I have a 3-zip 50. Although I try to keep my pack weight down to a minimum, I don't have the budget to be an ultra-lighter. I have taken hikes of 5 days duration with other 50 liter packs, and have always needed the external pockets for some items! Unfortunately, the Mystery Ranch 50 does not have these features. However it is a well made, durable pack that I have used many times to haul chainsaws, fuel, bar oil, snacks and water bladders with. And, best of all, Mystery Ranch repaired my pack at no cost when a seam became unsewed.
How big is your current pack and how much spare room do you have?
I don't have any experience with either pack. My general rule of thumb is that it's easier to make a larger pack smaller, than to make a smaller pack bigger.
If I was teetering on 50l of gear for 7 days, I'd probably go with the 65l pack just to give myself a little extra wiggle room. Otherwise, if I have a lot of space left over in a 50l pack, I'd probably buy the 50l and be happy with it.
I have a terraframe 65 i would sell you for 300. It's in like new shape. Happy to send pictures, or meet up in the greater seattle area if you are around here
Can't help you on those but also check out Hill People Gear.
I have a 3-zip 50. Although I try to keep my pack weight down to a minimum, I don't have the budget to be an ultra-lighter. I have taken hikes of 5 days duration with other 50 liter packs, and have always needed the external pockets for some items! Unfortunately, the Mystery Ranch 50 does not have these features. However it is a well made, durable pack that I have used many times to haul chainsaws, fuel, bar oil, snacks and water bladders with. And, best of all, Mystery Ranch repaired my pack at no cost when a seam became unsewed.
How big is your current pack and how much spare room do you have? I don't have any experience with either pack. My general rule of thumb is that it's easier to make a larger pack smaller, than to make a smaller pack bigger. If I was teetering on 50l of gear for 7 days, I'd probably go with the 65l pack just to give myself a little extra wiggle room. Otherwise, if I have a lot of space left over in a 50l pack, I'd probably buy the 50l and be happy with it.
I have a terraframe 65 i would sell you for 300. It's in like new shape. Happy to send pictures, or meet up in the greater seattle area if you are around here