Medium Internal Frames: Kelty Redwing Part 2

July 29th, 2010 | by admin |


A medium-sized backpack will often be your most used pack. For carrying daypack loads, tactical loads, travel gear, and perhaps a very light overnight load the Kelty Redwing is one of the best. It is Nutnfancys reference backpack in this this category (2000-3500 cubic inches, internal frame). Also notable is the excellent GoLite Continuum backpack also discussed. While these designs have been updated or discontinued, a review of their features can equip you with some shopping tips for similarly capable daypacks. The Redwing is a long-enduring design that is constantly being updated by Kelty and remains popular for good reasons: convenient panel loading, strong zippers and fabric, comfortable suspension, hydration compatible, behind-pocket (flow-thru) item carry, subdued colors (sometimes camo!), mesh backpanel, pefect pocket designs, and outstanding durability. Few packs match all these features although some may be lighter. One such pack was the GoLite Continuum (discontinued, look for similar models). While lacking convenient panel loading, this Continuum does save a pound in carry weight while still offering some waterproof pockets, good ventilation, side item carry (like fishing poles, rifles), mesh pockets, good (albeit spartan) suspension, hydration pouch, and a great OD color. Its lightweight fabric however is not as durable in hard use as is often the case with lightweight offerings (technology may change this in the future). But for all-around, tough, brush …

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  1. 17 Responses to “Medium Internal Frames: Kelty Redwing Part 2”

  2. By marshall3win on Jul 29, 2010 | Reply

    just got myself a high sierra summit 45!

  3. By DarthPulven on Jul 29, 2010 | Reply

    great rewiew. just a few questions. could the camelbak hook not hook on to the strap above the lock. for the hydration divider ?

    how is the airflow on the back. ?` it seems like there is nothing there just flat.
    or is it wery breatheble ?

    have been looking at the kelty site. it seems to me that the ideer about the hole throught the side pockets. (where you put the knife and gun ) is gone. i cant see it on the new models. sadly

  4. By MaximumDensity1 on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    I just bought my Kelty Redwing today based on your review.
    It has changed. as you said, and I will prob make a video response showing the new 2009 version. I will only hit the new features. Some good some not so good.
    Thanks for the info. I love my Redwing as much as you love yours.
    Props 5/5

  5. By tileguydamon on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    I have a redwing 2650 and it is by far my favorite day pack. Also a fan of the gregory z55.

  6. By verheul32 on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    Nice review.
    Are your planning about reviewing a Camelbak??
    Keep up the work

  7. By meloscot18 on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    Thanks for the detail dude

  8. By poorbackpacker on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    Another awesome review. I went and got a Redwing after seeing this.

    The only thing I would avoid is the camo version if you want to travel abroad with this bag. Some of the countries I’ve visited react negatively to camo because of it’s tactical/military connotations.

    Otherwise,great vid. Haven’t watched tv in months cause of them.

    Please keep’em coming.

  9. By aggelos123 on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    hi nutnfancy… why don’t you cover poles with kitchen plastic wrap…. its light and it will blunt any whipping action if it gets caught. or maybe use those christmas tree decoration tubs that sell ornaments in. maybe giant candy can tube. (Yeah I was in the pharmacy and went through the candy and holiday gift isle : ).)

  10. By jetfuel545 on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    Great conclusion, 5 star again. A true pro reviewer. Top notch information, from all your experience and knowledge. Priceless, that is just great stuff. Thanks Fancy. Jet over and out

  11. By ROBattles on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    So true about the subdued colors. I like black, grey, brown, OD, etc for coats and outdoor equipment. I’m not a big fan of bright colors. =)

  12. By nutnfancy on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    A lightweight tubing would be a good idea. I’m always counting the weight though and I wonder if PVC would be too heavy. Thanks.

  13. By nutnfancy on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    Thanks dude. Made it with a program I got.

  14. By AmberJack161 on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    More excellent information from nutnfancy. Thank you. I really like where the nutnfancy project is headed.

  15. By SpudCrushed on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    I was thinking about that too. Well, PVC anyway.

    PVC would be too heavy (few pounds?) But that black stuff would probably do well

  16. By AGeRMaNPrOxZ on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    Hey nutnfancy! I have an idea for your fishing poles. IYou should get abs plastic tubing (1/2″) and cut it at the same length of the pole and keep your pole in that 2 peice pole – Its is strong plastic tubing its black and it is similiar to PVC. So check it out and your poles wont snap

  17. By flippinrawks on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    thanks for the guidelines 5*

  18. By sc00ny on Jul 30, 2010 | Reply

    LOVE that theme music.
    Now going to look for a new backpack.
    You brought up some important features

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