Post by: tonymoe on June 16, 2016, 04:44:38 PM
But Ive been wondering g about the kuiu packs? Maybe the ultra 6k? Any thought on your kuiu packs?
Thanks
Post by: shootnrun on June 16, 2016, 05:19:58 PM
Post by: Magnum_Willys on June 16, 2016, 05:27:08 PM
For a Backpack I would pony up for internet fav new Kifaru Hunter.
Post by: tonymoe on June 16, 2016, 08:55:14 PM
Thanks
Post by: Vo2max on June 16, 2016, 09:31:23 PM
Erik
Post by: ian_padron on June 16, 2016, 10:41:57 PM
Sent from my SM-N910P using Tapatalk
Post by: Bushcraft on June 16, 2016, 11:22:01 PM
Nearly all packs will carry recreational 0-40 lb. loads comfortably.
Quite a few packs will carry heavier 0-70 lb. loads comfortably.
A couple will carry 0-85 lb. loads reasonably comfortably.
No packs will carry heavy 100+ loads "comfortably"...that's just the way it is...but the best I've found is Kifaru.
Post by: Wolfdog2314 on June 17, 2016, 07:28:39 AM
Post by: blackpowderhunter on June 17, 2016, 07:53:58 AM
Post by: trophyhunt on June 17, 2016, 08:00:20 AM
Post by: JeffRaines on June 17, 2016, 08:36:27 AM
I've been rolling with the Sitka 45 for quite a few years now. It's been great for long haul, short haul, meat haul...etc. my only complaint is that I don't believe it's actually 4500 ci., but it is absolutely 100% waterproof and that is why i haven't pulled the trigger on a different pack.
But Ive been wondering g about the kuiu packs? Maybe the ultra 6k? Any thought on your kuiu packs?
Thanks
The Kuiu Ultra has been working great for me. Granted, I haven't used it to haul out meat(yet), but its just as comfortable empty as it is with 50 lbs on it(for me).
I'm sure you know that backpack fit is a pretty subjective thing... if I were you I'd absolutely try before you buy. These things cost an arm and a leg!
Post by: kentrek on June 17, 2016, 08:39:07 AM
As I've said before I spent a redicilous amount of time in my ultra and was overall happy with it...it did exactly what I wanted it to and what I consider I paid for....i then passed it on to my girlfriend and I had to test the kifaru waters...so many good reviews couldn't be ignored :chuckle: but it wasnot long after I let my girl friend use the ultra that I discovered a pretty big issue....when resizing the shoulder straps to fit her shorter torso I noticed the shoulder strap was near falling off !!....the glue was pretty much rubbed away that held the shoulderror strap to the velcro that held the thing together! No stitching! Just glue ! I couldn't believe they would hold such an important part of the pack together with just glue....there is no doubt if I would have ran that pack this fall it would have failed under a load....and how do you fix that ???
Maybe they started adding some stiching in the latter models or with the icon pro but I'd highly recommend anyone owning a kuiu pack to double check the velcro holding your shoulder straps to the frame....maybe even take it to an upholstery and get some stitching !! Or give kuiu a call and ask what kind of glue they use to hold there pack together so you can pack extra :chuckle:
Either way just a heads up
Post by: MountainWalk on June 17, 2016, 08:51:12 AM
They really are that good.
Post by: 7mag. on June 17, 2016, 09:57:26 AM
Pretty tough to beat Kifaru. A fellow can find himself a used bikini frame on the low low.
They really are that good.
I agree, Kifaru is the gold standard. Worth every penny.
Post by: kselkhunter on June 17, 2016, 12:49:21 PM
Post by: dan11011 on June 21, 2016, 12:19:15 AM
Post by: ridgefire on June 21, 2016, 03:56:25 PM
Post by: tonymoe on June 21, 2016, 05:47:54 PM
I had big plans for tons of miles this year, hince the reason I was thinking of a new pack. I'll get a full year to check out a few packs mentioned, since I didn't draw any states!
I can use my Sitka 45 for "general" season hunts
:'(
Post by: Commando on July 25, 2016, 04:02:53 PM
Post by: MtnMuley on July 25, 2016, 10:17:24 PM
Post by: JLS on July 25, 2016, 10:49:30 PM
Mystery Ranch makes one helluva nice pack as well. I run a Metcalf and it is the bomb from daypack right on up to week long excursions.
Sent from my SM-N910P using Tapatalk
The Metcalf is an excellent pack. I've never used Kifaru and can't/won't compare them, but the Metcalf will carry one heck of a load and do it with what I consider as much comfort as one could expect under the circumstances.
Post by: westside103147 on July 25, 2016, 11:30:39 PM
Post by: Eric M on July 26, 2016, 12:30:19 AM
+1 for Mystery Ranch. I run won't at work on the fire line and out hunting. There by far the most comfortable pack I've used.They ought to be for what they charge haha. Randy Newberg uses that one also. He loves it.
Post by: Chappy84 on August 10, 2016, 12:00:12 PM
Kifaru= $ well spent.
Post by: JLS on August 11, 2016, 10:35:44 AM
+1 for Mystery Ranch. I run won't at work on the fire line and out hunting. There by far the most comfortable pack I've used.They ought to be for what they charge haha. Randy Newberg uses that one also. He loves it.
