Just out of curiousity, has anyone ever replaced their pack compression straps w/ 1-3mm cord and Line Locs like the cord specific ladder locs Ron Bell uses on his tarp tieouts? I can't recall seeing a pack done this way, can anyone point me towards one cause I'd like to see it? It would be an easy mod to do and could possibly save a few ounces or so depending on the pack.

Any thoughts? Or is this just bogus? It seems like traditional 1/2 compression straps are sometimes overkill for pack loads under 20lbs. and a simple cord would be sufficient for maintaining pack load.

Edited by Eugeneius on 03/13/2010 14:21:59 MST.

Eugene,

Non-Stretch Compression Cordage is the term ULA uses for their pack compression system on their Ohm pack.

Copy and paste this link to your address bar to see a picture of it.

http://www.ula-equipment.com/ohm.asp

In their FAQ they describe the hows and whys of their design. ULA uses cord locks in their system. Line locs seem like a workable option.

Careful the MYOG Bug bites hard! :-)

Party On ! 2010

Newton

Hey John,

Yeah, I really like the Ohm design and the full length compression. It's quite similar to the Amp. I think that idea is really innovative and works well. I have a Granite Gear Virga and I was considering the idea of retrofitting Linelocs in place of all the traditional plastic ladder locks and swapping in cord for all the top, side and rear 3/4" compression webbing. There's tons of that stuff on there and using lightweight cording would cut considerable weight. I'm gonna toy around with the idea some more.

Vaude has done just that for some time. It just needs to be anchored well. Note that it goes through the side pocket webbing and can go over or under the items in the pocket and zig-zags up the side As you can see, they use cord for the ice axe loops.

Eugene,
You won't get much 'compression' out of 3mm cord and toggles, but you will be able to suck up any empty volume. A 1/2" strap facilitates serious applications of force, and consequent reduction in volume of compressible items.

All that said, I have an Ohm with this system and it is a pleasure to use, especially when I use the pack as a mid-trip "day pack". the volume goes to almost zero, making it a pleasure to carry.