Author Topic: backpack for Elk (Read 11524 times)

Mike_D · « **on:** July 11, 2009, 01:29:18 PM »

Not sure if this has been asked before...

What are ya'll using for packs? I've done alot of research into this, plus fitting, testing, and dealing with a sore back off and on...

But I did finally break the bank and buy an Eberlestock D107.... I think its close to the top of the line for internal frame packs... and I'm most excited about it... Can't wait to break it in properly with a little elk blood...

KillBilly · « **Reply #1 on:** July 11, 2009, 01:50:28 PM »

I cannot find a D107 anywhere on the Eberlestock site. Are you sure that is the right number?

elkspert · « **Reply #2 on:** July 11, 2009, 01:59:38 PM »

Jansens Hard Core Hunt pack for me and I love it!!!

Mike_D · « **Reply #3 on:** July 11, 2009, 02:20:40 PM »

wups!!! Sorry KillBilly,

J107 The DragonFly....

TheHunt · « **Reply #4 on:** July 11, 2009, 02:50:39 PM »

I have the draggon fly as well. Very nice pack for over night type of hikes. Crooked horn with a bow or rifle pouch is a great day pack.

alecvg · « **Reply #5 on:** July 11, 2009, 10:13:52 PM »

Quote from: Mike_D on July 11, 2009, 02:20:40 PM

wups!!! Sorry KillBilly,

J107 The DragonFly....

The J107 will work perfect for elk hunting,, and any hunting for that matter, I have the J104, and it is great, and similiar to the J107, awesome packs, would recommend them. Though my Badlands is more comfortable, Eberlestock is better for packing and overnight.

actionshooter · « **Reply #6 on:** July 11, 2009, 10:43:01 PM »

I use a Mystery Ranch, before that I used a Dana Design (early mystery ranch) for 12 years, very happy with both.
Brother uses a Arcteryx, buddy uses a Badlands 4500. Lots of good packs out there.

Timmybob · « **Reply #7 on:** July 11, 2009, 11:56:59 PM »

I use the Badlands 4500.. Older model with a few recent upgrades. I looked at the Eberlystock as well. Both great packs. I guess the Badlands Warranty is what was the decision maker for me..Good luck.

Dean44 · « **Reply #8 on:** July 12, 2009, 09:05:41 AM »

I have been using a Kelty Redwing 3100 for about 7 years now. It has had very heavy use and held up well. It is light enough for day hikes but has an aluminum spine in the back to haul heavy loads. I have used it a few times to haul elk out of roadless areas and I prefer it over a pack board for this task. It has worked well for 5-day wilderness hikes, you can cinch it down for short hikes once you unload and have camp set up.

It is sized just right so I can carry a slinged rifle and shoot while wearing it. Very good quality, plenty of pockets for binocs, range finder etc, and comes in a nice green.

The retail price is $90. Saw new ones at Sportsmans Whse the other day.

Mike_D · « **Reply #9 on:** July 12, 2009, 02:16:33 PM »

Very nice dean...

I've yet to have to pack out an elk, but I've a good friend who wants to try this... (my back is already complaining) so we're lining up for an east side 2week hunt this year... I've had a lot of problems with packs and back pain (even when in good condition) so I've tried to pick something near the top of the line without breaking the bank or going too overboard.

Nice pic. I'm might consider picking one of these up for a shorter hunts.

coachcw · « **Reply #10 on:** July 12, 2009, 02:25:49 PM »

Ive strapped my day pack to a good pack frame , this can save you a trip back for a pack board . Coach

KillBilly · « **Reply #11 on:** July 13, 2009, 04:05:28 AM »

Quote from: Mike_D on July 11, 2009, 02:20:40 PM

wups!!! Sorry KillBilly,

J107 The DragonFly....

