Higher rings is the correct choice. If you need a higher comb height, you can always get a rifle stock pad or just old school and use a pool noodle and tape. Don't cut the base.
Unless you live in WA, can scout all summer, or have someone that's in the "know", I wouldn't put WA mule deer on the "destination" map. Most of the good mule deer areas are all private land. Granted, the teanaway isn't all private, but like ianpadron said, you'll probably want to hit the back...
I agree with Jordan.
I have the mountains, but if I had to do it again, I'd go with the the Timberlines just because of the material used in the seat and knees is a little beefier than on the mountains.
Can't really go wrong with either pair though.
Thanks guys, I think I may go Randle's route and cut off the entire pocket. Everything else about this pack seems really well thought out and planned, except this.
I just picked up a new pack for deer and elk this year and am trying to figure out how to mount my sidearm to it. Has anybody accomplished this with the full curl pack? If so, how? Thanks for any help...