For a first western mule deer hunt and day hunts you honestly don't "need" an Exo, Kifaru, SG etc since your not doing multi day trip and it's just deer. Save some money and get a affordable pack that gets the job done and hunt again next year. If you really get into it then upgrade.
If you listened to everyone's advice on these forums you'd think you absolutely need to spend $2k in gear to go. Reality is get some decent boots, good glass and a decent pack. For you I'd probably look at a Mystery Ranch on the high end, Sitka Mountain 2700 or a SG Kiowa in the middle.
I'd probably give this Pnuma pack a shot. An internal frame would be fine for a boned out mule deer but might take two trips if aways in. Plus it looks like a killer pack for whitetail.
We created this pack to exceed all expectations for comfort, utility, and durability in a day pack, and then we stress-tested it in the mountain range it's named for. Our 1800 cubic inch pack is built with Tactical Nylon with waterproof coating and YKK® AquaGuard® Water Repellant Zippers to...
When you've drawn a tag and are gearing up to go backcountry, this is the pack you want. 3000 cubic inches and purpose-built with CORDURA® 560D Tactical Nylon, a polyurethane waterproof coating, and YKK® AquaGuard® Water Repellant Zippers, the Crestone will comfortably keep all of your gear safe...