[pct-l] Why don't we wee more Thoracic bags (front packs / balance pockets / bodypack) in the Industry?

[Tortoise]

I have an old A-16 external frame backpack, now retired. When I used it and 
carried my old Canon SLR, the A16 had a D-ring on each side near the top 
and designed for the camera strap to go thru. I used a piece of parachute 
cord with a snap hook on each end to connect to my camera / case. Thus all 
the weight of the camera was transferred to my pack and then down to my 
waist. Did have some problem with the camera swinging and beating against 
my chest. I had to remember to adjust the rope to one side before removing 
my pack or I got strangled. ;-)

Maybe one could contrive something similar for the internal frame packs.

Tortoise

<> Because truth matters.  <>

On 02/06/11 08:43, Kevin wrote:
> How do you get the weight onto your hips? A front pack would ensure the load rests on my shoulders all day. No thanks. I'm a wanna be photographer, so I carry a DSLR and lenses into the backcountry most of the time. I have a nice Lowe Pro bag that I hang from my sternum strap. I can totally feel the weight there. All day, everyday. For my PCT hike, I'm only bring one lens first of all, and I think I came up with a better way to carry the camera securely and still provide quick access. My goal this time is have the weight suspended from my hip belt.
>
> I'll admit I didn't look at the links, but I think I know what you're describing. My experience with the camera bag hanging in front yells me no thanks.
>
> One other downside... Visibility. You can't see your feet. Not a huge deal most of the time, but sometimes it can be. HYOH and YMMV, but I would offer a strong recommendation against a front pack.
>
> Misspellings and typos brought to you by iPhone.
>
> On Feb 6, 2011, at 1:08 AM, John Abela<pacificcresttrail2011 at gmail.com>  wrote:
>