, everything is just sewn through. Except for the chest rig, weren’t made to be modular like modern packs….however, you could make a chest rig for it. Something for binos, maps, stuff like that.
So far so good with this pack and frame combo. I have a few more ideas but want to keep the mods simple. Mine did not smell too bad. On other packs I have used Simple Green to help get rid of the smell. Thanks for commenting Jim
Thanks for the info. I’m using a basic rucksack 🎒 when I’m out foraging and I’ve noticed anything heavy and I get muscle pain in my back. A friend who’s been in the TA said if got the weight on my back I should wear it higher and have the weight on my shoulders
A frame (internal or external) will help a lot. Plus, getting the weight onto your hips and off your shoulders will help even more. Thanks for commenting
Subbed. I know this is a late comment but thanks for these. Watched the older video on this and went looking for an update on the project. Great info here, speaking as a beginner. Hard to find deep dives into this topic! I have a Frankenpack project going as well, still in the early stages. Stumbled on a Kilimanjaro frame/pack for pennies; somehow remembered that Mike @ MCQ had eventually used that to lighten up his LK35 rig, and grabbed it. Virtually weightless. Improbably, I've paired it with an SADF 83 pack - - it fits, just. Huge pack for that frame but my use case is odd: heavy loads, but for short distances. My handiest dispersed camping spot is technically only about 2 miles from the car, but up steep, treacherous anklebreaker terrain, and I tend to end up bringing a lot of the group's communal gear in addition to my own kit and end up around 50-60 lbs in winter (favorite season). Tired of making multiple trips due to sub-optimal packing options; have hated every internal-frame pack I've played with. And my kit isn't as refined as I hope it one day will be, so there's a serious weight penalty - - for now. Sorrowfully my Kilimanjaro rig didn't include its original straps, and the 83's straps and hip belt don't align well with the frame, so need to replace both. Kelty replacements should work but they've been out of stock for an age so I'm looking for alternate options. Hard to tell, sometimes, what will be compatible or realistically moddable. Appreciated your closeups of the mods. Particularly appreciated the mention of the military suspension system - - I have my dad's (US) army version of same that looks almost identical. Have used it before as kind of a shoulder holster, just clipping gear onto it as an alternative to my belt. Will have to experiment re: pack applications. Thanks again and would welcome further updates
Sounds like a great project. My load outs and hiking in sounds a lot like yours. Heavy bag over rough ground. Part of my loads include my camera gear and what I may be testing or reviewing. Thanks for commenting
No more modifications is necessary. It’s just like an USMC Alice pack. What you done is made it more body friendly. Try to find someone younger and adapt a heavy load. This way you can figure out what exactly the strap situation layout should be for carrying heavy and lighter loads. But genius in what you did with it. If you want to make more attachment loops then all you have to do is find a thick or heavy construction belt and sow it on…mindful to allow objects to pass or connect(oh, and heavy stitching too) I also have the Vietnam large Alice pack attached to a standard military frame but your frame is better and would have to make shoulder straps and hip pads for it. You have done and excellent job with what you have. Man I like your thought process dude’ster. You keep thinking along the lines of true survival skills by finding different ways to utilize equipment cooking stoves even kitchen items. Don’t doubt your own ingenuity. BUT HAVING A HEAVY LOAD TEST WILL SHOW WHAT YOU NEED TO DO NEXT as of terms with placement of straps. SEMPER FI Sir
Right on brother. I am finding this better than my expensive packs at carrying heavy loads. Still some tweaking to do but working great so far. Thanks for commenting
thanks for the idea ive got a vintage framed pack that ive been wanting to mod up for ages but the bag is super old and needed replacing and i was just going to buy a whole new bag with another frame but i think now im going to copy this and just add the alice pack to my existing frame .
I think it is absolutely worth pursuing and quite frankly have been looking for a pack like that myself! I've been using an LL Bean Continental rucksack for many years now and love how it is set up with the side pockets and front pocket for water bottles, cook kits and other sundries but have always bemoaned the fact that it is not larger for weekend hikes and campouts. This bag is pretty much the same design without the pass throughs behind the side pockets but appears would give me the carrying capacity I've been looking for. I'm ordering a bag now to start my own mod project and am very excited about it! Thanks for posting!
