Re: 5.11 vs Condor
I'm a dealer for 5.11, Condor, Camelbak, Maxpedition, Spec/OPS, Eberlestock, Voodoo, and a host of other companies who offer packs. I'd never tell you which to choose, as much of the decision comes down to what YOU like, not what I tell you you should like.
With this in mind, what Eberlestock is offering with the X1, X3 LoDrag, X4 HiSpeed, FAC Track, Halftrack, and Gunslinger II is going to be the best of the bunch for your intended applications. Extremely well designed, reliable, and versatile in both the woods and at the range. If you're going to be hauling loads in excess of 25 pounds, I would absolutely jump these to the top of consideration, as the harness & support system is much more substantial than anything from 5.11 or the other companies offerings listed above (exception: Camelbak offers a few packs that can handle heavier loads, but they can't go up to Eberlestock weights & still be comfortable). You'll spend a few more bucks, but you'll have a pack that can fulfill many more applications...
IF you're wanting a pack that takes up a smaller footprint & won't ever be lugging much more than 15-20 pounds of gear, then the companies listed above come into play. If you're budget is around $135.00 (based on you saying that the 5.11 Rush 72 is your baseline), then I'd also consider:
--Maxpedition Condor II;
--Spec/OPS T.H.E. Pack (I have ONE in Coyote that I could hook you up with that won't exceed your budget);
--Voodoo Tactical Matrix OR the Tobago pack;
--Condor Urban Go pack;
--J-Tech Heracles pack (I have ONE in O.D. that I could hook you up with that won't exceed your budget);
Obviously, there are other brands out there that have worthy offerings. While I'm not going to say that going the 5.11 route is a bad decision, I will say that the Rush series of packs has seen a wholesale price increase of nearly 30 percent since the end of 2010. There have been no updates or upgrades to the design in that time. I have observed irregular stitching quality in greater frequency in the latest models. If you're going to get one, make sure that you're able to inspect the pack FIRST, before pulling out your wallet...
Best of luck to you. Hope this helps.
Ceylon
deltaoutdoorsman.com