Price is relative to quality. You can buy a cheaper pack and have it fail on you repeatedly. Or, you can buy a quality pack and know that it will serve you well for many years of hard use. :tup:
Post by: zackmioli on August 13, 2016, 02:41:05 PM
Of the few Kifaru packs ive tried on I didn't like any of them. They were so stiff and uncomfortable. I love how the exo moves with my body when hiking and has side to side mobility yet is stiff vertically which is what you need. The kifaru never moved side to side. Now I never hiked for an extended period of time with the kifaru but that's because it wasn't comfortable enough that I wanted to keep it on.
flame away kifaru lovers, that's just my experience with them.
Post by: Jonathan_S on August 13, 2016, 03:10:29 PM
Post by: Wetwoodshunter on August 13, 2016, 04:33:52 PM
The Kifaru fits the contour of my back better keeping me from hunching when hiking. I'm new to the pack having roughly 40 miles in it but I like it a lot. The AMR is huge but get very small.
Downside, not waterproof.
Here are some pics in daypack mode and loaded from a recent 3 day trip (I had food for 2 people).
Post by: northwesthunter84 on August 13, 2016, 05:31:34 PM
Post by: coop2424 on August 13, 2016, 06:49:04 PM
About the exo it rotates in line with your torso, that s the frame design. I am running a first gen and I will be buying the new version next year, only because I originally voted for muliticam in 2014.
Next year they will have another frame version so will you be buying this years or the new one next year? :sry: :chuckle:
Post by: actionshooter on August 13, 2016, 07:36:02 PM
Review after season is over.
Post by: northwesthunter84 on August 13, 2016, 08:41:50 PM
Post by: zackmioli on August 13, 2016, 10:29:08 PM
just offering a different opinion is all.
Post by: jtw on August 13, 2016, 11:02:45 PM
Post by: bulldogs40 on August 14, 2016, 12:55:50 AM
Post by: Karl Blanchard on August 14, 2016, 05:56:37 AM
I hate spending money, but my last deployment present to myself was a stone glacier sky talus. The thing is awesome. Super light, great quality, and the thing can hold the entire house. I took a trip to hawaii to see my fiancé and we were going on a backpacking trip to kauai. I got clothes for a week, golf shoes, and overnight camping gear for 2 people without having to use the load shelf. Way to expensive... but man they are awesome if you can justify the price.A solid pack that carries like a boss is priceless man, not too expensive :chuckle: Good pack choice by the way. You would have to pry the kifaru off my cold dead back before I ever went to a different pack, but if I did, Stone Glacier would be the ONLY other pack I would consider.
Post by: robertsjd on August 25, 2016, 09:02:00 AM
Sitka bivy 45
kuiu icon pro 5200
kifaru hunter frame / duplex timberline 2
mystery ranch guide light frame marshall
' put my buddys exo 5500 ' on walked 20 ft
and I must say that the new mystery ranch is definitely the winner in my books . the exo is a very comfortable pack and designed for hunters and needs to be considered when in need of a new pack . the only pacl system ive never had my hands on now is the stone glacier and I really want to try it out maybe that's next on the list .
remember this is my personal opinion. empty or with 50 lbs the newly designed mystery ranch marshall has my vote by a long shot. :twocents:
Post by: mburrows on August 25, 2016, 09:15:00 AM
Did 2.25 miles last night with 85# and another 1.5 miles this morning before work, same weight. Couldn't be happier with its performance.
Post by: cumminsbassguy on August 25, 2016, 01:16:01 PM
Ive had the stone glacier system since beginning of summer, last night and this morning were my heaviest loaded hikes ive done yet and its held up great and rides good without having to adjust much at all over the course of a hike.how is the krux frame of those stone glaciers ? Looking at either the talus 6900. Or the 6200 archer
Did 2.25 miles last night with 85# and another 1.5 miles this morning before work, same weight. Couldn't be happier with its performance.
Post by: mburrows on August 25, 2016, 01:50:56 PM
I really like it though, seems pretty durable and is light at the same time. Not sure if ill use the meat shelf but its a nice option to have. I like how you can adjust the frames fit super quickly. I find it to be pretty comfortable as well.
Post by: cumminsbassguy on August 25, 2016, 09:00:22 PM
Post by: mburrows on August 26, 2016, 05:39:14 AM
i like that, right now im stuck with and old bdu molle pack quality military equipment.
Nothing wrong with that. Whatever keeps you hunting is a good pack!
Post by: buglebrush on August 26, 2016, 07:26:48 AM
I love my exo 5500. have done many training trips with 60+ lbs in it and its as comfortable there as it is with 20. Lightweight, durable, and great customer service.
Of the few Kifaru packs ive tried on I didn't like any of them. They were so stiff and uncomfortable. I love how the exo moves with my body when hiking and has side to side mobility yet is stiff vertically which is what you need. The kifaru never moved side to side. Now I never hiked for an extended period of time with the kifaru but that's because it wasn't comfortable enough that I wanted to keep it on.
flame away kifaru lovers, that's just my experience with them.
:yeah:. I have the same experience. IMO Kifaru is awesome under heavy load, but too stiff for day pack. However, if you are over 6' 2" you will want a taller frame than Exo currently offers. In that case I would go Kifaru. The new K-2 frame is awesome from Exo!
Post by: Karl Blanchard on August 26, 2016, 09:00:57 AM
Post by: Branden on August 26, 2016, 09:45:19 AM
I sure wish someone would have told me kifaru's are too stiff for day packs :rolleyes: :chuckle:
Me too :)
Post by: cumminsbassguy on August 26, 2016, 10:18:43 AM
I found it in a garbage pile on a bulk pickup day. His loss, my gain. Needs a good wash because it's all oily and grimey feeling. Gotta get my own dirt and grime on therei like that, right now im stuck with and old bdu molle pack quality military equipment.
