Packs…..what do you all use?

[jrebel]

I run two kuiu packs and love them.  Thinking of just buying the larger pack and putting it on my frame but was curious what others are using and what they like about them.   I’m looking for a 6000-7000 ci pack but want light weight and versatile.   I looked at a kifaru that had wing pockets that collapsed over the middle when empty to make a day pack…..kind of intrigued by this. 

What I need…..

Lightweight.
Able to pack meat, preferably not in the main compartment but rather on a load lifting shelf like my kuiu.   
Versatile…..not just a one pouch bag I like some compartmentation
Durable
Most of all comfortable. 


What do you guys use and how do you like them.   

[hunthard]

EXO K-3, I bought here from this site last year and just love it, although I only have the 1800 bag on it right now it's nice to know I can pop that one off and go bigger if needed.

[MountainWalk]

I can’t tell you what’s best, but I use a kifaru with the Stryker xl bag and sometimes the campbag.  I am very happy with this.

[trophyhunt]

I run the kuiu pro 7200 bag, it gets big and can squish down when camp is made.  But, it’s such a busy pack, straps everywhere and I can NOT figure out how to put the bag back on after washing it??  When I buy a new pack, I’m going more simple like kifaru or stone glacier.

[boneaddict]

Eberlstock Battleship, (v90?).  Can carry tremendous weight, and hasn’t let me down.     It in itself seems a bit heavy, and I’ve thought about looking for lighter.  When something fits your back perfectly, it’s hard to change.     

[sage rat]

I agree with you boneaddict.  I have ran an exo for many years and love it.  For some reason i thought an SG Sky 5900 would be better so i bought it.  I wore it almost everyday in august and the first part of september to get in shape for hunting.  Ranging anywhere from 25 to 60lbs.  I found it to uncomfortable compared to my exo but the more i wore it the better it got.  I used it on a backpack hunt in Wyoming for 13 days.  By the  end of the hunt i fell in love with it.  It took a lot of jacking around and changing settings to make it work well for me.  I really like taking the lid off and using it as a daypack after you get your camp set up.  The straps are obnoxiously long but they came in handy when i had to pack my camp and my buddies camp which was well over the 5900ci.  The pack is light. If you like organizing all you gear into separate compartments....this pack is not for you but i added 2 swing pockets 2 hip pouches and a nalgene holster which helped

[Dhoey07]

99% of the time it's my Kuiu 1850. 

[vandeman17]

I recently bought a stone glacier solo on krux frame. I haven’t packed anything super heavy yet but during the day it’s pretty comfortable. Before that I was running a mystery ranch metcalf that hauled heavy loads like a champ. I just didn’t need a bag quite that big so that is why I changed

[trophyhunt]

I recently bought a stone glacier solo on krux frame. I haven’t packed anything super heavy yet but during the day it’s pretty comfortable. Before that I was running a mystery ranch metcalf that hauled heavy loads like a champ. I just didn’t need a bag quite that big so that is why I changed

If the wife kills a big bull moose, lets put that pack to the test!! 

[vandeman17]

I recently bought a stone glacier solo on krux frame. I haven’t packed anything super heavy yet but during the day it’s pretty comfortable. Before that I was running a mystery ranch metcalf that hauled heavy loads like a champ. I just didn’t need a bag quite that big so that is why I changed

If the wife kills a big bull moose, lets put that pack to the test!!

I am just a phone call away

[trophyhunt]

I recently bought a stone glacier solo on krux frame. I haven’t packed anything super heavy yet but during the day it’s pretty comfortable. Before that I was running a mystery ranch metcalf that hauled heavy loads like a champ. I just didn’t need a bag quite that big so that is why I changed

If the wife kills a big bull moose, lets put that pack to the test!!

I am just a phone call away

Careful what you ask for!!  lol

[OltHunter]

My vote is go USA made. Stone glacier, exo, kifaru, seek, or initial ascent. It will cost you extra $ though, but there are some coupons floating around.