You could add some short buckle straps along the outer vertical tubes of the frame for strapping things directly to the frame such as axes, knives, shovel, etc. You could also sew some more buckles and loops to the pack, or sew some surplus military pouches to it as well. Single grenade pouches can work for securing an axe to a bergen, just cut out the bottom. Or use two, one up high with the bottom cut out and some shock cord tied in to loop over the head of the axe, another further down to hold the knob in place. You would have to custom fit the axe though. Personally I prefer modern day military bergens that have full PALS webbing everywhere. Lets me add and remove pouches, tools and other items to expand or contract the bergen to my immediate needs. So I can take my 50-60 liter bergen, attach some 12 liter side pouches (Even a back pouch too), and expand my bergen to 85 liters or more for long trips, strap all kinds of gear to it and so on. I really like the Savotta Jääkäri L/XL bergens, and are the two I personally use. They are crazy tough and covered in PALS. The Karrimore SF Saber 45 is also a classic bushcraft bergen, it does not have PALS, but you can zip PCLE pouches to the sides. The side compression straps lets you snug an axe between the PCLE Pouch and the pack too for easy carrying too.
I use a Filbe (USMC) on Alice frame it is very versatile love the side pass throughs i believe they used them for motar shells and all the pals webbing gives me so many options
Impressive DIY, looks legit! Definitely benefits from adding a frame and a suspension system that won't break your back. You can still find these on Ebay though, l ended up using a couple of them for some projects
I love it so far. I find the frames are more useful if you can easily add and remove the bag on the fly though. That bag is about the perfect size for that frame though, great combo!
I could replace the two buts with wing nuts for quick removal. The holes in the pack attachments were just a bit too small for the clevis pins to pass through. Thanks for commenting Randal
I like your mods...I find the external frame packs most useful and more versatile than internal frames. The Swedish LK35 pack frame is just about the most versatile of the several frame packs I own. The height is about perfect, (just tall enough to sling a rifle from) the pack is easily removed, with its many attachment points, lashing / strapping items to the frame is a breeze and it has a small rigid load shelf that does not stick out a mile! While being made of tubular steel, the frame, pack, shoulder straps and added hip belt comes in at just 5 1/2 ponds...not to shabby. I am currently modding another aluminum freighter frame to be used with a large ALICE pack. Thanks for the great tips...going to pick up a small pipe cutter per your suggestion...atvb...MTwoods
For the ax, slit the stitches in the middle of the cover on one of the side pockets to slip the Handel thur. Then strap the head outside with the strap you have, already
Very interesting channel. Good video. We are also passionate about bushcraft. We recently made a small log cabin in the winter forest and stayed there overnight. Hello everyone from Russia !!!
Hi, I’ve got and old Kelty pack, it’s large and carries everything I need. I sure do like your outside frame though. I needed to add a strap to connect the two shoulder straps at my chest just to help keeping them centered on my chest. Works good now. I can see how an external frame might just be good carrying extra weight. (Old guy from Arkansas)🇺🇸
would accommodate my Mollie II ruck? Light weight aluminum frame with and extension so the whole thing would stand on its own. It, also, has two skateboard wheels attached so you could drag it as long as the surface you are trekking is reasonably flat. I will be ordering it soon. How about that wheel idea? Good project, Mark.
Looks like the old British military bergan 70/80s vintage. It'll fit a frame easily because they were made to be carried on the radio frames, so I guess the Austrians did the same.
Hi Mark, another great informative video !! Ya just got to LOVE thrift stores like Value Village & So on. A backpack like the 1 here to buy NEW probably be like what......$150 or more i assume ?? & you got it for LESS than $10 God bless thrift stores. 👍💯🙏
Your video prompted me to research this further. Apparently, others have done something similar with this pack. Sadly, most of those videos are about as interesting as watching paint dry! Some have attached this pack to the US ALICE frame and others have attached it to an LK35 frame. Since I currently have both frames in my possession, and have ordered two of these packs, I plan to give both options a try and see what I come up with that suits my expectations and needs. Standby for further details. ;-) If neither option measures up, I'll have to go on the hunt for a frame like the one you are using. Anyways, thanks again for posting such an informative and interesting project video. Well done! :-)
I have a similar pack, with a frame i picked up second hand with a terrible bag that i replaced with a military surplus one and working on strap padding
I would like to mount my LK35 to one of those frames. I would consider painting the frame as it is too flashy for me. Maybe you can make some kind of sheath for your tools that will fit between the pack and frame. As you pointed out, and if I recall that bag is part of a 3-piece set and the harness might be usable with the smaller pack. Maybe that smaller pack would attach on the back as well?
