Military sleeping bag VS Slumberjack boundary -20 VS Alps Mountaineering -20 cresent?

I want to get a sleeping bag and weight isn't top concern. I am more concerned with staying warm. I will be using this in conditions potentially down to -10 F or so.

I know many people have used the Military sleep system but just because it is military doesn't mean it is better than a civil bag. What bag would be the best option?

-MSS

-Slumberjack boundary -20f

-Alps Mountaineering -20f

-Other (recommendations are accepted as long as they are about $100 or less and not down material)

Would the slumberjack or alps be as warm as the MMS assuming I am using the same sleeping pad?

Thanks in advance.

Just remember you get what you pay for. A -20 degree back for $100 is going to be exactly that. You'd be better off spending another hundo or two and get a better bag that will keep you warm and last.

Check out sierratrading post (google for a coupon), or REI.

I looked into the MSS while getting ready for some winter backpacking. After doing my homework, the MSS was way too heavy and too bulky. While I never laid-hands on one, I've heard nothing but good things about their warmth, durability, and versatility (between the 2 or 3 bags in the system, plus the GoreTex bivy, it's good across ALL temp ranges, as opposed to a commercial -20F bag).

If bulk and weight are not a concern, you could probably find a decent MSS setup used or surplus at/near your price limit. Just make sure that the seller is offering the complete system and not just some of the components.

I wound up with a MH Lamina -30F that I caught on clearance. It's nowhere near as compact as a top-end down bag, but I doubt I paid more than $200 for it.

Also, as far as the comparison to the low-end commercial offerings - I'd be worried about the quality and warmth compared to the MSS. I'm guessing that the MSS went through considerably more R&D testing and manufacturing QA than any of the cheapos.

There is almost no using comparing -20 backs that retail for $100 or less.

The MSS is good for the money but I wouldn't sleep in one in -10 weather. I lived in the MSS for months and froze my nuts off in warmer temps. For the money I'd rather have an over stuffed 650 fill cheapo Alps bag.

If you're not in a hurry check REI garage sales. They always have bags with bogus return reasons listed. I suspect college kids buy the bags, use them for a weekend and then return them with whatever excuse they need to get REI to take them back.

I picked up a double bag that "had too much room and didn't stay warm" that my fiance and I have used comfortably down to +15F.