This is just my .02 but wanted to share. I've guided whitetail hunters a lot and we've always pre-hung cushy stands so that's all I've really known, but I've emerged myself into the world of saddle hunting lately and have been somewhat perplexed on how to carry all of the stuff needed without 800 straps, plus camera gear and layers. I've settled on the Hellbender as the most versatile for whitetail hunting and wanted to share why as I know it's a good western option as well. I've used this for hauling blinds/chairs, lock on stands w/sicks and spot/stalk/glassing with the ability to carry my tripod, spotter and layers.
Iv'e used the load shelf on this pack a lot for blinds and regular lock on stands, so I already knew it was good for that. But wanting to stay as quiet as I could for hang and hunts, this is how I decided to pack. 4 sticks turned horizontal in the load shelf just resting on the bottom. Using timber ninja c1 sticks, they stick out about 3 inches extra on each side which is about the width of my elbows standing with the pack on, so not super wide as to snag stuff. Then my platform fits in the rear slot pocket on the back of the bag perfectly, protecting it from getting clanked on.
I attach 2 buckles at the top of the bag to the frame, then one strap on each side about half way down. These correspond to be able to buckle to each other across the bag if I wanted to strap my bow on the back. I'll attach photos when I get a chance, but wanted to share what has worked for me as I've seen tons of options.
Iv'e used the load shelf on this pack a lot for blinds and regular lock on stands, so I already knew it was good for that. But wanting to stay as quiet as I could for hang and hunts, this is how I decided to pack. 4 sticks turned horizontal in the load shelf just resting on the bottom. Using timber ninja c1 sticks, they stick out about 3 inches extra on each side which is about the width of my elbows standing with the pack on, so not super wide as to snag stuff. Then my platform fits in the rear slot pocket on the back of the bag perfectly, protecting it from getting clanked on.
I attach 2 buckles at the top of the bag to the frame, then one strap on each side about half way down. These correspond to be able to buckle to each other across the bag if I wanted to strap my bow on the back. I'll attach photos when I get a chance, but wanted to share what has worked for me as I've seen tons of options.