Greetings from another Maritimer! First thought was the lower straps on the pack would likely work better to keep centered on the frame if you looped them around the end stubs of the uprights, possibly in a figure-8 arrangement so it locks it around the T-joint at the crossbar where it is now. However the second thought was whether the weight of the pack is adequately held if the hooks at the top of the pack are the only thing really bearing weight? The original straps would have been holding a good amount of the weight of the pack from those bottom hooks too, right? If the after-market straps you've used to secure the bottom of the alice-pack were attached to the second-last crossbar with a wrap around the upright as well, it would then transfer some of the weight of the pack onto the frame while also securing the pack from moving side to side. Alternatively, if you were to attach a couple of D-rings to the second-from-bottom crossbar at appropriate spacing, you could easily use the OEM hooks to attach the pack to the frame, and use the straps you've added to secure a bedroll or similar. If you don't want to drill new holes in the crossbar (if there aren't existing holes like at the top of the pack), you could simply attach them using stainless steel hose clamps and cover the clamps with hockey tape or similar to avoid chafing. As for the side straps that you were hoping to use for your axe/saw, without modifying the pack, they aren't really positioned well for holding tools vertically. Great for lashing gloves or a hat for quick access. You could just lash/strap the tools directly to the frame instead. A couple longer ranger bands or simply a couple of the ball-ended bungie loops from Princess Auto (Canadian version of Harbor Freight) or at some Dollarama stores would work. I've been playing around with rope splicing lately, and a couple soft shackles for each side would also do the trick.
my Austrian Rucksack came with additional bag and the shoulder straps are different too with kind of lockable small carabiners. this here could be maybe the first pattern of straps. i will try to attach US Alice pack straps to the Rucksack, because i don't like the original ones. too heavy, too little padding and my fingers smell like metal after i touched it.
Likely a different generation of pack. For me, the hardest part of this project was finding a suspension system that works. It cost me as much to find a second hand pack to take the suspension off of as it did for the other two components together. Thanks for commenting
Just add something to the frame alongside the pockets to hold your axe? MCQ Bushcraft did that with his Swedish LK35. Keeps the axe and maybe even a saw with right setup outside your pack for quick access. Straps, toggle tie downs, or even a leather holster zip tied to the frame?
That's Soo cool, i see you have an Austrian Alice Pack there, I also own one and am doing the exact same as you lol I'm trying to find an old frame to put it on then need to get some new shoulder straps and waist belt, jus modifying it for hiking trips etc, cheers from New Zealand 🥂🇳🇿
I often see old school external frame backpacks in the thrift stores. Unfortunately, most do not have good suspensions. The hip belt and shoulder straps came from yet another pack I picked up. They attach with Clovis pins and straps. This is still my main carry pack. Thanks for commenting
I think your pack is eighty litres, I have a frame and the Austrian pack Which I was going to fit together, your idea. Of fixing the top of the pack using two bolt’s,, I am going to use it’s a good idea, many thanks
I would love to find a late 70s early 80s external framed backpack. I bought one when I was in the army in the early 80s, I don’t remember what happened to it. I do have an ALICE pack, but I don’t have the frame.
@@MarkYoungBushcraft my pleasure and thank you for responding. I have two external frame packs. A 90’s era Dana Design Shortbed and a Kelty Super tioga
Super jealous of your thrift stores out east Mark! I go to Value Village and Salvation Army all the time and I've never been lucky enough to find an external frame pack. Nice setup!
Being retired means I can go once or twice a week but I don't find the good stuff I used to. Still get lucky on occasion. Thanks for commenting
The fit of a backpack to it's user is of most importance.......the distance from the waist belt to the shoulder straps (torso length).
If you needed to adjust that........... I like load lifter straps as well. If they could be added.............. There is a lot to be said about those 70's era aluminum frames. A neat project to use one and modify it to suit your needs. Makes me want to do the same........
Just what I need, another pack! As always, Mark, another great video. Thanks for sharing.
Just like knives, you can't have too many packs😂. Thanks for commenting
Used every type of frameless and framed packs and many brands over 50 years. Back to my ALICE pack.
