Post by: heronblu on July 10, 2014, 11:00:12 PM
Post by: Tbar on July 10, 2014, 11:22:50 PM
Post by: 7mag. on July 11, 2014, 12:06:31 AM
Post by: Bean Counter on July 11, 2014, 01:09:09 AM
Post by: xXLojackXx on July 11, 2014, 12:15:53 PM
I'd be more concerned about a 10 mile hike in august with spoiling bear meat :twocents:
Post by: jackelope on July 11, 2014, 12:20:28 PM
Depends on your budget. For under $400 I would look at finding a used Dana designs frame, or an Eberlestock. Right now Kuiu has their icon 7200 packs on clearance for $399. For $4-600 I would look at Mystery ranch and over $600 gets you into the Kifaru/stone glacier tier of packs. Get the best pack you can afford and make it work.
I'd be more concerned about a 10 mile hike in august with spoiling bear meat :twocents:
Packing a bear out over 10 miles with a camp(I assume) will ruin the average guy. Now that I'm addicted to functional load lifters like a tweeker on meth, I wouldn't even consider doing it in an Eberle pack. Aside from that, I agree with everything you said....especially the part about meat spoilage.
There's about 146 other threads on the same topic on here too, so don't be afraid to explore other threads too. They all pretty much say the same thing as this thread does already though.
Post by: heronblu on July 11, 2014, 09:28:53 PM
Post by: northwesthunter84 on July 11, 2014, 09:32:00 PM
Post by: haugenna on July 11, 2014, 09:47:56 PM
Kifaru, Stone Glacier, the Exo looks good as well.:yeah:
Post by: coyotecrazy on July 11, 2014, 10:18:09 PM
Post by: MtnMuley on July 11, 2014, 10:22:29 PM
Post by: 7mag. on July 12, 2014, 02:00:51 PM
As far as the Exo, they look really good, but they just came out, and I can't figure out how anyone knows how they perform with heavy loads.
The Kuiu packs have gotten better, but they have sketchy track record.
Just my opinion, but I don't think you are saving money by buying an inferior product, only to learn it's not what you want or need, then you have to upgrade.
Post by: northwesthunter84 on July 12, 2014, 09:29:11 PM
Post by: emac on July 12, 2014, 09:56:12 PM
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Post by: xXLojackXx on July 13, 2014, 08:40:02 AM
Post by: KFhunter on July 13, 2014, 09:32:37 PM
I have an alps outdoorz commander with bag( i think that's the name) packed a bear out 2 miles packed 2 elk out 8 miles never have had any issues and got em for well under a 100
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good to hear, got one I plan to use this year.
No one else like the ALPS?
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 14, 2014, 06:36:17 AM
I have put a couple miles in with 80# since receiving the pack. Next step is adding another 60# bag of sand so that will take me up to 140#. Today I let my hunting partners play around with it and they were surprised by the way it carried the weight. The load lifters are extremely functional (first time with a pack that has them) and the pack feels super solid. I also like the airflow between the pack and my back. My previous packs didn't have that so I am super happy.
Where you located at? I've been wanting to get a hands on look at the exo.
On the ultra, I've seen it in person, and seen it loaded. Wouldn't waste the money.
The new icon pro they released appears to have fixed a lot of the problems, but the track record on packs would force me to wait a couple months to see how the GP likes it.
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Post by: heronblu on July 14, 2014, 08:08:50 AM
Post by: xXLojackXx on July 14, 2014, 12:51:32 PM
The new icon pro they released appears to have fixed a lot of the problems, but the track record on packs would force me to wait a couple months to see how the GP likes it.
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I'll let you know in 7-10 days
Post by: northwesthunter84 on July 14, 2014, 04:43:42 PM
Post by: ctwiggs1 on July 18, 2014, 09:58:37 AM
Post by: heronblu on July 19, 2014, 09:42:37 PM
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/916408/military-surplus-ilbe-rucksack-nylon-marpat (http://www.midwayusa.com/product/916408/military-surplus-ilbe-rucksack-nylon-marpat):tup: This looks awesome and totally affordable!
