Best pack for ME

[Destroyer340]

Hi,
I was referred to this site by my cousin, and so far I love it! It seems like everyone is very helpful and so much great information on subjects. Anyways, I am a complete novice when it comes to packs, but would really like to purchase one for this year. I am looking for a pack that I can pack in all my gear and also pack out meat as well. I have some buddies who have recommended KUIU (3000, 1850, and 3200). I am a L/XL and tall frame size. Pretty much all of my hunting is 1 day hunts. I rarely, if ever have overnight hunts(but would like to try it sometime). I hunt whitetail and mule deer (hopefully elk someday). Any suggestions on which of those three KUIU packs or any suggestions on any other packs would be greatly appreciated... Heard great things about Mystery Ranch as well, but pretty sure they are a little more expensive. And obviously, those KUIU packs are my price range. Thank you in advance!

 

[MBrown]

What is your price range?

 

[Destroyer340]

I'd like to stay in that range of the KUIU packs I listed... $250-450. New or used

 

[COlineman78]

As long as you don't have a very long torso (under 20"), I would go with an Exo 3500 for that price range. I'd post a WTB for a used one as the new frame has probably lowered the value on the used ones a bit.

 

[TheCougar]

+1 on Exo 3500 or 2000. Some guys like Kuiu, some don't. Everyone loves their Exo.

 

[Destroyer340]

I am 6'3, 215 lbs.. my torso is just shy of 20''...

 

[MT_Wyatt]

I am 6'3, 215 lbs.. my torso is just shy of 20''...

If you want a frame/bag to do multiple things, the Kuiu system is good for the money. I'd be a little concerned with their backwards compatibility here in a couple years though, based on the past, I wouldn't have a lot of confidence they wouldn't obsolete you into a new frame.....most of the high end companies really try and avoid that it seems.

If I were you, with that budget, I would go after a used pack - reason being you'll get even more bang for your buck, and honestly, you may get a pack and decide it isn't for you here in two years after training and hunting with it.

 

[Graves14]

I'd also say look for a used exo. A lot of these "used" packs are barely used and nearly new. Some great deals to be had. If you want to spend less, maybe you could pry one of the NICE framed Mystery ranch packs that closed out for $360 out of someone's hands.

 

[Destroyer340]

Thanks for the input and suggestions guys, I appreciate it. Like I said, I am very new at this, so I will take any and all advice I can get. If anybody hears of a used Exo or Mystery Ranch, let me know, thanks!

 

[Elkoholic87]

Stay away from Kuiu. EXO, Kifaru, Mystery Ranch and Stong Glacier are your best bet. Buy once, cry once.


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[bobhunts]

Best advice is to find a pack that fits " You ". Packs are like shoes! Borrow a few and try them on put some weight in and put some miles on it with it on your back. Things that make one better over another are little things that are very opinionated other than just plain fit. Too bad you don't live closer I could loan you a few to try and see what you like. Maybe there are some hunters in your area that will let you borrow a few different ones and see what fits you and your body type. Make sure if you do that, to look at the pack manufacturers web site on how to adjust it so it fits you. Good luck and keep in mind what kind of weight you will be carrying.