Kifaru versatility

[md126]

Which Kifaru pack do you all think is the most versatile? I hunt eastern deer/turkeys the most but get out west for elk once in awhile too. Also like to backpack/camp in the off season.

I have the Eastern Ruck now and think it can be used for a wide range of uses,especially when paired with a Duplex frame. However, I also really like the look of the Reckokng, 44mag, and Fulcrum.

Thoughts?
Thanks

 

[ChrisAU]

Reckoning, jack of all trades bag.

 

[carter33]

Of those listed I would think the reckoning is the most versatile. I started with a fulcrum and sold it for the reckoning. Reasoning behind switching is that I felt the reckoning was less "sloppy" in day mode without much gear in it and I really enjoy the side sleeves of the reckoning for items such as a tripod or to stuff something into quickly on the fly, also I can stick my rifle in one sleeve if desired and snug it down pretty tight. If you plan on going on an extended trip you can always add a guide lid on the reckoning and with that I can't personally imagine needing a bigger bag.

I also really like the looks of the 44mag with the built in storage but would say its not quite as versatile. With that being said, the 44 mag may suit your needs well especially if your not doing extended trips. No personal experience with the 44 mag though. One last thought is that any of the larger bags when in day mode will be a little more strappy and sloppy relative to a smaller bag, not to the point of inconvenience I dont beleive but comes with the territory.

 

[HookUp]

Reckoning.

 

[deerhunter628]

I love my reckoning. I also love my woodsman but if i could only have one it would be the reckoning.

 

[hayesplow]

As far as versatility goes, it can go from a beltless, slick hydration carrier, to loaded up with pods/pockets enough to last for a long time.

ETA: As per your requirements, it is about as vehicle friendly as you can get. You can completely break it down with pods/pockets fitting anywhere you have excess space in the vehicle. Put it together quickly with D&L whenever you get where you're going, with whatever components you need for the particular mission.

One thing I've always disliked about packs that I expect the yoke to solve: Floppy outer loads. With a conventional pack, if I don't have a solidly loaded main compartment, I end up having floppy external pouches. Since I can D&L whatever I want directly to the frame sheet on the yoke, everything is nice and tight to my body, regardless of how much or how little I want to carry. Good example would be if I wanted to move hard, fast, and light. I'd throw a bladder inside the yoke, a back pouch or E&E with essentials down low, and long pocket across the top with another bladder for more water. Staying overnight, I can easily add more long pockets or a Pod with additional gear.

 

[WJS23]

I got an emr2 that I use for everything. It’s hands down my favorite pack.from ice fishing to hauling tree stands

 

[Jayhawkhunter]

I'm loving my 44mag - had a Mountain Warrior and Woodsman previously - both were great in their own ways - but the 44mag is my favorite thus far

 

[fatrascal]

They are all versitile but none are as versitile as the Nomad 2. Fatrascal.

 

[backcountryshaffer]

Versatility is so subjective. I've used a Nomad, Nomad 2, Reckoning, and my latest purchase is the 44 mag. I don't like the open top pockets on the Reckoning, junk gets down in there and I don't like that. I had the same dislike with my Exo. Although I can say that the Nomads are extremely versatile I don't like all of the strappyness to keep them from being super floppy. I've run the Nomads with a camp bag, guide lid, OGL, Grab it, pockets, etc.

 

[Lawnboi]

Fulcrum will do it all and then some

And it dosnt even need any pockets to do it

 

[TCUHunter34]

Versatility is so subjective. I've used a Nomad, Nomad 2, Reckoning, and my latest purchase is the 44 mag. I don't like the open top pockets on the Reckoning, junk gets down in there and I don't like that. I had the same dislike with my Exo. Although I can say that the Nomads are extremely versatile I don't like all of the strappyness to keep them from being super floppy. I've run the Nomads with a camp bag, guide lid, OGL, Grab it, pockets, etc.

A Reckoning with side zippered pockets would be absolutely perfect. I've thought about sending mine away to get custom pockets sewn on in this way. Although, I do love running a water bladder in those open top side pockets

 

[backcountryshaffer]

A Reckoning with side zippered pockets would be absolutely perfect. I've thought about sending mine away to get custom pockets sewn on in this way. Although, I do love running a water bladder in those open top side pockets

For me that next best thing was the 44mag. I don't care for the snow collar style so the full zip really appeals to me.

 

[loggerchas]

Ditto on Fatrascal, Nomad2 goes from tiny daypack to expedition - strap management can be an issue but for the price and versatility Nomad for the win.

 

[md126]

Thank you all for the info. Lots of great options

 

[md126]

Anyone else? Lots of great info thus far

 

[XMP]

Here's a vote for the .44 Mag. It's got side pockets but you can easily attach belt pouches, claymores, the Sherman pocket and a lid. I can vary the capacity from 4000 to 6000 ci without too much effort. The fact that the Sherman can mount half way up instead of at the bottom makes the rifle scabbard actually useful. I'd never use scabbard if it was hanging down to my knees in the back.

 

[Treeline]

I love my Nomad 2. I can pack in, drop my main camp bag and got hunt, keeping all the gear in the side pockets and lid. Load up meet and start packing. Good luck out there.