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 20, 2014, 08:20:51 AM
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/916408/military-surplus-ilbe-rucksack-nylon-marpat (http://www.midwayusa.com/product/916408/military-surplus-ilbe-rucksack-nylon-marpat):tup: This looks awesome and totally affordable!
If you don't have the cash, then it's a fine option, but originally you stated you were looking for "quality."
First of all, at almost 9 lbs for a 4500 CUI pack, I wouldn't really consider it a viable option weight wise.
There's no load lifters on that pack, which is the first thing I look for on any pack.
That belt will really struggle to get tight without a power pull.
But if it's all you can afford, it's all you can afford. But if that's your price range, I'd really look at finding a Arc'teryx Bora 85/90, those packs are much better then that one listed above.
Post by: Bean Counter on July 21, 2014, 05:05:50 AM
Hernon, I wrote an in depth review of this pack and irs listed in the gear thread. I carry 50 pounds of salt, a trail cam, locks, and water with ease in my elk unit around 10, 000 feet elevation.
Post by: liljozie495 on July 21, 2014, 05:48:15 AM
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 21, 2014, 06:27:31 AM
SilkWWU, There are in fact load lifters on that pack (they are tucked in on the photo) but you are correct that there are no power pull straps on the belt.
Hernon, I wrote an in depth review of this pack and irs listed in the gear thread. I carry 50 pounds of salt, a trail cam, locks, and water with ease in my elk unit around 10, 000 feet elevation.
Bean,
Do you think you could take a side view picture with some weight in the pack?
If it truly has functional load lifters ( not just stabilizers) I might buy one for my brother in law and step dad for Christmas.
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Post by: Bean Counter on July 21, 2014, 07:23:09 AM
BTW, what is the difference between a stabilizer and a load lifter? :dunno:
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 21, 2014, 07:35:14 AM
I might go with some more salt in a few weeks. That would be a good time.
BTW, what is the difference between a stabilizer and a load lifter? :dunno:
I had it clarified from someone else that the Ilbe has stabilizers, not lifters. Essentially the difference in function between is the lifters actually shift the weight from the shoulders to the hips, instead of just securing or stabilizing the load against your back.
Usually I'll run my lifters at 80/20, with 80% of the weight on my hips, and a little on my shoulders.
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Post by: Skyvalhunter on July 21, 2014, 08:14:43 AM
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 21, 2014, 08:36:48 AM
Just remember no 2 people are the same
This is a great response that has furthered the conversation and invoked some serious critical thinking. Thanks!
It really doesn't change the fact that load lifters are an invaluable addition to a backpacking backpack, and no personal difference between people will allow someone to truthfully say that they would rather not have load lifters.
That's the equivalent of someone saying I'd rather drive a car with flat tires, it will still work, but it won't be anywhere nearly as effective.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 21, 2014, 08:37:34 AM
Just remember no 2 people are the same
This is a great response that has furthered the conversation and invoked some serious critical thinking. Thanks!
It really doesn't change the fact that load lifters are an invaluable addition to a backpacking backpack, and no personal difference between people will allow someone to truthfully say that they would rather not have load lifters.
That's the equivalent of someone saying I'd rather drive a car with flat tires, it will still work, but it won't be anywhere nearly as effective.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 21, 2014, 08:43:02 AM
Just remember no 2 people are the same
This is a great response that has furthered the conversation and invoked some serious critical thinking. Thanks!
It really doesn't change the fact that load lifters are an invaluable addition to a backpacking backpack, and no personal difference between people will allow someone to truthfully say that they would rather not have load lifters.
That's the equivalent of someone saying I'd rather drive a car with flat tires, it will still work, but it won't be anywhere nearly as effective.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: ctwiggs1 on July 21, 2014, 08:47:58 AM
If your body can't support a large pack then you probably should spend the extra and get something lighter.
So far so good for me. I've been using them for 7 years and like I said - I carry a lot more weight (military equipment) than most back packers.
