Versatile hunting pack

[SeaWalker]

So I'm looking for a pack that I can carry enough gear for about 3 nights that will convert to something I can hunt (carry water, survival, gutting tools etc.) with while leaving the rest at camp.  Any suggestions?

The Nimrod Apex looks like it would do this well http://www.nimrodpacks.com/hunt/N400.html

Does anyone have any experience with this pack? 

I see Cabelas has similar packs but the reviews aren't great.  I don't want to end up with a pack that can do "everything" but doesn't do anything that well.
Any advice or suggestions is much appreciated.  Thanks

[whacker1]

I haven't bought one, but the 3 brands I have been considering for this fall are Nimrod, Eberlestock, and Badlands. 
It sounds like you have already looked over the Nimrod
http://www.eberlestock.com/hunting.htm
http://www.badlandspacks.com/packs.php

My buddy bought the Eberlestock, so I have been leaning that way, but I like that Nimrod is made in right here in WA in Cashmere.

[arrowflinger]

I have a Nimrod pack, it is the older model. I love it. I bought my son the new model and think that the new design is better. With just the fanny pack, I can load it up for a full day of hunting and for the most part a night if it came down to it. I have added the back pack and can be out for about three days. But now mine is so old that I can't add any of the new stuff to it.............draw back. Just my 

Hopes this helped

[Skyvalhunter]

If you do a search on this site for packs you will find enough info.

[whacker1]

two threads going on this subject.
http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,29005.30/topicseen.html

[Intruder]

Alot depends on what you really want in terms of features and also on fit.  All packs have pros and cons... ya just gotta sort through em and find the one that's best for you:

Nimrod
Eberlestock
Badlands
Blacks Creek
Dana Design/Mystery Ranch... similar

are all high quality packs with good designs.  For my hunting I was down to deciding between a Jim Horn Western from Blacks Creek and an Eberlestock.  Went w/ the Eberlestock (X2) due to fit, weight and features for what I needed.  I don't think you can go wrong with any of those manufacturers.   

[Houndhunter]

i dont know maybe its just the way i was raised, but i go with a frame backpack. them internal ones just dont cut it for me, maybe for a day hike but thats it. really comes in handy when you dont wanna bone out an animal, plus i just like the way they sit. i just got the cabelas one, havnt used it yet but have used one before and liked it alot. for hunting and hiking there a great pack

[SeaWalker]

Thanks for all the replies about packs.  It's all great info!

[tonymoe]

i dont know maybe its just the way i was raised, but i go with a frame backpack. them internal ones just dont cut it for me, maybe for a day hike but thats it. really comes in handy when you dont wanna bone out an animal, plus i just like the way they sit. i just got the cabelas one, havnt used it yet but have used one before and liked it alot. for hunting and hiking there a great pack

houndhunter, I agree a little, but I think if you are out there for a few days or more the internal frames are more comfortable and fit like a glove.

[Houndhunter]

i dont know maybe its just the way i was raised, but i go with a frame backpack. them internal ones just dont cut it for me, maybe for a day hike but thats it. really comes in handy when you dont wanna bone out an animal, plus i just like the way they sit. i just got the cabelas one, havnt used it yet but have used one before and liked it alot. for hunting and hiking there a great pack

houndhunter, I agree a little, but I think if you are out there for a few days or more the internal frames are more comfortable and fit like a glove.

i admit i do own a internal frame pack as well , i use it for some hiking trips plus it dont smell as bad

[Karl Blanchard]

I recently bought the nimrod apex and it is top notch.  Lots of pockets and sturdy design.  Custom service is second to none and they are a washington company.  Also,  the pack frame they have straps right to the shoulder strap/waist belt is the best pack frame I have seen or used.  Very good design and solid. 

[finfeatherfur]

I have had my nimrod pack for two years and love it.  I have tried numerous other packs but none of them fit correctly.  The nimrod is adjustable so it can fit different length torsos.  There are alot of good packs available but I don't think you can go wrong with a nimrod.

[DOUBLELUNG]

What has always worked well for me is a traditional external frame hiking pack (mine's a Kelty Tioga), with my Badlands 2200 on the outside.  I hunt/spike out overnight with the Badlands, the frame pack gets me in to camp and back out. 

[Pat/Rick]

German military rucksack, and or LBE.

[alecvg]

I would go Eberlestock, It works perfect as a day pack, get the spike duffel, and use it to get to base camp, then if you get an animal, open up the meat compartment and pack everything out!  It is awsome!