In the market for a new hunting vest...

[alp2009]

I've got the Quilomene (sp) from Uplanders.com.  I ordered it before I got my first upland dog and really got back into upland hunting, figured I'd be ready.  Should have waited, it works for what it is but I'm gonna have to make some mods to it.  One, it doesn't have any where to hang or put the ecoller control or the gps, so some d rings and pouches are gonna get sewed onto the shoulder straps.  Second, I like to have a pouch to carry a water bottle for the dog, its got a pouch to put a hydration bladder in but I like to bring gatorade for me, water for the dog.  Three, I can't keep the straps on my shoulders so a sternum strap is in order.  If I'd waited and figured out what I needed instead of what I thought I wanted, I'd have gotten a filson.

[Stilly bay]

I have a filson "quail vest" which is similar to the pro dog trainer strap vest. its barely adequate for release site hunting But I find anything filson makes severely lacking for highly active all day upland bird hunting with dogs.

as for all of filson's hunting vest offerings: they are not breathable so your back gets hot and sweaty. there is not enough storage for anything but shells, I want to be able to able to carry lots of water and hopefully birds. the Game bag is tight and not very roomy, one or two roosters pressed against your back on a hot day will sour even if you field dress them, let alone a full montana bag. and they are as spendy as the rest... although I really like the ubiquitous and simple strap vest for dove hunting.

I have spent a fortune on filson gear in the past, but since they were bought by Abercrombie and Fitch I think they have lost touch with their roots and quality has suffered while prices have gone up.