Craig wrote:

What are the advantages and disadvantages of each of these methods, as
I want to purchase a new pack that is designed for the optimal
carrying method.

Whatever you do is wrong...

If you stow the vertically you'll need vertical clearance, horizontally
the opposite, keep them high they're more unwieldy and catch the wind
more, keep them low they'll bash your calves, etc. etc. There's no
perfect way, and you have to use whatever's most appropriate depending
on situation and the pack you're attaching them to.

Pete.
--
Peter Clinch University of Dundee
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637 Medical Physics, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177 Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/