So I haven't used this pack in the lumbar pack configuration so I can't speak on that, but as a backpack, it's performed well. I hunt in the mountains of Nevada so I typically deal with rough terrain, long distances, and a lot of brush and this pack has handled it well. I have used this on deer and coyote hunts and i haven't had any issues yet. It holds everything I need for a day in the mountains. The pack is pretty spacious and I have no trouble fitting my FoxPro, call lanyard, water, first aid kit, warmer clothes, and anything else I'm carrying with me. I have only used the meat carrying system once on a coyote and it worked well but I had to play with it to adjust the straps to where I needed them. The material is durable and has held up to rocks and sharp plants. The only real negative i found is that the grab handle for the waist pack digs into my back in backpack mode. I may just cut it off. Overall, it's a solid daypack and can probably be used for an overnight or two.

Ok, so those of you in the market for a new pack for the backcountry, this is the one. I am an outfitter/guide and have used every pack out there. I've tried every big brand possible , from Eberlestock, Badlands, Horn hunter and Cabela's packs, including the guide model fanny pack. The zippers always failed. There new packs are very poor. Whoever designed them has never been in the woods chasing elk or deer, they probably should be designing something else! This pack has all the right adjustments. One reviewer complained of chafing. I did some adjusting and it feels great. I even put a load in it and it just feels part of you. Take thirty minutes when you get it and adjust to fit. The zippers are smooth on this and yes there is a water bladder compartment, and when the pack is unfolded into the pack from the fanny it says H20 where the hose comes out. The padding is great on the hips as well as the shoulders, again adjustments everywhere. I also got the bino harness with it and the buckles are compatible (One reviewer stated otherwise). The harness is a nice addition. I currently use the Kuiu bino system and this is nice too, but every company has different buckles which is lame, but it is what it is. I use 10x42 swaro's and it is tight fit but still good. If you choose not to use the bino system and have a different preference no biggy, just unclip the ALPS and use whatever you desire. The pack is a complete pack. I still use frames for meat hauling but could easily use this if needed. It literally is 4 packs in one. If you live in the mountains every opportunity you can like I do and you need a quality pack , no doubt this is the one. If there was one negative (minor) it would be the orange ALPZ writing on the back and the orange badges on the harness. A black Sharpie corrected this. Cannot understand why pack company's use red (badlands) or orange, when every other part is camo? For all you turkey hunters out there! No red or orange. Again a little tweaking and this will be your go to pack! This is an all-around pack for you rifle guys to muzzleloaders to archery, a nice little slit for guns or bow and spotting scope stands or photography stands. Now get to ordering and go spend three four days with this in the wilderness, Very water resistant to all the elements mother nature throws your way. I ordered Max 1 camo (wish they had Predator or similar), but it works for the rugged woods of Washington!

Ordered this for my new saddle hunting set up. Hell of a bag!!! Heavy duty, works for any purpose! Great camo! Just all around a really good bag and plenty of space and options! My only concern is that it is bulky/larger than I expected. I am going to try and make it work but my hunting goal this season was to eliminate as much bulk and weight as possible! We will see if I can manage to do that completely with this bag!

Very nice pack!

Pros:
1. The main pack is able to accommodate pretty much anything you would need for a days hunt.
2. You can fold the main pack up when not needed.
- I like to use the fanny pack configuration when I'm predator hunting and moving around more often.
3. Very adjustable, even for a bigger guy.
- Shoulder straps, waist strap and load adjusting straps
4. Quiet material.
5. Zippers seem sturdy
6. The outside accessory straps are great for carrying extra gear.
- I usually strap my heavier jacket shooting stand and blind onto the outside of the bag while I'm walking to save room inside the main bag.

Cons:
1. Zippers could be a little easier to open and close.
- Not really a big con, but just an observation
2. The pack sits pretty low on your back, even when the load adjusters are pulled tight.
3. If you adjust the shoulder straps tight they dig into you neck.

Overall, I would definitely buy this bag again. This is actually my second bag from Alps Outdoors. The other one I passed on to my son after purchasing this bag.

Really liking this pack so far. It's a great size for seasons where the weather is changing and I'll be swapping out layers throughout the day. I'm only 5'6" tall. A lot of the packs in this size and price range don't have an adjustable suspension and are too big for me. This is so adjustable that it would be hard to find someone it doesn't fit. It's got lots of pockets to keep stuff organized. I particularly like the ones on the hip belt, where I'll keep my rangefinder. I added the bino pack and they work great together. It looks surprisingly well made. Given the price, I didn't have super high hopes, but so far I'm really impressed.