Author Topic: Cabela's Rifle & Bow Pack (Read 20492 times)

Hunting Cowboy · « **on:** May 26, 2008, 07:32:20 AM »

My son and I looked at quite a few packs this past spring replacing our smaller hunting day packs. We saw several we liked including the Badlands and Eberlestock brands but we settled on the Cabela's Rifle and Bow packs. My son chose the Seclusion 3-D camo and I decided on the Outfitter Camo pattern. This pack is in the $100-$129 price range. Here is it's basic description......

Secure any bow or rifle to your back and keep both hands free when the going gets rough. Constructed of CT450 Plus which is a waterproof fabric that is soft and quiet even in temperatures well below zero. It is a low nap finish so it will not collect burs, seeds and other clingy vegetation.

A large main compartment easily accommodates bulky items like extra clothing. Two side pockets, one with a pass-through design that can hold shooting sticks or a collapsible hiking staff and keep them where you can get to them quickly.

This pack includes hydration reservoir, sleeve and tube clip. The fold-out bow-cam/buttstock support secures the lower cam of your bow or buttstock of your rifle and is adjustable to fit even a long muzzleloader or recurve.

A rigid but lightweight sheet frame with aluminum stays adds extra support. Pack is now available with or without the added protection of a Scent-Lok®-lined main compartment. It comes in two sizes and four camo patterns.

archery288 · « **Reply #1 on:** May 26, 2008, 07:34:03 AM »

Looks like a nice pack cowboy!

BlackTail · « **Reply #2 on:** May 28, 2008, 10:13:42 AM »

I got that same pack for Christmas and haven't made the transfer from my old pack yet. What do you think of yours so far???

bucklucky · « **Reply #3 on:** May 28, 2008, 10:25:50 AM »

Not to talk bad about your new pack but my wife and I had the same pack and absolutely hatted it. We sold both of them and got the badlands 2200. WayWayWay better and hands down more comfortable. If I were you I would return them and go get a badlands. I am seriouse, that badlands will put that cabelas to shame. Sportsmans has the 2200 for 149.00. I think you can price match at cabelas. I think cabelas wants 179.00. Seriousely huntingcowboy you really should consider, the badlands is an awesome pack.

MichaelJ · « **Reply #4 on:** May 28, 2008, 10:30:04 AM »

Badlands is an awesome pack, but without being able to test that cabelas pack I can't say much...

I actually need to send my '04 model 2200 into Badlands and get them to replace some zipper tabs... But man you won't find a nice day pack that can take a HEAVY load and still be comfortable... I can only imagine what the new ones are like...

Michael

BlackTail · « **Reply #5 on:** May 28, 2008, 10:37:53 AM »

bucklucky, what didn't you like about the cabelas pack? Not comfortable, not well made, didn't like the layout of the pack??

bucklucky · « **Reply #6 on:** May 28, 2008, 10:42:02 AM »

You cant beat the warranty either!! There is no comparison between the two packs. My buddy told me the same thing as I did on here and didnt beleive him untill I broke down and bought one myself. I thought that cabelas pack was comfotable till I bought my badlands. I have a bunch of buddys of mine that tried out my pack and went and bought a 2200 badlands they liked mine so much. As for packing out meat you absolutely cant beat that badlands. It killed me to pack meat in the cabelas pack, but the badlands is set up for packing meat. Its enjoyable to pack meat with the 2200.

bucklucky · « **Reply #7 on:** May 28, 2008, 10:44:34 AM »

Not comfortable when using for a period of time. The straps , back support, the way it holds items in the pack. If you have any weight in it at all like meat it really wears on your shoulders and neck. The badlands keeps everything up where the cabelas pack really "sagged" badly.

BlackTail · « **Reply #8 on:** May 28, 2008, 10:56:26 AM »

I'm seriously thinking about exchanging mine after hearing your experiences. One of the main reasons I picked the cabelas pack was for holding my rifle while mountain biking back behind gates. I went on the badlands website and looked at the 2200 and in the pack details it says "Rifle: Yes". Does this mean that it has hands-free rifle straps as well? If so, how does the rifle attach to the pack(i.e., on the side of the pack or the back)? Thanks for all the info, as I think I will be making the switch. I've heard nothing but good things about the 2200!

snohohunter · « **Reply #9 on:** May 28, 2008, 11:21:03 AM »

I'm going back and forth between the Badlands 2200 and the Eberlestock J104....what to do!?!?!

bucklucky · « **Reply #10 on:** May 28, 2008, 11:27:06 AM »

That was one reason I bought the cabelas pack was for the gun deal on the pack. It didnt work as well as I thought it would . The rifle will fit behind the straps in the meat shelf I beleive. Kinda the same type deal as the cabelas pack.