Maybe someday when I have the money I'll start buying the lightweight gear, but for now I stick to this stuff. Working out is free and being a sexy beast is priceless ;-)
Post by: whacker1 on July 21, 2014, 08:51:01 AM
Just remember no 2 people are the same
This is a great response that has furthered the conversation and invoked some serious critical thinking. Thanks!
It really doesn't change the fact that load lifters are an invaluable addition to a backpacking backpack, and no personal difference between people will allow someone to truthfully say that they would rather not have load lifters.
That's the equivalent of someone saying I'd rather drive a car with flat tires, it will still work, but it won't be anywhere nearly as effective.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Ok Silk, You have beat up most every pack on this thread so far, so do tell what you prefer? I am looking for a new pack for next year, and it seems others are as well. I would love insight from those folks that have tested lots of different packs. I won't have the budget to try all 5-7 of the top tier packs, so I want to really evaluate all of those. I like my Eberlestock, but it is heavy, lacks load lifters, and has some other engineering quirks, but it is comfortable and carries modest loads really well. Looking to compare to some other packs.
And by the way I have noticed a few packs that aren't adjustable enough for longer Torso's or shorter Torso's, which makes them uncomfortable.
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 21, 2014, 08:55:10 AM
Just remember no 2 people are the same
This is a great response that has furthered the conversation and invoked some serious critical thinking. Thanks!
It really doesn't change the fact that load lifters are an invaluable addition to a backpacking backpack, and no personal difference between people will allow someone to truthfully say that they would rather not have load lifters.
That's the equivalent of someone saying I'd rather drive a car with flat tires, it will still work, but it won't be anywhere nearly as effective.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Ok Silk, You have beat up most every pack on this thread so far, so do tell what you prefer? I am looking for a new pack for next year, and it seems others are as well. I would love insight from those folks that have tested lots of different packs. I won't have the budget to try all 5-7 of the top tier packs, so I want to really evaluate all of those. I like my Eberlestock, but it is heavy, lacks load lifters, and has some other engineering quirks, but it is comfortable and carries modest loads really well. Looking to compare to some other packs.
And by the way I have noticed a few packs that aren't adjustable enough for longer Torso's or shorter Torso's, which makes them uncomfortable.
What's your budget?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: whacker1 on July 21, 2014, 09:04:31 AM
Just remember no 2 people are the same
This is a great response that has furthered the conversation and invoked some serious critical thinking. Thanks!
It really doesn't change the fact that load lifters are an invaluable addition to a backpacking backpack, and no personal difference between people will allow someone to truthfully say that they would rather not have load lifters.
That's the equivalent of someone saying I'd rather drive a car with flat tires, it will still work, but it won't be anywhere nearly as effective.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Ok Silk, You have beat up most every pack on this thread so far, so do tell what you prefer? I am looking for a new pack for next year, and it seems others are as well. I would love insight from those folks that have tested lots of different packs. I won't have the budget to try all 5-7 of the top tier packs, so I want to really evaluate all of those. I like my Eberlestock, but it is heavy, lacks load lifters, and has some other engineering quirks, but it is comfortable and carries modest loads really well. Looking to compare to some other packs.
And by the way I have noticed a few packs that aren't adjustable enough for longer Torso's or shorter Torso's, which makes them uncomfortable.
What's your budget?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Rank them without budget:
But personally, I have been looking at KUIU Icon Pro and Kifaru and Mystery Ranch. But I have been waiting to see what the Stone Glacier and Exo outcomes look like. So $700-800 is what I will likely be spending by the time it is all done. I am of course open to suggestions.
Post by: whacker1 on July 21, 2014, 09:11:38 AM
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 21, 2014, 09:27:41 AM
Just remember no 2 people are the same
This is a great response that has furthered the conversation and invoked some serious critical thinking. Thanks!
It really doesn't change the fact that load lifters are an invaluable addition to a backpacking backpack, and no personal difference between people will allow someone to truthfully say that they would rather not have load lifters.