Nothing wrong with that. Whatever keeps you hunting is a good pack!
Post by: buglebrush on August 26, 2016, 11:46:44 AM
I sure wish someone would have told me kifaru's are too stiff for day packs :rolleyes: :chuckle:
Me too :)
Personal preference. I personally think packs are like boots in that what I love you may hate and vice-versa. :tup:
Post by: tonymoe on November 07, 2016, 02:56:37 PM
Post by: 92xj on November 07, 2016, 03:03:44 PM
The reckoning pack might be a great pack for 4 nights or longer trips.
Post by: Jonathan_S on November 07, 2016, 06:51:36 PM
Mystery Ranch and Kifaru are the only packs I would consider since I routinely am planning to pack out very heavy. when I had a Badlands, I got the opportunity to hold a busted shoulder strap with my hands with a bear and overnight camp in the bag. KUIU icon and ultra felt like they were going to amputate my arms.
Post by: kentrek on November 07, 2016, 07:04:58 PM
I've spit out more then a couple comments in favor of kuiu...but just recently I've found what I consider the first pretty decent flaw
As I've said before I spent a redicilous amount of time in my ultra and was overall happy with it...it did exactly what I wanted it to and what I consider I paid for....i then passed it on to my girlfriend and I had to test the kifaru waters...so many good reviews couldn't be ignored :chuckle: but it wasnot long after I let my girl friend use the ultra that I discovered a pretty big issue....when resizing the shoulder straps to fit her shorter torso I noticed the shoulder strap was near falling off !!....the glue was pretty much rubbed away that held the shoulderror strap to the velcro that held the thing together! No stitching! Just glue ! I couldn't believe they would hold such an important part of the pack together with just glue....there is no doubt if I would have ran that pack this fall it would have failed under a load....and how do you fix that ???
Maybe they started adding some stiching in the latter models or with the icon pro but I'd highly recommend anyone owning a kuiu pack to double check the velcro holding your shoulder straps to the frame....maybe even take it to an upholstery and get some stitching !! Or give kuiu a call and ask what kind of glue they use to hold there pack together so you can pack extra :chuckle:
Either way just a heads up
Since then we've had two kuiu belt buckles break
I could write a book on why not to buy kuiu
Post by: buglebrush on November 07, 2016, 07:40:05 PM
Post by: Wetwoodshunter on November 07, 2016, 07:55:57 PM
I ran mine with a guide lid and grab it. I think the bag is big enough I'll just put a regular lid on it but the grab it is a necessity.
I like my setup a lot, the hunter frame is a beast, I'd love to try the EMR bag, or timberline, and see if I like it more. When I got my pack I didn't think I wanted a sporting scope pocket but running my binos off a tripod it would have made it a bit easier to access.
Post by: sagewalker on November 07, 2016, 09:54:04 PM
Post by: Jonathan_S on November 08, 2016, 08:44:04 AM
I put a lot of miles in with my Kifaru hunter composite with the AMR bag this year. It took a load awesome but some reason I kept having to tighten the waist belt when I was packing out my elk. Also, I lost about 13 lbs hunting and without a field belt the way the pack sat it kept pushing my pants down, but that's an easy fix. I'm convinced you could fit a whole boned out elk in it but there would be no way to walk, the AMR may be overkill for most people.
I ran mine with a guide lid and grab it. I think the bag is big enough I'll just put a regular lid on it but the grab it is a necessity.
I like my setup a lot, the hunter frame is a beast, I'd love to try the EMR bag, or timberline, and see if I like it more. When I got my pack I didn't think I wanted a sporting scope pocket but running my binos off a tripod it would have made it a bit easier to access.
:yeah: the AMR will get you in trouble if you try and stuff it to the gills. Here pictured is a full camp and buck with about 7 days of food :chuckle: and I think I still had room left over. If you filled the main bag with an elk, you'd need a cart to move it.
Post by: Commando on November 09, 2016, 02:18:24 PM
I put a lot of miles in with my Kifaru hunter composite with the AMR bag this year. It took a load awesome but some reason I kept having to tighten the waist belt when I was packing out my elk. Also, I lost about 13 lbs hunting and without a field belt the way the pack sat it kept pushing my pants down, but that's an easy fix. I'm convinced you could fit a whole boned out elk in it but there would be no way to walk, the AMR may be overkill for most people.
I ran mine with a guide lid and grab it. I think the bag is big enough I'll just put a regular lid on it but the grab it is a necessity.
I like my setup a lot, the hunter frame is a beast, I'd love to try the EMR bag, or timberline, and see if I like it more. When I got my pack I didn't think I wanted a sporting scope pocket but running my binos off a tripod it would have made it a bit easier to access.
:yeah: the AMR will get you in trouble if you try and stuff it to the gills. Here pictured is a full camp and buck with about 7 days of food :chuckle: and I think I still had room left over. If you filled the main bag with an elk, you'd need a cart to move it.
great looking pack! that's the pack I am saving up for
Post by: MLHSN on November 24, 2016, 10:13:40 PM
Post by: hirshey on November 25, 2016, 08:32:15 AM
I've been rolling with the Sitka 45 for quite a few years now. It's been great for long haul, short haul, meat haul...etc. my only complaint is that I don't believe it's actually 4500 ci., but it is absolutely 100% waterproof and that is why i haven't pulled the trigger on a different pack.
But Ive been wondering g about the kuiu packs? Maybe the ultra 6k? Any thought on your kuiu packs?
