Packs

[Intruder]

So... I've read through most (if not all) the posts regarding backpaks.  I've got my choices narrowed down to 3:
- Eberlestock X1
- Badlands 2200
- Jim Horn Canadian

All seem to be high caliber in terms of quality/construction.  Some of it may just come down to personal choice.  I'd really like some feedback from guys who own these packs.  Give me the objective reasons you chose the 1 you did.  If you can compare em and show pros/cons that'd be great. 

[addicted]

as far as quality and function, plus 1 for the jim horn packs. specific reason i chose mine, the adjustable torso height shoulder straps

[huntingnut]

I have the Jim Horn Alaskan. It was very comfortable, I never had any problems. The only thing I wish they did different would be to add some pockets in the front pouch. I also like the adjustable torso. I have problems with the waist strap not being low enough but this one is perfect. The pack alone is a little heavier than most but the quality is awesome.

[cohoho]

Eberlestock X1, really like the ability to put the gun in the scabboard and have my hand free without carring a gun.....  And it is durable, mine is about three years old used alot for Caribou and still looks new without one single problem.  Ditto on extra pockets on the waist strap, wish it had some but just got their new catalog and they have some for things like GPS, small gun etc....  You probably can't go wrong with any of your choices...  All are good designed and extremely durable..

[Broken Arrow]

i have owned two badlands packs. Both 2800's. I gave my old model to my brother in law and bougth the 08 model casue i like the new layout better. Pro's are the warenty....cons, the 08 model buckles are s*#t. have had two break. Now i called Bandlands and they sent me new buckles with in two days, but even they admitted they have tons of problems with the new buckles and will be switching next year. My buddie has the eberlestorck.....awesome pack...he has had ZERO problems.

[BLUEBULLS]

Broken Arrow is right, you can't beat a badlands pack but try to find the older models (which are still available) I can't seem to break my 2800.

I think we sold a couple them this year elk hunting when a couple friends tried them on loaded with meat, the only place that you feel it is your legs.

[Intruder]

I really like the Jim Horn pack but boy is that mother heavy.... almost 7lbs unloaded.  I really like the design and comfort.  It seems like it would be awsome hauling meat too.   

The 2200 BL is only like 4.1lbs.  I'm getting to the "old fart" stage and I got bad knees.... 3lbs sounds and feels like a lot    It really pisses me off the way they designed the hydration bladder area in it though.  Almost made it imposible to use any standard cylinderical designed bladder.  Ya gotta get some special retangular model for the 2200.

Anyone have experienc hauling meat w/ the 2200 or the Eberlestock X1?

[bow4elk]

I live in my Badlands Packs.  The 2200 is a great pack for all around hunting and it is definitely good for packing meat.  I packed my elk last year on my HyperVent (smaller, lighter) and it performed awesome as well.  My only feedback to Badlands on the 2200 design was they should provide D loops or other means for lashing down meat bags to the outside.  I never put meat in my pack.

[Wacenturion]

I have a Badlands Hypervent and got my son a Badlands Superday.  Both wonderful and fit well.  I opted for the Hypervent with the dedicated spotting scope pocket....my Nikon ProStaff 20x60x82mm fits the pocket just fine with the tripod strapped to the side of the pack with legs in the hip pocket.  Great packs

[high country]

i have a bunch of packs, from badlands to mystery ranch, badlands warranty rocks. I would not sweat the brand half as much as the fit.

[jackelope]

i love my x1 too. it has the buddy lock deal where you can clip pockets or bottle holders or whatever to the waist belt. it is kind of heavy...i will say that. the scabbard is real handy. i have had rifles, shotguns, tripods, trekking poles, etc etc in it and it holds it all great. i have not packed meat with it, but at 2100" i think  it would be good for the first trip out to get the packboard...just my opinion. i could really load down the packboard and make a worthwhile trip out of it.
i will agree with the comments about quality versus fit...they're all good, just what fits you best and what features do you like.

[bowhuntin]

I bought a Jim Horn Canadian pack and it is great. I was either going to get the badlands 2200 or the Canadian and after getting my hands on the Jim Horn Canadian in Sportsmans warehouse and really checking it out, I was really satisfied with the design. It has the ability to hold a rifle for left or right handers, and it also can hold a bow. I like that it can hold a 100 oz. water bladder easily. It has a compartment for a spotting scope, though I don't have one it gives you added storage for gear. I like that it had the ability to adjust for different torso lengths, because my last pack didn't not fit my torso at all and really wore down my shoulders. It has the ability to hall meat if you get a critter down and I like all the straps that you can adjust tight so everything is snug and not shifting on you. It also has more than enough room to carry the essentials with you on your hunt and is very comfortable.

[shag]

I have the Blacks Creek Alaskan.  Odd it has a larger volume than the Canadian yet weighs less.   Like it alot.  But you'll need a rain cover or dry sac's to keep inportant gear dry in heavy rain.


How do the badland hold up as far as waterproof in all day down pours?

[YukonMud]

I just picked up the Eberlestock Stalker and it looks like it is excellent in quality and function, holds all of my hunting stuff, including everything that I will wear during the hunt so I know it will be perfect once I add food and water.
I have not yet used it out in the field, but can report back on Monday 

[scoyoc5]

+ 1 for the blacks creek. I had mine loaded down for my elk hunt this year ( think it was around 45lbs ) great pack for the money

[YukonMud]

I just picked up the Eberlestock Stalker and it looks like it is excellent in quality and function, holds all of my hunting stuff, including everything that I will wear during the hunt so I know it will be perfect once I add food and water.
I have not yet used it out in the field, but can report back on Monday 

I am really liking this backpack, it has lots of room and fits really snuggly to my back.  I tend to carry a little to much weight (for some people's liking) and once all the straps were tightened up the weight was dispersed and the padding held up so that it did not feel heavy at all.