Economical Pack Frame for Solo Elk Hunter

[returnofsid]

This year's elk hunting will most likely be done completely solo.  Last year, I was able to hunt with my son, who's now in N. Dakota working.  He owns a pack frame, I do not. 

Unfortunately, I'm also on a very limited budget.  So, I'm asking advice on an inexpensive Pack Frame, even if it only lasts a couple seasons.  During that time, my finances will improve and I'll be more able to 'splurge.'  Doubt it matters, but in case it does, I archery hunt.

Currently, I'm looking at several Pack Frames available at Walmart, in the $60ish price range.  I know, super cheap, but will they work?  I've also seen one at Big R, at a comparable price, maybe ten bucks more. 

Other options, within a 'poor man's budget' are welcome!

[j_h_nimrod]

Bi-Mart usually stocks one by Hideaway that works pretty well. Think they are about $45 when on sale. It is quite a bit better than what I found at Walmart.

[returnofsid]

"Bi-Mart?" I've heard of it, in references to BBQ/Smokers.  However, I'm not even familiar with that store.  Wonder if there's one in the Spokane area?

[wlandrum]

There is one in Cheney and Deer Park.

[n_mathews13]

Sportsman sells A hideaway brand that's been good. I use the heck out of it, had it for a dew years now

[curtmdavis]

+1 on the hideaway, been abusing mine for 3 seasons, just got the meat sack for it this year.

[n_mathews13]

+1 on the hideaway, been abusing mine for 3 seasons, just got the meat sack for it this year.

Meat sack? Where did you get that?

[returnofsid]

There is one in Cheney and Deer Park.

I was just looking at their website and saw that!  Like I said, I had heard the name but had no idea what it even was.  Deer Park would give me an excuse to stop into Whitetail Archery!  So, I'm reading that it's a Membership store, similar to Costco I guess?  I had assumed they were basically a discount grocery store...lol.  Guess I'll have to check them out!

Sportsman sells A hideaway brand that's been good. I use the heck out of it, had it for a dew years now

Sportsman Warehouse? Unfortunately, the nearest one to Spokane is in Lewiston, ID, about a 2 hour drive.  For some reason, I thought we had one at the Spokane Valley Mall, but I'm not seeing that one on their website.

[curtmdavis]

+1 on the hideaway, been abusing mine for 3 seasons, just got the meat sack for it this year.

Meat sack? Where did you get that?

Walmart's website, same price as the hideaway website, but less shipping.

http://www.hideawaygear.com/Expedition-Meat-Bag.html

[returnofsid]

I just got off the phone with the Bi-Mart Sporting Goods dept. in Deer Park.  Very helpful lady who seems to know her stuff!  Anyway, the pack frame they carry is the Hideaway Expedition H9451, "every day price" of $59.97.  The same pack is $91.86 at Walmart.
http://www.walmart.com/ip/HideAway-Expedition-Frame/17479647

[bowjunkie]

craigslist external frame pak cheap and easy just modify a bit and ur done

[Dbax129]

I was also going to say external frame pack, but check the local goodwill or thrift store for them. I have a buddy that has used a $10 external frame pack for years from goodwill. Found one that evenhas a llittle fold down bar at the bottom that supports the meat great for less strapping / lashing.

[returnofsid]

craigslist external frame pak cheap and easy just modify a bit and ur done

I've actually been watching Craigslist lately.  Unfortunately, all I've been seeing are Cub Scout sized external backpacks.

I was also going to say external frame pack, but check the local goodwill or thrift store for them. I have a buddy that has used a $10 external frame pack for years from goodwill. Found one that evenhas a llittle fold down bar at the bottom that supports the meat great for less strapping / lashing.

Hadn't thought about checking thrift stores yet.

[rosscrazyelk]

cabelas sells the Alaskan frame pack. We have 4 of those in our camp and they have packed a good share of meat. They are under $100

[pianoman9701]

I've got one 5 years old, never been used!