Post by: Eric M on September 20, 2015, 03:39:40 PM
Post by: jtw on September 20, 2015, 06:06:57 PM
Post by: GBoyd on September 20, 2015, 06:11:39 PM
I've bought a lot of stuff that I use for a short time before deciding that something else would work better for me.
Post by: JoeE on September 20, 2015, 06:25:48 PM
Post by: Eric M on September 20, 2015, 06:34:21 PM
Do you already spend a lot of time backpacking? It's hard to research gear online without spending time using it to find out what really works for you.I used to backpack a lot. As my wife began having hip problems I kind of gave it up. Pretty much all my equipment is worn out. I have my old military sleeping bag which is really warm, but all the mil stuff is really heavy. I used to have a really nice external frame backpack etc. but I'm really focused now on preparing for this trip so I need new gear. Next year I want to have my kit together and do a 3 day and a 1 week trip to iron out the rough spots, but when I was buying good backpacking gear last was 1994 so I figured I'd ask the guys doing it now.Any advice helps Thanks
I've bought a lot of stuff that I use for a short time before deciding that something else would work better for me.
Post by: Eric M on September 20, 2015, 06:42:02 PM
I own 3 season, 4 season, tarp tents, you name it. I have yet to need a 4 season for the high hunt. However, results will vary with weather and location. But really its september and the likelihood of freezing temps and a snow load isnt great. Something you can always try too is renting a tent based on conditions.I never thought of renting. I'm thinking I might buy the 3 season tent and rent the 4 season if it looks like it will be bad. I have 2 years to plan and buy stuff. I just want a pack loaded with gear I trust and can use for the next 5-10 years until I'm too old for this. Thanks
Post by: jackelope on September 20, 2015, 08:23:10 PM
Post by: Eric M on September 20, 2015, 08:35:41 PM
3 season tent is plenty. Id go with a 2 man tent so you've got room to keep your gear in out of the weather. I went with a 1 man this year and a tarp to set up over my gear. A lot of guys are going to quilts. That might be my gear upgrade for next year. Enlightened Equipment makes good ones and seems to be the ones guys are going with. Custom made to order it seems. Get a sea to summit dry bag to keep your bag or quilt in. You don't want that thing getting wet in the rain.I have done a little reading and the sea to summit dry bags seem like the way to go-thanks. Am I right that if you get the quilt you need a sleeping pad. Is this strictly a weight consideration?
Post by: jtw on September 20, 2015, 08:49:53 PM
3 season tent is plenty. Id go with a 2 man tent so you've got room to keep your gear in out of the weather. I went with a 1 man this year and a tarp to set up over my gear. A lot of guys are going to quilts. That might be my gear upgrade for next year. Enlightened Equipment makes good ones and seems to be the ones guys are going with. Custom made to order it seems. Get a sea to summit dry bag to keep your bag or quilt in. You don't want that thing getting wet in the rain.I've been using a sea to summit compression dry bag for my sleeping bag the past few years. Before that I put my bag in a trash bag then in a compression bag. The sea to summit saves some weight and they're not expensive.
TLDR +1 the sea to summit bag
Post by: jackelope on September 20, 2015, 08:52:30 PM
3 season tent is plenty. Id go with a 2 man tent so you've got room to keep your gear in out of the weather. I went with a 1 man this year and a tarp to set up over my gear. A lot of guys are going to quilts. That might be my gear upgrade for next year. Enlightened Equipment makes good ones and seems to be the ones guys are going with. Custom made to order it seems. Get a sea to summit dry bag to keep your bag or quilt in. You don't want that thing getting wet in the rain.I have done a little reading and the sea to summit dry bags seem like the way to go-thanks. Am I right that if you get the quilt you need a sleeping pad. Is this strictly a weight consideration?
I'd put a pad under anything. But that's just me. I can't picture sleeping literally on the ground.
Post by: Eric M on September 20, 2015, 08:56:18 PM
Post by: JJB11B on September 20, 2015, 08:59:32 PM
Post by: Eric M on September 20, 2015, 09:13:25 PM
Don't use that POS Green foam pad the army issues!, I stuffed mine in a locker and don't want the extra weight and room with that thing. I would love to get a good quality pad. Maybe one of the experienced guys could share with us which pad they use.There is actually a sleeping pad thread. haha I know what you mean about that pad. Over 16 years in I just keep it in my locker.
Post by: 7mag. on September 20, 2015, 11:52:34 PM
Post by: Shank on September 21, 2015, 06:39:22 AM
Sleeping bag, I don't know I'm currently in the market as well.
Most of my gear is old, and maybe heavy, but still works like a champ. Heck, my whisper light stove is pushing 25yrs old and still works like it did on day one
Sent from my XT1254 using Tapatalk
Post by: fishngamereaper on September 21, 2015, 07:00:07 AM
Post by: BeWitty on September 21, 2015, 07:46:55 AM
Waterproof bivy and a tarp is the way to go. I used to tent it but got to be to much hassle setting up and taking down. Save your money for a quality lightweight bag. Sleeping pads are ok but if you look you can find a nice grassy, mossy spot to sleep. Sawyer mini water filter, jet boil for food, big bag of brown rice with cut up beef jerky, your set. I try and go in at no more than 30 lbs cause I might have to come out with 150. My pack weight used to be 50 till I killed a big muley way back in the Alpine Lks. Came out with 160 on the back. 6 hr hike and couldn't even sit down to take a rest :chuckle: Keep it simple.
30 pounds with gun, water, and food?!
Post by: cvandervort on September 21, 2015, 07:57:34 AM
Water is obviously the variable here though!
I agree with previous comments on shelter: 4season is too much! I picked up a Mountain Smith LT and it has been OUTSTANDING! held up in some rough stuff, and only weighs 2lb.
Like others have said, you whittle it down by trial and error: my first high hunt was 50+ lbs for 2 days!
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk
Post by: fishngamereaper on September 21, 2015, 08:04:05 AM
Waterproof bivy and a tarp is the way to go. I used to tent it but got to be to much hassle setting up and taking down. Save your money for a quality lightweight bag. Sleeping pads are ok but if you look you can find a nice grassy, mossy spot to sleep. Sawyer mini water filter, jet boil for food, big bag of brown rice with cut up beef jerky, your set. I try and go in at no more than 30 lbs cause I might have to come out with 150. My pack weight used to be 50 till I killed a big muley way back in the Alpine Lks. Came out with 160 on the back. 6 hr hike and couldn't even sit down to take a rest :chuckle: Keep it simple.
30 pounds with gun, water, and food?!
Yes......my high hunt pack is actually about the same weight as my day hunt elk pack..go figure..
Post by: BeWitty on September 21, 2015, 08:18:42 AM
But if rain/snow (below freezing) is expected then I'll have an additional layer of clothes, rain gear, and my warmer bag. I always have spotting scope and my tripod. If I'm going 5+ miles (average) I'll have 2-4 Quartz of water. And of course a 9lb gun. Seems like 30lbs would be very difficult to achieve with those added factors.
Post by: sirmissalot on September 21, 2015, 08:26:12 AM
Post by: jackelope on September 21, 2015, 08:50:20 AM
I can do 30lbs all in but not with a rifle, even my 7lb ultralight. I feel pretty good going in with just 40lbs including all gear, food water and rifle with ammo though.
I've got improvements to make weight-wise. I can be under 40 without my rifle and with 1 liter of water, but that's all I got. A liter of water is all I would hike with anyway.
:dunno:
I think a bigger gear improvement for me would be the size thing. I think I could upgrade to a more packable sleeping bag. I lose a lot of space there I think.
Most of the stuff I have is of a decent enough weight for me. I'm not really an ounce counter type.
