Part 1 - First Impressions: Granite Gear Blaze 60: Perfect Balance of Lightweight and Load Capacity!

If you could only pick one bag to carry for the backpacking application, which bag would you choose? I am asked quite often which bag I would recommend, and which bag is good for a beginner. Well, here's the thing. Choosing the right backpack can be tough. How heavy is it...and how much gear can it carry...and how comfortable is it? Every bag has a pro an con and strengths and weaknesses. But if there was one backpack that meets all the needs from weight and capacity, which bag would it be?? I think it might possibly be the Granite Gear Blaze 60. Capable of heavy loads in a lightweight package, I will take a solid look at this bag in terms of its features and carry quality to determine if this is the bag I would ultimately recommend to both beginners as well as seasoned hikers!
www.granitegear.com/blaze-60-...

[@andrewjfast]

your review and going thru all the ins/outs (literally) was SOOO Great, convinced me to buy it ($134 for Crushed grape, size Regular, on BackCountry right now!!) just arrived and I can't wait to take it out. again thank you Soooo much for the 2 part review, truly love the positivity and expertise. keep up the good work. subscribed

[@outerlimitless]

Glad it was helpful and enjoy the pack! I hope it treats you well and happy trails!

[@poutous1]

I just got the GG crown 60, I really like their packs. I think you reviewed that one as well. Helped me decide on buying it. Thanks for the thorough reviews!

[@outerlimitless]

Awesome!! Yes, I did review the Crown2 60. Two videos...first impressions and then carrying it on a substantial backpacking trip. The Crown2 60 is a great bag. Excellent comfort and light weight carry. I like the dump style very much! It's a solid option for sure if you have a light weight kit. I'm looking forward to testing out this blaze!

[@poutous1]

I do remember now... your waterproof test under the shower did it for me. I’m not a big winter camper being in Colorado (too damn cold) but spring Is upon us so I’m chomping at the bit to get this bad boy on the trail. Thanks for doing my leg work testing this sucker out. P.S. I love your practical take on backpacking; I will never do the ultralight cut down my toothbrush thing but I’m always up for non-compromising weight saving tips. Can’t be ultra light when you always start with 32 oz of Jameson😉

[@outerlimitless]

@@poutous1 Haha! No doubt. I'm definitely on the fringe between mid-weight and light weight now. But I need my luxuries! I'm taking a stance this summer to cut back, but it's not gonna be easy! Look up Toobs toothbrush on Amazon. Credit to @mattyoutdoors who had that great find! I switched to a new kit system for med, fire, etc. I'll have a video on that stuff Sunday morning.

[@outerlimitless]

@@poutous1 I grew up going to the CO Rockies. Climbed longs peak when I was 12 yrs old. An adventure I'll never forget! I love it out there!

[@DavidsDawley]

I got my nearly 50% off. Damaged box, it was not packaged correctly but after working with it a few minutes everything was perfect. Can’t wait to take out.

[@Teufel_Resen]

I'm a minimalist doing 3 day backpacking trips with a Osprey Manta AG 20L and just started thinking about a larger pack. My buddy has the Osprey Exos 58 which isn't for me. I tired my son's REI Flash 65 and it's not for me. I've been looking at the Osprey Aether Pro 70 until this pack came around in my research. After this video, I'm sold! Thanks dude.

[@outerlimitless]

I have the Blaze 60 all packed up and ready for a trip next weekend. I'll be definitely putting on the miles and I'll have a follow up video to describe the carry quality and comfort as well as my experience working out of the bag. So far I am quite impressed!

[@patricktompkins5704]

I recently got this pack and so far the only thing keeping me from being in love with this pack is ive had my shoulder blades rubbing uncomfortably on the plastic frame with full load out on a couple trips. Maybe i dont have the suspension adjusted right? Anybody experience this and if so what did you do to fix it?

[@utubewatcher486]

Great review. This will be my next pack. The tool loops have been lengthened from previous models to better accommodate an ice axe. They aren't designed to carry an actual axe in the way you show, nor would I think making them longer help most users who need to carry an ice axe. I would suggest attaching some webbing to the loop that can create a "stirrup" type holder for the axe. (put the axe head on the top edge of the loop, then wrap extra webbing around the head and attach back to the loop.) Hard to explain but basically a DIY solution is necessary here, and I think preferable rather than the bag come with too-long loops for most users.