I run a kifaru. I like the flexibility of the pockets on the outside and different attachment points, but the main reason was the frame. I'm tall and fall in the rare grouping of people that need curved stays. I've tried exo and stone glacier and kuiu, could not get them comfortable for me.

Kifaru has handled everything I threw at it and would not hesitate to recommend them. Customer service is top notch

[Stein]

You aren't going to find a lightweight pack that can handle 100+ pound loads unfortunately.

I have an Exo, bought both the Kuiu and Exo and sent the Kuiu back as I didn't like the frame.  I looked at Kifaru but after an hour of trying to figure out the combinations and options gave up and figured a bag with straps didn't need to be that complicated.

They all have fans and are well made, it's personal preference.

[LongBomb]

Bare eberlstock pack frame with a small day pack strapped to it. I got sick of a huge packed cuz i would have so much unnecessary stuff in it. A small day pack carrys more than enough for the day. It has enough straps, combine it with a good bag and i can have my camp on it along with day pack for the way in if im spikin.

[bigdub257]

I can’t tell you what’s best, but I use a kifaru with the Stryker xl bag and sometimes the campbag.  I am very happy with this.

I run the same setup with some pockets attached to the back of the stryker and a grab-it.

[ridgefire]

I have used my Kifaru Timberline 2 bag with a custom meat shelf, a Guide lid and a Grab it on a 24" Duplex frame for everything from day hunts to multiple night trips and love it. Last year I had a front and rear quarter from a mature bull elk in it for over 3 miles and it held up great and was as comfortable as 100+ lbs can be.

[craigapphunt]

Ran a eberlestock blue widow for a long time (tough pack just heavy and didn't handle heavy loads great) and just this year took the plunge and got an exo k3 4800 and have absolutely been loving it (light weight,  great bag layout, handle heavy loads, all day comfort) only thing i haven't like was accidentally cutting the waist belt on its maiden voyage but that was my fault.

[D-Rock425]

Kifaru hoodlum has been great for me.

[pickardjw]

Just a heads up, Exo is working on a K4 frame. It's apparently been in development for quite a while, Steve has been answering some questions about it. So if you're leaning Exo it might be worth the wait. https://www.rokslide.com/forums/threads/exo-mountain-k4.279017/

I have a SG Sky 5900 on the x-curve frame. Love the way it carries weight, it packs down well for day hunts and I can fit a 6 day trip in it without the lid. It's not "lightweight" and the bag is definitely more open concept though. Some people think the padding in the hip belt and straps is a bit thin but I don't have any issues with it.

I think Seek is currently making the lightest packs capable of packing out an animal with. And I hear they're pretty comfortable.

But yeah, to echo OltHunter, look at Stone glacier, exo, kifaru, seek, or initial ascent.

[p-ohana]

Can't beat American Made Nimrod Packs for me. I've packed out 10-12 elk and 10 deer the last 15 years with mine.

[jackelope]

You aren't going to find a lightweight pack that can handle 100+ pound loads unfortunately.

I have an Exo, bought both the Kuiu and Exo and sent the Kuiu back as I didn't like the frame.  I looked at Kifaru but after an hour of trying to figure out the combinations and options gave up and figured a bag with straps didn't need to be that complicated.

They all have fans and are well made, it's personal preference.

What's your idea of lightweight?
Kifaru packs handle that kind of weight and they're pretty darn light. If we're talking backpacking lightweight, that's another story but the alpha hunting packs will all handle that kind of weight and most are pretty lightweight.

[jackelope]

I've got a Kifaru setup. I've got a woodsman bag, a reckoning bag and a setup I use for daypack type hunting that is just the big lid, a large pocket mounted lower on the frame and a quarter panel. This setup has plenty of room to handle my daypack stuff and then the QP will handle meat loads if needed.

I used to think the Eberle was awesome until I got into a pack with functional load lifters that fit me correctly. I started with the OG Kuiu 7200 pack but I was always too worried about breaking the frame so I got rid of it.

[Bushcraft]

There's a few decent companies out there to chose from depending on your realistic needs and budget.

