Which Hunting Pack should I buy?

[tjt2050]

Hi All,

I've mostly just trolled this forum enjoying all the insight everyone shares here. I'm entering the market for a hunting pack, and I'd love some advice.

The use case:
A day pack, with maybe the capacity to stretch it to a one night trip (so far I've only ever hunted from a basecamp)

Goals: Carry day hunting gear, food/water, and game meat out.

Further details:
For a day hunt, I want to pack processing gear (kept on the light side), water (in a bladder), food, first aid, possibly a spotting scope, some small items like wind checker etc. and maybe rain gear that's about it. Mostly I want the pack to carry that stuff plus game meat (quartered or deboned) if I'm a few kms distance from the base or from the nearest road when a kill happens. Ideally I'd like to be able to pack out a whole muley myself if I have to in one trip. Most of the time I hunt with people, and especially if I was hunting anything bigger than a muley.

Right now my budget is around $300, but if it is really best to wait and save for something more like 500 I'd be open to that possibility.

Things I've seen to date that kind of interest me: Badlands 2200, Kuiu 1850. I also like the idea of the packs like the kuiu that you can get a bigger bag for it if I decide to start doing longer overnight trips. But that's not crucial, I would be good with something that will only be a day pack.

Thanks in advance for the insight.

[HarryToolips]

I personally recommend the Alps Commander + Pack, I use it for all you stated, plus I will carry those items you listed, plus a sleeping bag for overnighters - then if I shoot something, the meat I secure tightly to the pack frame, and my stuff in the main pack overlaps the meat..

[Lastcar]

I'll let others chime in on brands, models etc. What I will say, is don't be afraid to buy used if you are looking at the "big" brands. Mystery Ranch, Kifaru, Stone Glacier, Barney's, EXO. All these brands have a great reputation for durability, quality and great customer service. Hence the my label "big". Others may feel otherwise.

A well cared for used pack is very much like a new vehicle. Once it has left the lot, it drops in price but often is just a little dirty or scuffed up.

I bought my Mystery Ranch and first Stone Glacier used. The MR was obvious but was also a great deal. The Stone Glacier you could have fooled me.

I just ordered a brand new Stone Glacier, and my KUIU experiment was also buying new.

The one variable in buying used is availability and timing.

And of course, you miss out on that brand new smell! ;-)

[Lastcar]

I personally recommend the Alps Commander + Pack, I use it for all you stated, plus I will carry those items you listed, plus a sleeping bag for overnighters - then if I shoot something, the meat I secure tightly to the pack frame, and my stuff in the main pack overlaps the meat..

I've recommended this pack to a few guys who need a pack for a few days or nights a year but don't want to spend a ton.

No personal experience but sure seems like a ton of people like what you get for the price. Which is what the people I suggested it were after.

[HarryToolips]

This is what the alps commander pack looks like, this is a pic of the bear I shot this fall before packing it out 3 miles..

http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/harrytoolips/blackbear2_zps6cqi3ziq.jpg (http://s1030.photobucket.com/user/harrytoolips/media/blackbear2_zps6cqi3ziq.jpg.html)

[roymil]

Exomtn works the best for me after trying many other high end packs. You get what you pay for and sometimes the best is only just good enough.

[ajr5406]

I am in the same boat and started a thread a couple of weeks ago on external frame packs. Still undecided as to an internal vs external, but some great comments and suggestions are in this thread:

http://www.huntingbc.ca/forum/showthread.php?133556-Frame-packs

[Rob]

Trekker has a Kifaru for sale under hunting gear. Not sure if the frame is with it or not though

[nedarb2]

Mystery ranch! I have a nice 6500 and a scapegoat in the mail as we speak for day trips.

[AgSilver]

I'm starting to sound like a fanboy, even though I actually quite despise much of the owner's political beliefs....but...

I like the Kuiu Icon Pro series (I have one, so I'm biased and I acknowledge that) because it's light, seems strong (although I know there are some reports of the carbon cracking, but those aren't common reports from my research), and versatile. What I mean by versatile is that I have 3 different sized bags that all fit on the same frame and they only take a few minutes to swap out. I have the 5200 (good for moderate length outings of a few nights, etc), the 3200 (good for a night or two and not too big for a day pack), and the 1850 (great for daypack only trips). That's pretty handy, if you ask me. And the price isn't crazy if you can score it on a good sale (frequent).

[AgSilver]

I'm starting to sound like a fanboy, even though I actually quite despise much of the owner's political beliefs....but...

