Army Surplus Score

I decided to go down to the local Military Surplus Store to find a Canteen and Canteen Cup. My Wife started pointing out things here and there that I have seen and used before... eh... it's new to her. She did point out something that I was not expecting to find at that price. A used full pack with frame. Just like what I had in the Army. I checked it out and it was in good shape and priced at only $40! She said if I wanted it to get it.. get it...so I did.

Then I got back on track to the Canteens and got one with cover and then a cup. I was asking about a full L.B.E. but just decided to get the belt only.

As you can see, my original pack was small and tight on space. The photo is the configuration I would use on my back. There is a 2 man tent in there too. No bed mat though. That was going to be everything for overnight prospecting. Just a hiking pack from Walmart. I would have made it work but if I needed any more room for like a plastic stream sluice, I would be S.O.L. With the Alice pack, plenty of room for anything additional including a 2' Aluminum Sluice if I want. With the frame, it will make it more comfortable even with added weight. In my Army days we had up around 60 pounds on us. My small pack weighs in just above 17 pounds loaded right now. So the new pack will be plenty.

So here is a photo of the score. I got all this for just above $60 which I think is a good deal.

All I need now is the Canteen Cup Stove to go with it. The Canteen Shop (online) is out of stock on their great model right now. Patience and I will get one.

After I get my full load into this pack, I will show off all my goodies in it. I have to play with packing up and where I want to put things first. Still have some items I ordered online coming in too. I think this is going to get real fun with all that room. Just got to remember not to carry stuff I don't need.