any reason why it might be dumb to use a hunting backpack for backpacking? (Stone Glacier Sky Guide 7900)

[alpinedisco]

My backpacking pack is on its last breaths and i'm getting into hunting (just got my license and first rifle). Wondering if it makes sense to get the SG Sky Guide 7900 to use for both hunting and on backpacking trips? I know it's about 6lbs and so is my current backpacking pack so that's not an issue. my backpacking weight is anywhere between 30-50lbs (but i'd like to get it lighter eventually) and I hike up to 12 miles a day in mountain terrain when backpacking. Thanks in advance.

 

[mxgsfmdpx]

Do it all the time. Have fun.

 

[Koda_]

6lbs is heavy for any backpack, super heavy for dedicated backpacking. If you want to get your backpacking baseweight lighter the pack should weigh no more than around 3lbs.

 

[alpinedisco]

6lbs is heavy for any backpack, super heavy for dedicated backpacking. If you want to get your backpacking baseweight lighter the pack should weigh no more than around 3lbs.

yea i'm with you on that. will probably buy an ultralight pack at some point but just want a do-it-all pack for now

 

[passinggas33]

Depends on the scenario for me…but ultimately, it’s no big deal to use your pack for backpacking.

If I’m trying to go lightweight, aka by myself or with my buddies, then I choose something lighter because my goal for total pack weight is 15-25 pounds max.

If I’m going with my family and we seem to be taking the entire house, then I always take my hunting pack. Both for space needs and the ability to carry the weight better. Tough to beat a good hunting pack when the load is 50-60 pounds. IMO very few backpacks can carry that well.

 

[alpinedisco]

Depends on the scenario for me…but ultimately, it’s no big deal to use your pack for backpacking.

If I’m trying to go lightweight, aka by myself or with my buddies, then I choose something lighter because my goal for total pack weight is 15-25 pounds max.

If I’m going with my family and we seem to be taking the entire house, then I always take my hunting pack. Both for space needs and the ability to carry the weight better. Tough to beat a good hunting pack when the load is 50-60 pounds. IMO very few backpacks can carry that well.

cool thanks. out of curiosity, what's your hunting pack?

 

[passinggas33]

cool thanks. out of curiosity, what's your hunting pack?

My hunting pack is an Exo K4 with the Teratorn pack on it.

 

[canyonhunter47]

The only potential downside is weight if you're more or less on the light/UL bandwagon. You’ll get that sub 15lb base weight way easier with a ~2lb pack instead of a 6 lb pack.

But if you’re in the 30-40+ lb territory and you’re comparing ~5lb Osprey type packs, I’m taking the hunting pack. They’re way tougher and carry extra weight well if you end up carrying an injured persons gear, find a cool rock or sheds, or stock up on extra water

 

[alpinedisco]

The only potential downside is weight if you're more or less on the light/UL bandwagon. You’ll get that sub 15lb base weight way easier with a ~2lb pack instead of a 6 lb pack.

But if you’re in the 30-40+ lb territory and you’re comparing ~5lb Osprey type packs, I’m taking the hunting pack. They’re way tougher and carry extra weight well if you end up carrying an injured persons gear, find a cool rock or sheds, or stock up on extra water

would you say hunting packs are about equally comfortable as the 5lb osprey type packs?

 

[mxgsfmdpx]

would you say hunting packs are about equally comfortable as the 5lb osprey type packs?

No.

They are much more comfortable under load, and plenty comfortable for light backpacking type loads.

But they are not as ideal in overall fit/comfort/breathable/weight/sweat wicking/etc as dedicated “backpacking” packs.

The granolas sort of have this nailed down pretty damn well.

I still use my hunting pack for nearly all trips in saying that.