I like the Kuiu Icon Pro series (I have one, so I'm biased and I acknowledge that) because it's light, seems strong (although I know there are some reports of the carbon cracking, but those aren't common reports from my research), and versatile. What I mean by versatile is that I have 3 different sized bags that all fit on the same frame and they only take a few minutes to swap out. I have the 5200 (good for moderate length outings of a few nights, etc), the 3200 (good for a night or two and not too big for a day pack), and the 1850 (great for daypack only trips). That's pretty handy, if you ask me. And the price isn't crazy if you can score it on a good sale (frequent).

Also, the load hauler option is a big deal...to be able to pop the bag away from the frame to have space to secure meat...big deal. Also a good reason to leave the 5200 on and just cinch it down as a daypack...then you can use both the load hauler and fill it with meat.

[BgBlkDg]

For what you seem to want, my needs are much the same, I bought a Seek Outside Divide pack, MC, with their lid, largest outside pocket, the Talon and extra belt pockets, plus extra buckle and straps. I just received my new belt pockets today and I have NEVER owned/used a pack that I liked better.

You will pay for it, but, SO is THE BEST to deal with I have yet to experience, they come to the BC sheep show and they also have sales every so often.

The packs are LIGHT, very sturdy and just plain work, I cannot recommend them too highly.

[ekul246]

I just picked up my Badlands 2200 from Sumas Pick IT UP. Haven't opened it yet but I did quite a bit of research before decided on it. Your needs sound similar to what I wanted in a pack. I myself couldn't justify the cost of buying more than one bag right now. I felt that getting a bag that could be used both as a day pack, which I think the 2200 might be a bit large for that but it does compress, and as a multi day pack was the best way to go. Wanted it in the realtree and Badlands was out of stock. Could have picked it up for $299.99 before tax at Cabela's abbotsford. Went to Amazon.com and found the realtree 2200, a 2L Badlands hydration system and a rain cover for $328 CAD taxes included. Was an offer I couldn't refuse:smile:

[twoSevenO]

Also, the load hauler option is a big deal...to be able to pop the bag away from the frame to have space to secure meat...big deal. Also a good reason to leave the 5200 on and just cinch it down as a daypack...then you can use both the load hauler and fill it with meat.

I thought that a hiking pack might work, but the more i've been thinking about it, the more i realize how important the "load hauler" or "meat shelf" really is. It really seems like a great idea. As for a large pack being used as a day pack .... it can work except I find that when cinched down the pack is still fairly big (wide and tall) and there are a lot of extra straps that are now flapping in the wind or getting caught on things. Can get annoying.

[KodiakHntr]

The kuiu packs have some odd design flaws that are tough to overlook. Their buckle system is quite difficult to use on some stuff (like the gun sling) and have more moving parts than is necessary. They are also pretty easy to break.
Also, while they have similar weights on their packs as SG, Seek, Exo, etc, but they have a lot of extra pockets on a couple of their models. Extra pockets, are extra hardware and extra fabric, so you have to wonder where the weight savings actually comes from.....

[Pinewood]

Save your pennies and buy an EXO 2200. Or 3500 and be ultra versatile.

[EELK]

From my experiences I finally settled on a mystery ranch bag. it has been super durable in the shit too. Owned 3 different badlands pack and none fit comfortably. Bought myself a "nice" frame and metcalf bag and have not looked back, the metcalf works well for 5-8 day hunts and the nice frame system carries very well. I also considered stone glacier, 9/10 for mystery ranch for me and the only reason 9/10 is because I wish it had a better rifle carrying system.

[Carbonmatrix]

If you want to try out a higher end pack. Your welcome to come test mine out, I'm located in kamloops. I run a kifaru EMR ii, a kifaru AMR, and a stone glacier sky 7400. For most hunts I prefer the stone glacier but they are all legit bomber packs. The EMR2 can haul more than i care to carry, i love the amr for the versatility and the easy access rear pockets, i dont have to open the entire pack. I run mine with 2 spotting scope pockets on the side and it works wonders and gives the EMR2 a run for its money.

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae119/Carbonmatrix/IMG_2549_zpsfeqtonbw.jpg (http://s963.photobucket.com/user/Carbonmatrix/media/IMG_2549_zpsfeqtonbw.jpg.html)

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae119/Carbonmatrix/IMG_2547_zpsdueyxazu.jpg (http://s963.photobucket.com/user/Carbonmatrix/media/IMG_2547_zpsdueyxazu.jpg.html)

[tjt2050]

Thanks everyone who had responded so far. It seems there isn't tons of consensus yet. What I'm reading is something like I may be able to get something less expensive than the top end bags if it fits me reasonably well, but it's hard to beat going to the top end for comfort and durability. Oh and the meat shelf is a big deal, and I must agree based on my use case. Love to hear more weigh ins. I live in greater Vancouver, so might mean some visits to stores to try things on.