Okay, that looks like it will do the trick

rasbo · « **Reply #12 on:** July 13, 2009, 05:28:57 AM »

the ol frieghter frame cabelas.been using that to pack meat for eons. cost me 49 dollars

mossback91 · « **Reply #13 on:** July 13, 2009, 05:33:54 AM »

Quote from: coachcw on July 12, 2009, 02:25:49 PM

Ive strapped my day pack to a good pack frame , this can save you a trip back for a pack board . Coach

Have done that also........it seems then I was too prepared and nothing ever fell to the ground.........

flyguide · « **Reply #14 on:** July 13, 2009, 07:01:31 AM »

Badlands 2800 - not sure how you can beat this pack for day hunting, overnight, or that 1st load of meat!

couesbitten · « **Reply #15 on:** July 13, 2009, 09:18:12 AM »

Quote from: flyguide on July 13, 2009, 07:01:31 AM

Badlands 2800 - not sure how you can beat this pack for day hunting, overnight, or that 1st load of meat!

It's easy, just buy a Blacks Creek, Eberlestock, or Kelty. LOL
Just kidding, this is the whole Ford/Chevy/Dodge argument, and it has already been discussed here and on every other hunting website. Do a search, and you'll find numerous threads about this very subject.

I personally use a Kelty Freighter frame and a Blacks Creek Alaskan and love it. I've hauled out three deer and one elk using this combo.

AKBowman · « **Reply #16 on:** July 13, 2009, 07:34:29 PM »

External frame with a freighter shelf.

rosscrazyelk · « **Reply #17 on:** July 14, 2009, 10:58:13 AM »

Are you looking for something multi-purpose or for packing out?
I have a eberlestock and it is great for many things but for just packing meat I have the cabelas Yukon frame pack and it works just fine.

HUNT · « **Reply #18 on:** July 14, 2009, 11:06:29 AM »

I use an Eberlestock J107 for a daypack to take a first load of meat out with me when successful.... Then I use a Cabela's Alaskan Guide Frame.

Crunchy · « **Reply #19 on:** July 14, 2009, 11:25:03 AM »

http://www.bullpacs.com/

Mike_D · « **Reply #20 on:** July 14, 2009, 01:05:17 PM »

It's amazing how many different styles, shapes and perspectives and opinions!!! I' m pretty sure I'm happy with what I got, and thanks for eveyone whos replied. It looks like the market has a supplied a back for almost every different taste!! (and that's a good thing)

uncoolperson · « **Reply #21 on:** July 14, 2009, 01:15:04 PM »

not for elk, more general playing outdoors and hopefull getting something this year.

But I hope the skycrane is as similar to the just one as the pictures make it lool.
http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,30067.0.html

whacker1 · « **Reply #22 on:** July 14, 2009, 05:36:23 PM »

I just order the Eberlestock J107 Dragonfly from cabelas and they are backordered 6 - 7 weeks.

Just an FYI - I had been pondering which pack for quite some time and ultimately decided this will be the best for me.

cornhuskid · « **Reply #23 on:** July 14, 2009, 08:04:14 PM »

whacker1,

Cabelas in Lacey, WA has two J107 Dragonflys in Mossy oak Brusk in stock right now. I was there earlier today and happened to see them.

Jeff

bow4elk · « **Reply #24 on:** July 14, 2009, 08:13:04 PM »

The Ox is a new rig from Badlands, coming very soon. I was supposed to have a first article sample for testing a while back but they are still dialing it in. Watch for it!!

http://www.badlandspacks.com/ox.php

Mike_D · « **Reply #25 on:** July 14, 2009, 09:12:06 PM »

Yea, the OX looks pretty cool, I'd like to see the reviews...

Branden · « **Reply #26 on:** July 14, 2009, 09:30:21 PM »

I do a lot of packing all year, first backpacking then hunting, and I like the looks of the Eberlestock, Badlands, and MR but some of them weigh a lot. For example, look at the J107. Stated weight is 8.5 so probably closer to 9 pounds. The new Badlands B4E posted is over 9 pounds. Seems like a lot of weight for a pack to me. It kinda sucks starting off with almost 10 pounds on your back before you even put anything in it.