That's the equivalent of someone saying I'd rather drive a car with flat tires, it will still work, but it won't be anywhere nearly as effective.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Ok Silk, You have beat up most every pack on this thread so far, so do tell what you prefer? I am looking for a new pack for next year, and it seems others are as well. I would love insight from those folks that have tested lots of different packs. I won't have the budget to try all 5-7 of the top tier packs, so I want to really evaluate all of those. I like my Eberlestock, but it is heavy, lacks load lifters, and has some other engineering quirks, but it is comfortable and carries modest loads really well. Looking to compare to some other packs.
And by the way I have noticed a few packs that aren't adjustable enough for longer Torso's or shorter Torso's, which makes them uncomfortable.
What's your budget?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Rank them without budget:
But personally, I have been looking at KUIU Icon Pro and Kifaru and Mystery Ranch. But I have been waiting to see what the Stone Glacier and Exo outcomes look like. So $700-800 is what I will likely be spending by the time it is all done. I am of course open to suggestions.
I own a Kifaru Bikini and EMR2, I've got hands on the mystery ranch, KUIU icon, KUIU ultra, arc tyrx bora 80, and some REI packs.
The KUIU pro looks better, but there track record on packs would make me a bit nervous buying off the rack.
You couldn't pay me to buy an Ultra.
MR makes quality stuff but they are HEAVY.
Stone Glacier and EXO have great reviews from non paid individuals.
Of the packs I've handled the Kifaru is the one I would always recommend.
Disclaimer: I have no horse in any race , I'm not paid etc. I own a full KUIU clothing kit, so I'm not a hater, I just don't care for there packs. I'm just a guy who's done a lot of research.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: whacker1 on July 21, 2014, 09:34:34 AM
Just remember no 2 people are the same
This is a great response that has furthered the conversation and invoked some serious critical thinking. Thanks!
It really doesn't change the fact that load lifters are an invaluable addition to a backpacking backpack, and no personal difference between people will allow someone to truthfully say that they would rather not have load lifters.
That's the equivalent of someone saying I'd rather drive a car with flat tires, it will still work, but it won't be anywhere nearly as effective.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Ok Silk, You have beat up most every pack on this thread so far, so do tell what you prefer? I am looking for a new pack for next year, and it seems others are as well. I would love insight from those folks that have tested lots of different packs. I won't have the budget to try all 5-7 of the top tier packs, so I want to really evaluate all of those. I like my Eberlestock, but it is heavy, lacks load lifters, and has some other engineering quirks, but it is comfortable and carries modest loads really well. Looking to compare to some other packs.
And by the way I have noticed a few packs that aren't adjustable enough for longer Torso's or shorter Torso's, which makes them uncomfortable.
What's your budget?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Rank them without budget:
But personally, I have been looking at KUIU Icon Pro and Kifaru and Mystery Ranch. But I have been waiting to see what the Stone Glacier and Exo outcomes look like. So $700-800 is what I will likely be spending by the time it is all done. I am of course open to suggestions.
I own a Kifaru Bikini and EMR2, I've got hands on the mystery ranch, KUIU icon, KUIU ultra, arc tyrx bora 80, and some REI packs.
The KUIU pro looks better, but there track record on packs would make me a bit nervous buying off the rack.
You couldn't pay me to buy an Ultra.
MR makes quality stuff but they are HEAVY.
Stone Glacier and EXO have great reviews from non paid individuals.
Of the packs I've handled the Kifaru is the one I would always recommend.
Disclaimer: I have no horse in any race , I'm not paid etc. I own a full KUIU clothing kit, so I'm not a hater, I just don't care for there packs. I'm just a guy who's done a lot of research.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Out of curiousity - Why the Bikini over the Duplex Platform Frame and Suspension? The obvious is the weight disparity, but he Duplex looks more comfortable. I hear lots of folks talk about the Bikini, but rarely does anyone talk about the Duplex.
