Economical Pack Frame for Solo Elk Hunter

[WapitiTalk1]

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

X2.  I know nothing about the other inexpensive setups that have been mentioned but I've seen the Cabelas Alaskan in action and it works just fine for packing camp in, and, hauling quarters out.  I don't know if they have any Army surplus stores in your area, but an old Army alice pack will serve you just fine if the price is within your range.  I've hauled a good handfull of elk out using mine.  In fact, I still have the old green thing as a backup/loaner when needed although it's seen much better days.   

[Elkohol]

I've got a hideaway and the cabelas Alaskan guide frame. I find the Alaskan guide frame to be more comfortable as you can fine tune it pretty well. Might be able to fine one on craigslist or ebay for cheaper than retail. Worth the little extra $ money for the comfort in my opinion

[WapitiTalk1]

Here you go.  Happy hunting/packing  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B004LRDU4G/ref=dp_olp_used_mbc?ie=UTF8&condition=used

[Fl0und3rz]

Here you go.  Happy hunting/packing  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B004LRDU4G/ref=dp_olp_used_mbc?ie=UTF8&condition=used

I have one I am getting rid of for cheap if you are interested.  Ship, pick it up, or have someone take it heading over there.  Large Alice pack, with frame, and cargo shelf. I'll make you a deal.  PM if interested.

[n_mathews13]

The Sportsmens in the mall in Spokane closed about a year or so ago

[MADMAX]

Hit some garage sales or goodwill
you will find one for 5 dollars more than likely

[Jonathan_S]

Economical?  Used.   

[bowjunkie]

one more idea my local army surplus store has a crap load of external frames and cheap

[n_mathews13]

This is the one I got. It works

[Todd_ID]

Either go super cheap expecting to replace it or pay a bit more and expect it to last forever.  Bluesarcher has a lifetime one in the classifieds here for a great deal.

[jrebel]

I used a Hideaway for 5 years and loved it......this year it fell apart.   Literally all the webbing turned to crap and as I tightened straps they just ripped in half.  All of it. 

I just bought a Kelty  (yesterday)from Sportsman which was an unseen expenditure.  I was / am going to buy a bullpak as soon as this season is over.  I spent to much money on my walk in cooler so I thought I would hold off......wish I wouldn't have waited now.      OH well when I buy it first of the year, I will have two.   

[PlateauNDN]

Bought pack frame from Wal mart last season, still good, 1 from goodwill in dalles or. excellent condition, 1 Alice pack newish yakima goodwill all for 80.00.

[RadSav]

Are you packing in somewhere or just need something to get meat from point "A" to point "B"?

[returnofsid]

Are you packing in somewhere or just need something to get meat from point "A" to point "B"?

Just need to get meat from point A to point B.

I checked a few thrift stores today, nothing other than youth cub scout sized backpacks.  Army Surplus store has some Alice style pack frames, but at outrageous prices.

I ended up taking a drive to the Deer Park Bi-Mart and checked out the Hideaway.  Had my girlfriend put a couple 50 lb. bags of dog food on it and made some quick adjustments to the straps.  Ended up purchasing it.

It'll get me through this season and probably more.  That'll give me time to research better quality options for the future.

Thanks all for your great suggestions!

[RadSav]

I ended up taking a drive to the Deer Park Bi-Mart and checked out the Hideaway.  Had my girlfriend put a couple 50 lb. bags of dog food on it and made some quick adjustments to the straps.  Ended up purchasing it.

So you got the Expedition frame?  That should work just fine.  For just meat I was going to suggest the Stansport Deluxe Freighter frame which is about the same thing.  Definitely get you from point "A" to point "B" just fine with good heavy loads.

One tip I might add for using aluminum frames - ditch the para cord!  Go to a hardware store and get some web strapping.  I've seen too may aluminum frames get broken with para cord.  The strapping spreads the weight out on the frame a bit helping to eliminate kinking.  Also with the web straps you can add snaps that make life easier at the same time.

Good luck!  Hope you get the thing plenty bloody this season...and next