DT1 or Standard T1???

[ndbwhunter]

I'm finally ready to take the plunge, but I can't decide which pack I need. Can you guys shed some light on the functional differences between these two packs? Aside from the ability to swap out bags, what other advantages does the duplex have over the standard T1?

The pack will be used for 1-2 elk hunts a year, and a few mule deer hunts throughout the year.

 

[rodney482]

the two big differences is

swapping bags
meat packing

I think most guys pack meat inside the T1 or use a grabbit.

With the Duplex you can place meat between the frame and bag... or use the frame without the bag.

 

[gelton]

First off let me qualify my experience is only with the DT1 but also on my research when I was facing the same question as you. Here is what I was able to surmise:

The major difference is the fact that the standard T1 has an internal type frame where the duplex is a standalone frame. As a result the duplex is able to handle heavy loads better. There are reports of the regular T1 "barreling" with heavy or bulky loads. Also, I think because you are able to change out bags and use just the frame to haul, that the DT1 is a much more versatile system.

The T1 is lighter and would probably be the preferred pack for hauling smaller lighter loads, however, if this is what I was looking for I would probably get one in at T2 or T3. If you are looking to haul bulky heavier loads though the DT1 should outperform hands down.

 

[Shrek]

The DT1 is a way more versatile system. I own the Duplex and highly recommend it.

 

[ndbwhunter]

Thanks for the information! I was under the impression that they were essentially the same with the exception of the removeable bags. If all goes well, I'll be packing out some elk, so I guess it's best to be prepared. I'm sure the T1 could handle it, but I'd rather not find its breaking point a few miles from the truck.

Duplex it is! For those of you that have the DT1, what is the best way to haul large loads of meat? Grab-it or in the bag?

 

[Justin Crossley]

Both will work for your application.

The standard T1 is lighter and more comfortable for me with lighter loads. (<50#) It moves more with your body giving you more range of motion.

The Duplex frame is better imo when you'll be hauling over 80# frequently. Or if you want the ability to switch bags or use the frame alone for hauling meat.

The Bikini frame is kind of a hybrid and falls in between the first two options.

 

[Shrek]

Look at the EMR II . Even more versatile and easier to load . In the bag..

 

[Kotaman]

I opted for the lighter T1 as the DT1 is 2-3 lbs heavier. With that said, I have hauled a couple 100 lb. loads in my T1 and it handled the load great. If you are regularily hauling loads in excess of 75 lbs., I would consider the DT1. If you are normally hauling 30-50 with an occasional pack out over 75, I'd opt for the T1 and save the pack weight.

 

[Kotaman]

Look at the EMR II . Even more versatile and easier to load . In the bag..

and Shrek makes a good point...

 

[ndbwhunter]

Both will work for your application.

The standard T1 is lighter and more comfortable for me with lighter loads. (<50#) It moves more with your body giving you more range of motion.

The Duplex frame is better imo when you'll be hauling over 80# frequently. Or if you want the ability to switch bags or use the frame alone for hauling meat.

The Bikini frame is kind of a hybrid and falls in between the first two options.

What is the T1 like with 80lb+ loads? My total pack weight is under 50lbs, but if I'm hauling out an elk it's usually over 100lbs.

 

[hflier]

I have owned both. DT1 for me. T1 is good, but the DT1 is more versatile and for me my back felt better with the stiffer frame.

 

[fillthefreezer]

i think the bikini is a good compliment of both strengths with less of eithers drawbacks(weight, barreling, etc). i have not had a standard t1 but have had a duplex.

 

[NVCHUKAR]

Like previously mentioned the DT1 will be much stiffer horizontally than a regular t1 which allows the stays to move independently of eachother. Comfort wise the T1 will win hands down with loads under 50 and the DT1 will win on really heavy loads. That does not mean a T1 can't handle 100#s it just wont be as comfortable as say a duplex might be. I think my late season(smaller internal frame version of T1) is the most comfortable suspension up to the 50# range of my three kifaru packs. Everyones body and personal preference is different but either pack should treat you well.

 

[Justin Crossley]

What is the T1 like with 80lb+ loads? My total pack weight is under 50lbs, but if I'm hauling out an elk it's usually over 100lbs.

Last year alone I packed three boned out bulls with my T1. Two of the loads I had half a bull and one I had a third. The T1 works just fine but that kind of weight hurts no matter what.

 

[Backpack Hunter]

I don't have any complaints with the T1 with heavy loads, it works very well. The Duplex and Bikini are more versatile in that you can change out the bags or use the frames alone.

 

[fulldraw1972]

I haven't packed any real heavy loads in my T1 yet. With that said I have been trying with 60 lbs. I do love this pack.
My hunting partner has a bikiniT1. So we will see who likes what in a few weeks after our elk hunt.
Good luck in your choice.

 

[ndbwhunter]

Well now I'm really confused....decisions decisions

 

[ndbwhunter]

How many of you use the duplex without the bag for hauling meat?

Are there any differences between the two when being used as a day pack?

 

[Kotaman]

How many of you use the duplex without the bag for hauling meat?

Are there any differences between the two when being used as a day pack?

Yep...about 2 lbs...

 

[AK Troutbum]

the two big differences is

swapping bags
meat packing

I think most guys pack meat inside the T1 or use a grabbit.

With the Duplex you can place meat between the frame and bag... or use the frame without the bag.

Is anyone using the DT1 and hauling meat between the frame and a full bag? If so, how are you doing this?