[AgSilver]

I'm in Coquitlam if you want to see what the Kuiu bags are like (I promise I'm not a shill - it's just what I have and they are generally hard to see in person if you don't know someone with one).

[300rum700]

Thanks everyone who had responded so far. It seems there isn't tons of consensus yet. What I'm reading is something like I may be able to get something less expensive than the top end bags if it fits me reasonably well, but it's hard to beat going to the top end for comfort and durability. Oh and the meat shelf is a big deal, and I must agree based on my use case. Love to hear more weigh ins. I live in greater Vancouver, so might mean some visits to stores to try things on.

Load shelves suck balls. Buy a big enough bag to fit everything in.

[tjt2050]

Load shelves suck balls. Buy a big enough bag to fit everything in.

What do you recommend then?

[tjt2050]

Thanks to those like AgSilver who have offered me to look at their packs, particularly for the ones you can't easily see at the store (i've had a few private offers as well) Really appreciated. When I get to the stage where I need to try some things out before I make a final decision, I will see if I can take some of those offers up.

Any other people feel load shelves don't really live up to the advertisements.

[todbartell]

Save your pennies and buy an EXO 2200. Or 3500 and be ultra versatile.

I have both and they're the best pack I have used

[RadHimself]

I roll with an eberlestock j107 dragonfly.... couldnt be happier

[Weatherby Fan]

I have both and they're the best pack I have used

Hey Mark, other than being a cpl pounds lighter than a MR Nice frame and bag, they look quite similar, what are the main differences between the two or what makes the exo better ?

Thanks
WF

[TreeStandMan]

I roll with an eberlestock j107 dragonfly.... couldnt be happier

I've been eyeing that one myself, so I'm glad to hear that it's working for you. This year I used the Eberlestock H2 gunrunner for my day pack, and I'm very happy with it, but I'm not carrying anything bigger than a rabbit in it.

[300rum700]

What do you recommend then?

Doesn't matter the brand just don't go into a 10 day hunt with a 5000 ci pack and depend on a load shelf to get you out with an animal. I'm partial to kifaru but the stone glaciers look nice with a big bag.
I've had a J107 and sheep hunted with it and it was bar non the worst experience I've had with a pack, a 10 lb ox would be a be a better option than the eberlestock.

[todbartell]

Hey Mark, other than being a cpl pounds lighter than a MR Nice frame and bag, they look quite similar, what are the main differences between the two or what makes the exo better ?

Thanks
WF

I really liked my MR packs, used the NICE frame with Crew Cab for about five years as a daypack. Heavy, but comfortable and very durable. Didn't use the new guidelight frame MR stuff much, but did put some KM on the trail with the new Metcalf, it was good in all regards. I just prefer the Exo, nice thick lumbar pad, great waistbelt pockets which are easier to open one handed than my old MR NICE (new MR no waist pockets, boooooo), really like the stretchy stuff pockets on outside. New 2200 will be a great daypack that can haul meat, it has some real nice organization going on

[twoSevenO]

Load shelves suck balls. Buy a big enough bag to fit everything in.

why do they suck?.

[Andrewh]

Load shelves suck balls. Buy a big enough bag to fit everything in.

I would love to hear your reasoning and experience with and without a load shelf.

[Weatherby Fan]

Save your pennies and buy an EXO 2200. Or 3500 and be ultra versatile.

Can you tell me what separates this pack from a MR Nice/5500 bag other than about 2.5lbs, are the bags better organized or is the frame that much better as I'm thinking of getting a new pack ? and its either this one or a stone glacier

Thanks
WF

[todbartell]

3500 and 5500 are the same, just different sized main bag. Both are minimal in the organization dept, just a large main compartment with side zip/top access. The lids have a one decent sized pocket and you can attach a 'stash pocket' which is a small zippered mesh pocket that attaches inside the lid via velcro. In the inside of the main bag on a 3500 you can attach 2 or 3 more stash pockets. On the outside of the main bag there is two side pockets and one large stretchy stuff pocket which works well for keeping rain gear handy. Two nice sized waist belt pockets (accessory) can be added and they anchor in place to the web belt via velcro.

2200 has more orgnanization

[albravo2]

If you want to try out a higher end pack. Your welcome to come test mine out, I'm located in kamloops. I run a kifaru EMR ii, a kifaru AMR, and a stone glacier sky 7400. For most hunts I prefer the stone glacier but they are all legit bomber packs. The EMR2 can haul more than i care to carry, i love the amr for the versatility and the easy access rear pockets, i dont have to open the entire pack. I run mine with 2 spotting scope pockets on the side and it works wonders and gives the EMR2 a run for its money.