Hard to argue with that. Thanks for commenting
Intersting! You modified your frame exactly the same as I modified mine a bit over 50 years ago. And, for very similar reasons. I sawed off the vertical tubing because the top load pressed against the back of me head, putting it into an uncomfortable position. I was backpacking in the Sierras. In mountains, there is a need to look upwards now and then. When I couldn’t tilt my head back to scan upwards, I would instinctively lean back. I would tip over backwards. In steep mountainous territory - tipping over can be hazardous.
I also modified the shoulder straps. I lashed on pads of 1/2” thick felt on the under side, making the much moe comfortable.
I’ll be 84 in a couple of weeks, and have two store-bought knees. I haven’t backpacked in quite a while. But I still have that frame, straps, and bag - just in case.
Courtesy of Half Vast Flying
Thanks for commenting
I also value a frame pack when I’m carrying lots of gear. I went to an old fashion pack basket with a liner. I got a back harness from an army surplus store and attached it to the basket. The advantage of a basket is that awkward items (like an axe) slide in easily. The other big advantage is the basket stands up when you take it off so it is easy to access. The disadvantage is there are no outside pockets so everything is together in the pack. If it is raining the liner can be drawn together at the top, but it is not waterproof. I use small light nylon bags color coded to keep the gear organized in the basket. For a normal day hike I use an Osprey 24 liter Stratus pack that stands off my back to keep me cooler.
I like the idea of a pack basket as well. Mya play with one some day. Thanks for commenting
Kevin, just a thought based on what I've seen another friend do. He attached a basket pack to an ALICE pack frame (bet you could do the same with an Lk35 frame) with straps that one might use to hold down a canoe or kayak on a roof rack. If using the ALICE frame one would need the shelf attachment for the frame so the bottom of the basket is supported. If using the LK35 frame you're good to go. I've often thought that such an arrangement wouldn't be a bad option either. Add a large dry bag inside the pack basket to keep one's gear dry and Robert is your father's brother. ;-)
Pipe cutter worked perfectly... thank you.
Glad it helped. Thanks for commenting
Perhaps adding two loops to the rear side of the side pocket, one at the top of the pocket and one near the bottom. This would allow an axe or hatchet to be carried against the side pocket since it can’t slide behind it. I really appreciate your videos. They are always well done and full of helpful information! Thank you for doing the work to put them out there!
Good suggestions. Something to consider for sure. Thanks for commenting
I don't know about Mark's aluminum frame, but many have the recurring holes that would be used to attach the pack using Clevis pins with. Those holes could be fashioned to create some way of attaching an axe or such.
I used to have a Trailwise full back mesh , full length Expedition pack, added an Alpenlite frame extension and a Camp Trails padded hip belt. Best pack I've ever had. Added a crampon patch and straps, more lash points, as well as an internal weather collar. I carried half my weight on an Alpine glacier climb in 1975. No problem.
Great setup. I continue to use this system more than anything else I own. Thanks for commenting
Building your own pack is always fun. I've done something similar with an Swedish LK35. Works awesome. I gone to strapping an axe and saw vertically direct to the frame. Works a treat.
Nate
I missed getting an LK35 when they were more available. I will be watching for one to try out. Thanks for commenting
Check out mcqbushcraft archives here on youtube he attached to LK35 to a new frame and modified it. He also has a great way to attach his axe to the frame as well! I will be doing the same mods to my external frame pack.
I like it, the biggest problem with a project like this is deciding when to stop.
My present day pack is a Frankenpack made from a French army F1 pack mounted on a Swedish army ST rucksack frame which itself has been modified with a Swedish army harness waist belt. No 'butchering' was required to fit the components together so it can all be taken apart and re-used when I get bored with the set up.
One of these days I'll buy something and not be tempted to modify it. ATB
I hear you. I am trying to stay simple so I don't get carried away. Thanks for commenting
US GI Alice Pack. If you see a large loop a the bottom of the pack like for a mountaineering ice snow pick/ hammer and small near top the small axe can be attached. Attach bow saw handle to the frame the use a rubber janaka strap ( long strip of a bike inner tube) to hold the blade against the bag or a bungee cord
Great suggestions. Thanks for commenting
Options are good and making something old new again is a good thing. Great job👍
Thank you Wade. It is very satisfying to come up with something that works like this.
