>>505405Well, I can speak for the Alice pack and the Italian Mountain Rucksack. Even though Alice has that metal frame which looks like a torture device, it wears like a dream compared to the Italian Rucksack, or any other pack I've worn. People talk about ditching the frame and just using the pack without it, but damn does it distribute weight well. One of the few bits of gear our Vietnam Vets were issued that wasn't complete shit. I strapped a bedroll (wool blanket, bivy, treated canvas tarp) to the bottom, and it still is pretty damn comfy.
I still have the Italian Mountain Rucksack, gonna use it for a day pack, but I was an idiot for torturing myself with it, no support like
>>505414 model, though his is definitely more attractive.
TL;DR, there are lot of good packs out there that aren't considered "vintage" (which are a lot of money) but definitely fit the style and price range you're looking for.
>>505414 said it best really.
I recommend Alice (as I affectionately stroke the top flap of her OD nylon body) as well as the Swedish LK-35, which fulfilled a similar roll and had a frame and waist belt. Whatever you choose, be sure it has belt. That's my advice at least.
