Old Man Mountain Rack
When I decided to go to AK, I also opted to go the 'rear rack' way of packing v. the seat bag route. My rationale was largely based on the increased load of a winter expedition kit. After making this decision, I ordered the new Old Man Mountain Rack (OMM) made specifically for the wide rear end of a Mukluk, along with new wide Salsa Alternator rack. My goal was and is, to evaluate the two and choose the one that will do the best job for my expedition.
Last evening the OMM rack arrived and it is amazing the work and craftsmanship that went into crafting this rack. OMM racks are made in the USA out in Santa Barbara CA. The welds, for those of us that appreciate these things, are nothing short of beautiful. The rack feels solid and clearly designed to take a beating. I think mounted to the Titanium Mukluk, it would be an even draw as to which failed first....
I will mount up the rack in the next couple of days and report back on the process. The Salsa Alternator rack should be here shortly and I will then do the same for it. My goal is to always take and use the best possible gear when my life is on the line. After a proper evaluation I will use the rack that I deem to meet that very singular requirement.