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BD Mission 50 v. Arcteryx Nozone 55

Original Post
Daniel Wade · · Oakland, CA. · Joined Jan 2012 · Points: 55

Thoughts? Looking to replace my BD Quantum 55 (which I loved but is worn out). I have a BD Epic 35 for long-days and an Arcteryx Miura 50 for cragging and like them both and partial to both brands. Main use is mountaineering and backpacking with an emphasis on technical. Some ice-cragging too.

Bill Kirby · · Keene New York · Joined Jul 2012 · Points: 480

I have a Mission 50. I've found it carries heavy weight better than a lot of packs I've used. I only have five days on the 50 so can't say anything in regards to durability. I can say I would buy another even if the Mission wore out in a couple years. It's comfy!

Linnaeus · · ID · Joined Aug 2011 · Points: 0

I'm partial to Arc'Teryx. The build quality on the packs is certainly better than BD, although BD is certainly adequate for years of use. The mission has the crampon pouch and a side access zip which the Nozone doesn't, if you're into those features. Resale value is def. better on the Arc' in case you frequently upgrade your gear. From a performance standpoint either pack is probably great, if I was truly doing a lot of cragging I might consider the BD to abuse some more, although you could certainly use your Miura for ice cragging as well.

Ian B · · Clark, CO · Joined Feb 2014 · Points: 0

Been super happy with my NO-ZONE 55. Very secure ice tool carrying setup.

Ray Pinpillage · · West Egg · Joined Jul 2010 · Points: 180

I had a Quantum 45 and it fell apart after a season. I have had a bunch of BD packs and they were all cheaply made and poorly thought out. I have a NoZone 35 and it is an outstanding pack. I have pretty much given up on BD packs (still have a Speed 40), I end up spending less on the Arcteryx even if it costs twice as much initially.

Bill Kirby · · Keene New York · Joined Jul 2012 · Points: 480
Ray Pinpillage wrote:I had a Quantum 45 and it fell apart after a season. I have had a bunch of BD packs and they were all cheaply made and poorly thought out. I have a NoZone 35 and it is an outstanding pack. I have pretty much given up on BD packs (still have a Speed 40), I end up spending less on the Arcteryx even if it costs twice as much initially.
I know what you mean. I had a BD Sphinx 45 for a little while. I traded it for a pair of Baturas, which I sold too. That Sphinx was the worst backpack Ive ever used! It fell like you had a sack of potatoes on your back. Horrible! I think the only reason I got the Mission was the fit. I think if I were to get another 50L pack I would try out Cold Cold World.
Ray Pinpillage · · West Egg · Joined Jul 2010 · Points: 180

I have a Miura 50 too, it's probably the single best pack I've owned. The fit and function are flawless.

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

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