Post by: fillthefreezer on July 21, 2014, 09:38:00 AM
2. cheaper externals like the cabelas alaskan. relatively durable but not ideal for hunting with all the time
3. eberle, badlands, tenzing (if theyre even still around) and various packs one would find at rei.
all of this price range will have major tradeoffs. weight, durability, comfort with moderate loads and heavy loads. the first few gens of kuiu icons could possibly fit into here.
a newcomer category that i feel was previously a void in the market..
4. new kuiu's, exo. now the exo may end up proving itself to be a hell of a value and compete at the upper level, but i figure it here because of price and its shorts history for now. possibly some tradeoffs while still being a more budget conscious option. should expect very good comfort with all but HEAVY loads.
im not sure where to put mystery ranch. solid packs. too expensive for the lower classes, but IMO, too heavy to compete at the next level.
5. kifaru and stone glacier. utmost strength and comfort at even the heaviest of loads. either ultralight or very light for the features.
this is just my opinion. :chuckle:
Post by: northwesthunter84 on July 21, 2014, 09:44:24 AM
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 21, 2014, 09:52:22 AM
Just remember no 2 people are the same
This is a great response that has furthered the conversation and invoked some serious critical thinking. Thanks!
It really doesn't change the fact that load lifters are an invaluable addition to a backpacking backpack, and no personal difference between people will allow someone to truthfully say that they would rather not have load lifters.
That's the equivalent of someone saying I'd rather drive a car with flat tires, it will still work, but it won't be anywhere nearly as effective.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Ok Silk, You have beat up most every pack on this thread so far, so do tell what you prefer? I am looking for a new pack for next year, and it seems others are as well. I would love insight from those folks that have tested lots of different packs. I won't have the budget to try all 5-7 of the top tier packs, so I want to really evaluate all of those. I like my Eberlestock, but it is heavy, lacks load lifters, and has some other engineering quirks, but it is comfortable and carries modest loads really well. Looking to compare to some other packs.
And by the way I have noticed a few packs that aren't adjustable enough for longer Torso's or shorter Torso's, which makes them uncomfortable.
What's your budget?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Rank them without budget:
But personally, I have been looking at KUIU Icon Pro and Kifaru and Mystery Ranch. But I have been waiting to see what the Stone Glacier and Exo outcomes look like. So $700-800 is what I will likely be spending by the time it is all done. I am of course open to suggestions.
I own a Kifaru Bikini and EMR2, I've got hands on the mystery ranch, KUIU icon, KUIU ultra, arc tyrx bora 80, and some REI packs.
The KUIU pro looks better, but there track record on packs would make me a bit nervous buying off the rack.
You couldn't pay me to buy an Ultra.
MR makes quality stuff but they are HEAVY.
Stone Glacier and EXO have great reviews from non paid individuals.
Of the packs I've handled the Kifaru is the one I would always recommend.
Disclaimer: I have no horse in any race , I'm not paid etc. I own a full KUIU clothing kit, so I'm not a hater, I just don't care for there packs. I'm just a guy who's done a lot of research.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Out of curiousity - Why the Bikini over the Duplex Platform Frame and Suspension? The obvious is the weight disparity, but he Duplex looks more comfortable. I hear lots of folks talk about the Bikini, but rarely does anyone talk about the Duplex.
FTF has owned both, I bought the bikini because it's more comfortable 95% of the time I'll be using it. They say the bikini can do 95% of what the duplex can do. The duplex really shines at extreme weight (120+ pounds).
I've had that kind of weight inthe bikini though and had no complaints.
That list FTF posted is spot on.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: whacker1 on July 21, 2014, 09:56:57 AM
Post by: fillthefreezer on July 21, 2014, 10:25:15 AM
Out of curiousity - Why the Bikini over the Duplex Platform Frame and Suspension? The obvious is the weight disparity, but he Duplex looks more comfortable. I hear lots of folks talk about the Bikini, but rarely does anyone talk about the Duplex.the duplex is a beast. and if youre also one, its a great choice.
it does slightly resemble being strapped to a piece of plywood though. :chuckle: the suspension and belt are the best ive seen.
if you kill something every time youre out, or routinely pack 120+, again, the duplex is a great choice.
i find the bikini is more comfortable with day pack loads no doubt. packing in for a week still more comfortable. 80-100, about even.
not to say the bikini wont do the heavy stuff, as it will, just fine.
