Shrink Pack!

[D Lee]

Hello everyone, new member, my first post here.

First, a sincere thank you to Aron who graciously took the time to call me, answered my questions, actually listened and genuinely tried to help. It's his support and service ethic that brought me here. I've been studying his recommendations on line - a difficult process when trying to choose the right pack the first time since I can't see, touch, try-on from NC.

Were my pack requirements similar to most folks on this forum, it would be easier to pick the right pack the first time. But my pack won't likely be packing a load out, and if it does, it will likely be less than a mile +/- back to the canoe, horse, truck.

Basically wish to stay with Kifaru for the quality and internal suspension system - also considering MR - no other packs.

Priorities for my pack needs in this order - or, said another way - my perfect pack:

1. Size - expanding my pack into larger is 2nd priority - # 1 priority is to be able to shrink my small/medium pack small(er). If a "load hauler" requirement comes up in my future, I will definitely purchase a 2nd, larger pack. Would rather have 2 "purpose specific" packs than try to make 1 "do it all" with too many compromises in 1 direction or the other.

2. Pockets / pouches to separate / organize my smaller items - wind direction plastic bottle / compass / gps hopefully accessible as I'm moving. Pack design very important from this aspect.

3. Overnight capability - 1 night at least, maybe 2 (3) at the most <-- overnights more a possibility than a probability.

4. Carry my large spotter / tripod & rifle - with protection for the spotter. Also carry rain gear, warm weather gear. Overnight essentials of course - but only when needed.

5. With all respect to the minimalist ounce counters, I'm more than willing to stay in shape and carry a slightly heavier pack.

I wish I could tell you I have 1/5 the backpacking experience y'all have, but I don't. But I've been bow and rifle hunting in a dozen US states so I have a reasonably good idea what I want my pack to carry and how I will use it. That said, I would rather trust your opinion on pack selection than mine. My 40 year old pack was basically a sack with shoulder straps - that's it.

Any and all advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you and I hope your year's off to a great start.

 

[Beastmode]

Which pack did Aron suggest? Sounds like the nomad would be a great option for you. Able to be a very usable day pack and still have room for everything you need. If weight doesn't matter to you I would get the duplex hunting frame. I like having a whole frame sheet between me and my load but this is just personal preference.

 

[D Lee]

Interestingly enough, the Nomad was Araon's 1st pick. With the frame included brought it to ~$600, something I had to think about first. Not saying no as I do intend to buy a quality pack, just exploring a few other options. Appreciate your response.

 

[Lawnboi]

Interestingly enough, the Nomad was Araon's 1st pick. With the frame included brought it to ~$600, something I had to think about first. Not saying no as I do intend to buy a quality pack, just exploring a few other options. Appreciate your response.

Keep in mind, with buying the frame you have the ability to purchase separate size bags if your needs ever dictate it. It will also allow you to switch up bags if your desires change without the need for spending that much again.

 

[Beastmode]

What are you wanting to spend?

 

[D Lee]

What are you wanting to spend?

$400 to $500 would be nice - but I would spend more for the "right" pack. I've seriously considered the "frame" for all the good reasons mentioned - makes good sense - just not sure a) I need it and b) please remember my 1st priority, shrinking the pack. I know that may sound shortsighted to some - and maybe it is because I am inexperienced - I just don't want to haul around a 4,000+ CI pack only 1/4 full all the time. On the other hand, surely there exists a pack that folds down to a "reasonably" compact size - with pockets - that can expand to 3,000 CU +/-? REI has a 3,000 CI Osprey that does this quite well, but I lean towards a better built pack for the long haul - for me - about 10 more years, I HOPE.

 

[Beastmode]

Have you seen how small the nomad compresses? Look at the 2014 nomad thread. Lots of video that should answer a lot of questions.

 

[Justin Crossley]

Sounds like a Timberline 3 internal frame would be exactly what you want to me.

Next would be a Bikini frame with a DT3 bag.

Next would be a Bikini frame with a Nomad.

 

[D Lee]

Sounds like a Timberline 3 internal frame would be exactly what you want to me.

Next would be a Bikini frame with a DT3 bag.

Next would be a Bikini frame with a Nomad.

Justin - Really glad to hear you say that because I agree and had moved the T3 into 1st place, but with some reservations because I can't really tell the compressed size. Hard to do online and this is not an inexpensive purchase. Not saying the packs aren't worth the $, just sayin,…... I know I can order the pack - look at it and return it if it's a no-go - but certainly not the best way to go about this - for Kifaru or me - hence all my questions. I will look hard at the Nomad again and very much appreciate the feedback gentlemen. Thanks.