Look closely at the quality of material and sewing on suspension systems and bags.  Are they made en mass overseas in a sweatshop or by craftsmen here in the U.S.?

Pay close attention to customer service.  Are you buying an original design that's constructed with superb materials...or a lame cheap attempt at a copy?

Before you commit to spending $400-$800 on a hunting pack that would be suitable for extended trips and hauling out heavy loads of meat/hide/horns, do yourself a big favor and put at least 85+ lbs. in one and carry that load around for an hour or so.  Flat ground. Mixed terrain. Up and down inclines.  Make certain that you've been properly fitted to the pack. 

I've been running various Kifaru packs and shelters since Patrick Smith started the company.   Express, Long Hunter, Siwash, Reckoning, Tarryall, 357 Mag, Timberline, etc.  (I've got a MegaTarp, Sawtooth, 8-man w/liner, and a 12-man)

At the light end of the spectrum (KUIU/Stone Glacier), you might get a couple seasons out of them before they begin to fail, but they feel like crap [to me] when they are loaded heavy.

At the heavier duty bomb-proof end of the spectrum (Kifaru and Mystery Ranch and Hill People Gear to a certain extent), they are going to weigh a little more empty, but you'd be hard pressed to ever wear them out or carry a heavy load more comfortably.  All heavy loads suck, but they are intentionally designed and built with carrying those heavy loads in mind, and contrary to what some might say, they are super easy to fit different body types. 

Buy once.  Cry once.

[craigapphunt]

Just a heads up, Exo is working on a K4 frame. It's apparently been in development for quite a while, Steve has been answering some questions about it. So if you're leaning Exo it might be worth the wait. https://www.rokslide.com/forums/threads/exo-mountain-k4.279017/

I have a SG Sky 5900 on the x-curve frame. Love the way it carries weight, it packs down well for day hunts and I can fit a 6 day trip in it without the lid. It's not "lightweight" and the bag is definitely more open concept though. Some people think the padding in the hip belt and straps is a bit thin but I don't have any issues with it.

I think Seek is currently making the lightest packs capable of packing out an animal with. And I hear they're pretty comfortable.

But yeah, to echo OltHunter, look at Stone glacier, exo, kifaru, seek, or initial ascent.

Dang I just can't seem to keep up with progress!

[Timberstalker]

Have an older Mystery Ranch Marshall (USA Made version) that has been phenomenal.  Packs weight ridiculously well and shows no signs of wear.  It just keeps going.  It's heavy, however, I have no complaints.  It fits me perfectly and I absolutely believe that is the key to success with packs.  If they don't fit you, they beat the hell out of you.

[pickardjw]

The lightweight question got me curious. Just picking some bags that are roughly the same size...

SG Sky 5900 (or Sky 6400) on Medium X-Curve (no lid?): 5lb 8oz
Kifaru Hoodlum 6300 on 26" Duplex Lite: 6lb 13oz
Exo 6400 on K3 Frame (no lid): 5lb 5oz
Seek Unaweep 6300: 3lb 0oz ("minimum trail weight")
Initial Ascent IA6K 6700: 6lb 1oz

So the Seek is clearly the lightest though I don't know what constitutes the "minimum trail weight". Even if other items on there like a hood added up to a pound it's the lightest. Kifaru definitely the heaviest.

Side note: I've had the SG for two years now and I've probably used it 50+ days in the field on day trips and backpacking, including one 11+ mile packout of my buck this year. Only signs of wear is that it's dirty.

[shmacker]

+1 for kifaru, I’ve been using the Duplex Timberline 1 for probably the last 7 or 8 years and it has been awesome.  That bag doesn’t have a meat shelf, but kifaru makes some other solid options with a shelf if it’s mandatory.

[hoytxl2009]

I'm running kuiu currently (3rd time). Started with kuiu then went to the Mercalf went back to kuiu then tried the Exo. Currently back to kuiu. Frame I'm currently on has been involved in 8 elk of witch 4 trips have been hind quarter+front shoulder. Yet to try out kifaru or SG.

