Exo mtn k4 vs mystery ranch

[jwhit]

Im wondering if anyone is really sold on some of the mystery ranch packs or is Exo really the perfect set up? This is usually just a day pack for me in AZ

 

[ianpadron]

There is no comparison aside from they are both backpacks.

I've had 3 MRs in various configurations going all the way back to their N.I.C.E frame, then the MT guide lite with Pintler and Selway bags. The tri zip is cool, sleek, looks BA but the frame absolutely blows under load and for anyone that frequents the weight room, the shoulder straps will destroy your neck/traps.

The real debate is Exo vs Stone Glacier vs Kifaru...and that often comes down to personal preference.

 

[CaseyRyback]

I have three MR backpacks a daypack type thing, the Crew Cab and a 6500 expedition type pack. None of them have sufficient load lift capability for hauling heavy loads, even the 6500. These are older packs so maybe that has since changed. The fit and finish is very nice, but again, these are older USA made packs. They aren't built with an eye towards weight savings but they have withstood abuse, especially the Crew Cab. However, I don't baby my EXO and it's held up just fine.

 

[cpalm9]

Exo is the move. I had a Metcalf for a while. It's a great pack but mine squeaked a ton. Talked to the repair folks and there was nothing they would do. It certainly seems like Yeti has done a number on MR. It's a shame... So I went with Exo and I'll never look back.

 

[AZBG]

K4 2200 or 3600 would be perfect if you just need a day pack. I still have Mystery Ranch packs with the guide lite frame and they've held up well but they squeak and they don't carry weight as well as the Exo. I also got a heavy discount on all my Mystery Ranch stuff, if I was looking at them at their full price I would definitely save a little more for an Exo.

 

[flyfisher117]

The perfect set up is which ever is most comfortable loaded on your back. I’d struggle to just drop hundreds of dollars without sampling a few different packs/brands.

 

[EcoastDG]

I've had MR, Kifaru, SG krux, and now Exo. Like mentioned before, under load the MR just is no where as comfortable as the others (for me at least). Kifaru has been nice but the Exo just fits my body better. EXO edges out the SG for me as far as bag layout and also the lid attachment.

I'd recommend Exo these days just based on the CS aspect. They seem to be quick to address any concerns about their product.

 

[bpitcher]

I moved from a Metcalf to a K4 last year. The k4 appears to be a better thought out and constructed pack and it also carries weight much better for me. No creaking under a heavy load either.

 

[HouseCL]

Having owned SG, MR, and Exo packs, they each have their pros and cons

MR metcalf: tough as nails, all around solid pack, I like the side pockets, lid, and lumbar pad/belt the most out of the 3 packs I’ve had. Can get a metcalf with guide lite frame lightly used for like $250 which is a great value, or you can get one of the new model metcalfs around 400ish if you catch a good sale. Buying a used metcalf is probably what I would recommend as a first pack for a new western hunter because it’s a solid value and you can save some money to put into other gear you might need. I’d rather have a metcalf and a solid bino than an Exo and crappy binos for example.

SG sky archer 6400: probably carries weight the best out of the packs I have tried. Absolutely bomb proof. Has a great system for cinching down the pack if you’re not packing it to the full capacity. I HATED the side pockets with a burning passion, like how do you not have elastic there? That was the sole reason I sold that pack

Exo K4 5000: carries weight better than MR but not as well as the SG, overall very comfortable pack but I didn’t like the lumbar pad and belt as much as the MR. Has really good organization with the stash pocket system. Side pockets are on par with the MR but the lid system isn’t as good. Has the best accessories available of the 3 brands that I’ve owned. Overall probably the most well rounded pack out there. Price is more expensive than MR and on par with SG but holds value very well if you end up deciding to sell it and try something else. If you are in the market for a new one I would wait until their Black Friday sale. Customer service is great

All of these are larger packs meant for packing 5+ days of camping gear rather than a daypack but I think the overall points remain relevant for the same frames with smaller bags.

 

[RADunfee]

Having owned SG, MR, and Exo packs, they each have their pros and cons

MR metcalf: tough as nails, all around solid pack, I like the side pockets, lid, and lumbar pad/belt the most out of the 3 packs I’ve had. Can get a metcalf with guide lite frame lightly used for like $250 which is a great value, or you can get one of the new model metcalfs around 400ish if you catch a good sale. Buying a used metcalf is probably what I would recommend as a first pack for a new western hunter because it’s a solid value and you can save some money to put into other gear you might need. I’d rather have a metcalf and a solid bino than an Exo and crappy binos for example.

