Part 2 - Field Test: Granite Gear Blaze 60 - Perfect Balance of Lightweight and Load Capacity!

แชร์
ฝัง
  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 พ.ย. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 85

  • @johnbradbury5513
    @johnbradbury5513 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Good insight into the different packs. I was edging towards the blaze, however now I feel the atmos may be the one as it can cover more seasons in terms of gear required.

    • @cavemandancer
      @cavemandancer 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      This was my toss up also. My daughter has an atmos and it is a great bag...I went with GG Blaze and selling my Gregory.

  • @petebaumbach7944
    @petebaumbach7944 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    thank you from the UK ... helped me decide what to buy

  • @wouter6539
    @wouter6539 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Mine just arrived (because of your part 1), thanks a lot man!

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Awesome! So what are your first impressions? I think you'll be happy, it's really a great bag. I LOVE the side pockets! So large and awesome! I wish you good luck and happy trails! Keep me posted about your experience and how you like it!

  • @bobloudonphotography
    @bobloudonphotography 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Just about the best review I've seen of ANY product! Thank you. Very thorough and it was nice to get some of your thoughts while in the field. I appreciate the fact that you included consideration of folks who are searching for a pack who have different needs or are approaching the purchase of a new bag with different experiences/perspectives (i.e., beginner, trying to shave off pounds, etc.).
    I am looking for a bag that can (comfortably) carry roughly 28-30 lbs of mainly clothing, H20 bladder + small amount of food, and (importantly) a mirrorless photography system (2 Sony a7Riii bodies + 3 lenses) that I want to use on my fourth Camino de Santiago in Spain (hopefully, starting in March 2022). I realize that my perspective & needs might differ somewhat to someone who is doing more serious backpacking on the AT or PCT (i.e., I won't require a tent, camping stove, etc. on the Camino. There is a rather well developed system of overnight accommodations ["albergues"] and restaurants in villages along the way). For me, the tricky part has been how can I realistically incorporate photography gear which, let's face it, constitutes more than 50% of the total weight of my gear. Realistically meaning 1) can I carry it comfortably? and 2) can I access it when needed? I do see some potential solutions to these issues with this bag.
    Another questions which you nailed in the review is one I've been asking myself which is how I can shave off pack weight while carrying a ~30 lbs load. For many of the ultralight packs (in the 40-55L range) I've been looking into the information seems to suggest that (with a few exceptions) I shouldn't consider carrying loads greater than 25 lbs and still have a relatively comfortable "experience". You've certainly presented a convincing and compelling argument to me to seriously consider purchasing this pack.
    Again, thank you for putting together and presenting a very informative and helpful review! Sorry for the long-winded comment.

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm a good source for information when it comes to this topic because I fight the need to be light weight for backpacking yet I film while in the trails and I need some products to review while I'm out there. I'm usually 40+ lbs heading into the mountains. I'll get back with some suggestions.

    • @bobloudonphotography
      @bobloudonphotography 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@outerlimitless thank you. I'd appreciate any advice/input you might have.

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@bobloudonphotography my main consideration is if you need to access the camera gear while on the trail. If so I suggest a roll top design will not be a great solution for you. You should definitely consider the Peak Designs shoulder mount for your camera. Get it out of the pack and on your shoulder for fast access and help keep it safe. I carry mine in the mountains like that in very rugged terrain and I have no problem.

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      For a pack I would consider comfort in the harness system and ease of access over the weight. A heavy pack that carries well with weight is still better than a light pack that cuts into your shoulders or leaves hot spots

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Although I don't have one, dedicated packs made for camera equipment might be your best option if access on the trails is important. Like the TanuckLite40 maybe. Something like that? You might need larger though. I'm a 60L backpacker every time

  • @jackcrackerman
    @jackcrackerman 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    dang it, now I need the Granite Gear Blaze 60. I currently use a Granite Gear Crown x60 and love it, but I've definitely exceeded the 35lb weight and I've paid for it with an uncomfortable pack. I've modified the exterior of mine to hold multiple things - my tent, my fixed blade, water filter/water bottles and my camera. Looks like the Blaze would accept the same modifications in the same places... mostly just add some paracord and additional buckles for easy removal and adjustment.

