Bison Gear Selway

[xrangerx]

I've been a member here for a while, more of a reader than a poster. But I was wondering if anyone could help me out with deciding on a bison gear pack.

The size of the Selway looks perfect, but I am 6'5" and have a tough time finding packs that fit and remain comfortable for an extended period of time. Anyone around my height that has used one?

As far as sizing, is the 2200ci for the top and bottom compartments, as well as the two side pockets and back pocket? Or just the main two compartments?

If anyone has some pictures (fully loaded and what you had in it would be fantastic) or more info on this pack that would be fantastic! I've seen a few floating around here so I know there is some experience!

Thanks for your time!

[Orion]

Hmmmm.  Depends on how you want to use it.  I have a Bison Gear Lost River, which is a bit smaller.  I use it as a day pack, and it carries all I could ever need for that purpose.  Though the pack itself is quite light, the contents can get quite heavy though, so when used as a day pack, it's usually only about 1/2 to 2/3 full.

I think the Selway would work well for two-3 day sojourns away from base camp (though with all the the tie-on straps, the Lost River would probably suffice for that purpose as well).  I personally think the Selway a bit small to carry everything in on your back for an extended week long hunt, but I suppose that depends a little on how lightly you pack.

I'm less that 6 feet tall so can't speak to the fit issue at your height, but the straps are as versatile as any I've seen, the waist belt rides where it should and the pack is very comfortable on me.  

Pretty sure the 2,200 cubic inches is the combined volume of all of the pack's parts.

[xrangerx]

Thanks, Orion!That is more the size I'm looking for, something larger than a day pack, but smaller than a week long pack.

[Gdpolk]

You may have a hard time getting a hold of one.  I tried unsuccessfully for over 2 months to get in contact with Angelo to place an order.  I finally just gave up and gave Tenzing my money for a small pack and Badlands my money for some packs right off the shelf last fall.  

I'm not trying to nock Angelo or his products but after all I tried I just got left with the impression that he wasn't interested in selling any more products or keeping the business running.  I tried calling multiple times on different days and at different times of day, leaving multiple voice mails, sending a couple of emails, and having two different people who supposedly know him and were going to be in direct contact with him for a hunt or visit forward my info to him.  I still have yet to hear from him or anyone else from Bison Gear.  I figured at that rate even if the packs are wonderful, they don't want my money and if I ever have a problem I won't be able to get it addressed after the sell.  

Both Tenzing and Badlands have been on the phone within 24 hours of my attempt to reach them and were very friendly and knowledgable about their products with regards to answering some of my technical questions.  Both also offer a lifetime warranty.  Both are also made of quiet materials.  Both have a reputation for solid, post sale customer service although I haven't had to use it.

[xrangerx]

GDPolk, that is a bummer to hear! I have sent him a couple of emails too and haven't received a response either. His products look awesome and get great reviews, but customer service is huge too.

I will give it a bit longer and if I don't hear from him I will decide then what my next course of action is.

I appreciate your response!

[Whip]

Check with Gray Wolf Woolens - find them under the sponsor listings.
They sell some of the Bison Gear packs, including the Lost River.  Laurie and Bill at Gray Wolf will certainly respond to you.

[NBK]

Originally posted by Whip:
Check with Gray Wolf Woolens - find them under the sponsor listings.
They sell some of the Bison Gear packs, including the Lost River.  Laurie and Bill at Gray Wolf will certainly respond to you.

X2.
Bought a Lost River from them and their customer service is second to none.

[xrangerx]

I just sent them a message. I am looking primarily for the Selway, but we will see!

[Terry Green]

I tell you what ...if you get a hold of Angelo and he says he'll make you one and you want to know how it fits you beforehand.... I'll send you mine to try. That way I'll know he's in business in case it gets lost in the mail he can make me another one.... it's the only pack I use.

Feel free to load it up with your gear and have a walk or two around the block.

I just teed you up a picture thread

[xrangerx]

Wow Terry! Incredibly generous offer, and one I would love to take you up on. I will let you know if/when I get a response back

[Sawpilot 75]

Angelo is still in business. He made two packs for me this spring. Great guy to deal with.

[xrangerx]

Sawpilot, did you ever try to contact him? Or just place your order and it showed up?

[Sawpilot 75]

Originally posted by xrangerx:
Sawpilot, did you ever try to contact him? Or just place your order and it showed up?

I called him. Sunday's is best. Super good guy.

[Sawpilot 75]

Originally posted by xrangerx:
Sawpilot, did you ever try to contact him? Or just place your order and it showed up?

I called him. Sunday's is best. Super good guy.

[Gdpolk]

Originally posted by xrangerx:
GDPolk, that is a bummer to hear! I have sent him a couple of emails too and haven't received a response either. His products look awesome and get great reviews, but customer service is huge too.

I will give it a bit longer and if I don't hear from him I will decide then what my next course of action is.

I appreciate your response!

Your welcome. I've heard nothing but good about them too and as a bowhunter I really love their designs and materials. On paper they look like the best packs ever made for bowhunting. But that doesn't help if you can't get in touch with the maker. My understanding is that it's somewhat of a side business for him and maybe it just got lost in the shuffle of life. I have no hard feelings but was a little surprised at my experience based off the seemingly endless positive reviews I've hear.

[meathead]

I ordered one online this past winter and had no trouble at all. It was an online order and it was at my door in 2 weeks. We emailed back and forth a couple times after delivery well.  He puts out a top notch pack.

[Sawpilot 75]

He works a full time job and has a 2 hour commute to work everyday so he gets in real late. I have tried a pile of packs since the 80's. The Lost River is by far my favorite.

[xrangerx]

I ended up picking up a used Selway last week and got out with it for hike yesterday. Loaded it up with my typical 1-3 day trip gear and put around 8 miles in. Carried great!

[Wudstix]

Does anyone have a link?  Does this company still exist.  Able to find pics on-line but then it stops.      Any help would be appreciated.

[Terry Green]

Grey Wolf Woolens....Sponsor.