Thanks
My mom used the ultra 6000 on our 12 day backcountry Idaho hunt. The ability to haul meat between the pack and bag in "haul mode" makes this pack function as a multi day pack... But I am old fashioned.. I dislike the "quick clips" that this bag has instead of the normal clips on every other bag made.
Post by: hirshey on November 25, 2016, 08:37:52 AM
I've spit out more then a couple comments in favor of kuiu...but just recently I've found what I consider the first pretty decent flaw
As I've said before I spent a redicilous amount of time in my ultra and was overall happy with it...it did exactly what I wanted it to and what I consider I paid for....i then passed it on to my girlfriend and I had to test the kifaru waters...so many good reviews couldn't be ignored :chuckle: but it wasnot long after I let my girl friend use the ultra that I discovered a pretty big issue....when resizing the shoulder straps to fit her shorter torso I noticed the shoulder strap was near falling off !!....the glue was pretty much rubbed away that held the shoulderror strap to the velcro that held the thing together! No stitching! Just glue ! I couldn't believe they would hold such an important part of the pack together with just glue....there is no doubt if I would have ran that pack this fall it would have failed under a load....and how do you fix that ???
Maybe they started adding some stiching in the latter models or with the icon pro but I'd highly recommend anyone owning a kuiu pack to double check the velcro holding your shoulder straps to the frame....maybe even take it to an upholstery and get some stitching !! Or give kuiu a call and ask what kind of glue they use to hold there pack together so you can pack extra :chuckle:
Either way just a heads up
Since then we've had two kuiu belt buckles break
I could write a book on why not to buy kuiu
Since you said this I took a look at my Kuiu Icon I purchased 6 years ago... It looks pretty sound :dunno:
I have had the carbon fiber wings break under load twice in the field, but both at excess of 100 pounds, and Kuiu always made it right. Tent stakes and some electrical tape fixed it for the haul out both times. We had 4 different types of Kuiu packs on this last Idaho hunt and I've been nothing but satisfied with all my purchases. I don't like the grippy fabric they added to the back portion of the hip belt on later models though.
Post by: JPhelps on November 25, 2016, 08:57:48 AM
I'll stick with Kifaru and not having to fix my pack on the haul out.
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi57.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fg221%2Fbigsmooth35%2F7593A5AB-723F-4B99-8E47-A68B44C73559_zpsnyzd3rnk.jpg&hash=747cd48bcfd382fd2711d5258adc7a7cd5b8a6ff) (http://s57.photobucket.com/user/bigsmooth35/media/7593A5AB-723F-4B99-8E47-A68B44C73559_zpsnyzd3rnk.jpg.html)
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi57.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fg221%2Fbigsmooth35%2FAC78BC9B-E21A-4EB6-8B85-F62ABC7E1474_zpsnhvvi9aa.jpg&hash=a6c11094f89b4bee2bb011d0635f8643c96d95d2) (http://s57.photobucket.com/user/bigsmooth35/media/AC78BC9B-E21A-4EB6-8B85-F62ABC7E1474_zpsnhvvi9aa.jpg.html)
Post by: Wingin it on November 25, 2016, 12:22:16 PM
Post by: Karl Blanchard on November 28, 2016, 11:24:50 AM
I am in the market for a new pack as well. What about the Outdoorsman packs? I have heard some good things but they are really never mentioned on these threads?well built packs but lack functional load lifters, therefore don't carry weight any better than any other backpack without them.
Post by: Wingin it on November 28, 2016, 01:08:04 PM
Post by: coop2424 on November 28, 2016, 02:50:00 PM
I own an Exo and I seriously regret buying it. After two years, the stitching is pulling out of the shoulder straps and I leave the top pouch at home because the zipper is busted. the side lower pouches are to tight to use when you have something in the tall vertical pockets. Conceptually, the pack is great. But I'm feeling pretty disappointed about the stitching and zippers.
This is one of the reasons I got rid of my exo before it started breaking.. Owned both the first and second generations and could tell the fabric, webbing, buckles were not top quality. I think you are going to see more of this from customers. I still think they are good packs but don't put them on top or even top 2-3 for the price. Maybe they changed on their 3rd redesign this year..
Post by: bradslam on November 28, 2016, 03:28:40 PM
I own an Exo and I seriously regret buying it. After two years, the stitching is pulling out of the shoulder straps and I leave the top pouch at home because the zipper is busted. the side lower pouches are to tight to use when you have something in the tall vertical pockets. Conceptually, the pack is great. But I'm feeling pretty disappointed about the stitching and zippers.
If this is the case, is there some reason that you haven't taken advantage of the following warranty:
Lifetime Warranty
Exo Mountain Gear is extremely proud to based in Boise, ID and make our packs 100% in the USA. We stand behind the products we make and offer a lifetime warranty against material defects and workmanship to the original owner. If for some reason something does happen outside of that scope we will gladly repair the item for you at a reasonable cost.
I can't imagine Steve not taking care of you if there are indeed defects. Sometimes when I hear things like this, I wonder if it is an employee of a competing pack manufacturer. :chuckle: I have a first generation Exo 5500 and have had no issues. Steve has told me that they've made improvements to the overall quality of the current generation of packs. I think it's reasonable to expect a few quality control issues from a new company as long as they make good on it. I do prefer the bag design to any of the Kifarus.
Post by: Jonathan_S on November 28, 2016, 04:06:12 PM
Sig has a good warranty program too but so far, they have just replaced my crappy rangefinder with more crappy rangefinders.
