Sierra 4800 Internal Frame Hiking Backpack

First of all I have to ask that the reader know what torso length is, how to measure it, and why it is important. See the "How to fit a backpack" video below product details. This pack (Sierra 4800) can only be properly fitted for tall people, probably 6'1" or taller. A loaded and improperly fitted packed will cause discomfort and possibly even injury over time.Why did I choose this Mission Peak backpack? The adjustable TL range is clearly stated in the specs, so I knew it would fit me (6'5", 23" TL). The majority of entry level backpacks don't list this information, or are not adjustable at all. The price is excellent for the size and features. It has load lifter straps. It comes in lighter colors, and so won't soak up heat. Internal frame, essential IMO for carrying more than a dozen pounds comfortably. It is a sleek backpack; no blocky "tactical" pouches that must be tightened and loosened, and can snag on stuff. I researched numerous similar sized backpacks that were also under $100 new or used, even emailed the manufacturers with questions, before settling on this one.What I like: The color is pretty much dead on compared to the photo. Light for it's size. Tough construction; the material, stitching, zippers, straps, buckles are all high quality. No plastic or chemical smells, inside or out. Big cushy lumbar and scapula pads. 3" wide shoulder straps. For this level of backpack, straps and loops where you need them, and there's no superfluous junk hanging off. Likewise, there are no useless exposed hook-and-loop strips to collect debris and hair. Everything is adjustable, even the hip pads (stabilizer straps). This is a well-thought-out design. One front and two side pockets. Interior can be accessed from the top AND the front, which is a pretty huge deal. I test fitted TWO 3L bladders side by side in the hydration pouch, and there's a tube port and clip at the right shoulder. The sleeping bag compartment fit my XL bag with no cramming. Also has an interior zipper that lets you open the bag compartment, so it's just one big space inside. Easy to find and remove frames for washing the pack, or bending the frames to fit the curve of your back. The two mesh pockets are well attached and deep enough to each encase a 1L Nalgene bottle up to its shoulder.What I don't like: rain fly cannot be accessed by yourself or a hiking partner without taking the pack off. While it's not going to be sliding around, the torso length/shoulder mount has an inch of horizontal play. Shoulder straps put some pressure on the clavicle, which I solved with these https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MAWMCVWWhile I haven't actually hiked with the pack, I loaded it up with my sleeping bag, pillows, and a couple of dumbbell free weights to a 27 pound total, and did chores around the house and yard for an hour. I made sure to go up and down stairs several times. It takes some fiddling to get the fit right, but I felt no discomfort, strain or fatigue at all.My overall impression: The Mission Peak Sierra 4800 is arguably the best choice for the TALL beginner or occasional backpacker.

This backpack is very well rounded for the price. Don’t expect an Osprey and you should be fine! Comfortable, strong enough for the price and lots of room for gear. I carry:- a tarp and big dry bag on the two sides (side straps)- pillow and the rainfly in the upper pocket- sleeping bag in bottom pocket- two spare outfits, a spare sleeping bag and small tools (multi-tool, writing pad, nail clippers, aspirin) in the main compartment- crocs on the front compression straps- and my sleeping pad on the bottom front straps.Even have an outback hat strapped to the drawstring. All this and it still has a degree of comfort while hiking. No tears or zipper issues yet!

I returned it right away.

First the good: I think it is a high quality, well made pack. It hauls a heavy load easily and distributes the weight well on your back if you pack it correctly just like any pack. I have the green one and it is an attractive olive green color. I also like the front access. It allows me to pack a light jacket or rain gear for easy access.One complaint, I feel the capacity is marketed badly. It is advertised as an 80 liter, they admit it is only a 70 liter in the description. They name "4800" generally refers to the cubic inches on every other pack on the market...this is kind of an industry standard. 4800 would indicate a 78 liter pack. My load is not that big and I have a hard time packing it all. Honestly, I would say 65 liters is probably a much more accurate description. This is a huge disappointment for me as I wanted this pack to be my large pack. Instead, it will have to be my medium pack and I will have to continue my search for a decently priced large capacity pack. For this reason, the pack earned 3 stars. I almost always give 4 or 5 stars. First 3 star I have given in a long time. Mission Peak needs to start marketing this pack correctly.

Great, Sturdy! Pleased with purchase. Would buy again!

Very nice no problems good product

With this MISION PEAK GEAR hiking backpack, one can move fairly well, while ON A MISSION. :)So far, this backpack holds up well. My pillows fit nicely in the bottom compartment. Downside, the RAINCOVER IS TOO SMALL (not large enough) to cover the backpack with at least 1 additional item of hiking gear, such as a standard size camping pad.SUGGESTION: The RAINCOVER should be moved to a side or bottom compartment, so that the top compartment (flap) can have 2 storage areas. Also, the INTERNAL FRAME should be made of stronger material, so that the backpack can free-stand (e.g., the way the Stansport "Willow" Internal Frame Pack free-stands without much gear on the inside of the bag).INACCURATE CAPACITY: The capacity of this backpack is actually just around 70L. THIS IS NOT AN 80L BAG! THIS IS A 70L BAG!

Held enough for my 12 year old on a week hiking trip, so far is holding up to his abuse too.