A great video Mark. Silly me, just got rid of a couple of old World Famous external aluminum frame back packs I picked up at VV or Goodwill. Now I see the value of them, will have to go back and look for another to start a new diy project. Thanks for the ideas my friend. Cheers!
I know what you mean. I have stuff hanging around that I am afraid to toss because I might find a use for it😅. Thanks for commenting
I got the same bag a few weeks ago! How annoyed is your wife when you bring in something with that old army surplus smell? 😀
I bought mine to use as is, for a winter day pack, where I could put in a big coat, or maybe even some blankets for the family. You know, light bulky stuff, but this is a great idea Mark.
As for your project, one concern is that aluminum poles don’t have a ton of strength on their own, so those two sets of holes, so close together, both carrying weight, would worry me over time, but it does look like a solid frame. Still, I would have considered strapping it to the uprights, if that was doable. Great frame and awesome straps you found for it. I’ve never come across anything like that, but your VV is one of the best thrift stores around.
As for any further mods? Without trying it myself, I don’t think I can come up with anything. They’re pretty much just made the way they are. Like the pockets, everything is just sewn through. Except for the chest rig, weren’t made to be modular like modern packs….however, you could make a chest rig for it. Something for binos, maps, stuff like that.
So far so good with this pack and frame combo. I have a few more ideas but want to keep the mods simple. Mine did not smell too bad. On other packs I have used Simple Green to help get rid of the smell. Thanks for commenting Jim
Thanks for the info. I’m using a basic rucksack 🎒 when I’m out foraging and I’ve noticed anything heavy and I get muscle pain in my back. A friend who’s been in the TA said if got the weight on my back I should wear it higher and have the weight on my shoulders
A frame (internal or external) will help a lot. Plus, getting the weight onto your hips and off your shoulders will help even more. Thanks for commenting
Subbed. I know this is a late comment but thanks for these. Watched the older video on this and went looking for an update on the project. Great info here, speaking as a beginner. Hard to find deep dives into this topic! I have a Frankenpack project going as well, still in the early stages. Stumbled on a Kilimanjaro frame/pack for pennies; somehow remembered that Mike @ MCQ had eventually used that to lighten up his LK35 rig, and grabbed it. Virtually weightless. Improbably, I've paired it with an SADF 83 pack - - it fits, just. Huge pack for that frame but my use case is odd: heavy loads, but for short distances. My handiest dispersed camping spot is technically only about 2 miles from the car, but up steep, treacherous anklebreaker terrain, and I tend to end up bringing a lot of the group's communal gear in addition to my own kit and end up around 50-60 lbs in winter (favorite season). Tired of making multiple trips due to sub-optimal packing options; have hated every internal-frame pack I've played with. And my kit isn't as refined as I hope it one day will be, so there's a serious weight penalty - - for now. Sorrowfully my Kilimanjaro rig didn't include its original straps, and the 83's straps and hip belt don't align well with the frame, so need to replace both. Kelty replacements should work but they've been out of stock for an age so I'm looking for alternate options. Hard to tell, sometimes, what will be compatible or realistically moddable. Appreciated your closeups of the mods. Particularly appreciated the mention of the military suspension system - - I have my dad's (US) army version of same that looks almost identical. Have used it before as kind of a shoulder holster, just clipping gear onto it as an alternative to my belt. Will have to experiment re: pack applications. Thanks again and would welcome further updates
Sounds like a great project. My load outs and hiking in sounds a lot like yours. Heavy bag over rough ground. Part of my loads include my camera gear and what I may be testing or reviewing. Thanks for commenting
No more modifications is necessary. It’s just like an USMC Alice pack. What you done is made it more body friendly. Try to find someone younger and adapt a heavy load. This way you can figure out what exactly the strap situation layout should be for carrying heavy and lighter loads. But genius in what you did with it. If you want to make more attachment loops then all you have to do is find a thick or heavy construction belt and sow it on…mindful to allow objects to pass or connect(oh, and heavy stitching too) I also have the Vietnam large Alice pack attached to a standard military frame but your frame is better and would have to make shoulder straps and hip pads for it. You have done and excellent job with what you have. Man I like your thought process dude’ster. You keep thinking along the lines of true survival skills by finding different ways to utilize equipment cooking stoves even kitchen items. Don’t doubt your own ingenuity. BUT HAVING A HEAVY LOAD TEST WILL SHOW WHAT YOU NEED TO DO NEXT as of terms with placement of straps.
