Post by: boneaddict on February 09, 2024, 09:34:46 AM
Post by: Bucks2Ducks on February 09, 2024, 09:58:52 AM
Kifaru as the best
Second Tier-Exo, Stone Glacier
Third Tier- Mystery Ranch, Kuiu, Badlands.....
Also I wouldnt want to go much over 5lbs on a pack
Post by: boneaddict on February 09, 2024, 10:28:41 AM
Post by: James on February 09, 2024, 10:29:58 AM
The issue I ran into with Kifaru's were they were very optimistic on their sizing. The 7,200 ci pack I bought carried less gear than my previous 5,200 ci pack. They told me it's because they count every little pocket and some other companies don't. Still didn't quite add up...
Hopefully they are not doing that anymore, but I did like the weight savings of going to a Stone Glacier.
Post by: boneaddict on February 09, 2024, 11:16:39 AM
Post by: hughjorgan on February 09, 2024, 02:18:30 PM
I'd forgotten about Kifaru, thank you. I think I originally looked at them and then decided they didnt save me much for weight so moved on. Frame plus bag. I will revisit that.
They just came out with a carbon fiber frame and they probably have the most options when it comes to bags. Kifaru may not be the lightest but what you get is the most comfortable pack on the market for hauling heavy loads. Lots of great packs to choose from, good luck in your search.
Post by: PacificNWhunter on February 09, 2024, 04:31:16 PM
I know guys that run all 4 of the mentioned brands above and durability has not been an issue with any of them. And if anything were to happen I know the companies would stand behind their stuff.
If I were looking at a new pack I would decide on what I want for a bag…what size, features, pockets, straps and such. All the frames are comfortable and can haul as much as we can put in them…the layout of your bag and how you like to pack gear/meat is going to point you in the direction of the company you want. If you don’t care about bag layout then the next thing I would consider is the frame options as far as torso height and curvature of your back. Most of the companies offer options for all, some having more adjustment then others. There is not a better time to be buying a pack as all the companies are putting out great stuff.
This better mean we are going to see a big high country mule deer take a ride this fall.
Post by: 92xj on February 09, 2024, 04:46:00 PM
I’d only stick with stone glacier, kifaru or exo, if money is not apart of the equation.
I’d order all three and send the two back that don’t fit your body the best.
Post by: Sakko300wsm on February 09, 2024, 06:18:48 PM
Post by: boneaddict on February 11, 2024, 05:16:59 AM
Post by: zwickeyman on February 11, 2024, 05:34:14 AM
Another one to look at is Initial Ascent out of Idaho. Their pack carries weight like no other I have tried. 120# feels like 80# Owners are good guys and their bags are well thought out
Post by: pickardjw on February 11, 2024, 09:18:07 AM
If I ever do replace it, I'll only look at Exo as an alternative. Listened to their podcast for a while and a buddy has one that I've fiddled with. The padding in the shoulder straps and hip belt is a good bit thicker than the SG.
Both would serve you well in terms of durability. If something does break on them, both have excellent CS for repairs.
Post by: O. Nerka on February 11, 2024, 12:13:03 PM
Post by: jackelope on February 11, 2024, 02:17:13 PM
I'd forgotten about Kifaru, thank you. I think I originally looked at them and then decided they didnt save me much for weight so moved on. Frame plus bag. I will revisit that.
I went from Eberlestock to Kifaru. Not sure what the hell I waited so long for. They may be the same weight but the comfort level is night and day. Any of the higher end packs will be night and day from any Eberlestock.
Packs seem to be like boots. They don’t all fit the same people the same way. Also seem to be a little bit of a Chevy/Dodge/Ford debate.
We’re not too far from the same size. Could probably figure out a way to let you try my Kifaru pack if you wanted to. I don’t have a big bag right now. That’s the only thing lacking. I’ve got a 3300” bag and then the OG lid and a bunch of pockets to add or take off. The bag is big enough to put a load into though if you want to try it.
Post by: teanawayslayer on February 11, 2024, 02:26:30 PM
Post by: jackelope on February 11, 2024, 04:24:39 PM
Post by: leonpeon2 on June 27, 2024, 05:19:42 PM
I like the kuiu but it’s always hard not being able to look at it before you buy it. Always like to have them side by side.
I got this promo code if you want.
$50 off your first order at KUIU with my referral link: http://rwrd.io/9ycbg0h?s
Post by: edaniels97 on June 30, 2024, 08:03:04 PM
Ive ran Kifaru, Stone Glacier, Exo, Mystery Ranch, Eberlstock and KUIU. I have been using Exo for the last 5 years and couldnt ask for a better pack or company
Another one to look at is Initial Ascent out of Idaho. Their pack carries weight like no other I have tried. 120# feels like 80# Owners are good guys and their bags are well thought out
What did you like/not like between the stone, Exo and initial ascent?
Post by: zwickeyman on July 01, 2024, 06:21:15 AM
IA, the good and the bad is the frame. It can carry a *censored* ton of weight but is very stiff when using as a hunting/day pack. Very well built and great guys running it
Been running the EXO for a few years and for me its the best all around pack. Well organized but not too many pockets. Can carry more weight than I can yet great as a day pack. I have older K2 frames with K2 and K3 bags. Very well thought out
Post by: edaniels97 on July 02, 2024, 12:31:22 PM
I havent ran a SG for about 5 years but at that time I didnt care for bag configurations and couldnt keep the pack on my hips. They are very high quality though
IA, the good and the bad is the frame. It can carry a *censored* ton of weight but is very stiff when using as a hunting/day pack. Very well built and great guys running it
Been running the EXO for a few years and for me its the best all around pack. Well organized but not too many pockets. Can carry more weight than I can yet great as a day pack. I have older K2 frames with K2 and K3 bags. Very well thought out
Thanks for the info. I don’t know anyone with real experience with the initial ascent but the only complaint I’ve heard with the stone glacier is that is kind of a pain to separate the bag from the frame to access the load shelf. Which has pretty much tipped me into getting the Exo. Thanks again hope that helps anyone else out
Post by: deerlick on July 02, 2024, 01:22:55 PM
Post by: CoryTDF on July 02, 2024, 02:20:11 PM
I'm a big fan of this Revolution Suspension system. Packed many animals with it and it's still my go-to.