I've been eyeing the HPG Tarahumara lately. That being said, I have a Maxped Pygmy Falcon II. The two seem similar enough. What does the Tara give me that I don't already have?
The most comfortable harness this world has ever seen, made to last American craftsmanship with simplicity of design (fewer things to fail), a center zip and awesome customer service. The Tara is arguably my favorite pack. Without a doubt my favorite pack of that size range. I used to use a Maxpedition Falcon 2.
I’ve got both and both are good packs. However, the Tara is in a class of its own. In the near future you will see it on an episode of modern marvels. I have 4 of them for different purposes.
I took my new Tara out for a 2 mile hike yesterday. One trip and I'm convinced. I threw some random stuff inside and 16oz nalgene bottles in each pocket. I don't know what the weight was, but the comfort was excellent. I have a shoulder issue that my pygmy falcon would sometimes aggravate. As long as I was moving I was fine, but if I stood around wearing it (zoo trips, kids dodling around on a hike, etc) it would start to bother my shoulder. I think the Tara is going to be much better in those roles. I also ordered some Tuff Possum Gear pouches for it.