Shape charge Gen1 vs Current Gen

[billysmals]

Hey all,

Seen some shape charges that have the top grab handle sewn in the middle and don’t have the shape charge handle. Assuming this means it’s a gen1 as the current gen has an open sewn grab handle and the shape change handle included.

Are there any other differences?

 

[TheBootBowhunting]

1st gen had a front carry handle sewn in the middle, no velcro on the front of the lid and 7 rows of pals webbing on the front. Gen 2 has an open carry handle on front, velcro on the front of the lid and 8 rows of pals webbing on the front. They didnt start putting the shape charge handle on the gen 2 until last year sometime. Most of us with gen 2s prior to that have the one Squirrels makes.

I *believe* the gen 1 also doesnt have the webbing hoods (not sure what they call it) that zippers run through at the bottom of each side that serves as a bit of security to stop the pulls from either catching on something and coming open or to stop someone from opening your pack. Ill attach a pic in a second of what Im talking about.

As far as which is better, I think its sort of splitting hairs on it. Both of them are solid packs.

 

[billysmals]

Thank you for the distinction. I was trying to decide to purchase a used Gen 1 or a new Gen 2. Appreciate your info!

 

[Athame]

whoa~ I must be slipping. I didn't notice that they modified it. Now, if they'd only modify the shoulder straps!

 

[billysmals]

Does your gen 1 have a zippered lower pocket on the inside of the pack? The gen 2 pics show two zippered pockets? I saw at least one Gen 1 that had the upper organizer pocket zippered with the lower open.

Here is the Gen 2 for reference:

 

[Athame]

Does your gen 1 have a zippered lower pocket on the inside of the pack? The gen 2 pics show two zippered pockets? I saw at least one Gen 1 that had the upper organizer pocket zippered with the lower open.

Here is the Gen 2 for reference:
View attachment 561847

I'm pretty sure it does but hang on, I'll go and check.

 

[Athame]

Okay: Not a Zippered Pocket. It has an open mesh pocket.

 

[billysmals]

Ok cool thanks for this. Do you find the opening detracts from anything spilling out if open the bag? I wouldn’t think so, but maybe if some morning is heavier or large?

 

[Athame]

I haven't had that experience. I've mostly just kept sea to summit wets wipes and an msr travel towel in there. If I ever fully unzip the bag it's on the ground so nothing falls out.