Eco K4 5000 for Day Hunts?

Tradbeau

FNG
Joined
Feb 15, 2026
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Is an Exo K4 5000 overkill for day hunts? I’m usually a couple of miles in and back the same day. I’ve been packing out meat for years with a non-frame pack and think it’s time to upgrade.
 
Thanks for the replies. The smaller pack makes perfect sense. I’m looking forward to having some separation between the meat and my gear.

Do you use regular breathable game bags or put the meat in something else? I’ve been using regular old thin game bags.
 
Thanks for the replies. The smaller pack makes perfect sense. I’m looking forward to having some separation between the meat and my gear.

Do you use regular breathable game bags or put the meat in something else? I’ve been using regular old thin game bags.
Plain old game bags.

Blood soaked through and gets on the fabric but I bet it would come out with some warm water and a little brushing.
 
Thanks for the replies. The smaller pack makes perfect sense. I’m looking forward to having some separation between the meat and my gear.

Do you use regular breathable game bags or put the meat in something else? I’ve been using regular old thin game bags.
If you are so inclined, you can also get the meat sling or whatever it is called, that way you can use just the frame for subsequent trips for meat.
 
I just talked to the exo guys at the expo, and he said the 5000 was good for day hunts. He actually liked something about the way it unzipped when compressed more than the 3200 but I can't remember the details. I'm sure you'll be fine with whatever.
 
Is an Exo K4 5000 overkill for day hunts? I’m usually a couple of miles in and back the same day. I’ve been packing out meat for years with a non-frame pack and think it’s time to upgrade.

If all you do is day hunt then maybe, but the bag compresses down so much that it’s not an issue and it gives you the ability to adapt to a different situation by simply loosing the straps.
I have used all of the different EXO packs over the years and the 5k and the Teratorn are my favorites but I do use my pack for more than just hunting so having the ability to add more gear at a moments notice is a priority for me.
Probably the best compromise is a 3600 but the single side zipper is not for everyone.
 
If all you do is day hunt then maybe, but the bag compresses down so much that it’s not an issue and it gives you the ability to adapt to a different situation by simply loosing the straps.
I have used all of the different EXO packs over the years and the 5k and the Teratorn are my favorites but I do use my pack for more than just hunting so having the ability to add more gear at a moments notice is a priority for me.
Probably the best compromise is a 3600 but the single side zipper is not for everyone.
I’m going to check out the specs on the 3600 bag. The single side zipper is something I’m not sure about. I don’t like bags with so many compartments that I forget where I put things and have to start pulling things out, but only one zipper sounds a little too minimalist. lol
 
I’m going to check out the specs on the 3600 bag. The single side zipper is something I’m not sure about. I don’t like bags with so many compartments that I forget where I put things and have to start pulling things out, but only one zipper sounds a little too minimalist. lol
It works just fine, especially if you use the stash pockets for quick-use items. You can, of course, go in from the top through the rolltop, but I hate doing that unless I'm doing a full dump-out.
 
Gotta LOVE those, EXO Packs !
I'm an Old Light Weight,. 65 Pounds is My, Top weight !
And, 45 Pounds Feels, even Better !
Maybe, 4-5 Day Hunts, Max at, my Age !
 
Agree on getting the 3600 for a daypack. I have the 2200 and for me it's only useable as a daypack with the lid. If you actually put a water bladder in the water bladder pocket, the usable space gets eaten up quick. You could definitely use the 5000 as a daypack if you don't mind compressing it down though.
 
If all you do is day hunt then maybe, but the bag compresses down so much that it’s not an issue and it gives you the ability to adapt to a different situation by simply loosing the straps.
I have used all of the different EXO packs over the years and the 5k and the Teratorn are my favorites but I do use my pack for more than just hunting so having the ability to add more gear at a moments notice is a priority for me.
Probably the best compromise is a 3600 but the single side zipper is not for everyone.
Have you used the Teratorn as a day pack at all? I have a k4 5000 which I think is good and use for day hunting, but I’m intrigued by the layout and wing design of the Teratorn. I’ve read mixed feedback on its use as day hunt style pack.
 
Have you used the Teratorn as a day pack at all? I have a k4 5000 which I think is good and use for day hunting, but I’m intrigued by the layout and wing design of the Teratorn. I’ve read mixed feedback on its use as day hunt style pack.
Yes, it is my do-everything bag. It also rides a bit lower than my 5K because the lid sits lower, so I don't get hung up going under brush and trees. The Wings are great for stuffing a layer in quickly or any other items that you want for easy access. It is big, but it works great, and it allows me to easily adapt to whatever I am packing. The side pockets are great for carrying a rifle. To carry a bow, I added a locking buckle strap under the wings.
 
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