  • @philippoduska1331
    @philippoduska1331 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for sharing you insights on the Blaze 60 pack, the comparison to the other packs was helpful. A few comments: 1. It appears that you fasten your hip belt too low; it should be at the same level as your navel so the hip belt sits on top of the hips instead of around the hips. This might relieve your concern about the top of the pack rubbing your shoulders. 2. I have the Crown 2 60 and use the compression straps and elastic pocket to attach additional gear. Mostly a wet tent and rain gear. 3. You could attach your tarp at the bottom using straps between the ice axe loops and the bottom compression strap or on top of the lid using the provided gear attach loops. 4. Based on the amount of gear attached to the outside of the pack, you probably really need a 70+ pack instead and that's not really the fault of the pack.

  • @cavemandancer
    @cavemandancer 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good review not afraid of some gear...Thanks.

  • @bertman4
    @bertman4 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Got mine when GG ran the big sale. Mine is coyote brown. I'm replacing my old Lowe Alpine Contour III which weighs 6.4 pounds with the Blaze 60. I need the carrying capacity of the Blaze when I do 3-4 night backpacking trips to volunteer for trail maintenance. Once you add in tools, your load becomes a lot heavier. Need to get this out in the field, even if it's for a quick overnight, so I can dial in weight distribution and packing order. Glad to know 41 pounds is not a problem.

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You'll have no problem. I have heavy loads in general. If this pack had straps on the bottom it would be a 10/10. I hope you enjoy it!! You just scored on significant weight savings in your big 3!!!

  • @ElliottMorrow
    @ElliottMorrow ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Yourrrrre brother, from Boston!

  • @vasylfil5458
    @vasylfil5458 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi there!
    You are right that it's needed to spend some time to choose the bag, so thank you for the review! You're rock!
    Unfortunately distributor in my country doesn't work with tourist Granite Gear backpacks anymore, but will try to find it as it's love at first sight.
    (Sorry for my English)

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Do you have eBay? Maybe you can find it there? otherwise you would have to pay international shipping. Maybe you could email Granite Gear directly? They might have solutions for you? They have good customer service!

    • @vasylfil5458
      @vasylfil5458 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@outerlimitless thank you for the advice- will try to reach them.

  • @ddff5242
    @ddff5242 ปีที่แล้ว

    it would probably feel even better if you had the frame sized to your torso length. the top of the frame should be above your shoulder line to transfer the load to your hips

  • @Raevenswood
    @Raevenswood 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    looks like this thing can handle some gear. What are your thoughts on fitting a bear canister inside? BV450 or BV500? A lot of the places I camp require bear can and I'm photographer so I also haul camera gear like you and I pack for a dog as well although he's getting his own pack soon. I was looking at an Aether 65 but it seems like overkill for me if I'm only going out for a 2-3 day trip which sometimes is how I do it. The other option was the Atmos 65 AG but then that wouldn't cover the heavier use case and I can't be buying both packs haha. This Granite Gear seems like it can do the work of a heavy hauler and a light weekender as well. That said you make a lot of sense at the end about the Atmos 65 AG. How much weight have you hauled with the Osprey? I heard that the suspension doesn't hold up beyond 35lbs

  • @lt2246
    @lt2246 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good review. It was nice to see the comparison thoughts regarding the three bags. It would be interesting to get your thoughts on the Granite Gear Blaze 60 vs the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60?

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm not familiar with the Mariposa, but I would certainly be interested in checking it out. I have too many bags!! Haha, I'd trade my Crown2 for the Mariposa if you want to try it out?

    • @lt2246
      @lt2246 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      outer limitless
      I have pretty much narrowed my selection down to the Grant Gear Blaze 60 and the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60. The Mariposa is just under 2 lbs but has a carry limit of 35 lb vs the Blaze at 3lbs and a carry limit of 50 lbs. I am 67 so don't need to be carrying over about 30 lbs anyway :-). I plan to keep using my Osprey Aether 70 in winter - is is just over 5 lbs, but the Blaze would be a reasonable all year round bag.
      One plus for the Mariposa is that it is unisex so my wife could use that one and I could carry my Aether 70 if she wants to go with me. I know the Blaze has a women's version so I am not sure if the men's version would work for her.
      Right now Gossamer Gear is allowing me a veteran discount, I have not heard back from Granite Gear so that may be the deciding factor (I always like to support companies that recognize veterans). Lot to consider - for now I am leaning toward the Mariposa.
      Thanks for the input on the Blaze - it does appear to be a great option.

  • @mikejoegoad5146
    @mikejoegoad5146 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Well done review. I agree, but why not just stuff your sleep gear vertically into the back stretch pocket you didn't utilize? Is it not big/stretchy enough for that?

