First frame setup advice

[Akexis972]

Hi everyone,
I’m new here.
I’m getting more and more interested in hunting gear.
I’m looking to get a frame and a backpack to be able to carry my gear.
I’ve seen that Eberlestock offers the Mainframe, along with different packs and accessories that can attach directly to it.
Mainly for day hunts for now, but I’d like something scalable for the future.
Do you have any feedback or advice for choosing a first frame setup?
Thanks in advance.

 

[Akexis972]

I forgot to mention the budget , around $400–500 max, I won’t be able to go higher since I’m just starting out.
I’m open to both new and used gear.

 

[Maverick1]

There are plenty of well-known backpack manufacturers out there. Using the search feature, you will find multiple threads on this topic, ad nauseam.

First thing I would do is to get an accurate measurement of your torso length.

Second thing is research the brands that fit your torso length and are in your price range.

Third thing is to look at their return policy. Call to verify and explain what you are doing.

Fourth thing would be to order several packs, try them on, then pick the best one and return all the others.


You will likely get lots of replies on this forum (or this thread) with guys throwing out specific brand names. (Cue up the Kuiu, Eberlestock, Exo, Stone Glacier, Kifaru crowd to drop a bunch of names and specific models in......3....2.....1....)


And that is useful, because you can look for certain themes amongst the brands. But, at the same time, it is NOT useful, because backpacks are like boots and gloves: everyone is different, and what works well for one guy may not work well for a different guy.

Good luck in your search.

 

[Akexis972]

There are plenty of well-known backpack manufacturers out there. Using the search feature, you will find multiple threads on this topic, ad nauseam.

First thing I would do is to get an accurate measurement of your torso length.

Second thing is research the brands that fit your torso length and are in your price range.

Third thing is to look at their return policy. Call to verify and explain what you are doing.

Fourth thing would be to order several packs, try them on, then pick the best one and return all the others.


You will likely get lots of replies on this forum (or this thread) with guys throwing out specific brand names. (Cue up the Kuiu, Eberlestock, Exo, Stone Glacier, Kifaru crowd to drop a bunch of names and specific models in......3....2.....1....)


And that is useful, because you can look for certain themes amongst the brands. But, at the same time, it is NOT useful, because backpacks are like boots and gloves: everyone is different, and what works well for one guy may not work well for a different guy.

Good luck in your search.

Thanks, I really appreciate the detailed advice.
That makes a lot of sense, especially about fit being personal.
I haven’t measured my torso yet, but I’ll definitely do that first.
I’ll try to narrow down my options before ordering.
Would you say the Eberlestock Mainframe is a good starting point for a first setup, or would you recommend looking at other brands first?

 

[WeiserBucks]

I'd recommend buying a used top quality pack if you're on a tight budget.

 

[Akexis972]

I'd recommend buying a used top quality pack if you're on a tight budget.

Thanks for the advice.
I’m trying to stay within a budget, so that’s probably the best option.
Any specific brands or models you’d recommend?

 

[WeiserBucks]

I'd be looking at EXO, Stone Glacier and Kifaru. In that order.

 

[LCguy]

Seek Outside or Exo and that's it. If you want to look around more, look for a breakaway style pack.

I prefer Seek Outside, which can easily adjust the frame height depending on the load. Can attach a backpacking-size bag or a daypack-size bag to the frame. Completely modular and insanely comfortable under load. I use my Goshawk year-round. There is a used Goshawk in the classifieds currently.

 

[isleofGough]

I settled on kifaru and seek outside. The latter can be quite comfortable but takes the longest to fiddle with adjustments to get that comfort. Kifaru and Exo are far simpler.

 

[Akexis972]

Got it, I’ll look into that. Thanks a lot!

 

[isleofGough]

Seek outside packs have minimal organization to save weight but use the best water resistant fabrics. Stone glacier has a bit more organization but Exo and especially Kifaru have many more organizational options. For customer service, Exo is the best.

Kifaru's smaller packs (Stryker XL and Hellbender) are especially good for day hunts but generally require using camp bag or equivalent in the load shelf if you plan a longer trip. They also make bigger packs, which you might consider. My favorite Kifaru is the 44 mag.

 

[magicishmike]

I can only speak to Eberlestock enough to say I have the mainframe, 2 large batwings, and a lid. It works well and I got good deals on everything I bought. My only complaint is that it’s built to be more loaded. With just the batwings, it feels loose, but I also don’t see myself getting rid of it any time soon either so there’s that too. I do love the idea of modularity, and for the price it was a good setup for me

 

[mtnbound]

I forgot to mention the budget , around $400–500 max, I won’t be able to go higher since I’m just starting out.
I’m open to both new and used gear.

Years ago, when I decided I needed to upgrade to a better pack system, I went with Mystery Ranch because it adjusted easily and fit me well. Compared to my EXO, the MR did not hold a candle to it when loaded, but it was better than what I had been using before it. While I no longer use MR, you might take a look at them. I tried Eberlstock during the same time frame, and they didn't fit me, but I have no experience with the newest versions.

 

[CMcCormick1805]

There’s nothing wrong with a used Mystery Ranch pack. I have packed 8 animals out with my trusty Guide Lite frame. I still use the frame as a backup and in the gym for training.

I will say Mystery Ranch makes a solid pack from a durability standpoint. The comfort of a heavy load on the other hand is not great and in fact I would consider it fatiguing. Maybe it’s my build and the pack but I can say my Stone Glacier was a better fit and has more comfortably packed 2 animals now.

Find a pack that fits for you. I know guys that prefer one over the other. At the end of the day the pack that fits you best. Find out if it has a reasonable amount of comfort under heavy weight for you. With the number of solid pack makers nowadays I’d argue there’s no best pack for everyone.

Try a used pack now. Then someday you’ll run into the perfect setup. That’s why we’re all gear nerds.

 

[thinhorn_AK]

If you buy an external frame, skip the eberlestock and just get a Barneys.