Kfiaru , Exo , or Mystery Ranch

[dietter700]

Trust me I know it's all about opinion but I am trying to decide between the Kifaru 22 mag , Exo k2 2000 or th Mystery Ranch Pintler. Mostly day hunting but with a bunch of camera gear and other necessities. I would also like to use it on some overnight trips in needed.

Thoughts, comments.... concerns ....

 

[Ctitus25]

If you are eyeballing the EXO, I'd wait until they release their new bags here soon.

 

[BeaverHunter]

Can't speak to the others, but I love my Mystery Ranch. Very comfortable, durable so far and has handled heavy loads(moose and elk quarters) very well.

 

[bitbckt]

I have an MR frame, so I stick with their bags, but I wouldn't hesitate to buy Kifaru either. MR bags are less "customizable", so if you need or want to fiddle with the layout or accessories, Kifaru might be a better choice.

 

[MikeStrong]

22 Mag is a great pack. Lots of organization options and even more available by adding some pouches to the outside as you have a need. I have one that I haven't been using much since buying a Reckoning, but that's mostly because I like having the size available and also just being able to throw stuff right in it for a few days when I decide to pack in. My 22 Mag is in Kryptek Highlander pattern and I may be willing to sell it if you decide to go that route.

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[dietter700]

22 Mag is a great pack. Lots of organization options and even more available by adding some pouches to the outside as you have a need. I have one that I haven't been using much since buying a Reckoning, but that's mostly because I like having the size available and also just being able to throw stuff right in it for a few days when I decide to pack in. My 22 Mag is in Kryptek Highlander pattern and I may be willing to sell it if you decide to go that route.

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I'd possibly be interested. Feel free to text me some pics. 267-718-4861

 

[dietter700]

If you are eyeballing the EXO, I'd wait until they release their new bags here soon.

Thanks for that info, how do you know they'll be releasing new products?

 

[MikeStrong]

Thanks for that info, how do you know they'll be releasing new products?

They have been talking about it a little bit on the Hunt Backcountry Podcast.

I'll text a few pics of my 22 Mag soon.

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[dietter700]

They have been talking about it a little bit on the Hunt Backcountry Podcast.

I'll text a few pics of my 22 Mag soon.

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Cool thanks

 

[zachary.peterson]

This is the thread I've been looking for. Can I add kuiu also?

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[dietter700]

This is the thread I've been looking for. Can I add kuiu also?

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Sure!

 

[GregJ]

I think I'd find something used and really try it out and determine what you really want. I went the Nomad 2 route to keep options open

 

[backcountry_hunter]

If you're seriously considering the pintler, either wait until 2020 when it's offered on the new frame/belt or consider the sawtooth.

The new guidelight mt's belt is significantly better than the previous (which definitely wasn't bad) version in my opinion.

 

[Elkoholic87]

My first true large hunting pack was a Badlands 4500. For the price of the pack, it was a great pack, but knew that after my first trip with it, I would be investing into something else. After discovering Kifaru and doing extensive research on them, I was convinced that would be the next brand I would be wearing on my back. As I began to try and narrow it down, I could not make a decision on a Kifaru pack, due to the overwhelming options. I feel like Kifaru is too complex. That's when I discovered EXO and I was just blown away. The simplicity and functionality of their packs are what sold me. I think they have the best design out of any pack maker and they just simply got it right. They kept it simple and they really take their product seriously when it comes to improvements, customer feedback and exceptional customer service. I think I'm an EXO lifer.

 

[sneaky]

Thanks for that info, how do you know they'll be releasing new products?

There's a thread on their new packs and bags on this forum. 2019 EXO, just look it up. The owners of EXO are on there answering questions.

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[Vurtle]

I like the Kifaru lite 26" frame . I use an Exo 3500 on my Kifaru frame. I tried the MR guide light frame and where the yoke adjustment is, it poked me across my back. It sticks out about 1/2". I would prefer it be as close to smooth as possible. I have other MR internal frame packs that do not have this problem. Others like the frame, so it may just be me. I would probably get an internal frame if you go MR. If you run the Exo 2200, I would get a Kifaru lite 24" frame with composite stays. If you are fine with internal frames, the Kifaru shape charge looks appealing. All are good packs. I am an expert at my opinion so take it for what it is worth, which may not be much.

 

[JD619er]

I just recently got the new mystery ranch MT frame and it is a huge improvement over the guidelite. I haven't used an exo but I've had three different kifaru frames. All were comfortable but all were really rigid. The mystery ranch frame moves with you a lot more. Two totally different feels. I like the mystery ranch for light loads and hunting and I like the kifaru frames for pack outs. Just gotta find what works for you

 

[antisocial]

Here's what I think about the new MR packs. Can't actually compare it to the previous edition as I've been using a Dana Bomb pack for 18yrs or so. Loved it, still use it. I think the new sawtooth (have had it for a couple months now) is pretty nice but I have my gripes. The belt is freaking awesome and will definitely support loads. The new buckles freaking suck! They are so fidgety and a total pain in my dick to adjust. Two of them run over the zipper of the top pocket making access difficult, especially if your scope and tripod or bow are on there. Even if they aren't, you still have to unclip them to get in there. Kinda dumb if you ask me.

 

[sheephunter2]

I have had all 3. I did not care for the hip belt on the Mystery Ranch. I really like the Exo 2000 for a day pack/meat hauler and maybe overnight. The 22 Mag is a good day pack/meat hauler as wells. The Kifaru hip belt is probably the best in the business, especially for hauling heavy loads. Dunno order both and send one back. Hope this helps.

 

[jerm8352]

What about Seek Outside? I don’t mean to hijack the thread from the op, but I am in the same boat. I am looking at the Seek Outside as well because of the ability to go to 28in frame. With my long torso that might really be a huge help while hauling elk. I put on a mystery ranch pack last weekend and really liked it. And MR is much cheaper than Seek Outside. It is very confusing and frustrating when you are talking about spending this much money on packs and a lot of them you can’t try on anywhere. I looked into Kifaru as well and as was stated above it is so confusing to even set up a bag. Any insight would be helpful.