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I really try to limit use on the outside of the pack. As you saw, we had some nasty river crossings and scrambles through the trees. I consider my sleep gear to be my most precious due to the ability to keep me dry, warm, and safe. The mesh is too vulnerable for my comfort. I have ripped that type of fabric before and I can't chance ripping my sleep system. Outerwear, or even a wet tarp on the way out, maybe, but it's not my style I guess.

  • @christopherwilde7158
    @christopherwilde7158 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great advice as I break in my bag. The lack of bottom straps and a place to store my poles is a major oversight. Did Granite Gear ever reach out to make suggestions?

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Granite Gear has been provided links to the videos, but I can not confirm if they have watched them, or have ideas to make improvements. I can't understand why companies just don't add straps to the bottom. It's so simple and important for the overall capability as well as capacity of the bag. I don't need my damn tent IN MY BAG...haha, it's brutal sometimes.

    • @TheMarcopix
      @TheMarcopix 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@outerlimitless I wonder if they thought the huge side pockets would compensate for that? It looks like you could secure a tent bag in one of those pockets.

  • @MrBalas3
    @MrBalas3 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Glad to have seen your Part II. I purchased the bag (non checkerboard color). I was having trouble also deciding between it and the Atmos 65. When it arrives at my local REI I can try them practically side by side.
    Is it not possible for you to sew some extra loops on the bottom to carry stuff(after the warranty I guess)?

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      I personally would not add the straps...I don't think I could do it neat and tidey enough to make it look good. I could I suppose get it professionally done, but my opinion is that Granite Gear should do it for me!

    • @MrBalas3
      @MrBalas3 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      outer limitless True that. Considering that it would add very little weight to the actual bag and the bag is supposed to be able to carry up to 50 lbs they ought to. Perhaps will occur in a Massdrop, but than again you already have the bag.

  • @magichockey92
    @magichockey92 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    What tee shirt are you wearing at the beginning part of the hike? Love that shirt. Has a hulk look to it.

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It is a hulk shirt by Under Armour. That's my go-to trademark hiking shirt. I was actually out this past weekend and someone spotted me while I was 12 miles deep into a wilderness hike. Crazy!

  • @vvs3796
    @vvs3796 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I wonder if it s more comfortable than flex capacitor? or abt the same? in flex metal frame does insert into the belt which in my opinion is huge thing in distributing the weight on your hips, where on blaze belt is just simply inserted into the pack..

  • @wanderingaloudwithmark3057
    @wanderingaloudwithmark3057 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome I have been waiting for this. Yes the bottom straps are almost a deal breaker. Personally I use the bottom straps for my tent. Question, are the straps padded more with the Blaze 60?

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      YES! I'm glad you asked that...I wish I thought to mention that...as it is an important upgrade from the Crown2 60. I had no problem with the Crown, but the Blaze is definitely thicker. Similar materials though.

    • @Jimbo_Conn
      @Jimbo_Conn หลายเดือนก่อน

      Why can't the bottom be modified to tie on a tent etc?

  • @christopherwiebke3578
    @christopherwiebke3578 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    That looks like the vanquest hydra bottle holder you have attached to the hip belt. It appears to hang below the pocket. How did you attach it so it doesn't interfere with the hip belt pocket? Thanks

  • @chrismatyszewski9385
    @chrismatyszewski9385 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thorough review and great channel, Eric! ... Getting back into backpacking after a 30 year hiatus and was debating between the Blaze 60 and the Atmos 65. The seam on the Blaze (near the torso/shoulder height adjustments) that rubbed on your upper back concerned me. I'm 6'4" , and was wondering if, with my height, that might become a nuisance versus the AG system on the Atmos (assuming pack is properly fitted). Any thoughts?... Also, did you post a Part 3 to this series? Thanks

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I would think if you get the large you will probably be fine with the Blaze. I have used mine a bunch at this point and I do really like it very much. It's lighter than the Atmos and much simpler too. But the atmost is also a great bag...you truly can't go wrong with the Atmos either. I would suggest if your gear is a bit heavier go with the Atmos. If you have a light weight kit, you could go either way.

  • @userunknown2771
    @userunknown2771 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    very helpful

  • @phantomas80
    @phantomas80 ปีที่แล้ว

    I am concerned about use in temperatures above 25°C/77°F (up to 35°C/95°C). Have you used it at these temperatures? I've also considered Osprey Exos 58 and Gregory Focal 58 but my average max load of 35lbs maybe is too much. I've thought about Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor 40-60 but the torso length is fixed.

