I choose to have a super sarc made as light as possible. I would like to weigh it on a digital scale, but without the frame, it weighs almost the same as my wildthings ice pack which is 2lbs. 14oz.

Dan McHale was very helpful helping keep the weight down. I do not have the access zipper above the slepping bag compartment. the body fabric is 1000 nylon. the top is 500. the webbing is poly.

I think the pack is great. I know it will last a long time. The stitching on all the McHale packs I have seen are oversewn on purpose. I dont worry about ever blowing a seam.

the locking zipper on the top lid should be incorporated into all packs.

Great Pack!

Customer Service

Arcteryx, Dana Design, WildThings, Osprey

I have had this pack for about 3 years now and have had nothing go wrong on it. Prior to this pack I was using my McHale Alpineer Standard that I continue to use, but I found myself wanted a smaller pack that doesn't stick above my head. The SARC can be used for week long trips and shorter technical trips also. I like the smaller size of the pack and it only weighs 4 lbs (compared to the 7 of my alpineer).

As with the other McHale packs, you get a custom fit and custom colors. I have tried other packs, Dana, Gregory, Osprey and Jansport. For me the custom fit makes a world of difference to my back and shoulders. The adjustment system for the belt and shoulder strpas are simple and don't have multitudes of possible adjustments needed as is required with something like a MS bugaboo. The hip belts I really like, they aren't super padded like the Dana's are, in fact they are about 1/2" thick; rather the pack relies on the frame to transmit the load to the hips.

About the most I have carried for any trips is 40 lbs. For larger loads I prefer the superior CM boyonet system used in the more expensive packs. I got the pack on sale ($300) because no one wanted a purple pack. I would probably pay the $359 that he charges for a new one. To me the comfort is worth it.

One thing to note is that the last shot of Mr. Fischer (Mtn Madness) going up Everest shows him with his McHale SARC on. It did not save him, but it is interesting that he chose McHale over the rest.

Customer Service

I have been to Dan's shop several times and has been very helpful. Yes, he is very opinionated about his products and other issues as well, but he is very willing to make sure that your pack is made just for you.

Similar Products Used:

Dana, Gregory, Osprey and Jansport. All inferior to McHale.