Backpack, Kuiu or Exo

[Old Bear]

I have a Kuiu Icon Pro 3200 that I've used for 2 years now, the most I've carried is 50Lbs., and it has served me well, no complaints. But now I'm thinking of giving Exo a try ( got the new backpack bug). I typically pack for day hunts and staying out no more that 3 days at a time on a few occasions and the 3,200ci has served me just fine but haven't had to pack out a heavy elk quarter yet.
1. What has been your experience with either of these packs and especially if you have had experience with both?
2. Should I go with a 5500 ci in either of the packs instead of a 3200?
Thanks

 

[HeadnWest]

I've used both, hands down Exo hauls weight more comfortably for me. The belt, harness and frame was just more comfortable with the EXO. If the $50 difference isn't a big deal I would go with the 5500. It compresses down as small as the 3500 and is only a few oz. more. That being said I used my 3500 for a 7 day hunt this year. But it was tight.

 

[cuerro viejo]

If you already have the kuiu, I would upgrade something else first.

The kuiu isn’t a terrible, bad or even a mediocre pack. It’s a good pack. People use to worship elberstock packs, to me that’s a mediocre pack. I personally just fear carbon fiber bows, pack frames, trekking poles Etc. I like carbon arrows and tripods and that’s about it.

Weight wise the exo does carry 70 plus better. If both are fitted right it’s not an overwhelming difference, but a difference. To me the hip belt on the EXO locks into hips better.

With that said I have two exo packs. I have the 2k and 3.5bag. Exo is easy to change out the hip belt for my wife or daughters.

 

[zeroforhire]

Whatever fits you and your budget

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

 

[J8tnub]

I put a kuiu bag on a kifaru frame. No complaints at all.

 

[Fins_N_Tines]

I have Owned both and sold my Icon Pro 5200 and bought an Exo 3500. Since than I sold the exo 3500 and currently have a exo 5500 on order. I can tell you from my personal experience the exo K2 frame carried weight much better and was more comfortable. The bags are personal preference on how you like to organize. At first I liked the KUIU bag more until I got used to the exo bag minimal layout. Now I really like the less is more approach. Even though Exo is amazing don't forget about the other 2 of the "Big 3". Stone Glacier and Kifaru should always be in the discussion.