UKC

Anyone tried out the Blue Ice Firecrest 28/38L? Been trying to find a review on it and can't find one anywhere. Looking for a 25-35L day technical summer/winter pack and love hydation/vest like fronts (Mammut trion norwand 28/38Letc). Any recommendations or info on the firecrest would be greatly appreciated!

I'm just giving you a bump as I've been looking at them as well, I've had my eye on a second-hand Crux AK37, but was wondering if the Firecrest might be a little more versatile and user friendly (though probably less durable).

I especially like the looks of the side zip and as you mentioned the hydration vest type shoulder straps.

I think Outside stock them now, if you're nearby?

FWIW the second generation Blue Ice Warthog is one of the best packs I've ever had of that size and pretty bombproof. I've also got an AK47 which I bought second hand from these forums - its an incredibly solid pack but very specialised, no bells and whistles at all.

https://ultimatedirection.com/scram/

https://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/fr_EU/product/cirque-22-ski-vest/

Whilst both might be a little small in terms of carrying volume, but both have race vest style fronts.

I've got the AK47-X love it! Except I could do with something a bit smaller that's also little easier to access whilst on the move (something that's water baldder compatible).

I don't know if it's of interest to you, but rather than the Firecrest I ended up grabbing a Mutant 38, they're great packs, have been around for years and are now very refined.

Have they updated the Mutant from when I wrote https://www.ukclimbing.com/gear/rucksacks/medium/osprey_mutant_38_pack-1134... ? Lots to like about that version but lacking a bit of refinement, was my conclusion.

The same but with contrasting straps

Wonderful! It sounds like Osprey are willing to listen to constructive criticism. Kudos to them.