I posted this in another thread but I will re-post it in this thread (mods if this isn't correct move and/or delete as you see fit).
the problem I have with any Alice/64 based system is the suspension. A bag is a bag as long as it is well made but the suspension is what will kill you. Most guys that I know purchase an upgraded suspension be it a combo of eagle or TT straps, or Dropzone kit and some sort of waist belt. While this system is better than using the issue straps and kidney pad from the 82 ruck I think that it is still lacking.
External frame rucks as the way to go for the military I think because it allows you to easily carry odd shaped items (Jerry's, ammo, mortar or 84 bombs etc) however no matter what suspension you add it is not comparable to the suspension on an internal frame ruck. This is because of the waist belt. As you are attaching a waist belt to a rigid ruck frame it is little more than a pad. The belts do not have the ability to transfer significant weight from your shoulders to your hips, yes they improve the comfort of the ruck but not the ergonomics.
Lets consider the average price for a set up, minus the bag, valice, and A7a straps.
From dropzone you are looking at 69.99 for Cadpat shoulder straps and 89.99 for a cadpat waist belt for a total off $159.98. Now add on approx $50 dollars for an Alice or 64 frame and your total is now at $209.98. This is not including a back pad. Add on a back pad from CP Gear for $20 and your grand total without a bag or A7A straps is $229.98.
The system that I went with is made by an American company called www.mysteryranch.com
It is a frame based on the Alice frame but made out of highimpact carbon fiber called the NICE frame. The benefits of having a carbon fiber frame is that the frame flexes slightly. When wearing it if you flex your shoulders on the march there is give, the frame flexes with you and makes it much more comfortable. It is jumpable (according to the company) and extremely strong. I haven't done any specific strength tests but in my opinion it is a more solid system. The cross bars on the frame are in the same posn as a 64/Alice pack and are sheathed in nylon for additionally durability. The combination of the cross bars and all of the webbing attachment points on then frame made it easier to lash things to the frame than a 64/Alice.
Equally important to the strength, flex, and lashability is the comfort. It has an integrated suspension system, that in essence allows you the utility of an external frame ruck with the comfort of an internal frame suspension. The waist belt and lumbar pad actually transfer weight from your shoulders to your hips. The yoke is backed with a rigid piece of plastic which prevents the straps from slipping off your shoulders, or conversely, from digging into your neck. Another benefit is that the yoke is completely adjustable up or down, a feature that you cannot have on a 64/Alice system. Cost wise it may be prohibitive to some as it is $250 American, but when compared side by side with setting up a decent aftermarket 64 setup it is definitely in the price range. For the superior properties of this system I am willing to pay the 30 or 40 dollars more (depending on exchange rate). This company is a pleasure to deal with, the frames are made to order and I received mine within a week. Although it may not be apparent in the pictures on their website it fits the 64 with no issues. Here are some pictures of my ruck
As you can see it is a beefy suspension system that is integrated into the frame. You can also see that it is not just a waist belt but a lumbar pad and wrap around hip belt. You can also see the curve of the shoulder straps.
Here is a side view.
I hope this helps guys, if you want more pictures let me know and I will try and take them as quick as I can. I used this system on my PLQ and also when I deployed with no issues. All in all despite the slight price increase over a traditional system I would highly recommend it.