Best puffy? Grumman, Forclaz MT500, Others

[_MountainBum]

Looking for input on what the best puffy is for backcountry hunts. I’ve run very cold when not moving and coincidentally spend lots of time behind glass. Not a great mix. Have been looking at the SG Grumman with the euro optic deal, but have also been told the cheaper Forclaz MT500 is warmer and more durable.

Would love some input on either of these jackets, or others that perform well.

 

[feanor]

If you run very cold, you may want to bump up the fill weight a little more maybe depending on your season. I have a Montane Antifreeze puffy that weighs 13 oz for archery and then an Montbell alpine down Parka which weighs 18 oz. for later seasons. So I opt for saving 5 oz when it’s warmer. But when you’re cold , you’re miserable so don’t skimp.

 

[Maverick1]

First, look at the fill amount and down fill power. Multiply those two to get a relative warmth rating.
Second, look at the above results from non-hunting brands and consider costs. Plenty of options out there with better warmth per dollar figures.

Good luck!

 

[kad11]

As said, you can save a ton of money by skipping the hunting brands. I like the European brands (Rab and Montane specifically) because they fit my tall, lanky frame better.

 

[WRO]

Arcteryx atom lt


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[HarvDog]

Im needing a warmer puffy too. That seams like a good deal on the Grumman.

 

[Ajsomp]

Thread 'Down versus synthetic longevity- SG and Kifaru (Apex)'

Feb 12, 2024

I have been asked repeatedly about the performance and differences between quality down, especially treated down; and quality synthetic- Climashield Apex.

The examples here are a Stone Glacier Grumman and a Kifaru Lost Park Parka (LPP). The Grumman is 6 years old, and the LPP is 7 years, however the LPP has less overall use time due to what is below. Both have been used about the same give or take. The Kifaru more on ranges and general wear, the SG more on hunts.


For stated “warmth” that means sitting and glassing for hours without moving, no shaking, no rubbing hands, etc-...

• Formidilosus
• Replies: 34
• Forum: Clothing

• 

Good review of the SG long term. I’m sure there are others out there. Notionally I’ve used the forclaz mt100- great value jacket. Only downside is the zipper is reversed from what I’m used to

 

[Whaledriver]

Rab Positron or neutrino

 

[sr80]

Ive had the grumman and also have that cheap forclaz one, man for the price that forclaz one is hard to beat. I didnt find the grumman that warm to be honest. But most say it is so take my opinion with a grain of salt. Size up with that forclaz one if you try one.

 

[Ferrulewax]

I would wait on the outdoor vitals one personally, seems to tick all the right boxes, just want to see what guys think once they get them in hand before pulling the trigger.

 

[oregonhuntr]

I just upgraded my puffy in doing so did a bunch of research. I ended up with the Rab Mythic G hoodie. 4.5 oz of 1000 fill power European goose down for a total weight of 9.8oz. You're going to be hard-pressed to find a better all around backpack style hunting jacket.

 

[CamoPirate]

32 Below and BlackOvis make good down items with 800 fill at way better price points than most. I have a 32 below for my jacket and got a good deal on the Black Ovis down pants; love both.