05-07-2011, 05:47 AM
Because of weight and bulk, I don't see how the otherwise top notch 22# scadden would be a candidate for packing more than very short distances, say several hundred yards of unchallenging pathway. The 14# deluxe is a good tube which could be packed a little further, but you will have to add waders to keep dry and it doesn't have the load capacity of the scadden. That leaves the 8# ODC and 6# Trinity which can go the limit of packing distance and rough terrain but neither has the bottom coatings for protection.
BTW, the tube arrangement of the ODC can be an asset, depending on what your preferences are. For example, the valves are accessible to top off the tube on the fly, in case of small leaks or cold water shrinkage in the middle of the lake. The tubes can be more rapidly repaired or exchanged out with spares since the valves are not sewn in. I have 4 ODCs which came with the inner tube aligned and pretty much stay that way when I fold accordingly. You can mark the zipper line with permanent marker to speed the process should you decide to remove the inner tubes for packing, or if there is some shifting. The first time installing a NEW inner tube on the ODC will be the most difficult, but talcum powder or liquid detergent can help with untwisting.
JMHO.
Pon
[signature]
BTW, the tube arrangement of the ODC can be an asset, depending on what your preferences are. For example, the valves are accessible to top off the tube on the fly, in case of small leaks or cold water shrinkage in the middle of the lake. The tubes can be more rapidly repaired or exchanged out with spares since the valves are not sewn in. I have 4 ODCs which came with the inner tube aligned and pretty much stay that way when I fold accordingly. You can mark the zipper line with permanent marker to speed the process should you decide to remove the inner tubes for packing, or if there is some shifting. The first time installing a NEW inner tube on the ODC will be the most difficult, but talcum powder or liquid detergent can help with untwisting.
JMHO.
Pon
[signature]