Help me choose a pack

[Bluto]

Do any of these manufactures have a military discount ? Or ever put anything on sale ?

Kifaru and Stone Glacier do. I can't speak from experience with anyone else - meaning, could be a discount, could not be, and the following could be better or worse. (Though I would say "on par" is as good as you could hope for):

Customer service with both is unparalleled. Kifaru and SG are very open to and encourage correspondence whether you own their pack, are looking, or even bought one used and have questions. I went with a second hand Kifaru, my hunting buddy went with the same from SG. Unwavering support for their products, so I don't think you can go wrong. The SG seems simpler and ready to rock "out of the box," Kifaru can be intimidating if you don't ask questions but provides (seemingly) more options. I actually like a discontinued bag (highcamp) more than any other options, but that's just me. Either is a long term option, and it comes down to personal preference - and both offer a generous return policy. Still, I can't stress enough how good the customer service is with both.

Exo, Kuiu, MR are likely the same, I just can't speak personally to them.

 

[oldgoat]

I was told Kifaru only offers military discount to active duty just in case your a retired guy like me, so I didn't even bother asking

 

[AK Troutbum]

I think packs are a lot like boots in the sense that they're a real individualized thing, one that works great for me and my body type and the type of hunting that I do will not necessarily be the best option for you with your individualized needs/body type. I would recommend trying on as many as you can get your hands on (I know, easier said than done), and going from there. I don't know where you live, but if you are close to any of the manufactures, you could always pay them a visit. Also, I think there are many folks on this forum that in some cases have multiple packs, and would be more than happy to let you check them out. I'm pretty sure that several of the manufactures listed here would allow you to test out a pack and return it if you were not happy, with you only being out the cost of shipping.

I have owned several Kifaru packs, SG packs, external frame packs, and have tested one Paradox pack. The pack that fits my body and hunting style/terrain the best thus far is the SG/Krux frame.

See if you can locate some folks in your area and check out their packs to maybe get a better idea of the direction that you want to go.

 

[Ross]

Tough to go wrong with what I have seen of Kifaru and EXO.....been running the T3 from Kifaru for several years with zero complaints and currently testing the HH from EXO...both make quality gear so will come down ultimately to personal preference and subtle variances between the companies noted...good luck on your choice.

 

[skindaddy]

how come i dont see anyone mention the kifaru argali?
looks to be like a good bag but dont hear much about it.

 

[LiquidGib]

Just got an AMR and am very happy with it. I have only day hiked with it so far, but looks like it will easily work for longer 5-9 day stays. Plus it looks great, I can't stop looking at and taking shots of it.

 

[medic man]

I have the kifaru frame and a argali bag. I am also running the spotting scope pocket and 3 medium belt pouches on it. The great thing about it is you can move the pockets around to your liking and it compresses down nicely.
About the mil discount..... Just talk to them... They are very pro military..... The guy who steered me in the right direction with a pack was Frank.... I initially called and had a few ideas.... Good thing I listened to the Frank from kifaru. Buy once cry once! I had a similar experience with a kuiu pack in the sense of it flexing and it felt like it was ripping my shoulders backwards when loaded with meat.

 

[skindaddy]

anyone else have a argali bag theyve been using

 

[Griz]

I just got the new ALPS commander x pack. I love it. I've taken it on a few day hikes but have not taken it on any overnights yet. Its only about 4600 cu inches but has some really nice features and a great meat packing system. In my opinion there is no pack at the price that comes close. Check them out. I'm suprised they haven't been mentioned yet.
I pack light so Its a fine size for me for a week or so.

 

[Floorguy]

I just got the new ALPS commander x pack. I love it. I've taken it on a few day hikes but have not taken it on any overnights yet. Its only about 4600 cu inches but has some really nice features and a great meat packing system. In my opinion there is no pack at the price that comes close. Check them out. I'm suprised they haven't been mentioned yet.
I pack light so Its a fine size for me for a week or so.

I tried this pack on in a store I bottomed out the belt before I got it snug enough and the back padding left alot to be desired at least for me.