Kifaru Stryker XL vs MR Pop-Up

[rarmitage915]

Looking for some opinions here, as this will be my first frame pack. I'm pretty set on the Stryker XL/Duplex Lite frame route, but curious if anyone prefers the Mystery Ranch Pop-Up series instead? This will be used mainly as a day hunt and treestand moving pack. Occasionally will use it to pack out whitetails when its too far to drag, as well as when I make it out west for elk and mule deer, but that's currently not on the horizon. I can get the Kifaru setup for $450-$500 used here in the classified, and I see the Pop-up's show up for sale locally and on here for $200-$250 (the 28 and 38, not the newer models).

For my use, is it worth it to pay the extra for the Kifaru setup? For the last few years I've been in the "buy once, cry one" mindset, so I'm totally fine with spending the extra $.

 

[Zdub02]

I use the Kifaru set up you mentioned but haven't tried the pop up. Having said that, the kifaru is a lot to pack into an elevated stand. It's great for hauling in a stand or saddle set up but actually bringing it up the tree can be a pain. If you're ground hunting it's just fine. I would also consider how much western hunting you're doing as your post makes it sound like you're not out west every year (makes me lean toward the pop up. )

 

[rarmitage915]

Thats a good point. With either setup I would probably leave it at the bottom of the tree, then just take up what I need. Maybe get Sherman pouch or something similar to unbuckle and take that up. Id imagine the pop up (even the 28) would also be a pain to take up into the tree. And you're correct, unfortunately im not going out west every year. So you're suggesting the pop up just due to the fact that its lighter and slightly less bulky?

 

[Zdub02]

yes seems to be a bit of a smaller profile and substantially more cost effective. I've debated selling my kifaru and grabbing the pop up to recoup some money. Also if you like to layer the stryker size is a pain for late season layers. I use the load shelf mostly for late season clothes.