Pack Determination

[trophyhill]

With all the great packs and versatility of these packs, why opt for a small pack? Most of these packs compress down to almost nothing. So I guess I'm curious why guys are still using the smaller packs? Currently I have the BT1 with lid. I believe the bag size is 7000?

I just don't see myself ever buying a 2800 size pack when I retire this pack. I can get 10 days in it if I choose. I don't want to limit my capabilities like a smaller pack would do, and at the same time the bigger pack compresses as small as those smaller packs for hunter mode.

 

[Kotaman]

To answer your question: Not everyone needs a 7000 ci pack!

If you don’t need the ci, a smaller pack is more streamlined and a little lighter. Really not a “mystery” that keeps me awake at night.

I use a SG Talus 6900 for just about everything but if a 3500 fits someone’s needs better...have at it. There’s obviously a market.

 

[N2TRKYS]

With all the great packs and versatility of these packs, why opt for a small pack? Most of these packs compress down to almost nothing. So I guess I'm curious why guys are still using the smaller packs? Currently I have the BT1 with lid. I believe the bag size is 7000?

I just don't see myself ever buying a 2800 size pack when I retire this pack. I can get 10 days in it if I choose. I don't want to limit my capabilities like a smaller pack would do, and at the same time the bigger pack compresses as small as those smaller packs for hunter mode.

I agree with you. I bought a Kifaru AMR for my first pack. I've thought about getting a smaller bag for the more slimline, lighter weight. What I've found out is that I messed up and bought the perfect pack out the gate, so no more bags for me. Lol

 

[Mossy]

Some folks don’t need to carry a load with a frame and some don’t do overnights. Some go under blowdowns ALOT and don’t want the extra snag opportunities especially up top. Some folks hunt stands and drag out.
I see your point but hunts are different. If you’re specifically asking why a backcountry hunter opts for a smaller bag on a frame then that’s probably a different story......

 

[Lawnboi]

I thought a small pack was a good idea once and sold an original timberline.

Now I just carry my fulcrum everywhere when I’m looking to kill things. The thing does it all.

 

[Dirtydan]

The problem with a pack that is to large for the trip is that most people will fill it up with extra unneeded stuff just to fill the void. Packs are like shelters, there isn't one that's perfect for every occasion.

 

[trophyhill]

The problem with a pack that is to large for the trip is that most people will fill it up with extra unneeded stuff just to fill the void. Packs are like shelters, there isn't one that's perfect for every occasion.

I could see that being an issue for the first timer but after that you'd think they'd figure it out

 

[Mt Al]

With all the great packs and versatility of these packs, why opt for a small pack? Most of these packs compress down to almost nothing. So I guess I'm curious why guys are still using the smaller packs? Currently I have the BT1 with lid. I believe the bag size is 7000?

I just don't see myself ever buying a 2800 size pack when I retire this pack. I can get 10 days in it if I choose. I don't want to limit my capabilities like a smaller pack would do, and at the same time the bigger pack compresses as small as those smaller packs for hunter mode.

Another reason in addition to the others listed is that, assuming you have a frame that can handle the weight, you can add exterior pockets/bags and put gear on the load shelf, hugely expanding your cubic inches for longer trips.

I'd do what you did if I went overnight often because I like having only one pack.

 

[RockChucker30]

Everyone has their preferences, and those usually change over time and with experience gains.

For shorter hunts, dayhunts, kicking around, etc, I prefer a smaller pack with a lot of organization.

For almost everything backpack hunting I prefer a minimum weight maximum volume pack...sub 4 lbs and 6000+ ci would be ideal, with some small secure organization, some large organization, and then a huge packbag that still compresses small.

 

[WCB]

I have a Stone Glacier Serca 1700 I use for non overnight hunts where I'm based out of my truck or main camp etc. Keeps me from bringing too much stuck and slims down the pack. I keep a small dry bag with extra clothes that I just through on the load shelf if the day looks like it maybe be needed. If I kill something the dry bag can just be strapped to the outside of the pack.

For longer trips I throw on the Solo back and connect the 1700 to it. Gives me 5300ci and I can keep all my daily use hunting stuff in the 1700 and the Solo just has camp and extra clothes. Keeps me from having to dig around stuff as I am horrible at keeping my pack organized.

 

[JG358]

I have a small pack (xing) for hunting from a truck camp or day trips but it certainly isn't a replacement for the EMRII. Anything other than day trips or truck I'd rather take a big pack and compress it down. I don't recall ever thinking my pack is too big but more than once, I've wished for a bigger pack.

 

[Rokwiia]

I have the Seek Outside Revolution Fortress 6,300. When I was considering which of their packs to buy, I also considered the 4,800. The difference was 3oz which bought me an additional 1,500 cu in. For me, it was a no-brainer. The additional space was gotten for almost no weight.

I am not a hunter but an active backpacker. I could easily buy one of the SO smaller bags and use it on an overnight hike. I don't. The main 6,300 bag rolls down into nothing, and I mean nearly nothing, so I gain very little by choosing a smaller bag. If an emergency happens and additional space is needed, I have it.

I'll always choose the option for more space rather then less epecially when the penalty is almost nothing.