As for choosing between the badlands and the eberlstock, I cant help. Never had a chance to try the eberlstock. I would say if you can find someplace that carries the packs and put 50 pounds in them. That will tell you which one will be the most comfortable with weight.

Curly · « **Reply #11 on:** May 28, 2008, 11:43:31 AM »

Have any of you guys ever tried a Nimrod pack?

I've thought about getting one for the last couple of years......but they are a little pricey. The rifle scabbard seems like a really good concept.

I like the fact that the rifle sits diagonally accross your back instead of straight down like most other brands I've seen. That way, you should be able to wear the pack with your rifle in the scabbard while riding an ATV, horse or mountain bike.

http://www.nimrodpacks.com/hunt/HuntPackage.html

bucklucky · « **Reply #12 on:** May 28, 2008, 12:07:18 PM »

I have looked at the nimrod products and have a se of there binocular straps whaich are better than the crooked horn outfitter IMO. They have a solid upper strap so your bino's dont bounce . They are very cofortable, the packs are nice but dont do what I need them to do. They would be great if you werent packing meat too. Seam like they are built well.

DeKuma · « **Reply #13 on:** May 28, 2008, 12:08:11 PM »

They look nice, but they are not cheap. (Nimrod)

I thought about the Cabela's pack until reading this little review, will consider the Badlands now, though I have not seen a need to buy a new pack yet. I am sure mine will suck at packing meat out. It is a cheap Fieldline.

bucklucky · « **Reply #14 on:** May 28, 2008, 12:13:27 PM »

Wow, My first pack was a cheap feildline. I boned out a deer and put some in the pack and some over my shoulder in game bags and the zipper blew out and so did my meat

I have been through a few packs in the last 10 years trying to find one that works. The past 3 I have had the same pack, Badlands.

DeKuma · « **Reply #15 on:** May 28, 2008, 12:19:51 PM »

So far I have only had to pack out one big muley with the pack, and I did the same as you. Shot it in the evening, and went back in in the morning to pack it out.
I boned it out. stuffed my pack, filled up a duffle bag I brought in with me and carried the rest on my shoulders. Luckily it was only about 2 miles straight downhill to camp.
Think it would really suck for an elk or anything real big. The duffel bag I drug in the snow behind me is the only thing that saved me.........

Did break a zipper, but was able to replace that.

Hunting Cowboy · « **Reply #16 on:** May 28, 2008, 05:00:17 PM »

Bucklucky, Thats quite and endorsement!

I picked up the Cabelas pack a few months ago. I had an old fieldline for probably 15 years and without a doubt this Cabelas pack is 100% more comfotable. I really did not buy it because of the rifle or bow packing capability and I'm not certain I'll ever use it. But after our comparisons we decided this one works for us. Now, I may change my mind after a season of hauling it around and your heartfelt endorsement has me almost second guessing my decision except for one thing.

One of the major reasons for passing on the Badlands is that one of my buddies has one and although he says he likes it, I have heard nothing but complaining while on three hunts with him. He wasn't happy with the straps, didn't like how it fit his back, couldn't seem to get it adjusted, and on and on. He sent it back to the company once for sure and maybe twice. The Badlands company seems to do everything they can to accomadate their customers and they have a great warranty.

I helped this buddy of mine pack out a buck two years ago and he was complaining about it from the time he was trying to pack up the meat all the way out to the trailhead. So, that kind of experience kinda shyed me away. I don't know which Badlands he has for sure, but I can find out. Which kind of leads me to the conclusion that one size, brand, style, does not fit all.

I also looked at the Eberstock and Nimrod packs, and I almost went with my first choice which was King's Hunting Illustrated KHI TX Core Hunter Pack But as you can see, we settled on the Cabelas as our second chioce. I may wish that I had went with the King's, but truthfully, after witnessing and listening to my buddy first hand out in the field, I just kind of had second thought's about the Badland's pack. It looks like a nice pack and I have heard a lot of good reviews. It would also be fine I'm sure when compared to the old Fieldline. And it may well be a better pack than the Cabela's, many folks thinks so

As I say, I have not been out in the field yet with this Cabela's, but as of now all indications look good, and a huge improvement on the old Fieldline. Time will tell and I'll keep ya posted.

DeKuma · « **Reply #17 on:** May 28, 2008, 05:13:33 PM »

Regardless, it is a nice pack and I have been looking at it myself. Do not want to spend the money on a pack when most times, I have been able to get my animal out with the pack I have........