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae119/Carbonmatrix/IMG_2549_zpsfeqtonbw.jpg (http://s963.photobucket.com/user/Carbonmatrix/media/IMG_2549_zpsfeqtonbw.jpg.html)

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae119/Carbonmatrix/IMG_2547_zpsdueyxazu.jpg (http://s963.photobucket.com/user/Carbonmatrix/media/IMG_2547_zpsdueyxazu.jpg.html)

That is an amazing collection. Pack porn for sure. Nicely done.

[300rum700]

I would love to hear your reasoning and experience with and without a load shelf.

I've used both types, no I'm not going to write every experience I've had with different packs because frankly I don't care to. It's simple physics, put the load out away from your body and it's going to pull you backwards. It doesn't matter if it's just the weight of your gear and the meats against you back it's still going to pull back more than if everything were to be in the main bag. It's just the way it's is, some guys like a cute small bag and like suffering more than necessary packing a big load with a load shelf and that's fine, but you can't argue with science.

[BgBlkDg]

Good point, something to consider when buying a hunting pack. I have never used a load shelf, but, I have wondered about the same thing.

[.264winmag]

You guys don't use a load shelf???
I find deboned meat fairly dense, positioning directly against spine sure helps me. Still need a big main bag for all the light bulky gear, but I'll never go back to stuffing meat in the main compartment for long hikes out the mountains. Really convenient for keeping main compartment clean too, and can remove meat sack quickly to cool off at appropriate spots along the way without unloading 7000 cubic inches of riggin every time.

[300rum700]

You guys don't use a load shelf???
I find deboned meat fairly dense, positioning directly against spine sure helps me. Still need a big main bag for all the light bulky gear, but I'll never go back to stuffing meat in the main compartment for long hikes out the mountains. Really convenient for keeping main compartment clean too, and can remove meat sack quickly to cool off at appropriate spots along the way without unloading 7000 cubic inches of riggin every time.

I put my lighter bulky camp supplies on the bottom, then meat tight against the back usually in a contractor bag or dry bag then cape and horns. It's always on top so no big deal to unload it and not messy at all.

[BgBlkDg]

The load shelf as I understand it, is NOT the same as a Kifaru Cargo Shelf or the Mystery Ranch version used with the NICE rigs.

I am specifically referring to the fabric "shelf" between the frame and bag of contemporary packs such as SG, EXO and SO, among others. I am very aware of how meat (and other load materials) fits into a pack, but, ANY weight positioned further to your rear is going to tend to pull you backwards, whether it is gear or gravel.

I won't buy another pack, have sold all but my SO Divide, a customized Dana Design Terradframe and MR Deluxe, used for an "emerg" pack in my Taco 4x4, when on non-hunting trips home to Nelson. So, it is "academic" for me at my age, but, 300RUM700, is correct in his basic opinion, IMHO.

[.264winmag]

I put my lighter bulky camp supplies on the bottom, then meat tight against the back usually in a contractor bag or dry bag then cape and horns. It's always on top so no big deal to unload it and not messy at all.

Tried that, but all that weight up high don't work for me. Simple physics as said. Start going backwards and she's too top heavy for me. I gotta keep it low or right against the back. Maybe just me though, short little fella HA.

[300rum700]

Tried that, but all that weight up high don't work for me. Simple physics as said. Start going backwards and she's too top heavy for me. I gotta keep it low or right against the back. Maybe just me though, short little fella HA.

Same principal, no matter how you have to pack it just keep the biggest weight tight against your shoulders.

[Andrewh]

I've used both types, no I'm not going to write every experience I've had with different packs because frankly I don't care to. It's simple physics, put the load out away from your body and it's going to pull you backwards. It doesn't matter if it's just the weight of your gear and the meats against you back it's still going to pull back more than if everything were to be in the main bag. It's just the way it's is, some guys like a cute small bag and like suffering more than necessary packing a big load with a load shelf and that's fine, but you can't argue with science.

Yes it is simple physics but not sure how you can get 60+ lbs of meat to stay against your back the same way you can with a load shelf. If you can then great, but for me you can't compare the two and I have packed sheep out BOTH ways. What load shelf have you used?

These 'simple physics' drawings/pics are off the SG site and do a pretty darn good job in explaining things for a visual person.

http://i1101.photobucket.com/albums/g426/Andrewshorvath/Screen%20Shot%202017-01-20%20at%208.21.05%20AM_zpsndt0os4z.png

http://i1101.photobucket.com/albums/g426/Andrewshorvath/Screen%20Shot%202017-01-20%20at%208.37.52%20AM_zpst6of4fdp.png

This is my set-up and you can't compare (in my opinion) to meat inside the bag.

http://i1101.photobucket.com/albums/g426/Andrewshorvath/DSCN2866_zpsoxcvt8rj.jpg

[Andrewh]

Same principal, no matter how you have to pack it just keep the biggest weight tight against your shoulders.