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      What is your concern above those conditions? I have used this pack in most conditions.

    • @phantomas80
      @phantomas80 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@outerlimitless too much sweat on the back is my concern

  • @RaysGoneFishing
    @RaysGoneFishing 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for the review. How would you compare the Blaze 60 to the ULA Catalyst?

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I don't own the catalyst, but I recently picked up the Circuit. I think the Circuit is closer in volume. Actually , they function in a very similar fashion. After carrying both, they are both really great bags. I personally am impressed at both. Thes Circuit was a touch more comfortable, but the Blaze is more adjustable to custom tailor the fit. Can't go wrong either way!

  • @Zaeed1
    @Zaeed1 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Regarding feeling the back plastic at the top, what size bag do you have, and what is your torso length?

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      My bag is a Regular. My torso is approximately 20"-21". Hope that helps!

  • @darwingreen1
    @darwingreen1 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Where can I get one of those vanquest pouches? It seems like a really good fit for that bag.

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hop right on their website. vanquest.com They have everything on there.

    • @williamkeefe1691
      @williamkeefe1691 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@outerlimitless Could you tell us which bag it is? Seems like a perfect fit

  • @patriciamoscato6586
    @patriciamoscato6586 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Was that your cook kit on the leftside

  • @ReapaOfSoulz
    @ReapaOfSoulz 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hi, is this bag lockable with padlocks? I'm looking at it for overseas travel

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I would say it's not intended for it but maybe you could rig it together somehow. You'd need a thin cable lock

    • @ReapaOfSoulz
      @ReapaOfSoulz 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@outerlimitless thanks for the reply, I'm looking at backpacking/hiking around Europe for around 6 months. I will be doing alot of walking, camino trail etc and would like to head to Patagonia after... I'm struggling to find a backpack for this use case. I will be in hostels and camping where possible. Would you recommend a bag for this? I was otherwise looking at the osprey aether plus 70 or atmos ag65...

  • @blackhulk1984
    @blackhulk1984 ปีที่แล้ว

    what brand of first aid kit bag did you use in the video?

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The red exterior pouch is Vanquest.

  • @justicebdone7
    @justicebdone7 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    How do I learn about the "mass drop” sale that you mentioned for a sale price of $120

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I don't know...that was a couple years ago when that video was released. You'll have to watch Drop.com for deals.

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Drop has the Crown2 60 generally....I have never seen the Blaze60 on there.

  • @alivekicking5415
    @alivekicking5415 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow Wow just watched ur video awesome way to handle 41lbs +
    And here i thought i carried lots of stuff 👍😊 way to kickass

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I always get stuck carrying way more than I need because of gear reviews. I could seriously get my pack down to 20-30 lb range easily, but I make all sorts of commitments to companies to test their gear! I only get so many trips into the mountains!

    • @alivekicking5415
      @alivekicking5415 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@outerlimitless Kool... You really got me interested in that backpack 👍 Great Review

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@alivekicking5415 It's definitely solid. Great overall features. Possibly the best side pockets of any bag for backpacking purposes!

    • @alivekicking5415
      @alivekicking5415 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@outerlimitless I almost pulled the trigger on it at Amazon. They have a nice looking brown color version

  • @kenken-ss7jn
    @kenken-ss7jn 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    The color is the problem, give me one in olive

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      I prefer low key and muted colors. Grey, olive would be great...the black isn't terrible, but I don't like the checker pattern.

  • @mattheishman170
    @mattheishman170 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    You probably won't respond.
    Did you load up that much weight purposely for the vid?

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I respond to all comments... no, I'm a reviewer. I carry all kinds of gear and camera equipment. Watch my video... look at the videos that were a result of that trip.

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      And it was a bridge season which means I still needed a winter kit.

    • @mattheishman170
      @mattheishman170 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I totally understand it was bridge season. I've been backpacking in the middle of winter and still didn't carry 40lbs. I was wondering that's all.

    • @outerlimitless
      @outerlimitless  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@mattheishman170 I'm almost always at 40-42 lbs. Welcome to being a gear reviewer. Once you are you'll understand

    • @mattheishman170
      @mattheishman170 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@outerlimitless. No I won't understand why just a gear reviewer would carry a load of 40 lbs. Except if you are a expedition style trek where you have to carry 20 days of food and even then you'll have porters..A.T. PCT. and CDT thru-hikes I still haven't heard anyone carrying that much weight... however you have your reasons.
      But any way good review