SG sky archer 6400: probably carries weight the best out of the packs I have tried. Absolutely bomb proof. Has a great system for cinching down the pack if you’re not packing it to the full capacity. I HATED the side pockets with a burning passion, like how do you not have elastic there? That was the sole reason I sold that pack

Exo K4 5000: carries weight better than MR but not as well as the SG, overall very comfortable pack but I didn’t like the lumbar pad and belt as much as the MR. Has really good organization with the stash pocket system. Side pockets are on par with the MR but the lid system isn’t as good. Has the best accessories available of the 3 brands that I’ve owned. Overall probably the most well rounded pack out there. Price is more expensive than MR and on par with SG but holds value very well if you end up deciding to sell it and try something else. If you are in the market for a new one I would wait until their Black Friday sale. Customer service is great

All of these are larger packs meant for packing 5+ days of camping gear rather than a daypack but I think the overall points remain relevant for the same frames with smaller bags.

Good answer.

 

[bpeay4]

MR for a day pack (lighter loads) has been great for me. I will echo what others have said and that is the MR does not handle heavy loads (anything over 60 lbs. for me) all that comfortably; the pack is totally strong enough and capable just not that comfortable for the user under heavy load. I have mostly attributed this to the thin hip belt and minimal lumbar pad.

If I strictly wanted a day pack that would only be under load for the occasional pack out, I would not hesitate to go with MR. If you think you may venture into some extended overnighters, maybe look elsewhere. Scour the classifieds; can usually find a good deal on any pack.

 

[Sloophunter]

Im wondering if anyone is really sold on some of the mystery ranch packs or is Exo really the perfect set up? This is usually just a day pack for me in AZ

I have been very impressed with Exo. The most comfortable pack I have ever used. Packed out a lot of meat and gear with the K3 4800

 

[MT_Wyatt]

I’ve got a lot of posts comparing SG to exo (see K4 mega thread) so I’ll refrain from repeating other than to say my experience with exo has been a level up from the SGs I loved for so long.

I’d echo what others have said and add that I’d pick based on your normal distance from the truck if you’re thinking day mode. For used/new costs it’s hard to beat MR but I never liked mine over 50lb or so.

 

[justinspicher]

I am the opposite. I traded a first gen Exo for a MR Pinter ten years ago and have never looked back. I’ve used mine in Colorado, Idaho and Alaska. Never had an issue. I’ve carried turkeys, deer, bear and elk out with no issues. I’ve even had a bag built for my frame.

 

[aMurderOfCrows]

There is no comparison aside from they are both backpacks.

I've had 3 MRs in various configurations going all the way back to their N.I.C.E frame, then the MT guide lite with Pintler and Selway bags. The tri zip is cool, sleek, looks BA but the frame absolutely blows under load and for anyone that frequents the weight room, the shoulder straps will destroy your neck/traps.

The real debate is Exo vs Stone Glacier vs Kifaru...and that often comes down to personal preference.

Would anybody put the new Eberlestock mod frame and Vapor or brooks bags or the Brute series in the group?

Not trying to hijack the thread but based solely on appearances the new Eberlestock looks good and something to consider.

 

[schur7559]

I’m curious where people think the MR lacks in comfort? That’s what I currently use and comfort has never really been an issue for me. I train with 60 pounds all summer and hauled probably 90 lbs on a pack out last year and it seemed fine. Eventually I’d like to upgrade to an Exo but I’m just wondering what I’m missing.

 

[MT_Wyatt]

I’m curious where people think the MR lacks in comfort? That’s what I currently use and comfort has never really been an issue for me. I train with 60 pounds all summer and hauled probably 90 lbs on a pack out last year and it seemed fine. Eventually I’d like to upgrade to an Exo but I’m just wondering what I’m missing.

Their hip belt is pretty Cush and narrow in height so it focuses loads a bit too much for me, and the lumbar didn’t work as well for my hips/back. Finally the torso worked just fine for me but anyone with longer torsos will struggle with load lifter height. Very much me/my build issue more than the pack suspension.