I guess if the KUIU or Exo packs have some feature that you can't live without then burning through multiple packs is an acceptable risk :dunno:
Post by: Karl Blanchard on November 28, 2016, 04:27:30 PM
gonna play devils advocate here and point out that when folks read statements like that they can't help but wonder if you don't have an affiliation with exo 8)I own an Exo and I seriously regret buying it. After two years, the stitching is pulling out of the shoulder straps and I leave the top pouch at home because the zipper is busted. the side lower pouches are to tight to use when you have something in the tall vertical pockets. Conceptually, the pack is great. But I'm feeling pretty disappointed about the stitching and zippers.
If this is the case, is there some reason that you haven't taken advantage of the following warranty:
Lifetime Warranty
Exo Mountain Gear is extremely proud to based in Boise, ID and make our packs 100% in the USA. We stand behind the products we make and offer a lifetime warranty against material defects and workmanship to the original owner. If for some reason something does happen outside of that scope we will gladly repair the item for you at a reasonable cost.
I can't imagine Steve not taking care of you if there are indeed defects. Sometimes when I hear things like this, I wonder if it is an employee of a competing pack manufacturer. :chuckle: I have a first generation Exo 5500 and have had no issues. Steve has told me that they've made improvements to the overall quality of the current generation of packs. I think it's reasonable to expect a few quality control issues from a new company as long as they make good on it. I do prefer the bag design to any of the Kifarus.
Say what you will about any pack manufacturer but one department that kifaru completely stands alone in is bag designs and options. There isn't a company out there that offers more layouts and configurations .
Post by: coop2424 on November 28, 2016, 04:44:28 PM
I own an Exo and I seriously regret buying it. After two years, the stitching is pulling out of the shoulder straps and I leave the top pouch at home because the zipper is busted. the side lower pouches are to tight to use when you have something in the tall vertical pockets. Conceptually, the pack is great. But I'm feeling pretty disappointed about the stitching and zippers.
If this is the case, is there some reason that you haven't taken advantage of the following warranty:
Lifetime Warranty
Exo Mountain Gear is extremely proud to based in Boise, ID and make our packs 100% in the USA. We stand behind the products we make and offer a lifetime warranty against material defects and workmanship to the original owner. If for some reason something does happen outside of that scope we will gladly repair the item for you at a reasonable cost.
I can't imagine Steve not taking care of you if there are indeed defects. Sometimes when I hear things like this, I wonder if it is an employee of a competing pack manufacturer. :chuckle: I have a first generation Exo 5500 and have had no issues. Steve has told me that they've made improvements to the overall quality of the current generation of packs. I think it's reasonable to expect a few quality control issues from a new company as long as they make good on it. I do prefer the bag design to any of the Kifarus.
I will state that I bought my first gen exo used but it was told to original owner it would be replaced due to an issue.. After I contacted exo they said since I was not the original owner that they would not replace but could give me a discount on a new one. I was not happy but since they were coming out with new version I took them up on it and sold the old pack.. The more I think about that it is really crappy since it was their product and they should of stood behind it especially since said it would be replaced.. I don't think some of the other companies would of done this after saying that pack would be replaced.
Post by: Reidus on November 28, 2016, 04:48:14 PM
Fieldline is the way to go!!!
Post by: BULLBLASTER on November 28, 2016, 04:52:47 PM
I don't know why y'all keep talking about kifaru exo and kuiu.Finally.... someone who gets it!
Fieldline is the way to go!!!
Post by: Karl Blanchard on November 28, 2016, 05:17:48 PM
I don't know why y'all keep talking about kifaru exo and kuiu.I would like to point out that I have a field line pack that I've owned for a decade at least and still use for things to this day. Just this weekend I used it to carry my water bottle, sour patch kids and a diet pepsi. Worked perfectly :chuckle:
Fieldline is the way to go!!!
Post by: kentrek on November 28, 2016, 06:28:59 PM
I've spit out more then a couple comments in favor of kuiu...but just recently I've found what I consider the first pretty decent flaw
As I've said before I spent a redicilous amount of time in my ultra and was overall happy with it...it did exactly what I wanted it to and what I consider I paid for....i then passed it on to my girlfriend and I had to test the kifaru waters...so many good reviews couldn't be ignored :chuckle: but it wasnot long after I let my girl friend use the ultra that I discovered a pretty big issue....when resizing the shoulder straps to fit her shorter torso I noticed the shoulder strap was near falling off !!....the glue was pretty much rubbed away that held the shoulderror strap to the velcro that held the thing together! No stitching! Just glue ! I couldn't believe they would hold such an important part of the pack together with just glue....there is no doubt if I would have ran that pack this fall it would have failed under a load....and how do you fix that ???
Maybe they started adding some stiching in the latter models or with the icon pro but I'd highly recommend anyone owning a kuiu pack to double check the velcro holding your shoulder straps to the frame....maybe even take it to an upholstery and get some stitching !! Or give kuiu a call and ask what kind of glue they use to hold there pack together so you can pack extra :chuckle:
Either way just a heads up
Since then we've had two kuiu belt buckles break
I could write a book on why not to buy kuiu
Since you said this I took a look at my Kuiu Icon I purchased 6 years ago... It looks pretty sound :dunno:
I have had the carbon fiber wings break under load twice in the field, but both at excess of 100 pounds, and Kuiu always made it right. Tent stakes and some electrical tape fixed it for the haul out both times. We had 4 different types of Kuiu packs on this last Idaho hunt and I've been nothing but satisfied with all my purchases. I don't like the grippy fabric they added to the back portion of the hip belt on later models though.