Keep us posted how the pack works out for you. I am interested in your field proven report.

bucklucky · « **Reply #18 on:** May 28, 2008, 05:43:13 PM »

Hey there Huntingcowboy, thats a first on the badlands I heard. But for sure let us know how it goes with that cabelas pack, just thought I would put my 2 cents in on those since I had a terrible time with mine. I dont know exactly how many buddies have the badlands 2200 now but it is around 12 and not one of them have had any troubles. Nothing but positive feedback.

Hunting Cowboy · « **Reply #19 on:** May 28, 2008, 06:30:25 PM »

For sure Bucklucky I appreciate the imput. Like I said, you've got me doing a little second guessing and mainly because you've had both to compare. Which will force me to take a serious look after this next season. If I decide I don't like it I will upgrade. I do think listening to those that have used them is valuable info!

bucklucky · « **Reply #20 on:** May 28, 2008, 07:16:36 PM »

Definately. But not every pack fits or does what one wants. Hopefully it works for you. I was going to say if you wanted to try mine and compare you could, I would loan it to you , it is quite blood stained though. Of course I think you are way up north so it may not be an option.

MountainWalk · « **Reply #21 on:** May 28, 2008, 09:49:21 PM »

huntingcowboy, im with bucklucky. i have never heard an ill word about badlands except for the price. i dont know if i could get any better than my 2200. it hauls meat fine and was made for hauling heads. its hard to get it to NOT fit you right. while im not a fan of the new redesign of the 2200, im sure they are still as good as the older ones.

BlackTail · « **Reply #22 on:** August 26, 2008, 03:10:06 PM »

Hunting Cowboy,

Any more review on the cabelas pack. I've put some weight in mine and did a little hiking and it seems fine. However, I'll be the first to admit that I didn't test any other packs and got this one because of the ability to pack my rifle hands free. I did leave the tags on in case I want to take it back and get the badlands. I think I'll be stopping at Cableas on my way to the Cougar game this weekend and just wondered if you've had a chance to test your pack out anymore? Thanks!

Hunting Cowboy · « **Reply #23 on:** August 26, 2008, 03:49:44 PM »

I've used mine exactly twice and have to say that I like it. I will know more once the season begins in earnest. My comparison is of course with my old fieldline which was uncomfortable. That's all I know right now. Good luck.

Crunchy · « **Reply #24 on:** August 26, 2008, 06:45:33 PM »

Have either of you two considered a tactical sling for your rifles? I have a bullpacs pack frame and sling my day pack over it. I have the attachment for the rifle, but unless I have a heavy load, I have my rifle slung over my shoulders. It is a lot easier to carry that way, and it ready when the time comes. Just a thought.

75johndeere · « **Reply #25 on:** August 26, 2008, 07:16:38 PM »

just a heads up in case you trade in i bought a eberlestock j107 a few months back and hands down i think it is the most comfortable pack i have ever used i have used the badlands 2200 a few times and it wasn't even close.it is a little heavier than the badland but it makes up for it in comfort. i haven't packed meat in it yet so hopefully ill let you all know how that goes withen the next few months

BlackTail · « **Reply #26 on:** August 26, 2008, 08:47:36 PM »

Crunchy,

I like to pack my rifle on my shoulder too, but I got this pack for when I ride my mt bike back behind gates. I've tried a couple different ways to sling my rifle while riding a bike and haven't found a comfortable way to do it with a back pack on yet??

75johndeere,

I'll take a look at that one too! Think I'll actually try a few on this weekend and see which one I like!!

bucklucky · « **Reply #27 on:** August 26, 2008, 09:13:20 PM »

Its all what fits you the best, Badlands all the way for me. Wouldnt mind trying a eberlestock pack though. I have heard lots of good with some bad on those too. Just dont know till I try one. I could not stand my cabelas pack but others seem to like it.

BlackTail · « **Reply #28 on:** August 27, 2008, 01:14:59 PM »

I maybe should have noted earlier too, that this will strictly be a day pack for me. No over nighters, no packing meat or quarters. Just knives, spotting scope, tripod, water, lunch, a way to pack my rifle hands free, etc.... Probably never have more than 35lbs in my pack at any one time. Just looked at the eberlestock J107 in Cabelas catalog and that is WAY MORE back pack than I'm looking for. That things starts off at almost half the weigh I want my entire pack to be. Too big, too heavy, too much $$ for a day pack, IMO. Still insterested in the Badlands though!

timber tiger · « **Reply #29 on:** September 06, 2008, 12:55:18 AM »

look at the eberlestock gunslinger for a daypack way better than badlands imho thats what i bought and never looked back......remember day pack there is no frame.....

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Author Topic: Cabela's Rifle & Bow Pack (Read 20492 times)

timber tiger

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