SEMPER FI
Sir
Right on brother. I am finding this better than my expensive packs at carrying heavy loads. Still some tweaking to do but working great so far. Thanks for commenting
thanks for the idea ive got a vintage framed pack that ive been wanting to mod up for ages but the bag is super old and needed replacing and i was just going to buy a whole new bag with another frame but i think now im going to copy this and just add the alice pack to my existing frame .
Right on. This is still my go-to pack most days. Thanks for commenting
I think it is absolutely worth pursuing and quite frankly have been looking for a pack like that myself! I've been using an LL Bean Continental rucksack for many years now and love how it is set up with the side pockets and front pocket for water bottles, cook kits and other sundries but have always bemoaned the fact that it is not larger for weekend hikes and campouts. This bag is pretty much the same design without the pass throughs behind the side pockets but appears would give me the carrying capacity I've been looking for. I'm ordering a bag now to start my own mod project and am very excited about it! Thanks for posting!
Right on. Hope it works out for you. Thanks for commenting
Awesome Score & Mod's Thanks Mark ! ATB T God Bless
It is working out well. Thanks for commenting Terry
You could add some short buckle straps along the outer vertical tubes of the frame for strapping things directly to the frame such as axes, knives, shovel, etc. You could also sew some more buckles and loops to the pack, or sew some surplus military pouches to it as well. Single grenade pouches can work for securing an axe to a bergen, just cut out the bottom. Or use two, one up high with the bottom cut out and some shock cord tied in to loop over the head of the axe, another further down to hold the knob in place. You would have to custom fit the axe though.
Personally I prefer modern day military bergens that have full PALS webbing everywhere. Lets me add and remove pouches, tools and other items to expand or contract the bergen to my immediate needs. So I can take my 50-60 liter bergen, attach some 12 liter side pouches (Even a back pouch too), and expand my bergen to 85 liters or more for long trips, strap all kinds of gear to it and so on. I really like the Savotta Jääkäri L/XL bergens, and are the two I personally use. They are crazy tough and covered in PALS. The Karrimore SF Saber 45 is also a classic bushcraft bergen, it does not have PALS, but you can zip PCLE pouches to the sides. The side compression straps lets you snug an axe between the PCLE Pouch and the pack too for easy carrying too.
Lots of good ideas there. Thanks for commenting
I use a Filbe (USMC) on Alice frame it is very versatile love the side pass throughs i believe they used them for motar shells and all the pals webbing gives me so many options
Military surplus can provide some great kit for sure. Thanks for commenting
Impressive DIY, looks legit! Definitely benefits from adding a frame and a suspension system that won't break your back. You can still find these on Ebay though, l ended up using a couple of them for some projects
Right on. The external frame has been working out great and as you say, can still be found. Thanks for commenting
I love it so far. I find the frames are more useful if you can easily add and remove the bag on the fly though.
That bag is about the perfect size for that frame though, great combo!
I could replace the two buts with wing nuts for quick removal. The holes in the pack attachments were just a bit too small for the clevis pins to pass through. Thanks for commenting Randal
I like your mods...I find the external frame packs most useful and more versatile than internal frames.
The Swedish LK35 pack frame is just about the most versatile of the several frame packs I own.
The height is about perfect, (just tall enough to sling a rifle from) the pack is easily removed, with its many attachment points, lashing / strapping items to the frame is a breeze and it has a small rigid load shelf that does not stick out a mile!
While being made of tubular steel, the frame, pack, shoulder straps and added hip belt comes in at just 5 1/2 ponds...not to shabby.
I am currently modding another aluminum freighter frame to be used with a large ALICE pack.
Thanks for the great tips...going to pick up a small pipe cutter per your suggestion...atvb...MTwoods
I have two more frames plus an ALICE frame to mod-out yet. Thanks
For the ax, slit the stitches in the middle of the cover on one of the side pockets to slip the Handel thur. Then strap the head outside with the strap you have, already
Interesting suggestion. Thanks for commenting
MORE MARK.
one of the only u-tubers
That gets back too comments.