Nope!

'simple physics' says otherwise.

[.264winmag]

Same principal, no matter how you have to pack it just keep the biggest weight tight against your shoulders.
Tight against shoulders and up high? Makes no sense to me.

[.264winmag]

I concur with Andrews deadly doubleheader!

[BgBlkDg]

I prefer to keep the weight just centered under my shoulder blades, with an integral frame or external frame pack and as tight to my back as is comfortable.

For MOST loads, I found my two NICE rigs superior to any other packs I have used, except the old Bozeman-made Dana Design Terra framed models.

Now, however, I find the SO Divide kicks butt, however, I have yet to carry a big load with it.

Horses for courses, eh, different body types will find some pack designs superior to others and some experimentation helps to find your own "sweet spot".

JMHO.

[.264winmag]

Hmm, leverage is leverage. Being 5'6" 165# leverage is a big deal. My partner has 6" and 40# on me, leads the way on the way in. In my rear view on the way out however...

[RadHimself]

Alot of u guys hate on eberlestocks

just like alot of people started hating on firstlite now that sitka released a new pattern

to each theyre own, compared to what i used to use. The j107 is a solid, comfortable expanding day-bag with expanding meat packing ability or a 1/2/3 day capable bag with the spike duffle. Suits my needs and purpose

[huntcoop]

Alot of u guys hate on eberlestocks

just like alot of people started hating on firstlite now that sitka released a new pattern

to each theyre own, compared to what i used to use. The j107 is a solid, comfortable expanding day-bag with expanding meat packing ability or a 1/2/3 day capable bag with the spike duffle. Suits my needs and purpose

When you try one of the "Big 4" your attitude will change.

[300rum700]

Tight against shoulders and up high? Makes no sense to me.

Up high being above the bottom of the pack and tight being as close to the load bearing frame as possible. Your body type is pretty much exact opposite of me but I've used the kuiu pro with load sling and I even think my kifaru frame has a load sling and there's absolutely no way putting that much weight away from your body isn't going to have a negative effect on being able to stand up.

[300rum700]

Nope!

'simple physics' says otherwise.

I'll agree to disagree on this but that pic of your ram makes me cringe. Put it all in a big bag close to your body and you'll be walking straighter and fatiguing less. I've tried the icon pro with the load sling then I switched to kifaru, haven't looked back and probably won't.

[300rum700]

Alot of u guys hate on eberlestocks

just like alot of people started hating on firstlite now that sitka released a new pattern

to each theyre own, compared to what i used to use. The j107 is a solid, comfortable expanding day-bag with expanding meat packing ability or a 1/2/3 day capable bag with the spike duffle. Suits my needs and purpose

I hate on Eberlestock because I took one sheep hunting.

[AgSilver]

Up high being above the bottom of the pack and tight being as close to the load bearing frame as possible. Your body type is pretty much exact opposite of me but I've used the kuiu pro with load sling and I even think my kifaru frame has a load sling and there's absolutely no way putting that much weight away from your body isn't going to have a negative effect on being able to stand up.

isnt that the point of the load sling? Now the weight is close to the body (between the bag and the frame) and the lighter, less dense matter is in the bag further from the body.

[300rum700]

isnt that the point of the load sling? Now the weight is close to the body (between the bag and the frame) and the lighter, less dense matter is in the bag further from the body.

Yes, but, that's because you have too because small bags won't accomodate all your camp gear as well. Use a wider, deeper, taller bag and you'll keep ALL the load closer to you.

[SR80]

I run a SG too, but have never used the load shelf. I use tag bomb bags for my meat, and the bag keeps deboned meat in a tall flat cylinder if you wanna call it that, but the bag keeps the meat from turning into a ball at the bottom of your pack if you were using something like a pillow case. Ill slide that inside a contractor bag and drop it into my pack right against the frame and then on the outside of the meat start stuffing the rest of my gear inside the main bag, it keeps the the meat right against my back. Tag bomb bags are worth the money in my opinion.

That load of andrews makes me cringe as well, if that meat was flattened out in a larger bag against the frame i bet it would carry a lot better, but i didnt carry it so I guess i cant really comment on it, but from my experience having all the weight as close to your back is a lot nicer.

Theses bags of meat from my buck stay that shape when loaded vertically in my pack.

http://i996.photobucket.com/albums/af86/scottreidy/20170121_103152_zpsimtsk2a0.png (http://s996.photobucket.com/user/scottreidy/media/20170121_103152_zpsimtsk2a0.png.html)

[Lastcar]

Theses bags of meat from my buck stay that shape when loaded vertically in my pack.

http://i996.photobucket.com/albums/af86/scottreidy/20170121_103152_zpsimtsk2a0.png (http://s996.photobucket.com/user/scottreidy/media/20170121_103152_zpsimtsk2a0.png.html)

I don't want to tell you that you don't know what you are talking about, but that is a pickup truck not a pack.