Cableas frames are a little week, we've broke a few packing animals on them. And Bullpacs have the worst suspension of any frame pack made. They are strong and will never break unless you run them over though.

On another note I am curious where Badlands gets the info that external frames weigh 9 pounds for just the frame? 17 with a pack attached? Are they talking about a pack saddle or something? Externals are the lightest packs on the market for weight to room ratio.

The 2800 looks like a pretty decent day hunting pack with room to pack out a quarter.

bow4elk · « **Reply #27 on:** July 14, 2009, 09:42:21 PM »

I questioned the quoted weights myself, but that aside the Ox frame is very light and structurally very stout. I'm waiting for my sample daily but I was just told I may have to wait a bit longer. Obviously, they are using the samples they do have for advertising purposes. Once I get done with mine, it won't be suitable for photos

.

You are correct in your assessments of the Cabela's freighter frame, the Bullpac, and the fact that external framed packs offer the most storage capacity. I have many of the Badlands line up and I've been most happy with the Hypervent for mountain bike elk hunting. They have eliminated the annoying "squeaking" from the internal frame so if you hear about that issue, rest assured, it's a thing of the past and only occurred on the earlier versions.

Branden · « **Reply #28 on:** July 14, 2009, 09:50:35 PM »

I almost bought a badlands 4500 this year but when I was doing the research on them they are just to heavy for the size. If I was in the market for a smaller pack I really like that 2800 and this was the first time I noticed the Hypervent but it looks like a sweet day pack.

bow4elk · « **Reply #29 on:** July 14, 2009, 09:56:13 PM »

You'd love the Hypervent - it's very light and versatile. I just got my new one yesterday and will be hunting with it and the Ox this fall.

videoman · « **Reply #30 on:** July 14, 2009, 09:59:03 PM »

I have a mystery ranch pack it is the best pack that I have ever used.

ghgetter · « **Reply #31 on:** July 14, 2009, 10:48:18 PM »

Quote from: Branden on July 14, 2009, 09:50:35 PM

I almost bought a badlands 4500 this year but when I was doing the research on them they are just to heavy for the size. If I was in the market for a smaller pack I really like that 2800 and this was the first time I noticed the Hypervent but it looks like a sweet day pack.

Brandon, have you screwed around w/ a Crew Cab? I just sent some pics to Brian. If you want you can get them from him...dont let the weight thing scare you.

actionshooter · « **Reply #32 on:** July 15, 2009, 03:35:41 AM »

I also pack year around, after this weekend I'll have close to 70 miles this month with a full pack on.
If a pack fits right, carrys well and the suspension system is built right, pack weight is the last thing to worry about. You won't notice it.

Quote from: videoman on July 14, 2009, 09:59:03 PM

I have a mystery ranch pack it is the best pack that I have ever used.

Hands Down!.

whacker1 · « **Reply #33 on:** July 15, 2009, 06:22:42 AM »

Branden - the other pack systems to look at is Nimrod - they are lighter and made right in Cashmere, WA.
I chose the Eberlestock, because I like the suspension a little better on the big pack, but might end up buying a smaller pack from nimrod.

Branden · « **Reply #34 on:** July 15, 2009, 09:30:37 AM »

Quote from: ghgetter on July 14, 2009, 10:48:18 PM

Brandon, have you screwed around w/ a Crew Cab? I just sent some pics to Brian. If you want you can get them from him...dont let the weight thing scare you.

Quote from: actionshooter on July 15, 2009, 03:35:41 AM

I also pack year around, after this weekend I'll have close to 70 miles this month with a full pack on.
If a pack fits right, carrys well and the suspension system is built right, pack weight is the last thing to worry about. You won't notice it.

