Mystery Ranch upgrade

[emmagator]

I’ve ran a Mystery Ranch Metcalf with the Guide LT frame for years. Pack has served me well. Only complaint is I don’t necessarily like the access into the main bag. I don’t really need a new pack, I’ve been looking at the Initial Ascent and EXO pack. Look like great packs and good reviews. But $700+ is steep. Those who have upgraded to one OD these packs, particularly those coming from a Mystery Ranch pack. Was it worth it?

 

[solostalker]

Went from MR Beartooth on the Guide LT frame to an Exo K4. It was worth it for me mostly from a load hauling standpoint. I liked the layout and function of the MR but it just did not handle heavy loads well. Anything over 50lbs was uncomfortable for me.

If the MR works for you and the weight you haul, I would not upgrade solely for the bag layout.

 

[emmagator]

Went from MR Beartooth on the Guide LT frame to an Exo K4. It was worth it for me mostly from a load hauling standpoint. I liked the layout and function of the MR but it just did not handle heavy loads well. Anything over 50lbs was uncomfortable for me.

If the MR works for you and the weight you haul, I would not upgrade solely for the bag layout.

I haul elk and deer quarters. Never hauled on anything but a Mystery Ranch, so nothing to compare to. Don’t know if I’m missing out.

But I have heard EXO and particularly Initial Ascent haul loads well.

 

[solostalker]

I haul elk and deer quarters. Never hauled on anything but a Mystery Ranch, so nothing to compare to. Don’t know if I’m missing out.

But I have heard EXO and particularly Initial Ascent haul loads well.

Sounds like your not suffering. Maybe hold off until you have the opportunity to try one on before buying.

 

[emmagator]

Sounds like your not suffering. Maybe hold off until you have the opportunity to try one on before buying.

I might be and just don’t know it. lol

 

[mc1119]

1000 percent it was worth it. I went from MR to kifaru, it was amazing and didn’t think it could get any better…until I tried the K4.

The K4 fits me the best and is incredibly comfortable with heavy weight. Now keep in mind each pack fits each person different, but that was my journey and I am now all about the EXO K4.

Now for the “steep” part, buy used from classifieds. A lot of great people on this forum, pay with G/S and add the fee if they request, get videos of the item, etc…

Good luck on the journey