Post by: Eric M on September 21, 2015, 08:58:51 AM
Rookie gear mistakes... RAIN GEAR! first year doing the high hunt, didn't bring any. Woke up to 2-3 inches of snow then turned to rain sucked, but still tons of fun. Tent, I use my 15yr old 3 season north face 2 person tent. Other then the poles elastic being broken still works and repels water, FYI they are willing to warranty the poles still
Sleeping bag, I don't know I'm currently in the market as well.
Most of my gear is old, and maybe heavy, but still works like a champ. Heck, my whisper light stove is pushing 25yrs old and still works like it did on day one
Sent from my XT1254 using Tapatalk
So I've got good raingear for fishing and stuff (Grundens, Gage, etc.. but it's all really loud). Is there quieter stuff available nowadays?
Post by: BeWitty on September 21, 2015, 09:27:35 AM
Post by: CoryTDF on September 21, 2015, 09:28:36 AM
Post by: jackelope on September 21, 2015, 09:29:24 AM
Rookie gear mistakes... RAIN GEAR! first year doing the high hunt, didn't bring any. Woke up to 2-3 inches of snow then turned to rain sucked, but still tons of fun. Tent, I use my 15yr old 3 season north face 2 person tent. Other then the poles elastic being broken still works and repels water, FYI they are willing to warranty the poles still
Sleeping bag, I don't know I'm currently in the market as well.
Most of my gear is old, and maybe heavy, but still works like a champ. Heck, my whisper light stove is pushing 25yrs old and still works like it did on day one
Sent from my XT1254 using Tapatalk
So I've got good raingear for fishing and stuff (Grundens, Gage, etc.. but it's all really loud). Is there quieter stuff available nowadays?
More than noise, I'd be concerned with functionality and packability.
Marmot Precip is good stuff, as is all the Sitka, Kuiu, First Lite, etc.
Post by: sirmissalot on September 21, 2015, 09:39:13 AM
I can do 30lbs all in but not with a rifle, even my 7lb ultralight. I feel pretty good going in with just 40lbs including all gear, food water and rifle with ammo though.
I've got improvements to make weight-wise. I can be under 40 without my rifle and with 1 liter of water, but that's all I got. A liter of water is all I would hike with anyway.
:dunno:
I think a bigger gear improvement for me would be the size thing. I think I could upgrade to a more packable sleeping bag. I lose a lot of space there I think.
Most of the stuff I have is of a decent enough weight for me. I'm not really an ounce counter type.
I was basically the same prior to this year, I had been packing around a 5lb northface synthetic bag and got an EE 20 degree quilt, a big agnes q core SL, borah gear side zip cuben/argon bivy and a little blow up pillow, all rolled up and cinched down in a 5 string kifaru compression bag. That and a seek outside lil bug out with 3 part vestibule, all this made a huge difference in weight as well as room it takes up in my pack. I did a little of the ounce counting until I learned my lesson on going too light, but its stuck to me to some extent.
Post by: Eric M on September 21, 2015, 09:54:56 AM
Marmot Precip is good stuff, as is all the Sitka, Kuiu, First Lite, etc.
[/quote]
Thanks. I was looking at the Kuiu stuff some-the guide jacket and the Chugach rain jacket etc. Also looked to see what ASAT has. I really like their camo pattern, but I'm not sure I'm sold on their raingear quality.
Post by: jackelope on September 21, 2015, 09:55:36 AM
I fill my 6k bag pretty much completely.
Post by: Eric M on September 21, 2015, 10:02:28 AM
Never done the high hunt but..... Check out the BA Zirkel UL sleeping bags and the Q-Core SL Pad. I also have the a Klymit sleeping pad that is nice. Go to Promotive.com and join the U.S. Army team and you can get some killer deals on some backpacking stuff. I also like the Sawyer water filters.Thanks for the tip on Promotive.com. I use the Sawyer mini.
Post by: BeWitty on September 21, 2015, 10:05:19 AM
More than noise, I'd be concerned with functionality and packability.
Marmot Precip is good stuff, as is all the Sitka, Kuiu, First Lite, etc.
Thanks. I was looking at the Kuiu stuff some-the guide jacket and the Chugach rain jacket etc. Also looked to see what ASAT has. I really like their camo pattern, but I'm not sure I'm sold on their raingear quality.
[/quote]
I can get the First Lite Stormtight rain gear in ASAT.
Post by: Eric M on September 21, 2015, 10:11:45 AM
I got the BA pad recently. I had a decent enough pad before that but this one's a little better I guess. I have either a GoLite SL5 or a BA Fly Creek UL1 so I'm pretty good there. The bag will likely become a quilt soon. That will help a lot. I think the biggest problem I have is leaving stuff at home that I won't absolutely need. Too much food, comfort items, etc.When I used to backpack, I'd get away with 50 or maybe up to 60 lbs. But I was a lot younger, and wasn't carrying a rifle, a spotting scope, and etc. for hunting. Sometimes we'd even carry CANS of food. ha ha
I fill my 6k bag pretty much completely.
Post by: jackelope on September 21, 2015, 10:27:16 AM
I got the BA pad recently. I had a decent enough pad before that but this one's a little better I guess. I have either a GoLite SL5 or a BA Fly Creek UL1 so I'm pretty good there. The bag will likely become a quilt soon. That will help a lot. I think the biggest problem I have is leaving stuff at home that I won't absolutely need. Too much food, comfort items, etc.When I used to backpack, I'd get away with 50 or maybe up to 60 lbs. But I was a lot younger, and wasn't carrying a rifle, a spotting scope, and etc. for hunting. Sometimes we'd even carry CANS of food. ha ha
I fill my 6k bag pretty much completely.
You gotta remember if you kill a buck, you'll have another 80-100 pounds to get out. A 60 pound pack will kill you without the venison and antlers.
If you're just backpacking, you don't have that concern. You'll only get lighter as time goes on, unless you collect rocks on your trip.
Post by: jtw on September 21, 2015, 11:55:06 AM
Post by: Eric M on September 21, 2015, 02:16:49 PM
In terms of raingear its almost impossible to have durable waterproof breathable and quiet. I wear water resistant pants with gaiters and a wr shirt in all but downpours. When that happens I bust out the goretex. And when its raining that hard the noise of your raingear isnt an issue. Ive tried a lot of raingear and quiet usually means some sort of brushed exterior which means heavier and holds water.
I think I just need to change my way of thinking. I'm so used to sitting in a tree stand or spot and stalking during bow hunting and Goretex is so loud I usually just put up with getting wet. In a rainstorm at 500 yards away I suppose it wouldn't matter. Thanks. It seems so obvious when someone else says it.
Post by: predatorG on September 22, 2015, 09:28:49 PM
Post by: Eric M on September 22, 2015, 09:42:09 PM
Post by: jackelope on September 22, 2015, 09:53:44 PM
Post by: jackelope on September 22, 2015, 09:55:10 PM
Moss should be close by and will be alot like a sleeping pad. Maybe not quite as good, but you don't have to carry it around.
Not into worrying about finding enough moss to make a bed when I can pack a pad that is a little bigger than the size of a pop can and weighs a pound.
Post by: JLS on September 22, 2015, 09:59:43 PM
A 50 pound hunting pack for a week is not too bad I don't think.
I went into the Ruby Mountains in Nevada on a 9 day hunt, and my total pack weight going in was 58 pounds. That included my binos, bow, water, food, everything.
You'll lose about 1.5-2 pounds per day from your pack weight from food you've consumed.
Don't try to play mind games with yourself about not counting binos, gun, etc. It all gets carried out one way or another. Be realistic about your capabilities and limitations.