All of the times that I have packed if I am hiking in a long ways, or have a heavy load coming out its not my shoulders that hurt its my feet. So I figure the least amount of weight on my back the easier it'll be on my feet. I have done a ton of research on packs, and the guys that use packs the most and in the roughest terrain seem to like other packs better then the MR. Now, if they came out with a pack that had the same cu in. and was as comfortable as mine for less weight then I would think about buying one. But they are heavy, don't pack a heavy load as well, and cost more for a less capable pack.

whacker1 · « **Reply #35 on:** July 15, 2009, 09:51:55 AM »

i bought the heavier pack via Eberlestock, because I think I would rather be more comfortable packing a heavier load. I have a bad back, and the added weight is more welcome than the shifting of loads as I walk and the discomfort of some of the lighter packs. I bought a pack frome a couple of years ago, can't remember the brand, but way more comfortable than the other brands and didn't weigh, but maybe a few ounces more. I will look up the brand tonight.

gutsnthegrass · « **Reply #36 on:** July 15, 2009, 11:53:39 AM »

I use the Bullpac with a pack sinched to the frame. Has worked out great for me in the past and I can usually load half a deer tied up to the frame.

Huntbear · « **Reply #37 on:** July 15, 2009, 11:58:09 AM »

My problem with most packs is that I am very long waisted, plus, my "beer belly" along with a bad back. Nothing fits, or is very uncomfortable to wear all day long. Plus, I find my low back killing me by the end of the day. My packs usually weigh about 15 lbs. loaded, so it is not that heavy.

Skyvalhunter · « **Reply #38 on:** July 15, 2009, 12:05:57 PM »

Usually a person get a sore back from packs if the heaviest part is either too high in the pack or too low. Ideally you want most of the weight to be in the center of the pack and close to your torso. A good pack is adjusted so the weight is distributed evenly between your shoulders and hips but that doesnt always happen with heavy packs.

Rob · « **Reply #39 on:** July 15, 2009, 12:26:56 PM »

I have a "just one" pack from Eberlestock. I like it, but as commented on before, it is very heavy for a pack. lots of cool features, but heavy.

I have been using one of the cabelas external frame packs - the alaskan II I think. Not really snazzy, but less than 5 pounds empty.

I picked up the Eberlestock last winter and would like to get it out, I like the integrated rifle storage. But when push comes to shove I'm not sure I'll be using it for a longer hunt just because I don't want to have to pack in 4 pounds of extra pack weight.

actionshooter · « **Reply #40 on:** July 15, 2009, 01:18:10 PM »

Quote from: Branden on July 15, 2009, 09:30:37 AM

Quote from: ghgetter on July 14, 2009, 10:48:18 PM
Brandon, have you screwed around w/ a Crew Cab? I just sent some pics to Brian. If you want you can get them from him...dont let the weight thing scare you.

Quote from: actionshooter on July 15, 2009, 03:35:41 AM
I also pack year around, after this weekend I'll have close to 70 miles this month with a full pack on.
If a pack fits right, carrys well and the suspension system is built right, pack weight is the last thing to worry about. You won't notice it.

I have done a ton of research on packs, and the guys that use packs the most and in the roughest terrain seem to like other packs better then the MR. Now, if they came out with a pack that had the same cu in. and was as comfortable as mine for less weight then I would think about buying one. But they are heavy, don't pack a heavy load as well, and cost more for a less capable pack.

Packs are like boots, the fit is everything and personal prefference is the most important thing. Everyone has a different opinion. With that being said , your way off base with mystery ranch. I don't know where your doing your research but MR has a huge following with sheep hunters, guides and backpack hunters. Saying they don't pack a heavy load well tells me either you have them confused with another brand or you just heard someone say that and you haven't actually tried one.
The two drawbacks are they are heavier and they are expensive, both of those are minimal for the performance gained.
Just a FYI, I have actually used the Eberlestock, Badlands 4500, Arcteryx,REI,Gregory, Dana Design and countless others the last 20 years of backpacking. ,
Here a couple of links for people to look at if there is anyone who wanted real feedback on MR.
http://www.backcountryhunting.net/forum/index.php?topic=578.0

http://www.24hourcampfire.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/ubb/dosearch/topic/0/Searchpage/1

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Author Topic: backpack for Elk (Read 11524 times)

Branden

Branden

Branden

gutsnthegrass

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