Experiences with the 4000-6500ci Kifaru packs

[kjw]

I jumped up to the hoodlum this year from the timberline 2(5200ci). It took a bit to get reorganized but I really started to like the setup. I used it on an 8 day fly in the backpack caribou trip. Ran a guide lid with a claymore and large belt pouch on the back. It was definitely full going in because I like food. I also used it on my wife’s bighorn hunt where I carried most of our gear to keep her fresh. She had the 44 mag and it was great until we packed out. The 44 struggled with a ram head and cape and a few extra items. I carried all the meat and rifle out the first load with no issues. I also used the hoodlum on a friends bighorn hunt in WY. 8 day backpack hunt and I had plenty of room. Day hunt mode it works just fine as with all the Kifaru packs they cinch down small. I usually run a claymore on the fold over lid with a small pouch for first aid and emergency gear and a large pouch to stuff random items(gloves,hat,raincoat,snacks). I’ve carried 10lb rifles erotically on the back woth no issues and also use a gun bearer without issue. Side pockets hold a ton of gear and the side entry on both sides is nice to have. We’ve sold my wife’s 44 and she now uses the timberline. She just prefers more room especially past a 3 day trip

 

[Marble]

I think I need one! Honestly I am sold on the Kifaru frame…..but still trying to figure out what bag I like…..since they hold their value so well - it allows me to try multiple bags without losing a lot of $

Just don't get too caught up in the research. You've had some good suggestions here. And, unless you pick something way too small, it won't make a difference in your hunt. So pick the pack that looks like the best layout with versatility. The ones that works for you.

With the 44 mag I use the Sherman pocket to carry the rifle/bow.

With my cavern I use the straps or my lid.

I like to have medium pockets on my belt. The lighter material. Along with a bottle holder.

My favorite is my cavern. And I use my lid for my daily food and stuff I need to get to all the time. Then the full assortment of the little to big organization bags to separate all my different necessities.

When do your order just think about building a system that you can be somewhat modular with. That's what works for me.



Sent from my SM-G986U using Tapatalk

 

[well_known_rokslider]

For all of you guys who aren't entirely sure about exactly what pack/frame combo to buy when the time is right, I suggest you join the Kifaru Insiders FB page. Pretty tight nit community and if you put out a request and where you live there's likely someone close willing to meet and let you take a look at what they have. I did this when I was trying to size my lost park parka. Good choice heavily contemplating a big purchase like this, but when the time is right you won't be disappointed. Good luck!

 

[commandoNate]

I've been using a reckoning since about 2017 or so and been extremely happy with it. I think it carries the rifle and the bow really well as long as the pack has some stuff in it for the straps to compress the weapon to. I picked up a 44 mag for my son a couple years ago and have used it a few times and I prefer the reckoning. I like being able to get into the main pouch without having to use zippers and I do not really like the integrated zipper pouches in the 44 mag. They are neat for what they do but I don't need them. I also much prefer the non-zip side pockets on the reckoning for taller things that don't need to be kept protected like a tripod, trekking poles, extra water bottles, ect.

On a side note a friend tried to order one about 2 1/2 years ago I think and was told they weren't making the reckoning anymore, but another friend just ordered one this month. Maybe they got a lot of requests and started making them again??

 

[NDGuy]

Love it thanks for the info gents.

 

[Flight452]

For all of you guys who aren't entirely sure about exactly what pack/frame combo to buy when the time is right, I suggest you join the Kifaru Insiders FB page. Pretty tight nit community and if you put out a request and where you live there's likely someone close willing to meet and let you take a look at what they have. I did this when I was trying to size my lost park parka. Good choice heavily contemplating a big purchase like this, but when the time is right you won't be disappointed. Good luck!

That's a great suggestion, but for those of us who don't use Facebook, these reviews are as good as it gets.

 

[trophyhill]

I love my tried and true DT1 bag. I believe thats 7200? But i love my Hoodlum even more! It's definitely a well thought out design! Love the ease of access with the zips! Packing this thing for the backcountry, unpacking and repacking it in the backcountry is a breeze! The most important feature for me is packing meat out! Handles weight like a dream!

 

[NDGuy]

The Reckoning arrived today. Sweet pack, reminds me of my old MR Metcalf pack which is what drew me to it.

Can't wait to break it in!

 

[Sharpd53]

I always thought I was a small pack and camp bag guy.....and sometimes I still am but not as much since I got my 44 mag....I can put everything in the bag and once camp is set cinch in down for day use. I really like the way the bag lays out and how you can access the interior.....I always take too much but there always seems to be plenty of room.

Just ordered the 44 Mag. Got it for the reasons you stated. Can’t wait to get it and start testing it out.