I have used my badlands pack for the past two years without any problems. I did have one that had a zipper break and i sent it back to the complany. I used that pack for a full season and they sent me a BRAND new backpack, i cant imagine it them not wending you a brand new one also if you send it back. I think there are some that come out of the factory with a few deals. But plastic buckles will break regardless...but you can get a replacement for $3 from a dealer. Their stitching isnt supposed to break but if it does, I think it is definately worth the $20 to send it back.
http://www.bugsnbullets.com/Badlands...og_mid_21.html