Post by: high country on September 22, 2015, 10:14:33 PM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi193.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fz16%2Fgyonemura%2FP1010083_zpse238023d.jpg&hash=8135c2382b0bad6da276c6f6a331c9927c709950) (http://s193.photobucket.com/user/gyonemura/media/P1010083_zpse238023d.jpg.html)(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi193.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fz16%2Fgyonemura%2Fdeer2009023.jpg&hash=718af610cca1927deff73651e82707e45c145b22) (http://s193.photobucket.com/user/gyonemura/media/deer2009023.jpg.html)
Post by: high country on September 22, 2015, 10:18:22 PM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi193.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fz16%2Fgyonemura%2Fhunting038.jpg&hash=464df78eaa3fe2b87e3b1fcbc4f658521d2f744d) (http://s193.photobucket.com/user/gyonemura/media/hunting038.jpg.html)
Post by: JimmyHoffa on September 22, 2015, 10:35:20 PM
I like to take a big trashbag. Just put the meat in the pack for haul out. wrap all the gear in the trashbag and come back for it. Some gear comes out with the meat, but stoves/sleeping bags/tent/etc are the weight trade off.I got the BA pad recently. I had a decent enough pad before that but this one's a little better I guess. I have either a GoLite SL5 or a BA Fly Creek UL1 so I'm pretty good there. The bag will likely become a quilt soon. That will help a lot. I think the biggest problem I have is leaving stuff at home that I won't absolutely need. Too much food, comfort items, etc.When I used to backpack, I'd get away with 50 or maybe up to 60 lbs. But I was a lot younger, and wasn't carrying a rifle, a spotting scope, and etc. for hunting. Sometimes we'd even carry CANS of food. ha ha
I fill my 6k bag pretty much completely.
You gotta remember if you kill a buck, you'll have another 80-100 pounds to get out. A 60 pound pack will kill you without the venison and antlers.
If you're just backpacking, you don't have that concern. You'll only get lighter as time goes on, unless you collect rocks on your trip.
Post by: McCRIZZLEY on September 22, 2015, 11:13:41 PM
I would rather leave the tent than the pad. Weather permitting, I usually bivy, sleeping bag, and pad.
Post by: McCRIZZLEY on September 22, 2015, 11:19:17 PM
Also, make sure everything you bring for food is SUPER high in calories and nutrients. If it's not, leave it.
Try to plan trips around water. Or be mindful of where water is/isn't. Water is a huge variable at about 2.2 lbs per liter if I recall. factor in a couple liters a day for hydration and cooking, and your pack weight can easily fluctuate plus or minus 15 pounds.
make sure you know what you want to buy and need before you buy it. Then buy the nicest thing you can afford. Buy once, cry once.
stool hardener is something that has been in my pack for years. Learned that lesson the hard way.
Post by: Vo2max on September 22, 2015, 11:25:41 PM
Post by: JackOfAllTrades on September 22, 2015, 11:31:27 PM
s
A 50 pound hunting pack for a week is not too bad I don't think.
Depending on your condition.. I'm a little guy, 43 pounds in my pack for a comfortable hunt. That's with a 2man 3-4season tent. Think about snow and/or wind load for your tent. I used to use bivy's.. I like comfort as I get old.. er. Start backpacking now.. Even before gen/rifle and after season until the weather hits. Short trips to find out what works for you. Test stuff in your back yard or somewhere near home totally exposed during a fall storm before you use it for real.
-Steve
Post by: McCRIZZLEY on September 22, 2015, 11:42:40 PM
s
A 50 pound hunting pack for a week is not too bad I don't think.
Depending on your condition.. I'm a little guy, 43 pounds in my pack for a comfortable hunt. That's with a 2man 3-4season tent. Think about snow and/or wind load for your tent. I used to use bivy's.. I like comfort as I get old.. er. Start backpacking now.. Even before gen/rifle and after season until the weather hits. Short trips to find out what works for you. Test stuff in your back yard or somewhere near home totally exposed during a fall storm before you use it for real.
-Steve
:yeah: number one piece of advice right there. You don't want to learn how your rain fly works in the middle of the night, trust me. give everything at least a couple short trips to shake it down, before you really trust your life with it.
Post by: McCRIZZLEY on September 22, 2015, 11:46:22 PM
Post by: crabcreekhunter on September 23, 2015, 01:14:06 AM
Post by: BGLEMIN on September 23, 2015, 04:50:26 AM
Badlands 2200 backpack (6 lbs.)
Outdoor Research Aurora Bivy (1.5 lbs.)
Western Mountaineering Antelope GWS 5 deg. sleeping bag (2 lb 13 oz)
MSR MicroRocket stove plus 2 8oz fuel canisters (1 lb 2.6oz)
MSR Quick Solo 1.3 liter cook pot.
MSR Alpine tool spoon.
Katadyn Hiker Pro Microfilter (11 oz)
2 Platypus 1 liter collapsible water bottles (filled in the woods)
Badlands 96 oz water bladder.
Freeze dried breakfast & dinner for each day. Electrolyte replacement powder.
4 elk quarter sized cloth game bags.
3 knives. Skinner, boning, utility. Hand saw 12".
Headlamp. Rangefinder. Binos. Spotting scope (not always). GPS. Camera.
Several zip ties. Para cord. Sharpie. Flagging tape. TP. Black face paint.
Several cow calls & grunt tube. Windicator powder.
Basic first aid. Windproof lighter. Ponderosa pine sawdust mixed with Vaseline.
MTO50 Gore-Tex rain gear.
Sitka 90% jacket. Sitka Ascent pants. Sitka light & heavyweight layering tops. Sitka heavyweight bottoms. Smartwool socks. Danner Pronghorn 400 gram boots. Hat & bandana. Lightweight gloves.
Mathews Drenalin bow plus 5 arrows. Release.
License & tag.
Packed this setup will weigh in around 40 lbs. plus clothing & bow.
Post by: jackelope on September 23, 2015, 06:00:57 AM
I like to take a big trashbag. Just put the meat in the pack for haul out. wrap all the gear in the trashbag and come back for it. Some gear comes out with the meat, but stoves/sleeping bags/tent/etc are the weight trade off.I got the BA pad recently. I had a decent enough pad before that but this one's a little better I guess. I have either a GoLite SL5 or a BA Fly Creek UL1 so I'm pretty good there. The bag will likely become a quilt soon. That will help a lot. I think the biggest problem I have is leaving stuff at home that I won't absolutely need. Too much food, comfort items, etc.When I used to backpack, I'd get away with 50 or maybe up to 60 lbs. But I was a lot younger, and wasn't carrying a rifle, a spotting scope, and etc. for hunting. Sometimes we'd even carry CANS of food. ha ha
I fill my 6k bag pretty much completely.
You gotta remember if you kill a buck, you'll have another 80-100 pounds to get out. A 60 pound pack will kill you without the venison and antlers.
If you're just backpacking, you don't have that concern. You'll only get lighter as time goes on, unless you collect rocks on your trip.
That's a great plan but I don't want to make multiple trips when my camp is 5 miles in. That's 10 extra miles of walking.
Post by: BeWitty on September 23, 2015, 07:30:26 AM
There is no other way I like hunting more than with camp on my back. When I hunt this way, there is no camp to return to. Wherever I am at come dark-thirty, that's where I'll find a spot to hunker down. With my setup, I can hunt very comfortable for 3 days and 3 nights hiking out on day 4. Here's the goods...
Badlands 2200 backpack (6 lbs.)
Outdoor Research Aurora Bivy (1.5 lbs.)
Western Mountaineering Antelope GWS 5 deg. sleeping bag (2 lb 13 oz)
MSR MicroRocket stove plus 2 8oz fuel canisters (1 lb 2.6oz)
MSR Quick Solo 1.3 liter cook pot.