Post by: whacker1 on July 21, 2014, 10:59:05 AM
Out of curiousity - Why the Bikini over the Duplex Platform Frame and Suspension? The obvious is the weight disparity, but he Duplex looks more comfortable. I hear lots of folks talk about the Bikini, but rarely does anyone talk about the Duplex.the duplex is a beast. and if youre also one, its a great choice.
it does slightly resemble being strapped to a piece of plywood though. :chuckle: the suspension and belt are the best ive seen.
if you kill something every time youre out, or routinely pack 120+, again, the duplex is a great choice.
i find the bikini is more comfortable with day pack loads no doubt. packing in for a week still more comfortable. 80-100, about even.
not to say the bikini wont do the heavy stuff, as it will, just fine.
It sounds like I should get one of the duplex systems for my sherpa, and I can ride in the pack. :chuckle: Thank you for the additional insight!
Post by: northwesthunter84 on July 21, 2014, 05:45:37 PM
Post by: 7mag. on July 21, 2014, 06:19:27 PM
I put 140# is the Exo tonight and went for a half mile walk. Sure I had 140# on my back but most of the weight went to my hips. The lumbar pad is what I was really wanting to get a feel for. The shoulder straps did get a little tight but I'm sure I could have made an adjustment. As far as the overall weight, it felt a heck of a lot better than packing out my bull last year. I would say that 140# on my Exo felt like the 100# I tested on my pack frame the previous 2 years and this came without the discomfort. That is a pretty heavy load and I'm sure I can go quite a bit farther than a half mile with that on my back.
That's good to hear, the Exo looks really promising. I like having quality options. I personally just switched to Kifaru from Mystery Ranch. I made the switch because of pack weight. Both are great packs, but I am in love with the Kifaru Bikini Frame and suspension.
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 21, 2014, 07:37:22 PM
I put 140# is the Exo tonight and went for a half mile walk. Sure I had 140# on my back but most of the weight went to my hips. The lumbar pad is what I was really wanting to get a feel for. The shoulder straps did get a little tight but I'm sure I could have made an adjustment. As far as the overall weight, it felt a heck of a lot better than packing out my bull last year. I would say that 140# on my Exo felt like the 100# I tested on my pack frame the previous 2 years and this came without the discomfort. That is a pretty heavy load and I'm sure I can go quite a bit farther than a half mile with that on my back.
That's good to hear, the Exo looks really promising. I like having quality options. I personally just switched to Kifaru from Mystery Ranch. I made the switch because of pack weight. Both are great packs, but I am in love with the Kifaru Bikini Frame and suspension.
I agree, I'm excited for them to make a bigger pack!
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Post by: actionshooter on July 21, 2014, 08:55:59 PM
If I didn't already have the MR the decision would be a whole lot tougher.
Post by: h2ofowlr on July 21, 2014, 08:57:32 PM
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 21, 2014, 09:15:07 PM
What size would most go with? A 5200 or 7200 size pack or are those to big? We would just be carrying limited gear about 3 miles to where we hunt. Hoping to pack out heavier.
I actually run 8500 CUI in my EMR2. I like the space for when I need it, especially when the weight penalty is so minimal, and it compressed down to nothing.
Post by: northwesthunter84 on July 21, 2014, 09:27:57 PM
Post by: h2ofowlr on July 21, 2014, 10:03:35 PM
What size would most go with? A 5200 or 7200 size pack or are those to big? We would just be carrying limited gear about 3 miles to where we hunt. Hoping to pack out heavier.
I actually run 8500 CUI in my EMR2. I like the space for when I need it, especially when the weight penalty is so minimal, and it compressed down to nothing.
What did the EMRII run you? I saw it was $409 , but wasn't sure if it was the bag only. I tried to send you a PM, but your in box is full.
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on July 21, 2014, 10:09:57 PM