Need some help please

[MyNameIsEarl]

Hey guys, a little background on what I need help with and why. Ive been hunting over 25 years and prefer to walk in to hunting spots. I live in Central AZ and hunt mostly Coues Deer, sometimes Mule Deer. I recently had a Microdiscetemy on L5 after years of pain. Full disclosure, I don't have a huge budget and can't afford the latest and greatest. I usually buy used gear and the only reason I have Swarovski Binos is because I won them. With that said, with back issues I need a good backpack, i have had a few that I spent $200 on but could not fit a whole Coues in. Had to make trips or have a buddy help. Im pretty tall 6'3 and some packs like Badlands don't fit quite right, felt to short in the back. So within a budget of $400 what do recommend I should look at. I like the looks of Kuiu but not sure thats the best in my budget. Thanks

 

[camelcluch]

Used Exo K2 after everyone it’s the K3.

 

[Rob5589]

400 would be pushing it on a used Exo. Closer to 500 would be more realistic. With your back issues, I would want the most comfortable, best fitting pack, even if it cost you a few more bucks than expected. You'll be much better off in the long run.

 

[camelcluch]

I always seem to forget but Seek Outside has a few packs at that price range. Plus, you can find them on Drop.com every now and then.

 

[MuleDeerMike]

You can easily get a kuiu setup for $400.

 

[Akicita]

I've broken my L4 twice and my L5 once - I have been running a Seek Outside Fortress for several years now and have had no lower back issues related to it.

 

[MyNameIsEarl]

Thanks for information I will look into the suggestions.

 

[muddydogs]

In my opinion if you have back issues throw the budget out the window and get a pack that fits and works for you, whats another $200 going to matter in 6 month or a year? First time you load the pack down with a whole deer you will know the extra cash was well spent.

I prefer the Mystery Ranch packs, the Guide Light frame fits me well, has a lot of adjustment to get the torso length right and they last for years, the new Guide Light MT frame is supposed to be even better then the first GL frame.

Waste a little cash on return shipping fees and order up a couple different packs to try out. At least with packs if your careful with them you can load them down and head outside for a test hike unlike boots.

 

[mtnhmr]

Avoid the high end packs, there's quite a bit of marketing for the price point - - - I would honestly visit mil surplus or pawn shops etc. to find the following:

- FILBE USMC Pack Frame
- FILBE Shoulder Straps
- FILBE Waist Belt

Once acquired, find an Outdoor Research Durable Dry Sack 55L to place all of your gear into, you can add pouches/water holders to the belt for small items and storage. Nylon webbing straps with buckles (2x lateral & 2x vertical) are also required to attach the dry sack to the frame. If you can find sandbags sacks (woven polypropylene) to use as game bags, you'll be laughing.

Once you you have harvested, place meat into sandbag sacks, strap sacks to frame, walk out. Your gear should fit into the 55L or you can sandwich the meatbags between the frame and the dry sack.

 

[mtnhmr]

PS: If you want the fast route and don't mind dropping a little coin, check out Hill People Gear's Decker Pack Frame and add the OR Dry Sack, same concept with a quality manufacturer.

HPG harness system distributes weight well, especially for individuals who cannot endure heavy loads grinding down on your hips and/or shoulders.