Exo Mountain K4?

[JNDEER]

Okay - I’ve actually read all 136 pages now. I’ve been using SG for 10 years but at 5’8” I’m intrigued by this new exo frame, specifically due to the 23.5” option and stay shape. The only thing that’s ever bugged me with SG is the stay height at 26” so exo has some nice options there. After reviewing a lot of the excellent content exo puts out on their systems I’m curious for some user feedback on two specific things I’ve noticed but have no experience with.

1) loads: I’m used to the “load shelf” SG uses to elevate loads on the frame. How well do the load straps on k4 do in keeping meat backs high on the frame? Does the bag connection at bottom help much in keeping loads up?

2) compression: the bottom of the bag looks like a unique/clean way to compress. But there’s no connection at the top of the frame back to top of bag (I’m used to this with an SG) - it appears the lid is designed as that bridge point. How well does this work? With the bottom and only 2 side compression straps, I can see the easy/fast load access for frame being a feature.

It obviously works based on some of the user photos in the thread - if anyone has used both pack systems a bit of compare/contrast would really be appreciated!

1- I have always favored the ability to use a meat shelf over the bag so I can adjust the meat higher to fit my frame and curved back better. I was disappointed when I saw the new meat shelf was Soo long- however after some testing - for me maximizing the height of the meat shelf fit perfect for me not only in test weight but animal weight too.

2- never once have I felt the need to attach the very top of the bag to the frame. The top - side compression straps and angle up to the frame hold everything as snug as I want it. IMO you won’t need to attach the top of the bag back to the top of the frame.


You can see in the photo the side top compression strap is almost to the top and holds the bag up nicely while the meat in the photo is in the shelf

 

[MT_Wyatt]

1- I have always favored the ability to use a meat shelf over the bag so I can adjust the meat higher to fit my frame and curved back better. I was disappointed when I saw the new meat shelf was Soo long- however after some testing - for me maximizing the height of the meat shelf fit perfect for me not only in test weight but animal weight too.

2- never once have I felt the need to attach the very top of the bag to the frame. The top - side compression straps and angle up to the frame hold everything as snug as I want it. IMO you won’t need to attach the top of the bag back to the top of the frame.


You can see in the photo the side top compression strap is almost to the top and holds the bag up nicely while the meat in the photo is in the shelf

awesome reply, appreciate the feedback.

 

[MT_Wyatt]

1) - Yes, keeping meat high on the shelf is not an issue, you can use the bag connection, two independent frame straps, or the crib to accomplish this depending on how you want to do it.

2) - IMO compression works fine/great. The bottom compresses really well. The top you can run with or without the lid. The upper straps do a good job of compressing the top of the bag. The bag does have slots and sits on top of the stays at the top. Personally, I don't love top straps, my wife's mystery ranch has some and they always bugged me a little but YMMV.

Where you at in MT? I have a K4 in the Kalispell area if you are curious to see...

Edit to add - I'm 5'7" and have both the 22 and 23.5 stays on hand. I cruise around and day hunt in the 22" and if I know I'm carrying a heavy load have the 23.5". I have the 2200 and 5000 bags and my wife has the 3600 on an EXS frame, so a bunch of options for you to check out if you are close...

I'm in Great Falls - very much appreacite the offer.

Stay height - I'm shorter torso and I noticed that the selection chart kinda goes 50/50 at my height between 23.5-25" stays. I didn't even consider those 22s for day hunting but have to imagine that works slick.

Can I bug you for one more question - when you trade out to the 22s, where is that extra 1.5" of fabric for the stay sleeve going? Does the stay sleeve get compressed? I'm imagining shoving a shorter stay in there, and it just ending at the top around where the load lifter and bag connect. I can't get my mind around how that would work well.

 

[MT_Wyatt]

Can I bug you for one more question - when you trade out to the 22s, where is that extra 1.5" of fabric for the stay sleeve going? Does the stay sleeve get compressed? I'm imagining shoving a shorter stay in there, and it just ending at the top around where the load lifter and bag connect. I can't get my mind around how that would work well.

Replying to myself - I see they have a video explaining how the upper is not connected to the belt so it can slide down to take up the slack from shorter stays. So that's easy.

 

[Mark at EXO]

Hey @MT_Wyatt. Good questions and you're getting some good answers/feedback from the guys here. I don't need to interject, but definitely give us a shout if you want to chat directly. We'd be glad to help.

 

[rileybassman]

Replying to myself - I see they have a video explaining how the upper is not connected to the belt so it can slide down to take up the slack from shorter stays. So that's easy.

Yep, you figured it out

It's slick and super easy to change them out.

Sent from my SM-S916U using Tapatalk

 

[wnelson14]

Does anyone know where to obtain buckles like these or what they are called, need a couple for a K4 add on.

 

[twall13]

Does anyone know where to obtain buckles like these or what they are called, need a couple for a K4 add on.

That's a gatekeeper of some sort, not sure the exact name. I'd reach out to Exo and I'm sure they will send you some for a reasonable price. I've done that with extra buckles, etc. with them before and they've always been super accommodating.

Sent from my Pixel 6 using Tapatalk

 

[TOLeary]

Does anyone know where to obtain buckles like these or what they are called, need a couple for a K4 add on.

Don’t see anything exact but a gated g hook could work

 

[Drenalin]

Does anyone know where to obtain buckles like these or what they are called, need a couple for a K4 add on.

It’s a single gatekeeper.