[JasonG]

exo 4800

[PacificNWhunter]

Kifaru Frame. I rotate between a 4800 cu inch and a 7K cu inch pack.

[highcountry_hunter]

I’m using the mystery ranch beartooth 80. 5200 cubic inches, weighs just over 6 lbs and so far it’s earned it’s keep. Cinches down small and tight for day hunts, has tons of room for packing in. Last Friday I went in with 12 days worth of gear and food, total pack weight was 71 lbs including my rifle and 3L of water and it handled it great. 2 days later I came out over 100lbs with meat and horns and gear. It was friggin heavy and I was hurtin but no pressure points, no pack failures, just a lot of damn weight!

[MtnMuley]

Back to the OP's initial thoughts on a batwing style pack. That's the set up I still use after many of years. I've got a several Kifaru frames and multiple bags for different types of hunts. The pack I use 80% of the time is the Duplex Hunter frame with the original Nomad bag. I have a custom built non-branded Nomad II with some features I wanted added that I need use more, but am too lazy to switch over to.  I will run various types of lids if necessary, but more often than not on day hunts, I leave the lids off. It's pretty much a standard these days to leave the Sherman pocket attached on the bottom to use as the "Grab it" as well as flipping down as a rifle butt carrier. Even on trips up to 5 days I'll use this set up, but will add an Oregon Pack Works scabbard attached with Condor clips and throw on the Kifaru Camp Bag or a dry bag depending on how much gear I need. The system works very well for my style as I can throw the camp bag off and still have my normal day hunting set up. If you're the kind of guy that looks like you have a full load while day hunting, this set up might not be for you. I like to pack the bare minimum for day hunts. I've used most of the other brands and a few are very nice as well, but this is by far the best for my needs and seems very lightweight to me for packing loads in excess 100# if needed. There's a ton of options to customize any Kifaru to your exact liking and for me that seals the deal.

[Mulie87]

Ive ran an Eberlestock dragonfly for 10yrs. Looking at Kuiu PRO LT now, but can’t decide between 4000 or 5500 pack. I don’t camp out of my pack, but want meat carrying capability. Don't want to get too small of a pack. Any suggestions between the two?

My dragonfly is great big pack with plenty of space, but just too heavy at 8lb. The Pro LT complete w harness system and frame is half the weight.

[Skyvalhunter]

go with the 5500

[Mulie87]

Thanks skyvalhunter.

[actionshooter]

Packs are like boots... what works for one guy won't for the next... fit is really a personal thing..

I like my SG 6900  and I have a MR Kodiak that I love, but it's almost 10# alone... BUT I can get a whole moose rear quarter in it LOL

[lewy]

 Have really liked my kifaru over the years     

[jrebel]

I think I have it narrowed down to three...in no particular order.

1.  Stone Glacier 6900 sky talus or Evo
2.  Kifaru fulcrum with duplex light frame
3.  Just buy another bag for my kuiu frames.....pro 7800. 

I love my kuiu packs and they have worked well.  I don't need two bags so I'm looking for one big bag that can collapse down for day trips or expand out for longer trips.  Waiting to hear back from Stone glacier on their belt size.  The large says 37+....I need a 42 so want to make sure it goes that big.  If not, that will narrow the search to Kifaru or another Kuiu bag. 

[WapitiTalk1]

EXO……..

[jrebel]

EXO……..

A buddy just bought an EXO....I'm gonna take a look at it in the next couple days.  I'm not a fan of the pack not having a load lifting shelf.....it just has two straps at the bottom to support the meat.  I can see this being a weak point in the pack.....especially when packing big elk quarters. 

[WapitiTalk1]

EXO……..

A buddy just bought an EXO....I'm gonna take a look at it in the next couple days.  I'm not a fan of the pack not having a load lifting shelf.....it just has two straps at the bottom to support the meat.  I can see this being a weak point in the pack.....especially when packing big elk quarters.

They work just fine JR, no BS.

[pickardjw]

Load shelf seems intentionally designed on the Exo. Wouldn't consider it a weak point, especially knowing how Steve designs things and the testing they put the bags through before they hit retail. 