MSR Alpine tool spoon.
Katadyn Hiker Pro Microfilter (11 oz)
2 Platypus 1 liter collapsible water bottles (filled in the woods)
Badlands 96 oz water bladder.
Freeze dried breakfast & dinner for each day. Electrolyte replacement powder.
4 elk quarter sized cloth game bags.
3 knives. Skinner, boning, utility. Hand saw 12".
Headlamp. Rangefinder. Binos. Spotting scope (not always). GPS. Camera.
Several zip ties. Para cord. Sharpie. Flagging tape. TP. Black face paint.
Several cow calls & grunt tube. Windicator powder.
Basic first aid. Windproof lighter. Ponderosa pine sawdust mixed with Vaseline.
MTO50 Gore-Tex rain gear.
Sitka 90% jacket. Sitka Ascent pants. Sitka light & heavyweight layering tops. Sitka heavyweight bottoms. Smartwool socks. Danner Pronghorn 400 gram boots. Hat & bandana. Lightweight gloves.
Mathews Drenalin bow plus 5 arrows. Release.
License & tag.
Packed this setup will weigh in around 40 lbs. plus clothing & bow.
I'd like to see a pic of all that in a Badlands 2200 without a bunch of stuff hanging off it. It doesn't make much sense (to me) to carry around your camp for 3 days when you could get to your 'camp spot' and set it up one time, then carry half the weight for 3 days.
Also, your certainly not carrying an animal out in the 2200 with all your gear. IMO
Post by: jackelope on September 23, 2015, 08:07:00 AM
I'm not sure about the 2200 pack either, but I won't discount the benefits of bivy hunting.
Post by: Eric M on September 23, 2015, 04:26:42 PM
Post by: BGLEMIN on September 23, 2015, 05:23:53 PM
There is no other way I like hunting more than with camp on my back. When I hunt this way, there is no camp to return to. Wherever I am at come dark-thirty, that's where I'll find a spot to hunker down. With my setup, I can hunt very comfortable for 3 days and 3 nights hiking out on day 4. Here's the goods...
Badlands 2200 backpack (6 lbs.)
Outdoor Research Aurora Bivy (1.5 lbs.)
Western Mountaineering Antelope GWS 5 deg. sleeping bag (2 lb 13 oz)
MSR MicroRocket stove plus 2 8oz fuel canisters (1 lb 2.6oz)
MSR Quick Solo 1.3 liter cook pot.
MSR Alpine tool spoon.
Katadyn Hiker Pro Microfilter (11 oz)
2 Platypus 1 liter collapsible water bottles (filled in the woods)
Badlands 96 oz water bladder.
Freeze dried breakfast & dinner for each day. Electrolyte replacement powder.
4 elk quarter sized cloth game bags.
3 knives. Skinner, boning, utility. Hand saw 12".
Headlamp. Rangefinder. Binos. Spotting scope (not always). GPS. Camera.
Several zip ties. Para cord. Sharpie. Flagging tape. TP. Black face paint.
Several cow calls & grunt tube. Windicator powder.
Basic first aid. Windproof lighter. Ponderosa pine sawdust mixed with Vaseline.
MTO50 Gore-Tex rain gear.
Sitka 90% jacket. Sitka Ascent pants. Sitka light & heavyweight layering tops. Sitka heavyweight bottoms. Smartwool socks. Danner Pronghorn 400 gram boots. Hat & bandana. Lightweight gloves.
Mathews Drenalin bow plus 5 arrows. Release.
License & tag.
Packed this setup will weigh in around 40 lbs. plus clothing & bow.
I'd like to see a pic of all that in a Badlands 2200 without a bunch of stuff hanging off it. It doesn't make much sense (to me) to carry around your camp for 3 days when you could get to your 'camp spot' and set it up one time, then carry half the weight for 3 days.
Also, your certainly not carrying an animal out in the 2200 with all your gear. IMO
Even with a pic or two, you still might not believe it can be done. I most certainly fit all this inside my pack, don't even have to use the built in meat shelf as "extra space". By no means am I embellishing.
One thing that I did not state for the OP...I have been fine tuning my gear selection since I attempted my first solo wilderness elk hunt as a 16 year old. Spent 3 days, 2 nights in Heaven & Hell. Should've seen my Fieldline daypack, yes I had gear strapped everywhere. Had a bulky 3 person tent, Slumberjack 20 deg sleeping bag, 16 oz propane, Coleman one burner stove, single mantle lantern, full size flashlight, one knife, couple plastic spoons, calls, Dinty Moore stew in a can (you know the 24 oz), Quaker insta oats, half gallon jug of water, and my bow. Sound like some "rookie gear" or what?
Hands down the hunt that ignited my passion for backcountry!! Raining when I left town, rained the whole time I was out. Soaking wet, 3.5 miles from my truck, and smack in the middle of some of the most intense rutting I've ever witnessed. Crazy bulls had my adrenal glands maxed out. Went home without a harvest, never launched an arrow, but persisted on trying for the one 6x6 that seemed to own that turf.
So 15 years later you have my current go to inventory for my style of backcountry hunting. I have packed elk out with my gear, one quarter at a time. I have left all my gear laying in the woods, can pack half an elk then. I pack out in stages, go a distance and drop that load, turn around and go get another load, and if it takes another day well I've got camp.
Never liked the feeling of not going to that next ridge because I'd get too far from camp.
Post by: JimmyHoffa on September 23, 2015, 05:32:01 PM
But the trip back in for the gear is empty pack so goes quickly enough.I like to take a big trashbag. Just put the meat in the pack for haul out. wrap all the gear in the trashbag and come back for it. Some gear comes out with the meat, but stoves/sleeping bags/tent/etc are the weight trade off.I got the BA pad recently. I had a decent enough pad before that but this one's a little better I guess. I have either a GoLite SL5 or a BA Fly Creek UL1 so I'm pretty good there. The bag will likely become a quilt soon. That will help a lot. I think the biggest problem I have is leaving stuff at home that I won't absolutely need. Too much food, comfort items, etc.When I used to backpack, I'd get away with 50 or maybe up to 60 lbs. But I was a lot younger, and wasn't carrying a rifle, a spotting scope, and etc. for hunting. Sometimes we'd even carry CANS of food. ha ha
I fill my 6k bag pretty much completely.
You gotta remember if you kill a buck, you'll have another 80-100 pounds to get out. A 60 pound pack will kill you without the venison and antlers.
If you're just backpacking, you don't have that concern. You'll only get lighter as time goes on, unless you collect rocks on your trip.
That's a great plan but I don't want to make multiple trips when my camp is 5 miles in. That's 10 extra miles of walking.
Post by: Alpine Mojo on September 23, 2015, 06:27:51 PM
3 days and 3 nights hiking out on day 4. Here's the goods...
...MSR MicroRocket stove plus 2 8oz fuel canisters (1 lb 2.6oz)
Two 8oz canisters should last a group of 4 almost a week. I can get 6 days out of one 4oz canister by myself, averaging 8g of fuel per burn, leaving 10-15g of fuel in case I go over due to heavy wind or other fudge factors. I typically heat water twice a day. Once in the morning for coffee and oatmeal. Then again at night for a MH dinner.
So I gotta ask, what are you cooking to use that much fuel?
Post by: BGLEMIN on September 23, 2015, 07:06:00 PM
3 days and 3 nights hiking out on day 4. Here's the goods...
...MSR MicroRocket stove plus 2 8oz fuel canisters (1 lb 2.6oz)
Two 8oz canisters should last a group of 4 almost a week.
So I gotta ask, what are you cooking to use that much fuel?
