Best for packing elk out

[Westelkmule]

Looking for a pack I can load up to 100lbs or so for packing elk out of high Rockies.
Sometimes hiking out 3+ miles of up and down steep slopes. My buddy here likes mystery ranch but it seems like here they get mixed reviews.

I’ve been using a backpacking internal frame pack and it’s crushing my soul and my back. Exo and kifaru get great reviews but I was trying not to spend 600+. I have some hill people gear stuff I like.

 

[TheM1DoesMyTalking]

I'd watch the classifieds for a used EXO K3 or K4 or a Stone Glacier pack that's in your budget.

 

[ganngus]

Nothing but good things to say about the K4. Packed multiple animals off mountains with it. That said, if I draw a moose tag in Alaska, I will be buying a Barney's pack...

 

[sndmn11]

The best one is going to be the frame (brand) that fits your body and pressure preferences the best. The only way to know that is to try 4-5 different mfgs, or get close enough and settle.

Exo, Seek Outside, Kifaru, Stone Glacier, Initial Ascent are all "top tier".

Some folks might also love Mystery Ranch, Kuiu, possibly Sitka, possibly AGC.

I'd find a frame from two different mfgs here, sell the loser, buy another, and have that head to head shoot out until you are satisfied.