How many days a year do you use the pack ? I know you spend a fair amount of time in the woods but seemed like ares were good till the 2 year mark....keep an eye on it !! Hopefully I just got a dud
Post by: bradslam on November 28, 2016, 07:52:29 PM
gonna play devils advocate here and point out that when folks read statements like that they can't help but wonder if you don't have an affiliation with exo 8)I own an Exo and I seriously regret buying it. After two years, the stitching is pulling out of the shoulder straps and I leave the top pouch at home because the zipper is busted. the side lower pouches are to tight to use when you have something in the tall vertical pockets. Conceptually, the pack is great. But I'm feeling pretty disappointed about the stitching and zippers.
If this is the case, is there some reason that you haven't taken advantage of the following warranty:
Lifetime Warranty
Exo Mountain Gear is extremely proud to based in Boise, ID and make our packs 100% in the USA. We stand behind the products we make and offer a lifetime warranty against material defects and workmanship to the original owner. If for some reason something does happen outside of that scope we will gladly repair the item for you at a reasonable cost.
I can't imagine Steve not taking care of you if there are indeed defects. Sometimes when I hear things like this, I wonder if it is an employee of a competing pack manufacturer. :chuckle: I have a first generation Exo 5500 and have had no issues. Steve has told me that they've made improvements to the overall quality of the current generation of packs. I think it's reasonable to expect a few quality control issues from a new company as long as they make good on it. I do prefer the bag design to any of the Kifarus.
Say what you will about any pack manufacturer but one department that kifaru completely stands alone in is bag designs and options. There isn't a company out there that offers more layouts and configurations .
The only connection I have to Exo is that Steve lived in my hometown for a couple of years when he was young. Obviously, Kifaru makes great packs that are very durable and they have several designs, however, I simply don't like any of those designs. Maybe it's my minimalist, ultra-light nature, but any bag that has a sleeping bag compartment, is panel loading, or has tons of Molle webbing all over it is a turn-off to me. The one pack of theirs that I did like, the High Camp, was discontinued. Packs, more than probably any other outdoor gear, are subject to personal preference. That's why it's great that there are a growing number of manufacturers out there.
Post by: Karl Blanchard on November 28, 2016, 08:19:19 PM
point was don't accuse someone of being a mole when your own comments are equally as suspect :tup:gonna play devils advocate here and point out that when folks read statements like that they can't help but wonder if you don't have an affiliation with exo 8)I own an Exo and I seriously regret buying it. After two years, the stitching is pulling out of the shoulder straps and I leave the top pouch at home because the zipper is busted. the side lower pouches are to tight to use when you have something in the tall vertical pockets. Conceptually, the pack is great. But I'm feeling pretty disappointed about the stitching and zippers.
If this is the case, is there some reason that you haven't taken advantage of the following warranty:
Lifetime Warranty
Exo Mountain Gear is extremely proud to based in Boise, ID and make our packs 100% in the USA. We stand behind the products we make and offer a lifetime warranty against material defects and workmanship to the original owner. If for some reason something does happen outside of that scope we will gladly repair the item for you at a reasonable cost.
I can't imagine Steve not taking care of you if there are indeed defects. Sometimes when I hear things like this, I wonder if it is an employee of a competing pack manufacturer. :chuckle: I have a first generation Exo 5500 and have had no issues. Steve has told me that they've made improvements to the overall quality of the current generation of packs. I think it's reasonable to expect a few quality control issues from a new company as long as they make good on it. I do prefer the bag design to any of the Kifarus.
Say what you will about any pack manufacturer but one department that kifaru completely stands alone in is bag designs and options. There isn't a company out there that offers more layouts and configurations .
The only connection I have to Exo is that Steve lived in my hometown for a couple of years when he was young. Obviously, Kifaru makes great packs that are very durable and they have several designs, however, I simply don't like any of those designs. Maybe it's my minimalist, ultra-light nature, but any bag that has a sleeping bag compartment, is panel loading, or has tons of Molle webbing all over it is a turn-off to me. The one pack of theirs that I did like, the High Camp, was discontinued. Packs, more than probably any other outdoor gear, are subject to personal preference. That's why it's great that there are a growing number of manufacturers out there.
Post by: bradslam on November 29, 2016, 07:47:24 AM
point was don't accuse someone of being a mole when your own comments are equally as suspect :tup:gonna play devils advocate here and point out that when folks read statements like that they can't help but wonder if you don't have an affiliation with exo 8)I own an Exo and I seriously regret buying it. After two years, the stitching is pulling out of the shoulder straps and I leave the top pouch at home because the zipper is busted. the side lower pouches are to tight to use when you have something in the tall vertical pockets. Conceptually, the pack is great. But I'm feeling pretty disappointed about the stitching and zippers.
If this is the case, is there some reason that you haven't taken advantage of the following warranty:
Lifetime Warranty
Exo Mountain Gear is extremely proud to based in Boise, ID and make our packs 100% in the USA. We stand behind the products we make and offer a lifetime warranty against material defects and workmanship to the original owner. If for some reason something does happen outside of that scope we will gladly repair the item for you at a reasonable cost.
I can't imagine Steve not taking care of you if there are indeed defects. Sometimes when I hear things like this, I wonder if it is an employee of a competing pack manufacturer. :chuckle: I have a first generation Exo 5500 and have had no issues. Steve has told me that they've made improvements to the overall quality of the current generation of packs. I think it's reasonable to expect a few quality control issues from a new company as long as they make good on it. I do prefer the bag design to any of the Kifarus.
