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Badlands 2200 also used to pack meat! Plus lifetime no questions asked warrenty
Badlands Ultra-day. Its an 1800ci pack, about medium sized. Lots of pockets and very comfortable. My shoulders dont get tired like with my old packs, even under a heavier load. It also has the back spacer that you talked about, it keeps the pack away from your back and actually has a little room to put things in. Its about $130 and has badlands lifetime warranty that they actually stand behind. Here is a link to it.http://www.basspro.com/Badlands-Ultra-Day-Pack-Backpacks/product/99881/-1512299
archery or rifle hunt? I've used a pack I picked up at G.I. Joe's about five years ago and its held up like a champ through many miles of hunting and backpacking. Its called the Jim Horn Signature Series. I think I got it for less than $100, contrary to this ad: http://www.archery-packs.com/backpack/western-backpack.htmlMy local Costco was also carrying a hunting pack but I didn't check it out too intently.
Blacks creek western is the day pack i've been running for about 4 years. Love it. pockets are great while maintaining rifle and bow scabbards. Optics pockets and adjustable for different people tall to short.
The 2200 would be a great choice. I run the 2800 badlands for everything.