[Weatherby Fan]

I don't want to tell you that you don't know what you are talking about, but that is a pickup truck not a pack.

Yeh but that truck packs the weigh better than my back !!!!

[huntcoop]

I don't want to tell you that you don't know what you are talking about, but that is a pickup truck not a pack.

And not to mention the stolen shopping tote from Loblaws :shock:

[Lastcar]

Yeh but that truck packs the weigh better than my back !!!!

Sure, but the least he could do is put right behind his seat to back up his point that it right next to his back is the trick!



And not to mention the stolen shopping tote from Loblaws :shock:

First rule of internet pics, don't incriminate yourself. #FAIL

[twoSevenO]

There is an important part you guys are missing out when razzing Andrew for that pic ..... the weight of the bag itself. The bag is still (I assume) significantly lighter than the load of meat. In which case it is OK for the bag to be somewhat away from your back, compared to the heavy load of meat.

if you can get the meat to sit well packed, INSIDE your pack, and against your back, then that is fine, but i have not found anything that keeps its shape and keeps meat from sinking into a ball at the bottom. SR80, what kind of bags are those? If they really work for this purpose, then I would like to give them a try. EDIT: Found them online. Wow. Expensive. What material are they made out of? Can't tell from the pictures.

My father recently got a sewing machine to make certain mods to our gear, straps etc, so i think this year i will try and sew up some game bags myself specifically for using with a load shelf. Making them tall and skinny to get the flattest load possible against the pack. Will post results of how that goes.

Besides, a frame with a load shelf can't be beat when you need to pack heavy awkward things that will not fit inside your pack. Like large quarters. Load shelf would help out greatly there.


EDIT: Another edit .... an idea just occurred to me. Tent stuff sacks!! Why wouldn't a large tent stuff sack work?! It's cylindrical and long and all you would have to do is turn it inside out and run some seam sealer on the seams to keep it waterproof. I'm thinking it would work very well for keeping meat nicely stacked in the pack or on the load shelf. Thoughts?

[twoSevenO]

Furthermore, how long do you guys keep meat in the sealed waterproof bags? I know the game bags themselves are the breathable kind, but i mean the waterproof ones you put them in to keep meat from leaking in your pack. Is there a rule of thumb for this regarding your pack out distance and outside temperature? Or even a guideline?

[Andrewh]

Sorry guys but that pic is the 'best' 130lbs will carry.

It is still the EXACT same volume of gear/meat as I would have if it was all inside a bag but with the load sling I can ensure that 100% of the meat mass is against my back and not creating extra fatigue due to a higher and farther outwards center of gravity.

[huntcoop]

Sorry guys but that pic is the 'best' 130lbs will carry.

It is still the EXACT same volume of gear/meat as I would have if it was all inside a bag but with the load sling I can ensure that 100% of the meat mass is against my back and not creating extra fatigue due to a higher and farther outwards center of gravity.

How did the SG handle compared to your buddies Kuiu?

[.264winmag]

Furthermore, how long do you guys keep meat in the sealed waterproof bags? I know the game bags themselves are the breathable kind, but i mean the waterproof ones you put them in to keep meat from leaking in your pack. Is there a rule of thumb for this regarding your pack out distance and outside temperature? Or even a guideline?

I just buy waterproof stuffsacks and contractor bags. Quit using gamebags as they just get saturated anyway inside the non-breathable bags. Deboned meat gets spread out on contractor bags while butchering/skinning to initiate cooling. Then all meat inside con bag, then inside stuffsack. Lay on packframe and spread out evenly from top to bottom as flat as possible. Tie up and close/clip flap on stuffsack. Use compression straps on pack to cinch tight and hold the long flat sausage form. Throw in creek overnight, or pack in snow, even a cool low spot works fine. Once chilled it stays surprisingly cool during the day, we still dunk in creeks every night during the pack out.

[HarryToolips]

There is an important part you guys are missing out when razzing Andrew for that pic ..... the weight of the bag itself. The bag is still (I assume) significantly lighter than the load of meat. In which case it is OK for the bag to be somewhat away from your back, compared to the heavy load of meat.

if you can get the meat to sit well packed, INSIDE your pack, and against your back, then that is fine, but i have not found anything that keeps its shape and keeps meat from sinking into a ball at the bottom. SR80, what kind of bags are those? If they really work for this purpose, then I would like to give them a try. EDIT: Found them online. Wow. Expensive. What material are they made out of? Can't tell from the pictures.