Haha the extra fuel is in case I gotta hang out awhile and eat the critter I shot too far from my truck!!
Kidding, I carry the extra fuel as an "in case", like in case the first one leaks or in all seriousness in case I get stranded. Heat sources are critical especially when injured, constrained by the weather, or just in case I don't feel like going back to work.
Post by: haugenna on September 24, 2015, 08:11:05 PM
There is no other way I like hunting more than with camp on my back. When I hunt this way, there is no camp to return to. Wherever I am at come dark-thirty, that's where I'll find a spot to hunker down. With my setup, I can hunt very comfortable for 3 days and 3 nights hiking out on day 4. Here's the goods...
Badlands 2200 backpack (6 lbs.)
Outdoor Research Aurora Bivy (1.5 lbs.)
Western Mountaineering Antelope GWS 5 deg. sleeping bag (2 lb 13 oz)
MSR MicroRocket stove plus 2 8oz fuel canisters (1 lb 2.6oz)
MSR Quick Solo 1.3 liter cook pot.
MSR Alpine tool spoon.
Katadyn Hiker Pro Microfilter (11 oz)
2 Platypus 1 liter collapsible water bottles (filled in the woods)
Badlands 96 oz water bladder.
Freeze dried breakfast & dinner for each day. Electrolyte replacement powder.
4 elk quarter sized cloth game bags.
3 knives. Skinner, boning, utility. Hand saw 12".
Headlamp. Rangefinder. Binos. Spotting scope (not always). GPS. Camera.
Several zip ties. Para cord. Sharpie. Flagging tape. TP. Black face paint.
Several cow calls & grunt tube. Windicator powder.
Basic first aid. Windproof lighter. Ponderosa pine sawdust mixed with Vaseline.
MTO50 Gore-Tex rain gear.
Sitka 90% jacket. Sitka Ascent pants. Sitka light & heavyweight layering tops. Sitka heavyweight bottoms. Smartwool socks. Danner Pronghorn 400 gram boots. Hat & bandana. Lightweight gloves.
Mathews Drenalin bow plus 5 arrows. Release.
License & tag.
Packed this setup will weigh in around 40 lbs. plus clothing & bow.
I'd like to see a pic of all that in a Badlands 2200 without a bunch of stuff hanging off it. It doesn't make much sense (to me) to carry around your camp for 3 days when you could get to your 'camp spot' and set it up one time, then carry half the weight for 3 days.
Also, your certainly not carrying an animal out in the 2200 with all your gear. IMO
:yeah:
I love these pack weight threads. It typically follows a low pack weight with a + x. + y +z.
I can get my pack weight down to 20 lbs for a 4 day hunt 10 miles into the steepest nastiest country you could ever imagine. I wear all of my clothes, put my food under my hat, carry my gun, forgo all safety measures, dehydrate myself to a point of exhaustion because I am not factoring in water. Actually, I can get it lighter than that. I just carry everything on my head like these people and everything I would ever need can be condensed into my 50 cubic inch fanny pack.. :chuckle: :chuckle:
Post by: Eric M on September 24, 2015, 09:02:33 PM
Post by: BGLEMIN on September 24, 2015, 10:35:12 PM
:yeah:
I love these pack weight threads. It typically follows a low pack weight with a + x. + y +z.
I can get my pack weight down to 20 lbs for a 4 day hunt 10 miles into the steepest nastiest country you could ever imagine. I wear all of my clothes, put my food under my hat, carry my gun, forgo all safety measures, dehydrate myself to a point of exhaustion because I am not factoring in water. Actually, I can get it lighter than that. I just carry everything on my head like these people and everything I would ever need can be condensed into my 50 cubic inch fanny pack.. :chuckle: :chuckle:
[/quote]
Geez you sure have found a way to trim the fat!! Really interested now with your style of getting out beyond the village idiot.
Thinking about it now, it's a good thing you do outpace yourself from the village idiot...boy if he saw headgear like that sneaking through the woods he'd be slinging lead for sure. Fortunately those type typically shoot from the hip for the first clip, all over the board. Another good reason to pack light, gives you a running chance!!
Post by: BGLEMIN on September 24, 2015, 11:22:10 PM
Good one haugenna! BGLEMIN are those Western Mountaineering Antelope GWS 5 deg. sleeping bags worth the fortune they cost?
Pretty certain you wouldn't want to track me down, wrap me up in the bag and beat me with soap-on-a-rope in order to get some retribution for bad advice!!
For me...hands down the best for these reasons: a 5 deg. bag that weighs a scant 2.75 lbs, packs extremely tight, stays very warm when wet, and the baffling is unlike any other bag I've seen.
Most 5 deg. bags are way too hot for most of the year but not this one. The baffles are continuous from top to bottom. If it's warm out you shake most or all of the down to the ground side, conversely if it's friggen cold ( and you have a pad) the majority of down can be shook to the top.
I had the same sticker shock as you!! I was recommended the WM products by a highly accomplished big mountain backcountry skier. He has skied every 14K peak in CO, climbed to over 21K before descending Aconcagua in Argentina, and has braved ascending many other North American peaks in the dead of winter. He swears by WM quality and now so do I.
Post by: high country on September 25, 2015, 12:31:38 AM
Good one haugenna! BGLEMIN are those Western Mountaineering Antelope GWS 5 deg. sleeping bags worth the fortune they cost?
I run a western mountaineering badger.....and yes, it's worth it. I sold my Sierra design sandman and there's no comparison.
Post by: Tim in Wa. on September 25, 2015, 06:33:22 AM
Post by: Highmountaindan on October 10, 2015, 10:24:40 AM
Post by: haugenna on October 10, 2015, 11:01:43 AM
Post by: BeWitty on October 10, 2015, 01:04:57 PM
Post by: Bill W on October 10, 2015, 01:30:23 PM
Hygiene is important as there's no doctors office in the back country.
I did the high hunt for 20 years starting in 1977 and ending in 1996. Lots of mistakes made on the first couple high hunts and lots of improvements and weight savings on the tail end ones.
One thing to remember on packing out deer is you don't eat bones nor hide. Use a saw to cut the skull plate off and bone the deer out to save weight. Garbage bags can be your friend as cheese cloth does not keep blood out of your bag. I also wouldn't skimp on a sleeping pad. I'd take a thermarest as if you don't get a good night's sleep (relative in while hunting) you won't have a good hunt.
Another thing, 10 rounds of ammo is the most you want to take. Even then the last 5 are extra weight as if you have to reload your rifle to get a deer you didn't put in enough range time. Don't take along compact binos as it's false economy. While it will save weight, compacts aren't the easiest for long time glassing of hillsides. Will cause eye strain. Just my thoughts on binos. I had a full size set of Leupold 9x32's made in 1983.
I used to seesaw between freeze dried foods and store bought foods. Freeze dried (back then) just didn't taste as good as regular food. Regular food would cause a lot of whining while packing that load in. I'd usually have a light pack (relative term) weight with freeze dried foods one year and then go for the tasty regular food the next year. I'd be whining while carrying that load in and swear I'd be back with freeze dried the following year.
If you want to have one trip out, make sure your pack is big enough for camp and a boned out deer. That pack will be around 110 lbs, not counting your rifle.
Parachute cord is your friend for tying things to your pack (trip out) that won't fit into your pack. Garbage bags help here also.
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on October 10, 2015, 01:30:33 PM
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Post by: haugenna on October 10, 2015, 02:04:13 PM
Post by: Branden on October 10, 2015, 03:33:39 PM
Post by: BeWitty on October 10, 2015, 05:30:41 PM
That's just a funny statement. Because it's typically in the 40s or 50s when snow is present, everyone knows that.