Pics on their page for the K3 frame seem to give a good idea of how they handle heavy weight in the load shelf.
https://exomtngear.com/products/k3-frame-system

If I ever switch from SG it will be to an Exo.

[fowl smacker]

I've had a Mystery Ranch Metcalf for several years now.  I'd buy another in a heartbeat.

[actionshooter]

I think I have it narrowed down to three...in no particular order.

1.  Stone Glacier 6900 sky talus or Evo
2.  Kifaru fulcrum with duplex light frame
3.  Just buy another bag for my kuiu frames.....pro 7800. 

I love my kuiu packs and they have worked well.  I don't need two bags so I'm looking for one big bag that can collapse down for day trips or expand out for longer trips.  Waiting to hear back from Stone glacier on their belt size.  The large says 37+....I need a 42 so want to make sure it goes that big.  If not, that will narrow the search to Kifaru or another Kuiu bag. 

I'm a size 40 and my SG 6900 Sky fits well with a large belt and has some room to spare...

[OltHunter]

Exo has a separate strap kit for meat hauling in between bags that I think would ease your worries. Looks and works pretty slick. A buddy of mine had one when helping with an elk this year. Think it's called a load panel or something like that. Exo also has something on the frame where you can expand it out or in a few inches to make the frame taller/shorter depending on if you have a heavy or light load. I found that very clever. 3 of my close hunting buddy's all run Exo, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend them. Just not for me.

Actionshooter is right, packs are like boots and very preference based. Very hard to get a true feel for them until you're at 50 pounds + for lots of miles and days. Support USA made gear when you can.

[pashok23]

Kuiu pack

[Buzz2401]

I love my mystery ranch and I would be hard pressed to change brands. They just feel so comfortable with a load on them.

[X-Force]

Having carried meat in the main bag and in a load shelf I would say that there is virtually no difference, especially if you let your meat hang for a day or so. Packing out 50-80 lb of meat with 3-4 days of gear (50lbs) is doable in a 3500-5000 ci bag with meat shelf. With larger bags once your bag is full of gear and your shelf is full of meat you have a difficult situation where even with load lifters your bag will sag and not be in an idea spot for heading back down the mountain so I wouldn’t run a 6000-8000 ci bag with a meat shelf.

Having a bag that is the lightest will be one with a main bag and not much else. Organization bags with pockets, zippers, etc add weight.

I don’t think you can go wrong with kifaru, stone glacier or exo. It’s just personal preference, fit and style. I don’t include MR because they aren’t American made anymore.

My personal all time favorite bag is a MR crew cab, it has bat wings that held gear and a main bag that would hold some items with a center shelf for meat or gear.

I currently have a couple different Kifaru frames and bags depending on how and what I’m going to hunt.

[jrebel]

Generally speaking, I'm not doing back country 10 day hunts.  If I am, it's off horseback.  The reasoning for such a large bag, is when we are packing and traveling for a hunt I pack for both me and my son.  Our moose hunts have benefited from large packs for the sole reason of having two peoples stuff in it for day or overnight trips.  Most of the time I synch the bag down and don't use it to its fullest potential.  I currently have two kuiu bags / frames set ups and almost never use my 1800 bag / pack.  I find when I want the room in the pack it is there with the larger bag.....but I can't make extra room in the smaller bag.  I have also learned that having to switch packs for different hunts....sucks.  I want a one and done.  I will carry a little extra weight on a day hike (extra material) if I don't have to worry about switching everything around every couple weeks.   

If I'm packing meat.....the bag is usually at a minimalistic weight / fill (day hunt stuff).  Never been a fan of putting meat inside my pack....inevitably the contents get stinky / bloody / dirty / etc.  I can't see myself ever being in a position where I am packing out a 60lbs camp and animal at the same time. 

At the heaviest (without game) my pack runs 60-65 lbs.  Most the time I am in the 30-40 lb range.  With meat I think the heaviest I have ever been is 110-120.....I try not to do that, it hurts to bad.....