Super helpful thanks everyone. I was able to obtain a 10% off discount for Kifaru. Waiting to hear back from EMG. And unfortunately my 42% off with MR is only good for shipping within the US -- bummer.
Super helpful thanks everyone. I was able to obtain a 10% off discount for Kifaru. Waiting to hear back from EMG. And unfortunately my 42% off with MR is only good for shipping within the US -- bummer.
Tatonka is a solid option there cheaper and get the job done.
We have Kuiu, Exo, SG and MR in my group. I have tried them all but the SG. MR was the most comfortable with the Exo a very close second. I ran a Kuiu setup for a while with zero issues and just wanted to try something else so I ended up with an Exo. I can't speak from personal experience but I have heard excellent things about Kifaru.
As for size. I found a frame that allows you to switch out packs is great. I have also found that the new Exo 6400 can be folded right down and ran as a day pack.
I would personally find it tough to fit 3-4 days of gear and food in anything smaller than a 4000 if you are hunting.
WSSBC
CCFR
For heavy heavy loads I’ve read that barneys lead the pack depending on the person ofcourse but a big portion of guides in Alaska use those packs and will never switch to a different brand, big upside is the frame is external so it’s a bit better if your hauling out meat the bags also go up to 7900 cui which is good enough for any hunt longer than 5 days and even then would probably be a bit big but it’s always better to have more space and not need it then to not have enough space and need it.
On a budget, look to buy used. As said there are a lot of great packs, but, like boots, fit is where its at. Something like a used eberlestock J107 or just one is affordable and useful. These can be found for $250-300.00 It wont carry weight as well as pricier packs but many a man has used this pack! The mystery ranch marshall is also a great option and they can be found for around $500.00
Last edited by swampthing; 01-19-2021 at 07:16 PM.
I have a Kifaru EMR 2 with bikini frame. I’ve had the pack since 2014 with zero issues it’s bombproof.
i would also add Barneys packs to the list, not as light weight as the other brands mentioned (off top of my head my pack is 7.5 lbs), but it's a workhorse
Unfortunately, the rifles are getting lighter because we are getting heavier and more unfit as a society. This is the key to the mainstream acceptance of the short magnums. - Nathan Foster