Kifaru new frame - help me pick the right one

[verysimple]

I am 5-7, 170ish lb, 32-34 waist, normal back

Looking to get either Hunting or ultralight (or both)?
Will haul 30-50 lb tops.

Should I go with 24 inch stays or 26?
Small or Medium belt?
Ultralight or Hunting platform? Or get Hunting + arrows?

Thanks in advances for tips/suggestions...

 

[AdamW]

I'd shoot a message (or call and try to catch) to Aron Snyder at Kifaru. The other folks there know their stuff well too, Aron has just gone above and beyond for a lot of folks I think.

For comparison I'm 6'-0" and wear 32 waist Levi's typically (alright, lately I'm pushing a 34) but I recently got a small belt and 26" stays. I think we are both in that "in between" size range. At first I thought a small belt might be too small, but when I crank it down tight and under heavy loads I think the medium might be bottoming out (ends of the belt touching). Also, Aron has mentioned the belt will stretch a tad with use and the lumbar pad (very thick) will compress a little bit with use to give you some extra slack.

Let someone more knowledgeable on Kifaru than me chime in, but I'm guessing 24" stays and a small belt. Again, give Kifaru a call on the phone, they'll be a big help on sizing info and even frame recommendation.

 

[land cruiser]

I asked the same question before, folks told me to reach out to Aaron Snyder directly. Best advice one could hope for, yours today at no additional charge

 

[bradb]

I am your height but fat! I had 26"bikini and at the sheep show tried on the new packs and went with a 24" duplex hunting frame medium belt. I think it will be best to ask Aaron on belt size but I think you will be small. I was a fair bit lighter last fall, as i usually am for hunting season, and my medium was getting towards the end and I was probably at your size then. 26" of course worked but it always seemed to tall on me and gave LOTS of lift, I still think the load lifters will be more then needed at 24". I did not go ultra light as I can just pull the stays out and put my own arrows in if I want and figured by buying it this way I could have both ways if I want.

 

[dunner543]

I'm 5'9" but about your same weight/waist size. I have a 24 inch frame that works well but I don't think it could maintain the lift I want if I put 80+lbs in it so I just ordered a 26 inch. With 30-50 the 24 works fine for me though. They'll both work for you, its just a matter of preference. The small waist belt should be perfect for you.

 

[MattB]

I am 5'10", 175 and have a 32" waist and use the 24" stays/small belt exclusively with good results. The frame is overkill for 50# tops, so I'd go arrows for weight. I've packed upwards of 100# on my bikini frame, and even the UL frame should carry better.

 

[mrbillbrown]

Save yourself the time, trouble, and heartache. Call kifaru and talk to one of the CS guys or call Aron directly. Best advice you can try and the most trustworthy advice will come straight from those guys.

 

[Aron Snyder]

I'm home sick today, but can take a call. 720 937 1418

 

[verysimple]

Aron set me straight (feel better) and thanks everyone.

Ultralight 24 inch in wolf ordered.

 

[slow]

First post for me...I must have spoken with him around the same time as you, and ended up ordering a 24" hunting frame with a DT2. Solid guy.

 

[verysimple]

you slow (pun intended).
now the wait...

First post for me...I must have spoken with him around the same time as you, and ended up ordering a 24" hunting frame with a DT2. Solid guy.

 

[slow]

Yeah, hopefully the wait goes by faster than my screen name.

 

[NYSHUNTER]

I had the same question last year Aron was more then helpful and dealt with all my newbie questions.. Made me a customer for life

 

[Live Montana]

I have to just make a comment. One that is probably already obvious to the rest of you. I have been listening to Aron Snyder on the Gritty Bowmen lately and I have to say I don't think I have heard or read a more dedicated and real down to earth hunter. I love the passion and the degree he pursues his calling and every time I hear or read something from Aron I can't wait to get to Montana.

Cheers Aron, I just wanted to put that out there...

 

[KDF]

Coincidentally, I am also 5'7 and 170. I am waiting on my 24 inch frame, small belt, and T2 pack. I will let you know how it fits.

 

[AdamW]

Also, Aron might be good luck. He answered an email question of mine at around 8 am on a Sunday this past November while I was deer hunting. At 11 am I shot a nice buck. I plan to email or call him during my first elk hunt in October in hopes a pattern will be formed.