[@outerlimitless]

There are many packs with adjustable loops. I've had some great luck with other bags that accommodate many different items in those loops... trekking poles, axes, saws, etc. For example, I personally don't use ice axes. So the idea that loops would be made to only accommodate certain tools seems sort sighted to me. I've carried the bag on a substantial trip and it was great. I like it overall...I just think minor tweaks would perfect the design with some flexibility

[@patricktompkins5704]

I carried a full-size ice axe with the loops on a mountaineering trip without issue. I don't think it's designed for a wood cutting axe in mind.

[@wouter6539]

Really looking forward to your comparison with the other bags. Any idae when we could expect it? :) (Thinking of getting one, but wanted to wait for part 2)

[@outerlimitless]

I have trip footage from this past weekend. I'll be adding the comparison of the other bags as part of this video. If things go well I'll have it ready in a week or so

[@outerlimitless]

If it helps, I do really like it, but there are a couple frustrations. Nothing earth shattering and I already mentioned my concerns in the table top review.

[@wouter6539]

@@outerlimitless Oke thanks a lot! The things you mention in the table top are not that big of a problem for me. I still probably wait for your next video and order after it :D Thanks a lot, good review man!

[@outerlimitless]

@@wouter6539 Here's some of the trip footage if you're interested. I don't talk about the pack, but this is the trip I used it on. kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3abmKmQfZV8rtE

[@MrLivingIt]

I love my 2019 blaze 60. The size of those side pockets is amazing. I noticed you mentioned that there are two side compression straps when there are actually three! Very versatile. Thanks for the great review.

[@outerlimitless]

Haha, I just looked. YEP, three side compressions straps. This bag is really amazing. I CAN'T WAIT to get this out on the trails. First week of May I have a pretty serious hike and overnight planned. As long as the weather cooperates I will be getting this bag out on the trails and I will do a full field review. But man, it's literally the perfect balance of features! I wish it came in a wolf grey color...the fabric colors are a bit funny, but I'm not gonna knock it!

[@MrLivingIt]

@@outerlimitless I got mine in the brown color and it looks AMAZING..... when clean lol. I'll be taking it out for the first time on a portage trip to Algonquin Park. Another thing I really like about this pack is the frame. It is so solid. It doesn't cave in like the other skinny aluminum frames on the more popular brands. I'll be doing a video review on mine soon too. I believe yours is the first one out there so congrats!

[@MrLivingIt]

@@outerlimitless by the way, I really dig your 'man cave' with all your gear.

[@MrBalas3]

Do you think the side pockets are large enough to hold a 2 person tent using the compression straps naturally?

[@caseyk6625]

Just ordered the Blaze 60 from Granite Gear. They are offering 30% off right now on their website. That discount coupled with the sale of my Osprey Atmos 50 makes this a very inexpensive upgrade!

[@outerlimitless]

Nice...I'll be curious to hear how you like it. Did you receive it yet?

[@bertman4]

I got mine during the 25% off sale. The pack is not waterproof, it's water resistant. From Granite Gear's website: "100D Robic High-tenacity nylon with Barrier DWR main body". I plan to use a pack liner.

[@wanderingaloudwithmark3057]

I definitely agree with you. I often attach stuff(usually a tent) to the bottom of my pack. It's a msr hubba hubba. Would take up a fair bit of space in the main body of the pack. Still considering the pack though. I currently use 70L Osprey Xentith . It comes in at 5 lbs.

[@outerlimitless]

I like my tent on the bottom of the pack. It's a real disadvantage to having it stuffed in the middle of everything. I don't understand why they don't include straps... just make them removable!

[@wanderingaloudwithmark3057]

@@outerlimitless yeah it's not like Granite Gear is new to the game. I think it is a major under sight. Not having straps on the bottom of the pack.

[@outerlimitless]

@@wanderingaloudwithmark3057 It's killing me right now. I'm packing for an upcoming trip and that lack of attachment has my bag all wonky and certainly not ideal!

[@wanderingaloudwithmark3057]

@@outerlimitless I am glad I am talking to you right now. I was really serious about this pack. But after our conversation I am having some doubts. Thinking maybe going with the Gregory Paragon 68L. Where did you put your tent? I was thinking maybe using the exterior side pocket and tension straps. The way I see is once you start shaving weight. It comes with some sacrifices.

[@outerlimitless]

@@wanderingaloudwithmark3057 So, i put it across the top of the pack, beneath the head pack. It's not bad... and right now I have 2 quilts and down clothing taking up a bunch of room. It's still winter conditions here.

[@barrybueler3356]

Cool bag I’ve been looking at the 34 liter maxpedition tiburon but I haven’t pulled the trigger cause I already have a few bags some to small some to big etc.If I was forced to choose which bag I’d take for a long trip or shtf I’d take my 511 rush 72 but for a smaller hike I’d take my Duluth bag smaller but a really nice bushcrafting type of bag if it had a little Molle and more organization the Duluth would be my perfect bag.

