I switched about 5 years ago to external frame packs due to a back problem, and I do prefer them, horses for courses and all that. I have a Savotta 323, Savotta LJK, LK70 and LK35 and I get on much better with them. I also have a french army cce camo bergen which is kind of a hybrid as in the frame is on the outside of the pack but it is more hugging to the back, I tend to use this one more for car camping.
Thanks boney gumbo mcgee. If I go down the external route it’s the Savotta range I really am taken to. Probably an LJK or a civvy type 50. Can you completely remove the sack and use the frame to carry other things? Can I ask where you purchased yours from?