I'm sure most guys aren't "training" for their backpack hunts any more...as most seasons are starting and you're hoping to come out "heavy". But I wanted to share the DIY setup I've been using the past 6 months for training. I never liked using bags of sand, water or other weights in my pack. I wanted a more rigid setup and one that allowed me to add/reduce weight as my training progressed.
So I made this setup, which maybe cost $20 in materials at Home Depot and worked really well. The pictures communicate the setup the best. I put this weight system inside my pack and strapped it down. It's articulated, which was something I added later as the weight increased. This allows it to ride much better on your back. The system allows me carry one or two 25lbs weights comfortably. Or smaller weight increments with smaller weights. With two 25lbs plates, plus the rack portion and my pack, I figured I was training with a little over 60lbs. That's a good training weight and very comfortable. The caps on the posts that hold the weights crank down to secure the plates/weights to the board, so there's no jostling around. I had a nylon handle from an old computer bag, which I secured to the top of the board to make it easier to lift or move.
Overall I like the setup.
So I made this setup, which maybe cost $20 in materials at Home Depot and worked really well. The pictures communicate the setup the best. I put this weight system inside my pack and strapped it down. It's articulated, which was something I added later as the weight increased. This allows it to ride much better on your back. The system allows me carry one or two 25lbs weights comfortably. Or smaller weight increments with smaller weights. With two 25lbs plates, plus the rack portion and my pack, I figured I was training with a little over 60lbs. That's a good training weight and very comfortable. The caps on the posts that hold the weights crank down to secure the plates/weights to the board, so there's no jostling around. I had a nylon handle from an old computer bag, which I secured to the top of the board to make it easier to lift or move.
Overall I like the setup.