All I know is if I spent $6-700 on a WM sleeping bag I would sleep in it 365 days a year to get my money's worth, even in September.
Post by: Bill W on October 10, 2015, 05:51:37 PM
Post by: fillthefreezer on October 10, 2015, 05:53:32 PM
all that said, im not far off using a 5* bag. ill save weight elsewhere, and not freeze all night. my thermoregulator is broken though
Post by: Branden on October 10, 2015, 06:10:59 PM
I think most guys would be nice and comfortable in a 15 degree high quality bag hunting the high hunt. It also depends on the pad you use.
Post by: haugenna on October 10, 2015, 08:46:31 PM
If the weather forecast is 90 and sunny for the week, they yes, pack your 40 degree bag which has been the case for the last few years of the high hunt. Going into 2006, no way am I packing a 40 degree bag.
Post by: blackveltbowhunter on October 11, 2015, 12:04:27 AM
JK, but back to the OP, clearly there is more than one way to skin a cat :chuckle: Really trial and error is the only thing that will work for YOU. I run a big pack, because I can and do haul pretty big loads and prefer to make as few of trips as possible. I like a stand alone shelter with a floor Season permitting. And I sleep like a baby in the backcountry unless I wake up cold. To be completely honest I don't really care what an item weighs ( to an extent ) as long as it functions well and I have confidence in its reliability. So pack weight is not a huge concern. This works for ME. It may or may not work for you
Lessons I have learned from mistakes....
1) Taking TO MUCH of any item is the number one mistake I have and continue to make occasionally. Clothes are first on the list. Anymore I almost feel like if I am not slightly worried I may get cold then I am over packing. Ditch anything with the word softshell, unless you are absolutely certain you will be wearing it ALOT. The clothes you will hunt in, a insulating layer, and a waterproof shell should cover the majority of situations. Especially during that time frame. I have been ditching my rain pants as well, and running gaiters and a longer coat. Weight saving is not my motivator here, but durability and better water repellency is. Extra socks. Undies if gone for 5 or more days might be justified.
Next is food. Be real about how much food you will need and your body needs. But don't go overboard and its very easy to do. I like to itemize my food by day. and find that saves weight. Other wise that "extra" power bar or bag of trail mix ends up in the bag "just in case". Water is another. This is highly variable depending on the hunt, but truly assess your needs and don't carry to much "insurance" if water sources are readily available.
2) Get an efficient stove Or pack some sort of wind screen. The difference in fuel consumption and burn times is huge. And a canister of fuel is significant if not needed. Also try to test them out so you will know what to expect from a canister.
3) Quality gloves and Beanie are often overlooked items but go along way in keeping you comfortable.
4) Learn how to cape your buck completely. Not only will it save weight but it will make the load much less awkward which is even more important.
5) If a real weather event is likely, snow, heavy rain etc. The best weight you may pack is quality fire system. Do not skimp.
6) When it comes to gear, buy the best you can afford. And if you can't afford the best make do with what you have till you can. A middle of the road upgrade is seldom ( it does have its place ) worth it.
That's all for now, I am sure more will come to me tho :chuckle:
Post by: fillthefreezer on October 11, 2015, 09:35:09 AM
this will allow you get an idea how many boils you get on avg from a can. then when you have a bunch of half full cans around, allow you to use them on shorter trips to save weight and utilize the rest of the fuel.
for me, with my jetboil and the way i run my stove, i get about 27 boils out of a small can.
Post by: high country on October 12, 2015, 07:09:28 AM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi193.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fz16%2Fgyonemura%2F009_zpsaafb5ba1.jpg&hash=f43274b0d58e2b6088e197de92b12a21b663a2c9) (http://s193.photobucket.com/user/gyonemura/media/009_zpsaafb5ba1.jpg.html)
Post by: high country on October 12, 2015, 07:12:09 AM
I guess cold means different things to different people. It was cold to me when I was hunting archery deer at -57 degrees. It wasn't cold to me on the high hunt when it was 27 degrees.
I think most guys would be nice and comfortable in a 15 degree high quality bag hunting the high hunt. It also depends on the pad you use.
I'm not believing that you were backpack hunting at 57 below......been there, it's DEADLY
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi193.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fz16%2Fgyonemura%2F20131214_205956_zpsd2eeed72.jpg&hash=88acab9cacdd50303aa4ea7b508933ab5da12b05) (http://s193.photobucket.com/user/gyonemura/media/20131214_205956_zpsd2eeed72.jpg.html)
Post by: h2ofowlr on October 12, 2015, 08:05:16 AM
Post by: Branden on October 12, 2015, 06:16:13 PM
I guess cold means different things to different people. It was cold to me when I was hunting archery deer at -57 degrees. It wasn't cold to me on the high hunt when it was 27 degrees.
I think most guys would be nice and comfortable in a 15 degree high quality bag hunting the high hunt. It also depends on the pad you use.
I'm not believing that you were backpack hunting at 57 below......been there, it's DEADLY
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi193.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fz16%2Fgyonemura%2F20131214_205956_zpsd2eeed72.jpg&hash=88acab9cacdd50303aa4ea7b508933ab5da12b05) (http://s193.photobucket.com/user/gyonemura/media/20131214_205956_zpsd2eeed72.jpg.html)
I didn't say I was backpack hunting. I said it was cold out when I was hunting at -57. Please learn reading comprehension. And thanks for not believing something that I never said I did.
Post by: haugenna on October 12, 2015, 07:58:44 PM
Post by: high country on October 12, 2015, 08:57:00 PM
Post by: Highmountaindan on October 13, 2015, 11:03:17 PM
High mountaian dan- just your pack and gun weigh 21 pounds together. And food for a 6 day hunt will be 7-9 lbs. the rest of your gear is only 5-7 pounds? Sleep system, binos and tripod will likely be more than that.I don't pack in the tripod that is in my pick, it's to heavy. The 33-35 lb claim is my pack fully loaded for 4-6 days. Food is really just what I explained, oatmeal, freeze dried, trail mix, little candy and some jerky maybe. My sleep system is a military sleep system ( can't remember what it's real name is but it is a U.S.G.I military surplus sleep system. I sleep in my clothes and that one sleep bag that is 35 degree one. Since I am on the west side of the state, water is not an issue so I fill up my camelback then keep it filled while hiking. Yes one half roll of toilet paper, my P,L,B. I just know after I packed my hunting pack for a 4 day high buck hunt and black bear hunt I weighed it and it was at 33 lbs. I can give a full list if it helps. I think clothes and and food is definitely the most over packed stuff. Also cook wear. One small tip is to carve your own utensils in the bush. Saves a couple extra ounces. I just have a slick little spark that is lite that came with my minimalist coolest.
Post by: Skyvalhunter on October 14, 2015, 05:20:46 AM
Post by: haugenna on October 14, 2015, 05:38:52 AM
Post by: BeWitty on October 14, 2015, 06:04:00 AM
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on October 14, 2015, 06:17:20 AM
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Post by: BeWitty on October 14, 2015, 06:26:13 AM
I enjoy some luxuries and some items that I find important that others may not, good sleeping pad, tripod, spotter, enough food, etc
Post by: Zuus on October 14, 2015, 07:14:20 AM
A pound on your feet is like 5 on your back. Don't skimp on boots, but check weights too.
Read some books on lightweight or ultralight backpacking. The have some good ideas, but may be a bit extreme for hunting type situations. One book I just read, the author uses a fly tarp and ground sheet which he sewed up himself. Cost was low and weighs in at a pound.
I like some comforts, so I am willing to carry a little more weight to keep me happy at camp. I have gone to a hammock, which is much nicer than sleeping on the ground. It weighs in at 3 lbs, but I sleep much better than on the ground, and that has value to me.
