http://www.rei.com/product/828971/mountain-hardwear-thruway-50-pack

or

http://www.rei.com/product/831620/granite-gear-crown-vc-60-pack


any opinions? or has anyone got any experience with either of these packs?

I considered getting the Crown VC-60 but decided against it because it does not come with hip belt pockets. I don't know anything about the Mt. Hardware pack.

Don't have practical experience with either, but would not trust a framesheet pack with 25+ lb load...

I would trust the Granite Gear pack, however, as their frames are heavy duty. I still have an older discontinued model, designed to carry up to 40 lbs, which it does nicely.

Have quite a bit of trail time with the VC60. It's a comfy pack with reasonable loads--under 30 pounds is what I'd recommend. Note well it has no torso adjustment, so must fit well out of the box. The MH pack looks very interesting, but I have no knowledge or experience. The hip wings look pretty meager, I'd make sure they can support a full load.

Just got an aftermarket air "frame" for the GG and am looking forward to giving it a go. I don't think it will add load range but for full loads, it might make it more comfortable. Also drops a few ounces.

Always, always, always try before you buy.

Cheers,