daypack for elk?

[dromero]

Mystery Ranch Saddle Peak (Multi-Cam, not sure if they offer this color anymore)
1200 cu.in.
3 lbs 7 ozs.

 It has a snow shovel "Shelf" that is adjustable, that's how I secured the elk quarter on it.

[HighCountryHunter88]

id at least go with the 2200 i used that in MT to pack a bull out. i use a eberlestock blue widow now because i like being able to pack a quarter out with me so i dont waste a trip to camp to get a bigger pack to haul meat.

[blackveltbowhunter]

I use the badlands 2200 and i love it, everyone always saying its to big and heavy but i dasagree, its a very comphy pack. What i like about it and why i recommend it over others espically a fanny pack is because if i knock an elk down there is no wasted trip out to grab my frame. I can strap a quarter right to it and be on my way. What more could you want 

 ...  For the money I think you would have a hard time finding a better daypack. I really, really like being able to access the main compartment through the back. Allowing me to have meat/bow/stands etc... and not have to remove to access lunch. I also prefer to make "every move count" so being able to pack meat is huge to me. If not an important feature to you... disregard this post. 

[D-Rock425]

I could never get badlands packs to fit my waist right.

[couesbitten]

I've owned (still have) a Blacks Creek Alaskan, and a Badlands something.  Last year I bought a Horn Hunter Full Curl, and I'd go with that pack if I couldn't afford, or wasn't willing to spend the money on a Kifaru or Stone Glacier.  Any of those 3 packs will pack the weight better than the Badlands, Blacks Creek, and Tenzing packs, and they'll allow you to pack a large portion of your game out comfortably, but compress down to daypack size.  My Kifaru should be here the end of next week.

[Johnb317]

Used the badlands 2200, only gripe is it's a little high and catches when I'm ducking under branches.   I went to an eberlestock x2 

[ridgefire]

I own a superday and it is pretty much a worthless pack imo.. Pack has no airflow at back.. Pockets are almost impossible to get at without taking pack off and is.  too small to pack any meat at all. I use a Kifaru siwash and would def recommend it over the badlands.

[NumaJohn]

Has anyone tried the Mystery Ranch Metcalf pack?  I have been looking at MR packs for a long time, but the Metcalf seems like a newer, lighter model that I hadn't seen before.  Enticing option, except for the price!

John

[wapiti22]

I have been looking for a daypack as well.  Serious question: If you are going to have shoulder straps on your fannypack how is that a better alternative to a small pack?  It seems that you would be able to distribute your pack weight better in an actual pack.

if you are successful, you can tie a hind quarter to the straps for that first trip back to your truck to get your meat carrying pack. I've done it and it works great.

[dkecoleman]

I love my X2, Very well thought out pack, carries loads fairly well, for a smaller pack.

[Morrison4375]

Any of the hornhunter packs will do many different styles and uses let me know if you are interested

[Cylvertip]

I don't know if badlands still makes it, but I have the Hypervent. I really like it other than the inner padded  belt material will squeak when it rubs against your pants when you walk.  It is a mild squeak and really only happens when it is soaked. It can be adjusted out for the most part.
 I am hot blooded and this thing is built to breath.  It looks like a huge pack when you have it on, but it is due to venting/ spacing away from your back.  I use to run a huge fanny pack and a hydration pack, but was always fighting the adjustments and harnesses between the two.  I too leave early in the morning, or at least try to, and will usually not make it back to the truck until dark , which makes for a long day during early archery.  I carry enough gear to no have to worry about food, water, or emergencies.  Just running a fanny pack, I could not carry enough water for the day.

Caution : I have worn this pack on a couple of late season hunts which has caused issue with me getting cold from not wearing enough layers.  In the past with previous packs and the high contact they have, they really insulate your back which kept me really warm, too warm (sweating).  Not this one.

[Sliverslinger]

I did a lot of research and tried several different options before eventually buying an Eberlestock X2. I am convinced this is right at the very top for day packs. Well thought out and tough as nails. Last years elk was all packed out on my X2. Two trips doubled up with a rear and front quarter packed and lashed on there. Another with everything else. Thats far any above what a  meat hauling pack would do In many circumstanves. Yes it was crazy heavy, but the pack handled it relatively well and its ridiculously comfortable the rest of the time.