Say what you will about any pack manufacturer but one department that kifaru completely stands alone in is bag designs and options. There isn't a company out there that offers more layouts and configurations .
The only connection I have to Exo is that Steve lived in my hometown for a couple of years when he was young. Obviously, Kifaru makes great packs that are very durable and they have several designs, however, I simply don't like any of those designs. Maybe it's my minimalist, ultra-light nature, but any bag that has a sleeping bag compartment, is panel loading, or has tons of Molle webbing all over it is a turn-off to me. The one pack of theirs that I did like, the High Camp, was discontinued. Packs, more than probably any other outdoor gear, are subject to personal preference. That's why it's great that there are a growing number of manufacturers out there.
Maybe you missed the laughing smiley face after my comment. It was hardly meant as a serious "accusation".
My whole point is it doesn't make sense to me for people to complain about a product without giving the company a chance to make it right. Off the top of my head, I've had defects in items from Leupold, Danner, Irish Setter, Kelty, Jansport, Michelin tires, and King of the Mountain Sports. In each case, I was satisfied with the results from their warranty department. In fact, Danner and Irish Setter both sent me a brand new pair of boots at no cost. And yes, I do realize that the warranty from Kifaru (as well as Mystery Ranch) is transferable and Exo's (as well as Kuiu's) isn't. Hopefully, that will change as they become more established.
Post by: mburrows on November 29, 2016, 08:28:45 AM
I don't know why y'all keep talking about kifaru exo and kuiu.
Fieldline is the way to go!!!
Lol fieldline was the pack i used in college and i still use it on bird hunts to this day! Best $25 walmart ever got from me. However, im currently on team stone glacier.
Post by: Magnum_Willys on November 29, 2016, 08:33:04 AM
I don't know why y'all keep talking about kifaru exo and kuiu.My brother got one at Bobs 1/2 price sale ($29.95 regular price). Packed out half a boned out elk with it no problem this year. They work. He is thinking up upgrading to the kuiu ultra 3000 after seeing how slick it is to stick 100# between the bag and frame.
Fieldline is the way to go!!!
Post by: hirshey on November 29, 2016, 12:01:59 PM
6 years, 10 deer of my own not to mention multiple hauls for friends(missed my Idaho hunt last year with it due to the frame breaking), 2 elk, 1 bear, and multiple spike camps and backcountry camps, not to mention it is what I use as my day hunt and scouting bag... It probably has 150+ days and at least 40 of those being under load of 80+ pounds. I'm nothing but satisfied even if there are potentially better options out there in someone else's eyes. :dunno:I've spit out more then a couple comments in favor of kuiu...but just recently I've found what I consider the first pretty decent flaw
As I've said before I spent a redicilous amount of time in my ultra and was overall happy with it...it did exactly what I wanted it to and what I consider I paid for....i then passed it on to my girlfriend and I had to test the kifaru waters...so many good reviews couldn't be ignored :chuckle: but it wasnot long after I let my girl friend use the ultra that I discovered a pretty big issue....when resizing the shoulder straps to fit her shorter torso I noticed the shoulder strap was near falling off !!....the glue was pretty much rubbed away that held the shoulderror strap to the velcro that held the thing together! No stitching! Just glue ! I couldn't believe they would hold such an important part of the pack together with just glue....there is no doubt if I would have ran that pack this fall it would have failed under a load....and how do you fix that ???
Maybe they started adding some stiching in the latter models or with the icon pro but I'd highly recommend anyone owning a kuiu pack to double check the velcro holding your shoulder straps to the frame....maybe even take it to an upholstery and get some stitching !! Or give kuiu a call and ask what kind of glue they use to hold there pack together so you can pack extra :chuckle:
Either way just a heads up
Since then we've had two kuiu belt buckles break
I could write a book on why not to buy kuiu
Since you said this I took a look at my Kuiu Icon I purchased 6 years ago... It looks pretty sound :dunno:
I have had the carbon fiber wings break under load twice in the field, but both at excess of 100 pounds, and Kuiu always made it right. Tent stakes and some electrical tape fixed it for the haul out both times. We had 4 different types of Kuiu packs on this last Idaho hunt and I've been nothing but satisfied with all my purchases. I don't like the grippy fabric they added to the back portion of the hip belt on later models though.
How many days a year do you use the pack ? I know you spend a fair amount of time in the woods but seemed like ares were good till the 2 year mark....keep an eye on it !! Hopefully I just got a dud
Post by: kentrek on November 29, 2016, 02:23:18 PM
Post by: sagewalker on November 29, 2016, 02:29:54 PM
Post by: hirshey on November 29, 2016, 02:43:00 PM
seems like insanity to break a frame multiple times and keep going back to it!
Both times were when I lent it to friends. Carbon fiber is strong under tension but not torsion. Both times were picking up/manipulation of the pack to put it on with heavy load inside. Twisting the frame was the culprit in both events, and both times Kuiu replaced it for me at no expense to me. Also, the newer frame design got rid of the longer "wings" at the bottom which was what broke. Not insanity, good customer service and a bag that fits my needs whether it is 12 days in Idaho or a day trip in the Pasayten. :hello:
Post by: dscubame on November 29, 2016, 02:43:14 PM
https://www.stoneglacier.com/hunting-packs/sky-talus-6900
Post by: hirshey on November 29, 2016, 02:48:42 PM
Rite on, that's all that matters lol I won't try and convert ya to brand x....I was just really surprised how fast the pack went down hill for me...reminded me of the cell phones that are designed to break after a couple years so you go buy a new one :bash: if it wasn't for the breaks, cracks and glued shoulder straps I would have been pretty happy with the over all pack...
