In reply to IainMunro:
> I've heard only good things about Aiguille bags and in particular the Cirrus.
I like them. I have had one since 2006 i think. It'd been used a lot and is now nearing the end of the its' life.
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> I'll probably be getting a couple of things modified rather than an off the peg bag so wondered if people who own one could help with a few queries I have?
I cut the ice axe loops off. The current version comes with an under lid rope strap. If I was having a new on made I would ask for those two features to be ommited.
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> Is the 33l capacity big enough to (comfortably) pack kit for a winter day in Scotland with rope and helmet in the bag? I don't want to be only just able to pack the bag at the start of the day and end up walking out with everything hanging off the outside after topping out in a hoolie. Is the Stratos going to be a better bet for Scottish winter?
Short answer no. However, Iif you don't carry too much kit, own skinny 60m ropes then you can get everything in just about. For example if I could get everything I'd need for Point 5 in it no problem. However I'd want a bigger sack for something like the Central Buttress on Beinn Eighe, which requires a bigger rack. Saying that I have climbed The Cassin Ridge on Denali in two days and attempted the Eiger North Wall with mine. The Stratos is a better all round bag for Scottish winter in my view.
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> I gather the Aiguille Alpine is a "big 33l" or probably more likely an "accurate 33l", maybe not far off size wise?
It's pretty similar in size to an Osprey Mutant 38 if thay is anyhelp.
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> Is the webbing belt comfortable when carrying a fully packed rucksack or do most people get a padded hipbelt added?
I don't have a problem with it especailly in winter.
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> Has anyone had an extra underlid pocket added? Is this feasible?
It is feasable, but I wouldn't bother. I reckon you'd struggle to close the sack unless you got Aiguille to increase the lid volume by an inch.
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> Any other words of advice/food for thought/god or bad experiences?
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Phone Aiguille and ask to speak to Adrian. Don't email them they aren't that good at responding.