HouseCL
Lil-Rokslider
- Joined
- Dec 30, 2023
I’ve used a MR metcalf and SG sky archer but just picked up an Exo K4. The MR is pretty comfortable and I liked the organization/function of the pack however the SG Xcurve frame carried heavy weight a lot better than the MR. At first the SG lumbar pad was somewhat uncomfortable (super firm and really dug into my back) but I spent a good amount of time watching the SG videos and got it dialed in so it was more comfortable. The SG is also tough as nails.
The things I didn’t like about the SG is that there is essentially no organization to the pack (not even a built-in hydro sleeve), the lid flops all over if the pack is not full, the side utility pockets are way too small and don’t have elastic cuffs, and the belt accessory attachments are very floppy. The most annoying part of it for me was the side utility pockets since I use those a lot. If they were a bit larger and elastic, it would be a lot better.
I like the MR lid better as it has multiple zippered pockets and has buckle attachments on both the front and back, so it’s easier/quicker to completely remove the lid if you want, vs the SG which attaches via buckles on the front and straps on the back. The MR also has attachment points for hydration tube stuff on the shoulder straps which is nice. I hate the MR buckles, they are unnecessarily complicated/annoying to adjust the strap length and seem like they would break easily. Overall the SG is kind of barebones, no frills but damn can it carry some weight and you know it’s tough as nails and won’t break on you. For me, the ability to carry weight with the SG won out over the other features of the MR.
However I picked up an Exo K4 which I think will be the best of both worlds as it is just super well-organized and thought out, and is similar to SG in that it carries weight very well. I haven’t taken it on any hunts yet but I have loaded it up. I still need to make some adjustments but I think it is the best pack money can buy currently.
The things I didn’t like about the SG is that there is essentially no organization to the pack (not even a built-in hydro sleeve), the lid flops all over if the pack is not full, the side utility pockets are way too small and don’t have elastic cuffs, and the belt accessory attachments are very floppy. The most annoying part of it for me was the side utility pockets since I use those a lot. If they were a bit larger and elastic, it would be a lot better.
I like the MR lid better as it has multiple zippered pockets and has buckle attachments on both the front and back, so it’s easier/quicker to completely remove the lid if you want, vs the SG which attaches via buckles on the front and straps on the back. The MR also has attachment points for hydration tube stuff on the shoulder straps which is nice. I hate the MR buckles, they are unnecessarily complicated/annoying to adjust the strap length and seem like they would break easily. Overall the SG is kind of barebones, no frills but damn can it carry some weight and you know it’s tough as nails and won’t break on you. For me, the ability to carry weight with the SG won out over the other features of the MR.
However I picked up an Exo K4 which I think will be the best of both worlds as it is just super well-organized and thought out, and is similar to SG in that it carries weight very well. I haven’t taken it on any hunts yet but I have loaded it up. I still need to make some adjustments but I think it is the best pack money can buy currently.