Than-q
CROWMAN
I do try. Two way conversation is what builds community. Thanks for commenting
Interesting project,looks like you have enough area to mount your axe on the frame with straps,nice job
Yes, should be able to mount an axe easily and securely. Thanks for commenting
Very interesting channel. Good video. We are also passionate about bushcraft. We recently made a small log cabin in the winter forest and stayed there overnight. Hello everyone from Russia !!!
I will check out your channel. Thanks for commenting
@@MarkYoungBushcraft Welcome to - - - More than bushcraft - - -
Hi, I’ve got and old Kelty pack, it’s large and carries everything I need. I sure do like your outside frame though. I needed to add a strap to connect the two shoulder straps at my chest just to help keeping them centered on my chest. Works good now. I can see how an external frame might just be good carrying extra weight. (Old guy from Arkansas)🇺🇸
You can carry extra weight and stay cool in the summer. Thanks for commenting from the old guy in Nova Scotia😉
Kudos for your ingenuity!
Glad you liked it. Thanks for commenting
would accommodate my Mollie II ruck? Light weight aluminum frame with and extension so the whole thing would stand on its own. It, also, has two skateboard wheels attached so you could drag it as long as the surface you are trekking is reasonably flat. I will be ordering it soon. How about that wheel idea? Good project, Mark.
Interesting idea. Send pictures when you get it. Thanks for commenting
Looks like the old British military bergan 70/80s vintage. It'll fit a frame easily because they were made to be carried on the radio frames, so I guess the Austrians did the same.
Could be. Thanks for commenting
I like what your doing...I don't have a thrift store where I've moved too. But like what your doing.
The thrift store is my go to bushcraft kit place. I have found stuff on Kijiji and FB Marketplace. Thanks for commenting
Hi Mark, another great informative video !!
Ya just got to LOVE thrift stores like Value Village & So on.
A backpack like the 1 here to buy NEW probably be like what......$150 or more i assume ??
& you got it for LESS than $10
God bless thrift stores.
👍💯🙏
Hi Derek. I still find good stuff at Value Village but not like I used to. Too many people catching on. Thanks for commenting
Your video prompted me to research this further. Apparently, others have done something similar with this pack. Sadly, most of those videos are about as interesting as watching paint dry! Some have attached this pack to the US ALICE frame and others have attached it to an LK35 frame. Since I currently have both frames in my possession, and have ordered two of these packs, I plan to give both options a try and see what I come up with that suits my expectations and needs. Standby for further details. ;-) If neither option measures up, I'll have to go on the hunt for a frame like the one you are using. Anyways, thanks again for posting such an informative and interesting project video. Well done! :-)
Glad you liked it. Thanks for commenting
I have a similar pack, with a frame i picked up second hand with a terrible bag that i replaced with a military surplus one and working on strap padding
Very similar project. Hope it works out for you. Thanks for commenting
I would like to mount my LK35 to one of those frames. I would consider painting the frame as it is too flashy for me. Maybe you can make some kind of sheath for your tools that will fit between the pack and frame.
As you pointed out, and if I recall that bag is part of a 3-piece set and the harness might be usable with the smaller pack. Maybe that smaller pack would attach on the back as well?
I missed getting an LK35 to play with. Might still be able to find one. Thanks for commenting
Greetings from another Maritimer!
First thought was the lower straps on the pack would likely work better to keep centered on the frame if you looped them around the end stubs of the uprights, possibly in a figure-8 arrangement so it locks it around the T-joint at the crossbar where it is now. However the second thought was whether the weight of the pack is adequately held if the hooks at the top of the pack are the only thing really bearing weight? The original straps would have been holding a good amount of the weight of the pack from those bottom hooks too, right?
If the after-market straps you've used to secure the bottom of the alice-pack were attached to the second-last crossbar with a wrap around the upright as well, it would then transfer some of the weight of the pack onto the frame while also securing the pack from moving side to side.
Alternatively, if you were to attach a couple of D-rings to the second-from-bottom crossbar at appropriate spacing, you could easily use the OEM hooks to attach the pack to the frame, and use the straps you've added to secure a bedroll or similar. If you don't want to drill new holes in the crossbar (if there aren't existing holes like at the top of the pack), you could simply attach them using stainless steel hose clamps and cover the clamps with hockey tape or similar to avoid chafing.
