Sounds like you got a good deal. I've dealt with Backcountry Gear (a lot), and they're super. I've sent a couple of things back, with the hang tags intact, and they never batted an eye - full refund, promptly executed.

If you really want both packs to try, call them tonight or first thing tomorrow - they might still be able to add it to the order. I've done that, too. However, with their free shipping option, your plan will also work - and maybe save you paying for shipping on the return.

Most people I know who get a good fit with the Z really like it, so I think as long as it fits you you'll be pretty happy with it.

However, if it does not fit RETURN IT!

I agree. I've seen a number of people carrying them on the trail, and they've been very pleased. I came very close to buying it, and would recommend it as a pack to consider to anyone. My own choice of the Exos was mostly preference, with a slight edge to fit.

By the way, the Exos is actually an external frame pack masquerading as an internal frame (and doing a really good job of it!)

so i stopped by southern trails in alabama today, and low and behold they had a z in stock. i tried it on. the new waste belts are alot different than my 16 year old jansport external frame. All in all, I think i'm going to like it.

now i need to start planning out my clothing line up. don't want anything that is going to over heat me, but aren't shorts. i remember many scouts falling out from heat exhaustion and dehydration when i was younger. it's one of the pitfalls i want to avoid with more breathable/lighter clothing

on second thought, the gregory is not going to be what i'm looking for. not enough pockets.

Pockets are evil and heavy buy stuff sacks or use ziplocs.

i switched from the z55 to the exos 58. found a dealer that had it in stock and they honored backcountrygear's price. it's another one of our sponsors. also ordered the marmot bag i wanted, and a katadyn hiker pro filter. so now i have pretty much all the big stuff on the way. alls i gotta concentrate on is the wet weather gear (looking at some prezip stuff), lighter weight clothing, and a good source for mre main meal dinners.

also i gotta get away from wearing uber loose clothing, and maybe find something a <little more> snug.

LOL. Yep--I certainly base the way I live on what I see in the movies! That's why I don't fly in airplanes--too many snakes! And why I won't swim in Maine--those huge crocodile monster things.

Best of all, I never go anywhere without a martial arts master or Arnold Schwarzenegger. You never know...

HAHAHAHAHHAHAHA