Yeah, that probably would have been a deal breaker for me too. I guess for me it was such a huge step up from my Eberlestock that it feels like a dream in comparison. Not to mention I got mine on sale, so it was the right pack for the right time for me. They actually messed up on expediting my new frame to me for that Idaho hunt last year, so instead of shipping a new frame for my old bag, they sent a brand new Kuiu Icon 7000 to make up for it. They have definitely taken care of me.
Post by: lamrith on November 29, 2016, 03:09:40 PM
I just bought a Icon pro 1850 in the big sale a few weeks back, based on reviews I read and word of mouth from friends. Hearing about that sort of service makes me glad that I did. Sure you had a failure, but they went over and above and that counts quite a bit to me being in a CS position myself. Crap happens, not a single brand or product in the world has 0% failure rate, it is how the vendor handles it that sets them apart. I am sure other brands have stellar warranties to, but that is top notch.Rite on, that's all that matters lol I won't try and convert ya to brand x....I was just really surprised how fast the pack went down hill for me...reminded me of the cell phones that are designed to break after a couple years so you go buy a new one :bash: if it wasn't for the breaks, cracks and glued shoulder straps I would have been pretty happy with the over all pack...
Yeah, that probably would have been a deal breaker for me too. I guess for me it was such a huge step up from my Eberlestock that it feels like a dream in comparison. Not to mention I got mine on sale, so it was the right pack for the right time for me. They actually messed up on expediting my new frame to me for that Idaho hunt last year, so instead of shipping a new frame for my old bag, they sent a brand new Kuiu Icon 7000 to make up for it. They have definitely taken care of me.
Post by: kentrek on November 29, 2016, 03:31:34 PM
Rite on, that's all that matters lol I won't try and convert ya to brand x....I was just really surprised how fast the pack went down hill for me...reminded me of the cell phones that are designed to break after a couple years so you go buy a new one :bash: if it wasn't for the breaks, cracks and glued shoulder straps I would have been pretty happy with the over all pack...
Yeah, that probably would have been a deal breaker for me too. I guess for me it was such a huge step up from my Eberlestock that it feels like a dream in comparison. Not to mention I got mine on sale, so it was the right pack for the right time for me. They actually messed up on expediting my new frame to me for that Idaho hunt last year, so instead of shipping a new frame for my old bag, they sent a brand new Kuiu Icon 7000 to make up for it. They have definitely taken care of me.
Maybe il wait till they come out with there 2017 line up and send mine back in :chuckle:
did you get my pm hirshey ?
Post by: sagewalker on November 30, 2016, 06:58:22 AM
Post by: hirshey on November 30, 2016, 08:35:36 AM
"Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." - Albert Einstein"The distance between genius and insanity is measured only by success."
Additionally, A. E. Never said that... But it is often attributed to him because who wouldn't want to heed the advice of a genius of generations? :chuckle:
Post by: sagewalker on November 30, 2016, 08:46:11 AM
"Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." - Albert Einstein"The distance between genius and insanity is measured only by success."
But it broke...... In the field..... multiple times
Post by: hirshey on November 30, 2016, 09:19:12 AM
"Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." - Albert Einstein"The distance between genius and insanity is measured only by success."
But it broke...... In the field..... multiple times
...due to misuse by unfamiliar parties. See: above. And what did the company do? They STILL made it right, by replacing one frame, and when that became obsolete, they upgraded me.
That is like buying a water resistant computer and trying to type emails while scuba diving and blaming the computer manufacturer for its demise. Nothing Kuiu can do will make user error nonexistent, but they did modify their frame design to make the carbon fiber "wings" smaller and harder to put torsion on. To me, a company who makes it right and modifies their design based on user error is doing just fine in the product development and customer service department, and I'll gladly support that type of service and innovation. But feel free to not be a customer.
Post by: sagewalker on November 30, 2016, 09:56:54 AM
Post by: MLHSN on November 30, 2016, 12:57:40 PM
I own an Exo and I seriously regret buying it. After two years, the stitching is pulling out of the shoulder straps and I leave the top pouch at home because the zipper is busted. the side lower pouches are to tight to use when you have something in the tall vertical pockets. Conceptually, the pack is great. But I'm feeling pretty disappointed about the stitching and zippers.
If this is the case, is there some reason that you haven't taken advantage of the following warranty:
Lifetime Warranty
Exo Mountain Gear is extremely proud to based in Boise, ID and make our packs 100% in the USA. We stand behind the products we make and offer a lifetime warranty against material defects and workmanship to the original owner. If for some reason something does happen outside of that scope we will gladly repair the item for you at a reasonable cost.
I can't imagine Steve not taking care of you if there are indeed defects. Sometimes when I hear things like this, I wonder if it is an employee of a competing pack manufacturer. :chuckle: I have a first generation Exo 5500 and have had no issues. Steve has told me that they've made improvements to the overall quality of the current generation of packs. I think it's reasonable to expect a few quality control issues from a new company as long as they make good on it. I do prefer the bag design to any of the Kifarus.
I was actually waiting to contact them after hunting season ended so I wasn't stuck without a pack. Steve was quick to respond and I've got my pack on it's way to them now. I have a first generation pack and I'm sure they are constantly improving on it.
Post by: Skyvalhunter on November 30, 2016, 01:19:09 PM