As for the side straps that you were hoping to use for your axe/saw, without modifying the pack, they aren't really positioned well for holding tools vertically. Great for lashing gloves or a hat for quick access. You could just lash/strap the tools directly to the frame instead. A couple longer ranger bands or simply a couple of the ball-ended bungie loops from Princess Auto (Canadian version of Harbor Freight) or at some Dollarama stores would work. I've been playing around with rope splicing lately, and a couple soft shackles for each side would also do the trick.
Hello neighbour. Great observations and suggestions for sure. I will be giving some a try. Thanks for commenting
Nice external pack and mods. I would also add a buckle kit to it. Several sources on EBay.
Worth looking into. Thanks for commenting
@@MarkYoungBushcraft buckle kit. LOL
my Austrian Rucksack came with additional bag and the shoulder straps are different too with kind of lockable small carabiners. this here could be maybe the first pattern of straps.
i will try to attach US Alice pack straps to the Rucksack, because i don't like the original ones. too heavy, too little padding and my fingers smell like metal after i touched it.
Likely a different generation of pack. For me, the hardest part of this project was finding a suspension system that works. It cost me as much to find a second hand pack to take the suspension off of as it did for the other two components together. Thanks for commenting
Nice video sir ! Thanks and greetings from the Netherlands
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting my friend
Mark , Good video , thanks for sharing , God bless !
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting
Just add something to the frame alongside the pockets to hold your axe? MCQ Bushcraft did that with his Swedish LK35. Keeps the axe and maybe even a saw with right setup outside your pack for quick access. Straps, toggle tie downs, or even a leather holster zip tied to the frame?
Yes, I have watched Mike's videos. Great ideas for sure. Thanks for commenting
WOW Congratulations! Very beautifull. A greeting
Glad you liked it. Thanks for commenting
Excellent idea, thank you.
Glad you liked it! Thanks for commenting
That's Soo cool, i see you have an Austrian Alice Pack there, I also own one and am doing the exact same as you lol I'm trying to find an old frame to put it on then need to get some new shoulder straps and waist belt, jus modifying it for hiking trips etc, cheers from New Zealand 🥂🇳🇿
I would say the biggest tip I could give is to change the main metal buckle into a fast release clip buckle
Quick question, how did u manage to fit on a waist belt to the frame? That's my biggest concern 🤔
I often see old school external frame backpacks in the thrift stores. Unfortunately, most do not have good suspensions. The hip belt and shoulder straps came from yet another pack I picked up. They attach with Clovis pins and straps. This is still my main carry pack. Thanks for commenting
Great idea!! 👍
Glad you think so! Thanks for commenting
I wonder how easy a US Alice Pack could be attached to a vintage commercial frame. I like the darker green shade of the Austrian pack.
Good question. I don't have a US Alice to compare with. Thanks for commenting
have you thought of puting the axe and saw on each side of the frame in sted of useing the pack
Yes, just need to decide how to attach them. Thanks for commenting
I think your pack is eighty litres, I have a frame and the Austrian pack Which I was going to fit together, your idea. Of fixing the top of the pack using two bolt’s,, I am going to use it’s a good idea, many thanks
Most welcome. Thanks for commenting
Good ones my friend.
Thank you kindly
I would love to find a late 70s early 80s external framed backpack. I bought one when I was in the army in the early 80s, I don’t remember what happened to it. I do have an ALICE pack, but I don’t have the frame.
I am thinking of trying a wooden frame made from black spruce. Thanks for commenting
I suggest you attach the hatchet directly to the frame with straps.
Yes, good option. Thanks for commenting
Your audio quality is great what do you use for your audio?
I have a Canon m50 camera and Rode To Go wireless microphone. Bought after I damaged my old system. Worth the money to me. Thanks for commenting
@@MarkYoungBushcraft my pleasure and thank you for responding. I have two external frame packs. A 90’s era Dana Design Shortbed and a Kelty Super tioga
@@MarkYoungBushcraft impressed with the sound quality of that Rode to Go wireless mic
Hello, Mark. Would you believe I was looking at a external frame set which
😉
👍❤️
😊Thanks for commenting
Thx
Thanks for commenting
I would have traded frame's. I have that frame and it has no top bar. Wish it did. Easier to grab and lift off my shoulders.
I can see that. Thanks for commenting
Where on the east coast? Usa? NE coast?
The mysterious far east. Nova Scotia Canada.😉 Thanks for commenting