Trapper Nelson Backpack Care?

[Wannabe1]

So, I just picked up this old Trapper Nelson backpack and it is in very good condition. I would like to know if any of you have a suggestion on how to keep the canvas from rotting? It is very wet here in Oregon during the late season and I would like to  keep this pack for a long while. It will serve as a light day pack for tromping around the hills.

 
 
 

[Roger Norris]

Nice find. Maybe use Filsons wax dressing?

[ron w]

Originally posted by Roger Norris:
Nice find. Maybe use Filsons wax dressing?

Pretty cool pack, I think Mr. Norris is on the right track.

[Orion]

The Filson wax leaves an odor. Just make sure to dry it when you return from your hunts.  Nothing lasts forever.  When that one wears/rots out, can always have someone handy with canvas make a new one for you.

[Tree Killer]

Like Orion said, don't treat it with anything. Hang it on a covered porch, in a garage, or some place cool to dry it.

My oldest brother had a Trapper Nelson when I was a kid, and you know how long ago THAT was!  If it was me, I wouldn't even use it, too good of shape and it would look great in a Man Cave!

[Wannabe1]

Thanks for the responses everyone. I won't treat then with anything.

I was amazed to find this one with no tears in it whatsoever! Maybe I'll just use it a couple of times for some short hikes, and then like Ron said, hang it on the wall. It really is a neat pack and I did some research and learned all about the Trapper Nelsons. Pretty interesting history.  

[Bob Moran]

Wow, does that bring back some memories! During the summers of 1963-65 I was a smoke chaser on the Nez Perce NF in Idaho and we were outfitted with Trapper Nelson packs with red sacks. I've always wanted one to hang in my man-cave. Treasure it!

[Dave Pagel]

I have one that and I like it a lot, but one of the straps broke last fall.  I am going to have to take it to an upholstery shop or a boat cover maker something and have a new one made.

D.P.

[widow sax]

Very Very Cool backpack that is a collector piece and a great addition to any mancave not sure I would use it.    Widow

[Duncan]

NikWax. It is made to treat cotton fabric. It does have an odor at first so you want to pre treat before the season giving it time air out.

[Bob Moran]

Dave,
Check out Duluth Tent and Awning (not Duluth Trading)to repair your pack strap. They specialize in high quality canvas packs, originally for the canoeing trade. I bet they can do it and do it right.

[Gun]

I know two guys that have Caribou capes with antlers attached mounted on those packs and hanging on the wall. They look really cool!

[Dave Pagel]

Thanks Bob.  I will look into it.

D.P.

[awishanew]

I got one in the late 1960's and hauled  many moose quarters out of the bush. I have had to repair some stitching and replace the bottom leather straps. No wonder I have a bad back now.

[killinstuff]

LL Bean makes a pack like that with leather straps I have and like a lot. They have the canvas dressing too but have not used it yet.

[reddogge]

If you want to waterproof it use Canvac, a waterproofing product for canvas.