Specialty Buckles

Great to have in your field repair kit or to replace an already broken buckle. Even if you just need one for replacement it's a good idea to have a backup when you're out on a ride. Buckle size corresponds to webbing width. Don't see it here, or still not sure what you need? Check our Hardware &...

moskomoto.com

 

[TravisIN]

Not sure If this has been mentioned or not but I also use my k4 as a Turkey “vest”. Two hip belt pockets carry my slate, headlamp, face mask and gloves. My striker, reeds and crow call are in my bino harness. Nalgene carrier carry’s a nalgene. If I think it’s a dark to dark day I’ll throw the lid on as well. The load sling is for the bird. If I’m wanting to take a blind and chairs I just strap them on with the straps on back. It’s super light and the frame provides some back support leaning against a tree. WAY better than using a vest that probably weighs the same or more.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[judders87]

Not sure If this has been mentioned or not but I also use my k4 as a Turkey “vest”. Two hip belt pockets carry my slate, headlamp, face mask and gloves. My striker, reeds and crow call are in my bino harness. Nalgene carrier carry’s a nalgene. If I think it’s a dark to dark day I’ll throw the lid on as well. The load sling is for the bird. If I’m wanting to take a blind and chairs I just strap them on with the straps on back. It’s super light and the frame provides some back support leaning against a tree. WAY better than using a vest that probably weighs the same or more.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Did the same but had a FHF sitting pad attached. Works out pretty well!

 

[MT_Wyatt]

Well….i went ahead and “jumped” to try a k4. I started with the original Metcalf when it was released. Went to SG in 2014 - I’ve always appreciated how the design there has remained very consistent over the years and didn’t need complete redesigns. BUT as previously mentioned the stay height options Exo offers got me super curious, largely due to the extremely well done website, videos and information Exo offers.

I ordered, easily set up, and got some weight in a K4. I can’t speak much to the bag design until I’ve got some good time using it in a lot of scenarios (I really like the skirted lid and bag to frame attachment, bottom compression, etc), but the frame change was immediately apparent to me. The stay shape, height, and how the pack carries is quite awesome. One thing that really stands out to me with the system is the build quality - there’s a lot of small details that really show the level of thought that went into the design. I’m not saying anything new here - but having never used an Exo, I’m just so impressed with what they’ve put together with K4 and how they present themselves.

 

[sr80]

Well….i went ahead and “jumped” to try a k4. I started with the original Metcalf when it was released. Went to SG in 2014 - I’ve always appreciated how the design there has remained very consistent over the years and didn’t need complete redesigns. BUT as previously mentioned the stay height options Exo offers got me super curious, largely due to the extremely well done website, videos and information Exo offers.

I ordered, easily set up, and got some weight in a K4. I can’t speak much to the bag design until I’ve got some good time using it in a lot of scenarios (I really like the skirted lid and bag to frame attachment, bottom compression, etc), but the frame change was immediately apparent to me. The stay shape, height, and how the pack carries is quite awesome. One thing that really stands out to me with the system is the build quality - there’s a lot of small details that really show the level of thought that went into the design. I’m not saying anything new here - but having never used an Exo, I’m just so impressed with what they’ve put together with K4 and how they present themselves.

I have a similar pack life path as you except toss in kifaru as well. And a couple sales and also rebuying of the above mentioned packs trying to find my perfect pack. I followed along with the K4 thread and checked it daily before it was launched and knew that i had to try one, I grabbed one as soon as they were available. It just ticks all my boxes. I use my packs all year round, not just for the fall hunting season, so they always see a ton of use. Usually after a year of owning a pack my eyes start to wander the threads and i start looking/researching something new but not anymore. There isn't anything i would change on this pack, also the guys at Exo are great, just regular down to earth, real guys, without inflated egos.

 

[Marbles]

Been using 100 lbs of sand for training, including on some mountain trails. Very comfortable with no issues.

Decided it was not heavy enough and added some weight. My body needs to adjust to it, slight bit of pressure on the front of my hips, in part from my pants/belt, and a touch of pressure from the lumbar pad, but again not bad. I did not notice either until over 45 minutes in.

 

[1911king]

@Marbles what are those coyote side pouches?

 

[plebe]

@Marbles what are those coyote side pouches?

Stone Glacier…

R3 Side Bags

R3 - Response | Recon | Rescue The R3 Side Bags add modular storage for the R3 3300, R3 5900, and R3 7000.* Side Bags are sold as a set of two. *R3 Side Bags are not compatible with Gen 1 R3 Bags, the Krux frame, or the Xcurve frame. Specs Weight: 6 oz. each Capacity: 750 cubic inches each...

www.stoneglacier.com

 

[Marbles]

@Marbles what are those coyote side pouches?

Yep, this.

Stone Glacier Wing pockets

They are the Stone Glacier R3 wing pockets. Used 6 triglides to connect them to the top 3 frame straps.

 

[Fever Buck]

Yep, this.


They are the Stone Glacier R3 wing pockets. Used 6 triglides to connect them to the top 3 frame straps.

Can you show some pictures of how they attach? Seems like a nice way to bump your bag storage without upsizing in packs.

 

[Marbles]

Can you show some pictures of how they attach? Seems like a nice way to bump your bag storage without upsizing in packs.

Each of the R3 wing pocket straps lines up perfectly with the straps coming off the frame (top bag strap, top load strap, bottom bag strap).

Incase you are uncertain on how to use the triglides. Pretend the black webbing is the pack strap and the scale is the pack.