Got a buddy that spent a couple grand on new gear for a goat hunt. All very nice Kuiu gear, lightweight and durable. His 5 day pack was still 40 lbs, plus rifle, binoculars and spotting scope, he was over 55 lbs! Lucky he had good buddies that helped Sherpa stuff for him!!
Post by: haugenna on October 14, 2015, 07:23:33 AM
Post by: JackOfAllTrades on October 14, 2015, 09:08:43 AM
I would love to see a 6 day pack list that weighs 33-35 lbs. :chuckle:
I can certainly get a 6 day pack down to that weight! A SUMMER pack with no comforts or hunting gear! :tup:
As suggested, reading a lot... and getting with someone that has been a successful lightweight back packer will be very rewarding. But the back country hunter preparing for the worst weather, using gear that is designed for heavier loads will never be able to match the low pack weights the summer PCT trecker can.
Last season I encountered a guy completing the PCT. His pack for the I-90 to northern Border route was less than 15 pounds with food drops for him along the way. Go-Light everything. Hiker/tennis shoes, not BOOTS with heavy soles. No water filter. -He was used to Iodine tabs for sure. Food and clothing are heavy! He had the bare necessities.
We on the other hand, add things like cameras, binoculars, GPS's, rifle/ammo/bow/arrows, spotting scopes and tri-pods. First aid kits! Hunting knives. We add layers of clothing because we expect to be out in the weather beating the brush or sitting on that ridge point with our spotting scope for hours in the wind and sideways rain/snow. Even with the best light gear, the light weight hiker would hole up out of the weather somewhere and wait out a storm.
To get back to the subject of the original post, 'Rookie gear mistakes', The biggest mistakes in my eyes are 'Not knowing your gear' and 'Not taking the right gear'.
The ONLY way to get to know your gear is to use it. Use it before you need to rely on it to stay alive.
The ONLY way to know whether you have the right gear, -and I mean the basics, is to assemble a good pack of what works for you and use it.
Some people like a hammock. Some are good with a sil-tarp. Others want a tent. C'mon.. People have been hiking and hunting for years in the back country that never had a TI wood stove! Some people like Iodine in their water. YUK! And I'll take a heavier coat, because that stove won't keep me warm out on the ridge during the day away from camp.
Like has been mentioned, Test your gear well before using it on a hunt. Can you set your 'tent/sil-tarp' or whatever shelter you have, up in a 50mph wind? Will it stay set up? Is that lighter 30 degree back good enough if you sleep in your goose down long underwear?
My neighbors probably thought I was nuts when they saw my tent set up on the edge of my field during a Frasier valley snow-blowin northeaster in January a couple years ago.
-Steve
Post by: Highmountaindan on October 18, 2015, 08:32:48 AM
Post by: Highmountaindan on October 18, 2015, 09:44:37 AM
I would love to see a full list for 6 days.Here it is, my list.
Food) Mary Jane farms dehidrated quantity 6= 1lb 12 ounces,Trail mix= about 2lbs,jerky=1lb 8 ounces, Some candy=1 lb. oatmeal=1lb 8 ounces
Clothes) Cabelas polar Tec insulated base layer=9 ounces, 1extra wool socks 4 ounces,1 beanie 6 ounces, 1extra pair of undies=3 ounces, 2 long sleeve merino wool 20 ounces, 1rain pant 1 lb.1-set of gloves 8 ounces
Gear) Eberlestock f1 mainframe with dry bag= 4lbs 11ounces, Eberlestock transformer 4 Lbs, vortex rangefinder pocket knife havalon head lamp compass half roll of T P 4 rounds of ammo in small case=1 lb 8 ounces, Game bags= 12.5 ounces, PLB collapsible water bucket matches 20 ft para cord pen and map=13.25 ounces, 1 camel back and a small tarp=2 lbs ish. I pack my gun on my shoulder, binoculars strapped to my chest, rangefinder on my hip and compass in my pocket along with the pocket knife. Sleep bag =4 lbs
28lbs total. With the camelback filled it would be 30 lbs. the reason it was 33 on my high hunt was because of the loaf of bread, bottle of syrup, and grape jelly. Now the trolls are :bash: and I am :chuckle: at them
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on October 18, 2015, 12:29:01 PM
Usually the things not counted include trekking poles and clothes being worn. Everything else is counted.
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Post by: Highmountaindan on October 18, 2015, 04:20:30 PM
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on October 18, 2015, 05:37:49 PM
I would love to see a full list for 6 days.Here it is, my list.
Food) Mary Jane farms dehidrated quantity 6= 1lb 12 ounces,Trail mix= about 2lbs,jerky=1lb 8 ounces, Some candy=1 lb. oatmeal=1lb 8 ounces
Clothes) Cabelas polar Tec insulated base layer=9 ounces, 1extra wool socks 4 ounces,1 beanie 6 ounces, 1extra pair of undies=3 ounces, 2 long sleeve merino wool 20 ounces, 1rain pant 1 lb.1-set of gloves 8 ounces
Gear) Eberlestock f1 mainframe with dry bag= 4lbs 11ounces, Eberlestock transformer 4 Lbs, vortex rangefinder pocket knife havalon head lamp compass half roll of T P 4 rounds of ammo in small case=1 lb 8 ounces, Game bags= 12.5 ounces, PLB collapsible water bucket matches 20 ft para cord pen and map=13.25 ounces, 1 camel back and a small tarp=2 lbs ish. I pack my gun on my shoulder, binoculars strapped to my chest, rangefinder on my hip and compass in my pocket along with the pocket knife. Sleep bag =4 lbs
28lbs total. With the camelback filled it would be 30 lbs. the reason it was 33 on my high hunt was because of the loaf of bread, bottle of syrup, and grape jelly. Now the trolls are :bash: and I am :chuckle: at them
Also didn't see cool stove/fuel, whether you carry a filter or not, pad or bivy? Do you sleep under the tarp? Any first aid?
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Post by: 7mag. on October 18, 2015, 09:25:33 PM
Post by: jackelope on October 19, 2015, 10:39:36 AM
If I didn't count necessary items, I could make my pack weight whatever I want. I've been doing this long enough to know that list is incomplete, and the only time you don't count your weapon is when you don't take it.
I certainly haven't got the experience that some of you others have, but I've been out there a time or 6 and I agree. That's an incomplete list. It's all weight too. It should all be counted if you're after a realistic number. You're carrying it after all.
I'm the king of bringing stuff I don't need.
:yike:
Post by: Bill W on October 19, 2015, 12:41:40 PM
Post by: JLS on October 19, 2015, 01:24:19 PM
You can shave weight by buying different gear, but you can't make weight disappear by pretending it doesn't count.
It's no indictment on anybody, it's just being realistic and honest about what you're really carrying in and out.
Post by: SilkOnTheDrySide on October 19, 2015, 01:41:11 PM
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Post by: blackveltbowhunter on October 19, 2015, 01:47:19 PM
....I won't argue if you that you have your weight that low, although you are certainly sacrificing many comforts, I personally see as necessities on a 5 day plus hunt. Especially if any chance of bad weather.
Everyone counts weight differently, and its contentious as counting as counting points :chuckle: Different strokes for different folks. IF I were to post my weight it would be for everything boots, clothes, weapon, water etc. But to be honest my pack weight seems to be the most FELT weight I carry. I never strap my bow to my pack because its much easier to carry in hand, unless I need them for climbing.
