Smallest pack with a load shelf?

Joined
Aug 23, 2014
Messages
5,476
Location
oregon coast
Thanks for all the post.

I bought a mule so I am looking for a pack with a low profile for riding but still can pack some meat.


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With that being the goal, I think the MR pop up makes a lot of sense just because there is no frame sticking up until you need it. Makes a pretty big difference when overhead clearance is important, I have used one quite a bit chasing bulls on the coast here and it’s the least snaggy pack I’ve worn that can carry weight.

I also had the 18 so that added to that effect and they don’t make it, which seems kinda odd considering the concept behind the design

I like the pop up with weight more than their full hunting frame, but that will obviously vary between body types.

It wasn’t life changing enough to keep using it though, and I just wear my exo now, and kifaru before that, but it is the lowest profile meat shelf pack that I know of
 
Joined
Apr 18, 2017
Messages
18
Western edge Elkhorn
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Joined
Apr 1, 2013
Messages
2,912
Thanks for all the post.

I bought a mule so I am looking for a pack with a low profile for riding but still can pack some meat.


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I wore my Exo with lid and crib for about 80 miles via mules chasing bears in Oct .

Im 6’ for reference, and use 25” frame.
 
Joined
Jun 2, 2020
Messages
69
Who makes the most petite/lightest backpack with a usable load shelf?
I bought the SG frame & just added my Granite gear bag which weighs around 1# . I can load everything I need or want for a day to 3 days & still have the meat shelf for hauling.. This setup puts me right at 3.5 # s
 

IdahoFF

FNG
Joined
Dec 17, 2020
Messages
38
I purchased a MR pop up 40 this year and was fortunate enough to kill a bull. I like the simplicity of the pack and it seemed to handle the weight of the quarters pretty well and I know i had it overloaded at one point. I found it had plenty of room for day hunts and cleaned up well.
 

Cdpp880

WKR
Joined
Mar 4, 2015
Messages
326
Stone glacier krux farm and their smaller bags puts you right at 4lbs. X curve a few oz more.
SO with just the Merlin is probably going to be the lightest (maybe a kuiu).
Both of these would be able to pack as much meat as you should.
 

travism38

FNG
Joined
Sep 27, 2022
Messages
21
Location
Ky
Iv been carrying an Eberlestock f1 with a vapor2500 and scabbard. Load shelf is in my opinion a must but the pack is a bit too heavy. Has anyone come across any lighter options with a shelf and the option to add a scabbard?
 

Wickss

FNG
Joined
Jul 2, 2024
Messages
13
Location
KS
The horn hunter main beam is good if you’re looking to add no more than 75 lbs imo
 

fbhandler

WKR
Joined
Aug 12, 2017
Messages
359
My SG X curve frame (already has shelf) with lid is 3lb 6oz, Krux frame would be at 3lb even. Already hydration compatible, a dry bag on the shelf for a couple oz if need be.
 
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