In search for a new pack

[AlwaysChasinTailNHorns]

Currently running a frame pack with a meat shelf that’s around 80L in size and the pack has worked great for me but has taken a serious beating over the years and I’m looking to get a new one. Wanted to know some suggestions and opinions on any packs that have good tripod storage, rifle holder, straps to hold a bow in place and include a meat shelf. I don’t want to down size since I do a lot of ten day back country and high country hunts a year. Any opinions help thanks.

 

[ewilliwonka]

Exo Mountain 7200 or Initial Ascent 8k. Both have phenomenal customer service and both carry weight extremely well. Can’t go wrong with either.


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[go4thegusto]

If you choose Kifaru, I have a frame listed. I have always been happy with Kifaru in every way.

 

[Brightwhite]

For what you said on size and length of trips, along with meat shelf ability (which I don’t use but this bag has it), rifle/bow, and tripod stowage. I have a kifaru Dall paired with the new ark frame and it checks all of those boxes. Big, light, has been outstanding with no rain cover and shedding water, and easy access to weapons and tripod storing on the sides or down the center back of the pack bag.

 

[tdhanses]

Just remember if you buy used to make sure the manufacturer will warranty it, believe both Exo and Stone Glacier will, not sure about Initial Ascent, Kifaru will not. Look for options that you think you’ll like, we all have different perspectives.

I have ran Exo, Stone Glacier and Kifaru, liked them all.

Checkout the backpacking section as well.

 

[Idaboy]

Exo

 

[Hectocotylus]

Exo 7200


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[hoosierhunter11]

Exo MTN gear k4 - select the 5000 or largest bag

 

[sndmn11]

@AlwaysChasinTailNHorns where are you located?

Frame fit droves preference. There might be roksliders near you that would let you borrow.

 

[HuntnPack]

EXO. Meets your requirements.

 

[butcherboy]

Big fan of the Exo k4. I have the 5000. The 7200 would fit great for what you want. I’ve had Kifaru as well. They are great packs but seem heavy to me and they never really fit me well. The K4 fits me great. The most weight I had in it so far with gear was around 70lbs. The belt never slid down and stayed where it should.

 

[ReddingArcher]

I’ve been very happy with my Kifaru reckoning. I’ve used it for roughly 7 seasons. It packs heavy loads well and compresses down easily for day hunting. I’m getting the itch for a new pack though and will probably try out an exo.

 

[mtnbound]

EXO K4, probably the 7200, but don't underestimate how much gear the 5k can carry.

 

[Wrench]

I have a couple kifaru, mystery ranch and a stone glacier pack. They all do something better and worse than the other. Choosing what exactly you require and ensuring fit are paramount.

I just had a stone glacier customer service experience this month. I bought the straight stay pack through my guide friend. I loved the bag but the frame wasn't for me. I had killed an elk and hauled it out the second day I owned it last year so I figured it was mine now. I spent a couple weeks hunting with that pack and was pissed that I left my mountain warrior at home.

I called stone glacier and explained that to them and they sent me different frame inserts to try. They had to create an account for me since I bought it through my guide friend.

I'm sure glad I swapped the stays because now I really like that pack.

 

[Watrdawg]

Exo K4 7200. I have the 5000 and love it. Previous to the Exo I had a MR Metcalf and while it is a good pack the K4 is easily the better pack

 

[OnPointBrands]

I have an Alps Commander X + Pack for sale now and it’s in great shape, size might be a bit below what you’re looking for though (specs say it’s 66L in the main pack). Was used on 1 successful elk hunt and pack out, I’ve since switched to drop camps so use a smaller day pack.


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[midwestcowboy]

+1 for Exo.

I recently switched from a Mystery Ranch Sawtooth/Beartooth to an Exo K4 5000, one of the best purchases I've ever made. Get as big of bag as you want, it still cinches down tight when you're going light.
The sling they offer keeps the rifle locked into the pack but still accessible. Can't say enough good things about Exo's whole system.

 

[Seak_angler]

Another vote for Exo. Worth every penny. Great company

 

[ResearchinStuff]

stone glacier x curve, or an exo k4 are IMO the 2 best frames going. there are significant differences in the bag designs, so think through how you pack and hunt, one or the other will be a clear winner for your style.

 

[rentalrunner22]

Exo or stone glacier. I packed out 3 loads in 4 days (multiple elk in my friend group) and have no rubs, rashs, or anything from my Exo 3600. It's excellent. I saw guys with lighter packs on their 1st pack out completely destroyed with KUIU and some cheap brand pack. Multiple factors, but they had lower backs bleeding, etc.