My father recently got a sewing machine to make certain mods to our gear, straps etc, so i think this year i will try and sew up some game bags myself specifically for using with a load shelf. Making them tall and skinny to get the flattest load possible against the pack. Will post results of how that goes.

Besides, a frame with a load shelf can't be beat when you need to pack heavy awkward things that will not fit inside your pack. Like large quarters. Load shelf would help out greatly there.


EDIT: Another edit .... an idea just occurred to me. Tent stuff sacks!! Why wouldn't a large tent stuff sack work?! It's cylindrical and long and all you would have to do is turn it inside out and run some seam sealer on the seams to keep it waterproof. I'm thinking it would work very well for keeping meat nicely stacked in the pack or on the load shelf. Thoughts?
I think that's a great idea, any idea where you could buy just the tent sacks without the rest of the 'stuff'? I too have had issues with the meat balling up at the bottom, I can tie it securely all the way up with string on my pack, but that's a pain in the ass..

[RiverOtter]

I'm thinking that no matter what width meat bag you use, you could simply roll the excess width the same as a roll top dry bag, then use a couple compression straps to maintain that form and attach it to your pack.

I'm still a huge fan of the zipper closure pillow cases, as they're fly proof and allow moisture to escape which helps keep meat from spoiling. That said, I'm coming around to the idea of contractor bags in conjunction for water cooling.

[huntcoop]

I think that's a great idea, any idea where you could buy just the tent sacks without the rest of the 'stuff'?...

MEC has them for $16.30 each, I know that is a swear word to some but camo-up and head in, it's fun :smile:

[SR80]

I was just boring the grocery bin from loblaws for the day, i already returned it. :wink:

The tag bags are pricey, but they are worth it in my opinion. Throw em in the washing machine afterwards and they come out brand new again. That material does not stretch, so it stays tall and vertical in the pack no problem and it is breathable and bugs cannot get through it.

Kifaru makes a meat bag made from similar material as a tent stuff sack, but is a lot stronger than a tent stuff sack, which would most likely split at the seams.

https://store.kifaru.net/meat-bags-p28.aspx

[Dougielightning]

X2 for the zippered pillow cases my mystery ranch metcalf nice preformed great and stays relatively small for day pack

[HarryToolips]

MEC has them for $16.30 each, I know that is a swear word to some but camo-up and head in, it's fun :smile:
Mountain equipment co OP eh, awesome thanks..

[Rob]

I use the kifaru meat bags that sr80 is talking about. They work great for keeping the meat in an upright position. It would be cool if the pack had some internal straps to keep it close to the back of the pack better but if you pack right around the meat it will keep it close.

[Backwoods]

I'm a huge fan of my Barneys Freighter Frame and Yukon pack! I highly recommend to everyone, I've tried kuiu packs, Eberlestock packs, Badlands, tatonka frame and packs and so far the Barneys blows them out of the water, I couldn't stand the kuiu, nice and light but cheap ass, didn't hold up, badlands is a nice pack I kept it for a spare for friends etc. Check out barneys if you havent

[Backwoods]

I use the kifaru meat bags that sr80 is talking about. They work great for keeping the meat in an upright position. It would be cool if the pack had some internal straps to keep it close to the back of the pack better but if you pack right around the meat it will keep it close.
Those meat bags are sweet!! Haven't tried them yet, I'm currently using the TAG game bags, they are great too, keep their form don't stretch out like cheese cloth, work great with de-boned meat

[RiverOtter]

What am I missing with the Barneys frame? They don't look any more comfortable than a Tatonka or the new style Cabela's freighter. Sure the bag might be superior to the other 2, but the bag does nothing for comfort.

[the_longwalker]

I have the same needs as the OP and am looking at MR Cabinet Pack. I figure I could use a small dry bag on the meat shelf for rain gear, lunch etc. Can't seem to find any reviews on them though. Currently using a Slumberjack Rail Hauler frame with a dry bag.

[SR80]

I have the same needs as the OP and am looking at MR Cabinet Pack. I figure I could use a small dry bag on the meat shelf for rain gear, lunch etc. Can't seem to find any reviews on them though. Currently using a Slumberjack Rail Hauler frame with a dry bag. They're bascially the mystery ranch crew cab. You'll find a billion reviews on the crew cab

[Lastcar]

Heck of a deal on a Stone Glacier Sky Archer 6200 in the classifieds. I don't know OnPoint at all, passing along what looks to be a good deal. Not helping promote OnPoint.

http://www.huntingbc.ca/forum/showthread.php?134399-Stone-Glacier-Sky-Archer-6200-with-medium-hip-belt-550

[AgSilver]

Heck of a deal on a Stone Glacier Sky Archer 6200 in the classifieds. I don't know OnPoint at all, passing along what looks to be a good deal. Not helping promote OnPoint.

http://www.huntingbc.ca/forum/showthread.php?134399-Stone-Glacier-Sky-Archer-6200-with-medium-hip-belt-550

Yeah, but you've gotta be skinny...

