I bought this pack for two reasons: 1) I was sick and tired of my pack "killing" my back and hips on the trail and 2) I couldn't turn down the price.
I own the Terraplane model, not the "X". After looking at Gregory, Osprey, and Vortex I decided on the Terraplane. After using this pack, I am very impressed with it in every way. One of the first things I noticed about it was the "fit and finish" of it. There was a lot of attention to detail while designing this pack. The two large exterior pockets are great and are a lot bigger than they appear. Since the waistbelt is interchangable, it can be removed and attached to the lid to form a big fanny pack if necessary.
Even though I got this pack on sale, after using it I would pay full price I had to. I liked it so much, that I know own two Dana packs. I'm looking forward to hiking this great pack up Ranier in the summer.

Customer Service

I had to exchange the waist belt for a different size which wasn't a problem. There was a local dealer near me that switched it out for me.

Northern Mountain is a great outfitter with great service and super deals. Check them out.

Similar Products Used:

Lowe, Gregory, and other Danas

The pack to survive you and generations after is the Terraplane Overkill.I've used and abused this pack from Alaska to the Gila in NM and this pack keeps coming back for more.I usually hate to talk about gear but this is one piece that deserves recognition!I call it "the Behemoth"for its ability to eat anything inside and overload!When loaded properly it will treat you well the next time your walking up dizzying switchbacks or hauling heavy climbing gear to the base of peaks.TRUST ME!

Customer Service

Dana Design is quick to tell you that they don't handle anything at Vashon Island, rather it is policy that their dealers handle everything, thus making your problem into a court case.But their warranty is unsurpassed and they'll take care of it no matter how it happened.

Similar Products Used:

The North Face, Osprey,and Gregory packs

Like everyone else who has written a review for this pack, I cannot say enough!!!! It is amazing in its ability to distribute weight. I was bumming when I was at the store, paying out of the who-ha for a small piece of fabric. Or at least that's what I thought at the time. Now, after putting it to use, I cannot believe I was even considering some of the less-expensive alternatives! You cannot go wrong with this pack!

Customer Service

Haven't had to even think about customer service, as bullet-proof as this bag seems to be!

God designed this backpack. Otherwise it would not be so perfect. I own a Terraplane overkill. It is without question a BRUTE. I have never found a problem with this pack. It carries very comfortable. I love this pack. I have purchased more packs than I would like to admit before I finally broke down and purchased this pack. I now own 6 Backpacks and 1 real backpack. I highly recommend the Terraplane, It really is the best.The hipbelt is comfortable and the bags construction is flawless.

Customer Service

never used it, no compaints on this sack

Similar Products Used:

TNF, Lowe Alpine,ll bean,CampTrails

I purchased the black Overkill model a few years ago. With accessory pouch and custom rainfly it's a good 8 pounds. A bit heavy, but extremely comfy when compared to the pack I was issued in the Army. I find the last couple years it's been only used during the winter or when I'm carrying hunting and fishing gear. I usually don't need the large volume it can accomodate, but when needed it is the hog hauler.

Similar Products Used:

None

I took this pack on a 12,000+ foot, 60 mile, 11 day trek, and it performed perfectly every second of the way. The hipbelt evenly and comfortably spread the ~60 pound weight onto my hips, without bruising. The suspension system on this pack makes it extremely customizable, with the ability to fit to anyone. The only problem that I have discovered is that the load lifter straps slide through their buckle and need adjustment every couple of hours on rough trails. This pack has terrific lumbar support, and is very forgiving to balance.

Similar Products Used:

Gregory Denali Pro- No comparison, very uncomfortable hipbelt design.

Lowe Alpine Crossbow- Shoulder straps don't work well with the load lifters.

The North Face Perseverance- Suspension cannot hold weights above 30 pounds.

You get what you pay for with this bag. It has lasted through numerous multi-day backpacking trips, airport baggage carriers, and general abuse. It fits like it was custom made for me and I wouldn't consider any other bag. It is a little hot in the summer because of all the padding on the back, but it is certainly tolerable.

Similar Products Used:

None

None

None

I used this pack for a 12 week trek accross Switzerland, Italy and Greece. This pack was fantastic for fit and durability. i have suffered from a back disorder since teenage years and this pack did not aggrevate and in fact was so comfortable that I scarce knew I was carrying 35 to 40 ilbs. My father purchase this pack from a young lady that also used this pack for a trans Europe walk. I could not say enough about this piece of equipment.

Customer Service

N/A

Similar Products Used:

Eureka (ugh)