It's better. I use to say the same thing after buying a new Lite frame last year. I think the reason I first thought my hunter was still better was simply due to my familiarity with it. It has aluminum stays. Stays that I tweeked just a hair. So, the frame is extremely comfortable. Probably more comfortable under light loads due to how well it moves with you when twisting and such. However, after hunting both last year through the first of November, I started favoring the lite because it handles weight much better. It might be the composite stays in it being more rigid and, the frame itself being stiffer side to side when twisting and such. I simply can't say for sure. But, that is my guess
Having wore both frames under multiple heavy loads now, the lite simply handles them slightly better. I think it also might have to do with the angle of the shoulder straps off the frame and how they conform to the shape of my shoulders. It might be the shoulder straps themselves as they seem to be firmer while still being soft. Maybe that is just my imagination but, it seems that way to me. I just don't feel them the way I feel the hunter straps when under load. Both packs are adjusted perfectly and, both frames are excellent in every aspect. But, the extra rigidity of the newer frames definitely handles loads better.
Then you get into function upgrades not dependent on rigidity. The side and connector loops are longer. Making changing bags, removing bags to get meat in the shelf, or adding extra compression straps to haul meat or treestands, much quicker and easier. Especially when your hands are cold. Two sets of common loops on the back of the lumbar pad comes in handy if you want to run a bag, sherman pocket, net, or panel combo. Making sure they lock into the frame and not being subject to drooping from the bag or, coming out when you had to double up on the triglides in the one common loop on the older frames.
The shoulder straps seem to fit much better. Meaning I have more adjustment for the chest strap placement,. And, with the added length on the female open ended buckle and male buckle on the load lifter connectors, it makes reaching the tag end of the straps to engage them easier.
The ventilation is far superior. It really cuts down on the sweaty back.
To me the only really big improvements are the shoulder straps, ventilation, and the rigidity. And, the rest are just conveniences of sorts. And, none are huge or enough to make you think the grass is a lot greener. But, they are all noticeable to me. Having decided a year or so ago I was going to buy my brother a Kifaru frame, it made buying the newer version easy. As, I intended and did pass my least favored on to him. So, there was no loose in it for me to try the new ones.
I hope all this helps as it took me about 20 minutes to type.
