Got back from my JMT trip about 4 weeks ago. The Black Beauty performed magnificently.

I drew up a picture for you about how I attached my hipbelt on the Black Bomber. It's definitely not the only way to do it, but it worked great for me. I constructed the two halves separately and then attached them using X-box reinforcement.

Great input. I also designed my pack with a center hipbelt attachment and it does help, making the hipbelt really cinch your hips. Planning my next pack, I've been thinking about attaching them to the sides (lazy!) but I should really do it the right way, as your illustration.

Daniel

Thanks for the drawing Shane. This is definitely a good way to do it. What I'd ideally like is to have the hipbelt be one piece and attach at the center. Still have some thinking to do... If I don't come up with anything, I'll probably try your construction. Thanks again!