 

[Beastmode]

The t3 is a good option if you never plan on getting a bigger bag. If you think there's a chance you might want to get a 7+day hauler at some point I would recommend getting something on a frame so all you would need is a bag. This would be a cheaper option in the long run. The only downside to a dt3 or t3 compared to the nomad is you are stuck with a small pack. I can do 5 days out of my dt3 but it gets small fast with an animal down. You can add pockets and pods but I don't like all that stuff hanging off my pack.

The nice thing with the nomad is that it compresses down extremely small. As small as a dt3 and still can get huge. You would have a do it all pack in one purchase.

 

[D Lee]

The t3 is a good option if you never plan on getting a bigger bag. If you think there's a chance you might want to get a 7+day hauler at some point I would recommend getting something on a frame so all you would need is a bag. This would be a cheaper option in the long run. The only downside to a dt3 or t3 compared to the nomad is you are stuck with a small pack. I can do 5 days out of my dt3 but it gets small fast with an animal down. You can add pockets and pods but I don't like all that stuff hanging off my pack.

The nice thing with the nomad is that it compresses down extremely small. As small as a dt3 and still can get huge. You would have a do it all pack in one purchase.

Roger that on it being a smaller pack - excellent point - and why the T3 interests me. A 1 pack purchase knowing the T3 might require another purchase. I honestly don't have money to burn so the Nomad 1 bag concept is also really appealing. Like you've suggested, I am looking at the Nomad seriously, not just size but features, ie pocket structure. Again tho, difficult to do online when compacted size matters. Appreciate the followup. Thanks.

 

[Beastmode]

Watch this video. It shows the nomad compressed.


http://vimeo.com/m/82058928

 

[Justin Crossley]

The reason I recommend the standard Timberline 3 is because it will get very small with the internal frame.

Like others have said, the Bikini will be more versatile but the frame is slightly bigger.

If making the pack really small wasn't number one on your list, I would recommend the Bikini frame for sure.

Feel free to call me if you like. 206-786-0889

 

[Browtine]

I really love my Kifaru packs and you've received some good advice above, but since you mentioned you'd consider MR as well, the Bighorn might be a good option. I have a Dragonslayer and really like the organization and tri-zip for a daypack. If you have compact gear, it will work for 2-3 day trips as well. Throw on a stick-it and you can be into it for 1/2 of what a bikini/bag combo will cost you.

 

[Backpack Hunter]

Where in NC are you? PM me if you would like to.

 

[D Lee]

Thank you gentlemen. At least I've got this down to a few packs. B-mode, that video was very helpful. Justin, appreciate the contact info, may call you. Had considered the MR packs - Bighorn 1st pick - drifted over here because of the K suspension reviews and Aron's assistance. Will likely decide this week as I'm already making preparations for the AK trip. Thanks again, much appreciated.

 

[wapitibob]

With a 2 day stay being a possibility rather than probability, the Nomad would be my choice.

 

[dotman]

Thank you gentlemen. At least I've got this down to a few packs. B-mode, that video was very helpful. Justin, appreciate the contact info, may call you. Had considered the MR packs - Bighorn 1st pick - drifted over here because of the K suspension reviews and Aron's assistance. Will likely decide this week as I'm already making preparations for the AK trip. Thanks again, much appreciated.

I would think if your going to AK you would want something bigger then a T3 or DT3. Nomad probably is your best option and isn't it cheaper overall? T3 and DT3 seem to take longer to resell then all the other bags from Kifaru from what I have noticed, just an FYI if it ends up not being the pack for you.

 

[D Lee]

I would think if your going to AK you would want something bigger then a T3 or DT3. Nomad probably is your best option and isn't it cheaper overall? T3 and DT3 seem to take longer to resell then all the other bags from Kifaru from what I have noticed, just an FYI if it ends up not being the pack for you.

Possibly right on the Nomad? Please remember, these will be guided hunts out of state. I honestly do not see heavy lods going in or out - not that I wouldn't help my guide - used to pitching in without being asked. Was leaning hard towards the T3 - no frame - not sure about the Nomad "wing" concept. Basically 2 long tubes lashed together - no disrespect intended Aron, just how my mind and galactic lack of pack experience talking out loud. Took some time to think on that and began to see some possibilities. Appears to compact well - add frugally what you want - lots of expansion possibilities. Good suggestions here, I think I'm down to 2 packs. Will look more at the suspension system and pocket possibilities. Time to close up shop tonight. Thanks again.

 

[sojourner]

It sounds to me like the Stone Glacier Approach would be perfect for you. I know you Said Kifaru or MR so I apologize and you can ignore this, but if you have the time, read what others have written on here about Stone Glacier packs (high quality, light-weight, American made, with an owner/designer who is a hardcore mountain hunter and stands behind his products). The Approach fits everything you seem to want with the ability to change pack bags on the same frame if you desire http://stoneglacier.com/approach.html