Many hikers prefer a pack frame for carrying their equipment and food. As the name implies, this is a frame, usually of wood and webbing, that is made to fit the back and upon which duffel bags or rolls can be tied securely. There are many different types of packs in use today and no doubt each of them has its merits. The main thing is light weight and comfort on the back. No matter how nice a pack frame looks, if it is not comfortable and does not fit the back, it has litde use as a pack.

The pack frame has many advantages. It can be constructed at home very easily for a small cost. The pack frame shown on page 59 was made at a cost of $1.40. It is a comfortable, sturdy frame and will stand many long trips over hiking trails. The shoulder straps are wide and very comfortable.

One good thing about pack frames is the many different uses to which they can be put. When not in use for carrying purposes they make fine back rests in camp or in a canoe. Several frames put together and covered with canvas make a good table top.

1. The throat strap is the shortest strap. Draw it through the loop on the end of each of the sling straps in such a way that, when it is on the basket, the sling straps will be about three inches from each side of the buckle.

2. Place the throat strap around the top of the basket with the buckle in the front, opposite the handle. Fasten the strap snugly.

3. Weave the buckle ends of the sling straps through the bottom of the pack basket. Lift the end of the first and last foundation splints carefully and slip the buckle and strap under the splints. Then weave the ends of the splints back in place, as they were before.

4. The shoulder strap is the longest strap. Fold it in half and loop it around the throat strap. Draw the two ends into the pack basket through the opening in the back.

5. Bring both ends of the shoulder strap out through the handle and down over the back of the pack to the buckles of the sling straps. Adjust the shoulder straps for a comfortable fit.