Post by: BeWitty on October 19, 2015, 05:04:24 PM
You're only fooling yourself if you think that list is complete. And your 11.5 lb gun is on your shoulder so it doesn't count?! Why
I am not :bash: but I am :chuckle: at you
Post by: fillthefreezer on October 19, 2015, 09:08:40 PM
Post by: Highmountaindan on October 20, 2015, 10:30:05 AM
I sleep under the tarp and usually dont use a bivy, I cary a water filter sometimes, when I do it only weighs 6 ounces or so. also as far as first aid yes I bring a one man first aid kit that weighs no more than 6 ounces, my butane canister is included in the weight of my minimalist cook set ( it fits inside of the pot and is one unit) I just forgot to put that in the list. by the way what is the gear list for you guus. Since I am the one of yhe only ones that has put one up it would be noce to see a few others, I am sure there is something to learn from other peoples gear lists.I would love to see a full list for 6 days.Here it is, my list.
Food) Mary Jane farms dehidrated quantity 6= 1lb 12 ounces,Trail mix= about 2lbs,jerky=1lb 8 ounces, Some candy=1 lb. oatmeal=1lb 8 ounces
Clothes) Cabelas polar Tec insulated base layer=9 ounces, 1extra wool socks 4 ounces,1 beanie 6 ounces, 1extra pair of undies=3 ounces, 2 long sleeve merino wool 20 ounces, 1rain pant 1 lb.1-set of gloves 8 ounces
Gear) Eberlestock f1 mainframe with dry bag= 4lbs 11ounces, Eberlestock transformer 4 Lbs, vortex rangefinder pocket knife havalon head lamp compass half roll of T P 4 rounds of ammo in small case=1 lb 8 ounces, Game bags= 12.5 ounces, PLB collapsible water bucket matches 20 ft para cord pen and map=13.25 ounces, 1 camel back and a small tarp=2 lbs ish. I pack my gun on my shoulder, binoculars strapped to my chest, rangefinder on my hip and compass in my pocket along with the pocket knife. Sleep bag =4 lbs
28lbs total. With the camelback filled it would be 30 lbs. the reason it was 33 on my high hunt was because of the loaf of bread, bottle of syrup, and grape jelly. Now the trolls are :bash: and I am :chuckle: at them
Also didn't see cool stove/fuel, whether you carry a filter or not, pad or bivy? Do you sleep under the tarp? Any first aid?
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Post by: jackelope on October 20, 2015, 12:54:35 PM
Post by: Highmountaindan on October 20, 2015, 03:54:56 PM
Post by: fillthefreezer on October 20, 2015, 07:44:22 PM
Maybe it's a long way out to plan, but I have a military school next September and probably won't hunt at all. Plan to start exploring some areas over the next two summers and buying the right gear. So 1st 3 or 4 season tent? I like the 3 season Big Agnes Seedhouse SL 1 Tent but I'm not sure but is 3 season "enough" tent. Also, suggestions on the right sleeping bag would be appreciated. If some of you veteran high hunters could share your rookie gear mistakes it would be appreciated. If I could not freeze to death...that would be great.hoping to get back to the OP question here, i think some of it depends on your game plan and some on preference. alot of it has to come down with being honest with yourself as well. how much time do you actually plan to spend doing it may help to define the budget, as well as how much discomfort you can deal with. for a few weekends a year, its easy to suffer, 30-40 days, well maybe comfort becomes more important.
some questions i would ask would be camping above treeline? solo or with others? maximum loadout you could expect to carry?(not meant to be a pissing contest here either, some guys are older and may not want to pack huge loads, or even young guys that are smaller framed or flat dont want to pay that toll on the knees later in life). nights in the backcountry per year expected? only june-sept, or earlier/later trips?
as for the seedhouse, its mostly preference but i hate crawling up into a tent. much prefer a tent with side access.
Post by: haugenna on October 20, 2015, 09:38:10 PM
Post by: Stickerbush on October 24, 2015, 08:15:25 AM
There is no other way I like hunting more than with camp on my back. When I hunt this way, there is no camp to return to. Wherever I am at come dark-thirty, that's where I'll find a spot to hunker down. With my setup, I can hunt very comfortable for 3 days and 3 nights hiking out on day 4. Here's the goods...
Badlands 2200 backpack (6 lbs.)
Outdoor Research Aurora Bivy (1.5 lbs.)
Western Mountaineering Antelope GWS 5 deg. sleeping bag (2 lb 13 oz)
MSR MicroRocket stove plus 2 8oz fuel canisters (1 lb 2.6oz)
MSR Quick Solo 1.3 liter cook pot.
MSR Alpine tool spoon.
Katadyn Hiker Pro Microfilter (11 oz)
2 Platypus 1 liter collapsible water bottles (filled in the woods)
Badlands 96 oz water bladder.
Freeze dried breakfast & dinner for each day. Electrolyte replacement powder.
4 elk quarter sized cloth game bags.
3 knives. Skinner, boning, utility. Hand saw 12".
Headlamp. Rangefinder. Binos. Spotting scope (not always). GPS. Camera.
Several zip ties. Para cord. Sharpie. Flagging tape. TP. Black face paint.
Several cow calls & grunt tube. Windicator powder.
Basic first aid. Windproof lighter. Ponderosa pine sawdust mixed with Vaseline.
MTO50 Gore-Tex rain gear.
Sitka 90% jacket. Sitka Ascent pants. Sitka light & heavyweight layering tops. Sitka heavyweight bottoms. Smartwool socks. Danner Pronghorn 400 gram boots. Hat & bandana. Lightweight gloves.
Mathews Drenalin bow plus 5 arrows. Release.
License & tag.
Packed this setup will weigh in around 40 lbs. plus clothing & bow.
I'd like to see a pic of all that in a Badlands 2200 without a bunch of stuff hanging off it. It doesn't make much sense (to me) to carry around your camp for 3 days when you could get to your 'camp spot' and set it up one time, then carry half the weight for 3 days.
Also, your certainly not carrying an animal out in the 2200 with all your gear. IMO
Even with a pic or two, you still might not believe it can be done. I most certainly fit all this inside my pack, don't even have to use the built in meat shelf as "extra space". By no means am I embellishing.
One thing that I did not state for the OP...I have been fine tuning my gear selection since I attempted my first solo wilderness elk hunt as a 16 year old. Spent 3 days, 2 nights in Heaven & Hell. Should've seen my Fieldline daypack, yes I had gear strapped everywhere. Had a bulky 3 person tent, Slumberjack 20 deg sleeping bag, 16 oz propane, Coleman one burner stove, single mantle lantern, full size flashlight, one knife, couple plastic spoons, calls, Dinty Moore stew in a can (you know the 24 oz), Quaker insta oats, half gallon jug of water, and my bow. Sound like some "rookie gear" or what?
Hands down the hunt that ignited my passion for backcountry!! Raining when I left town, rained the whole time I was out. Soaking wet, 3.5 miles from my truck, and smack in the middle of some of the most intense rutting I've ever witnessed. Crazy bulls had my adrenal glands maxed out. Went home without a harvest, never launched an arrow, but persisted on trying for the one 6x6 that seemed to own that turf.
So 15 years later you have my current go to inventory for my style of backcountry hunting. I have packed elk out with my gear, one quarter at a time. I have left all my gear laying in the woods, can pack half an elk then. I pack out in stages, go a distance and drop that load, turn around and go get another load, and if it takes another day well I've got camp.
Never liked the feeling of not going to that next ridge because I'd get too far from camp.
The gallon jug! Haha been there. FYI there are some great podcasts that take this stuff into account, gritty bowmen and backcountry hunter are a few
Post by: Eric M on October 25, 2015, 11:39:42 PM
Post by: high country on October 26, 2015, 07:51:19 AM
Don't be afraid to think used, this type of gear gets little use by 99% of its owners.
Post by: BeWitty on October 26, 2015, 08:06:07 AM