Post by: BenC567 on May 13, 2013, 04:36:04 PM
Thanks,
Ben
Post by: ellensburgpo on May 13, 2013, 05:54:57 PM
I just don't have the confidence in the frame itself to ever take it on an elk hunt. I'd feel fine on a deer hunt. I do know that the new style frames are supposed to be significantly better than the gen one I have.
I like the hip belt and amount of air flow the pack has on my back. It's a good pack, I however will still be carrying my badlands 4500 again this elk season. If I were going to spend a bunch of money on a pack right now it'd be a kifaru bikini frame with a duplex timberline pack.
Post by: scottcrb on May 13, 2013, 06:06:52 PM
Post by: Shooter on May 13, 2013, 06:26:20 PM
Post by: BenC567 on May 13, 2013, 08:48:18 PM
Shooter, I might have to take you up in a few weeks. Maybe I'll head to Cabelas right after/before seeing your Kuiu so I can compare the 4500 and ICON. I really appreciate the offer.
Post by: Bigtine96 on May 13, 2013, 08:52:04 PM
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on May 13, 2013, 09:03:32 PM
I've been looking at the Kifaru backpacks but I think those are a bit expensive. Just under 1K after the bag and frame. I've been looking at the Badlands 4500 and Ox along with the ICON so thank you for your input. I have the badlands 2200 and couldn't be happier with it... I just want something to get out further and longer.
Shooter, I might have to take you up in a few weeks. Maybe I'll head to Cabelas right after/before seeing your Kuiu so I can compare the 4500 and ICON. I really appreciate the offer.
I got a ton of extras on mine and it was 800. You can get the bag and frame without all the extra toys (holsters, etc) for around 700 shipped tyd.
Post by: Shooter on May 13, 2013, 09:39:20 PM
I've been looking at the Kifaru backpacks but I think those are a bit expensive. Just under 1K after the bag and frame. I've been looking at the Badlands 4500 and Ox along with the ICON so thank you for your input. I have the badlands 2200 and couldn't be happier with it... I just want something to get out further and longer.
Shooter, I might have to take you up in a few weeks. Maybe I'll head to Cabelas right after/before seeing your Kuiu so I can compare the 4500 and ICON. I really appreciate the offer.
Yep, come on down, Cabelas is just across the freeway. pm me before hand and I'll have it ready and you can hike around the area a bit and see if it fits you as well as it fits me...
Post by: huntnnw on May 13, 2013, 09:40:33 PM
Post by: Benny on May 14, 2013, 06:56:30 AM
I am looking at getting the KUIU Icon 5000 when they get more in stock. Does anyone have any experience with any of KUIU's backpacks? How do you like the swiveling hip belt? Would you purchase it again if you could do it all over?
Thanks,
Ben
Not to sound like I'm coming out of the closet...but what's your build? Height, weight?
Post by: scottcrb on May 14, 2013, 06:59:45 AM
Post by: BenC567 on May 14, 2013, 08:14:32 AM
I've been looking at the Kifaru backpacks but I think those are a bit expensive. Just under 1K after the bag and frame. I've been looking at the Badlands 4500 and Ox along with the ICON so thank you for your input. I have the badlands 2200 and couldn't be happier with it... I just want something to get out further and longer.
Shooter, I might have to take you up in a few weeks. Maybe I'll head to Cabelas right after/before seeing your Kuiu so I can compare the 4500 and ICON. I really appreciate the offer.
Yep, come on down, Cabelas is just across the freeway. pm me before hand and I'll have it ready and you can hike around the area a bit and see if it fits you as well as it fits me...
I'll be in touch! Thanks again!
Post by: JLS on May 14, 2013, 08:20:04 AM
Post by: BenC567 on May 14, 2013, 08:21:27 AM
check out Arcteryx and Mystery ranch
I have an Arcteryx IBLE that I just hate. I think the only reason I keep it is because I've covered so many miles with it. I've been looking at Mystery ranch but they don't have very many options in the 4500 - 5000 cubic inch range and I've always thought they look like a duffle bag with shoulder straps.
[/quote]
Not to sound like I'm coming out of the closet...but what's your build? Height, weight?
[/quote]
5'10 190lbs.
Also forgot to mention...I have a screwed up back so I am a little worried about the swiveling belt. Any thoughts?
Post by: BenC567 on May 14, 2013, 08:24:39 AM
I have seen some pretty decent deals floating around the internet for Mystery Ranch packs. I have a Longbow and really like it, although I think their new Metcalf is a better all around pack.
I'm a huge fan of that full length zipper but think I would go with the meat calf if I went MR
Post by: Benny on May 14, 2013, 08:29:34 AM
The Gen II (5000 and 7000) don't have the swiveling waste belt like the Gen I's. I think they're decent packs for the money. The lumbar pad is pretty stiff. There are a ton (way too many IMO) of pockets that in reality just add weight. Load sling is good but you can find those on most packs these days.
The Gen II's have a hard time fitting taller, skinnier guys (hence my question) but I think it would fit you good but you won't know till you throw one on loaded down and put a few miles on it.
There are a lot of great pack options out there right now....more than ever.
Post by: BenC567 on May 14, 2013, 08:55:23 AM
Load sling is a huge plus for me. As of right now, I wouldn't get a pack unless it had a load sling.
Post by: Shooter on May 14, 2013, 03:28:02 PM
Post by: fillthefreezer on May 14, 2013, 03:34:40 PM
Post by: BenC567 on May 14, 2013, 03:45:56 PM
I am in Bothell/Kirkland and and more than willing to drive if any one else is OK with me checking out there backpacks.
Post by: fillthefreezer on May 14, 2013, 04:04:02 PM
Post by: scottcrb on May 14, 2013, 04:31:38 PM
Post by: EvoOutdoors on May 29, 2013, 11:31:05 AM
I've been looking at the Kifaru backpacks but I think those are a bit expensive. Just under 1K after the bag and frame. I've been looking at the Badlands 4500 and Ox along with the ICON so thank you for your input. I have the badlands 2200 and couldn't be happier with it... I just want something to get out further and longer.
Shooter, I might have to take you up in a few weeks. Maybe I'll head to Cabelas right after/before seeing your Kuiu so I can compare the 4500 and ICON. I really appreciate the offer.
You might want to check out the Summit as well (Badlands replacment of the 4500) which will be available in July. It looks like a workhorse, and just what you are looking for.