[pct-l] RE: Prototype Pack-More Info

[reynolds@iLAN.com (Reynolds, WT)]

Bob-
 
I can't find a lightweight pack like the Kelty Cloud for my wife. My
solution is therefore "Get one made". Obviously this will take some time and
money but its fun too. Its kinda a challenge to see if I can design a 2
pound pack with a full suspension that is better then all those experts that
you mentioned. Of course, I don't need to mass produce it and that is a big
advantage. 
 
The existing prototype is available to anyone who wants to try it out. Take
my pack. Take a hike. I will try it out when I get a chance.
 
As for money, my wife is retiring in 60 days. I have a nice business that,
hopefully, run without me for extended periods. I made the "offer to sell"
in case anyone happens to be interested

-----Original Message-----
From: Bob Moulder [mailto:cmoulder@nyc.rr.com]
Sent: Tuesday, February 13, 2001 1:38 AM
To: Reynolds, WT; 'Camping List'; Reynolds, Ginnie
Cc: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Subject: Re: Prototype Pack-More Info


If profit isn't the motive, then what is?
 
I can see the allure one-off designs that meet specific needs or desires,
but the moment the word "marketing" comes into the picture it is automatic
that "profit" will (hopefully) follow. Or do you think Patagonia, TNF,
Mountain Hardwear, Dana, Gregory, GoLite and the plethora of other outdoor
gear companies aren't making money?
 
Profit is not a dirty word -- it is your reward for ingenuity and hard work.
 
As for the issue of design and function, assume nothing. If marketing and
money truly are not big deals, then you can afford to do the initial field
tests at your leisure, when you do have time. Best to do the alpha testing
yourself, with beta testing on others at a later time. Alpha testing on a
PCT thru-hike is, to say the least, a bit ambitious.
 
All this the humble opinion, of course, of one who has had humility thrust
upon him. <g>
 
-- Bob M

----- Original Message ----- 
From: Reynolds, WT <mailto:reynolds@iLAN.com>  
To: 'Bob Moulder' <mailto:cmoulder@nyc.rr.com>  ; Reynolds, WT
<mailto:reynolds@iLAN.com>  ; 'Camping List'
<mailto:campinglist@gentleye.com>  ; Reynolds, Ginnie
<mailto:ginnie@iLAN.com>  
Cc: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net <mailto:pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>  
Sent: Monday, February 12, 2001 10:08 PM
Subject: RE: Prototype Pack-More Info

I am hoping to get other people to test the pack because I can't. I don't
have the time. I am hopeful that the pack, being simply a copy of an
existing pack, will have minor problems. I did try the water suspending
trick with the Kelty. It worked well. Marketing it is no big deal. Money
isn't the issue. You can't get rich selling backpacking gear. I expect three
or four prototypes before I finally get the one I want for Ginnie.
 
Thanks,
 
tom


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