Hello all,

I'm thinking out loud here and just not sure which decision to make... I'm wanting to purchase a new sleeping bag for 1-2 season use and have the Snugpak Softie range in consideration - Softies 3 (Merlin, comfort temp = 5, 900g) and 6 (Kestrel, comfort temp = 0, 1200g) at the top of my list. I gather that the comfort temp given is the lowest possible temperature you might still just possibly maybe perhaps be comfortable at, given that the 'extreme' temp is only five dregrees lower?

My intention is to use the bag primarily in summer and maybe to get some spring/autumn use out of it too so I don't have to lug my bulky, old bag around so often. My old bag is a Snugpak Laponie, I've no idea what its official temperature ratings are but it's too hot for summer use, weighs a beastly 1900g and is 47x24 cm uncompressed, 30x25 compressed.

Now I'm torn between purchasing the Merlin for its light weight and summer comfort and the Kestrel for its lower temperature rating and hence greater versatility. I don't think that I'd be using the new bag below 2-3 degrees.

If I get the Merlin I could also purchase a Snugpak Thermalon (150g) or Thermal Suede (300g) liner to extend its use into the spring and autumn but that's putting the price and weight up to that of the Kestrel. And if I buy the Kestrel might I end up with another bag I'm too hot in in the summer... Choices, choices, choices... And if I make the wrong choice, resale prices might be reduced for me as I'm one of those awkward lefties who buys right-zip bags...

Is there anyone out there with experience of these bags who's shivering in a Merlin or sweating in a Kestrel this summer?

I've read quite a few online reviews of the Merlin, but there's much less available on the net about the Kestrel.

thanks,

Richard

Hi Richard,

I have the Kestrel (right zip bag too) and would highly recommend it. Packs down well using the compression system and doesn't weight a whole lot either. IMO a decent choice.

I do agree with Parky though......I've never been too warm with the Kestrel so, for me, having the Kestrel as opposed to the Merlin means I can use the bag in more conditions.

Hope this helps buddy.

Gary 

Id have to agree with PA above. I have the Antartica, supposed cr of -25, but used at -10 with clothes on and having had a good meal, and a little chill at -10.  (The military version with the centre zip is a totally different animal, much better)

On other end of the scale, I had a night in the Merlin, as supplied to the cadets, and began to feel cool at 12 degrees and indoors, better with hood on tho, and I was unclothed.

Just for info. G

I have a Merlin 3. I find it Ok in the summer but it can be a little chilly at other times. I've used it from late March to October but not in winter!!

I have a silk liner which does help, only weighs 120 gms and is less than the size of my fist. (I've got small hands!!) If it gets really cold I keep my clothes on.

What I really like is the small size and weight of the bag, and the fact that it's not as delicate as a down bag although I am tempted by one of the Alpkit ones!!