[Lastcar]

Yeah, but you've gotta be skinny...

You mean somewhat fit and healthy? Then, yes.

29 to 36 inches is the range. Now you have a goal for 2017!

[AgSilver]

You mean somewhat fit and healthy? Then, yes.

29 to 36 inches is the range. Now you have a goal for 2017!

exactly! When I lost 50 lbs and did a few tris and a half marathon, i was still a 35. Big hips I guess.

[huntcoop]

exactly! When I lost 50 lbs and did a few tris and a half marathon, i was still a 35. Big hips I guess.

Keep working at it, a svelt 33" waist could be in your future.

[AgSilver]

Keep working at it, a svelt 33" waist could be in your future.

I doubt it...I'd look anorexic. When I was down to a 35, a lot of people were saying that I was getting "too skinny" (whatever that means...maybe I'm just better suited to being doughy).

[huntcoop]

No way, my Dr says doughy is bad :lol:

[AgSilver]

No way, my Dr says doughy is bad :lol:

He's right. Guess I'll try to get down into a smaller pack size!

[Lastcar]

exactly! When I lost 50 lbs and did a few tris and a half marathon, i was still a 35. Big hips I guess.

Are you a Kardashian? That could explain it.

I recently lost the last 10lbs I needed to. Best weight savings I could make for backpacking into places.

Was a lot cheaper than spending a bunch of dough to shave ounces on gear. But I still do anyways...cause I have a problem. Addicted to shiny objects.

[RiverOtter]

I doubt it...I'd look anorexic. When I was down to a 35, a lot of people were saying that I was getting "too skinny" (whatever that means...maybe I'm just better suited to being doughy).

I hear ya AG, once you're down to bone, you're not getting any smaller. Mostly depends on how your body stores fat; as in "where". I'm a 36 waist, and in fairly decent shape, a 33 would take me back to grade 9 or 10 and I was NOT a fat kid.

[Backwoods]

What am I missing with the Barneys frame? They don't look any more comfortable than a Tatonka or the new style Cabela's freighter. Sure the bag might be superior to the other 2, but the bag does nothing for comfort.

Looks can be very deceiving, quality and durability with comfort, its also personnel preference, the padding on the shoulder straps have amazing cushion, straps don't loosen off during hiking etc... my waist is a 32 and with this pack a guy any smaller couldn't wear comfortably, I'm yet to try a Cabelas Frieghter with weight on it, a friend of mine has one and he cracked his frame, not sure of the pipe schedule on each of these frames, he also broke buckles in the winter and leaves it in his garage hung up for memories, not sure of the price comparison on these frames but im a firm believer you get what you pay for, buy once cry once sorta thing, sucks because im not made of money and its took a number of years to get the pack i wanted, but happy with my decision. Had my barneys out in -30 hiking around in snow etc and buckels on mine have held up so far, i did purchase a spare when i ordered the pack just encase!

-Backwoods

[RiverOtter]

Thanks for the detailed response BR. I've never been much of an external frame guy, (Love my internals) save for a down and dirty meat hauler and possibly attaching a dry bag/day pack for a summit pursuit of a goat. I scooped a bare frame Cabelas for $130 on sale and it seems like a great freighter for the money, though I've only tested it to 60'ish lbs. The harness is fairly sound IMO, though I could see the waist buckle being an issue. If it gives me grief it'll get an upgrade or seatbelt conversion. I get the buying quality, I guess I just have a hard time looking at a "Camp Trails" pack at nearly MR/SG pricing.

[Backwoods]

Thanks for the detailed response BR. I've never been much of an external frame guy, (Love my internals) save for a down and dirty meat hauler and possibly attaching a dry bag/day pack for a summit pursuit of a goat. I scooped a bare frame Cabelas for $130 on sale and it seems like a great freighter for the money, though I've only tested it to 60'ish lbs. The harness is fairly sound IMO, though I could see the waist buckle being an issue. If it gives me grief it'll get an upgrade or seatbelt conversion. I get the buying quality, I guess I just have a hard time looking at a "Camp Trails" pack at nearly MR/SG pricing.

Absolutely RiverOtter!! for that price that's wicked!! cant beat that! there are soo many packs I would love to try and purchase, its just not realistic, I also do like the internal frame packs, especially with all the newer packs coming out!!! it took me a bit to commit to the external frame!! best of luck on chasing Goats!~!

[Sportster]

Go online and check out the back pack and day pack line offered by tactical 511. I have a Rush 24 for day pack. Exelent pack built to take a beating. And know one offers more exsessories for thier packs than tactical 511.