Exo vs kifaru vs HPG vs Kuiu vs MR

MDurham

FNG
Joined
Apr 28, 2024
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I figured it’s about time to get another proper backpack after I sold my r3 about a year ago. I’ve previously owned a k4 7200 but the pack just didn’t work for me, traded it for the r3 but never got the chance to take it out.

I’ve pretty much boiled it down to these few options, all used. Any larger MR, a used Kuiu pro, an old Exo k2 or 3, any Kifaru duplex, Kifaru frame with Exo bag, or search for a HPG decker used.

I’d be using this bag for everything; backpacking, hunting, hiking, kayaking, and even just to load stuff in my truck for off-roading, potentially work like property clearing. It will also be used in every environment, near me I’ve got grasslands and pretty standard Ga forests, but since Helene it’s lots of crawling and hopping over trees and obstacles so that is something that radically changed my bag philosophy.

Any help is always appreciated and you’re welcome to offer anything if it’s what you’re selling or someone else. Decently urgent as planning a section hike of the AT this winter. Thanks in advance!
 
Prior to the release of the HPG Decker Tall(I’m 6’ 2”), I tried an Exo K4 for one season and packed one elk with it. Once the Decker Tall dropped, I jumped on it and sold the Exo.
For me, nothing comes close to HPG’s comfort, in both loaded and unloaded carry. Being able to custom bend the stays to your back shape, carry weight closer to your back, and use delta straps to drive the load into your lumbar/hips is super important to me. The design also lends itself to articulation when your moving and ducking under limbs. With Exo, I felt the pack was pulling on my shoulders and pulling me backwards/fighting against me.
My setup now works perfect for my uses which is an Exo K4 bag attached to the HPG Decker. The shoulder harness is there for stability but vertically all weight is transferred to the lumbar/hips.
 
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