[@outerlimitless]

Yes, for heavy duty use those bags are solid...or for every day carry. Heading into the mountains though, those fabrics are too heavy and add significant un-necessary weight. Even bags like Eberlestock and Vanquest are a bit on the heavy side when talking about serious backpacking. Kuiu is the closest that you get between a light weight backpack and a good looking tactical bag. I don't like many true backpacking bags, but the Osprey and Granite Gear options can be solid.

[@barrybueler3356]

Good to know thanx that’s the mistake I made with the rush 72

[@outerlimitless]

I have always wanted to try out the Rush 72. I love the concept of that bag. And there's not doubt it's robust. I could see it being a great bushcraft bag, or good for a flat, low milage trip. That's the challenge with true "backpacking"...getting the efficiency between carry capability and light weight. Do you ever head up to the Whites?

[@barrybueler3356]

outer limitless I definitely like the bag if I was a little bigger and stronger.I always want to take everything and I don’t hike to far but I would like the option for a lighter system.

[@alanmanzie9902]

I enjoyed the video, can you provide the cost of the backpack. Second, I am an experienced BP, do you have a video on larger bags that will hold 50 to 70 lbs? Pros nd Cons. I'm looking at the Gregory Baltoro 75 to 80. Many Thanks. Al

[@outerlimitless]

I'm not current on pricing. For heavier loads I suggest something in the hunting genre or even military but that's my advice. I like eberlestock. I had 50 lbs in my Vanquest Markhor 45.

[@alanmanzie9902]

@@outerlimitless

[@alanmanzie9902]

Thanks, I'll chek them out.

[@ArcticFamilyMN]

Maybe I missed it..... what's your height? I'm 6'2" and depending upon who I have measure according to their sizing.. I'm getting 20" or 21" ... so am trying to sort out Regular or Large.

[@outerlimitless]

I'm 6'1". I would suggest regular for this bag due to the adjustability. But don't worry about height...just measure the small of your back to your shoulder blades to make a determination. Your height could be all in your legs. Or maybe all in your torso? Hard to say unless you measure. My height is in my legs, so the Regular was a better fit for me. Hope that helps.

[@mro4056]

So the packbag has a waterproof "coating" on the inside so if you do not use a pack cover, the outside of the pack will get saturated and heavy with water weight when it rains. Sounds typical of many packs. Why not saturate the pack with a waterproof material so external abrasion will not compromise the fabric's waterproofness to the same degree. If there is a C-6 DWR on the outside, that will wear off unless it is permanent DWR which is uncommon and rare but helpful.

[@outerlimitless]

It's pretty good for water repellancy. The Crown2 60 does a very good job actually. I wouldn't think this Blaze would pick up too much water weight, but maybe? Not sure. Would be an interesting test actually.

[@mro4056]

@@outerlimitless It is an important consideration. Seems pack companies compete based on weight but often do not factor in the weight of a soaked pack or a pack cover. Not a big deal on the PCT but definately an issue on the AT. I think I read Granite Gear uses a DWR but unless it is a permanent treatement, the DWR's out there do not last.

[@takinisurvivalchannel3812]

The blaze 60 comes in a standard (Men's) model, and Women's model. It's not unisex, the women's has a different contour hipbelt, and shoulder straps, as well as different size of regular and short (in relation to a women).

[@outerlimitless]

Ok maybe true ... but you're commenting on a 3 or 4 year old video. At the time this was a unisex model. I had the first video produced for the blaze and helped release the model at the time.

[@takinisurvivalchannel3812]

@@outerlimitless no maybe to it. Figured someone (woman) would read the comment and get some info, and not because I'm trying to prove someone wrong. They are still selling the blaze 60.

[@outerlimitless]

@@takinisurvivalchannel3812 definitely... I agree with you... Makes sense... Thanks for watching

[@JustinHEMI05]

Great review! Too bad it's out of stock until 2/21 in regular size. :(

[@outerlimitless]

Oh, wow! That is too bad. It has definitely become one of my go-to options. I carry that pack a couple times a year and loan it to most of my beginner friends that I try to get hooked on the sport. Good fit for most, and light comfortable carry.

[@1001RMJ]

It's available now!

[@MrBarnichka]

Sold! Say no more, just take my money and give it to me %)

[@outerlimitless]

It's a good bag...you'll like it!

[@jenyates3033]

How many adverts?

[@outerlimitless]

Did you watch the whole video? It's almost 30 minutes. Most people only last 5:02 on average. Lots of information in there!