Stone Glacier Solo or 5900?

[kmbrewcrew]

Ok, guys...I’ve been combing the forums, searching the websites, and scrounging through catalogs. I think I’ve decided to go with a Stone Glacier pack as an upgrade this year. I have a MR pop-up 28 that I love for daytrips, but I’m looking for something that will carry a bit more, and still cut the weight down as much as possible. Looks like I can save 2+ pounds by going with one of these two SG packs as opposed to the MR Metcalf or Marshall (even with some accessories added in, such as camp pockets, etc...).

I think I have it narrowed down to the Solo or the 5900. I don’t anticipate more than 2-3 days pack in hunt. I may have to pack extra for kids at some point though. So, my question is: Which of these two do you think would be the better option? Why would you choose one over the other? Is there a third option that would be even better that I have overlooked?

I know there are a ton of posts about packs, but I’m looking for very specific info here. And, buying both bags is not an option. BTW, after visiting the showroom here in Bozeman, I think I have decided to go with the Evo Krux frame, rather than the X-curve. It seemed to fit better when I tried them on, it is over 1/2 pound lighter, and it is $30 cheaper!

Give me your best advice!

 

[AK Troutbum]

What about the Evo 40/56? I’ve owned both the 5900 and Solo 3300 bags and for what you’re describing (2-3 days), I would think the Solo would work fine, but when you factor in also carrying some of your kids gear, then all bets are off. It also depends on how minimalist you go, as to whether or not the 3300 will work.


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[kmbrewcrew]

What about the Evo 40/56? I’ve owned both the 5900 and Solo 3300 bags and for what you’re describing (2-3 days), I would think the Solo would work fine, but when you factor in also carrying some of your kids gear, then all bets are off. It also depends on how minimalist you go, as to whether or not the 3300 will work.


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I saw the Evo 40/56 in the catalog, and thought i might take a look at it in the showroom next week as well.

It seems like the 5900 cinches down pretty good, so that it is not too bulky if I don’t need all the space. I’m leaning toward the larger bag, since I can only get one. My thinking is that it is better to have some space and not need it than need the space an not have it.

Thanks for your reply!

 

[Staroutdoorsport]

I have a 6200 for sale if your interested

 

[sr80]

5900

 

[kmbrewcrew]

I have a 6200 for sale if your interested

How much? Bag only?

 

[Staroutdoorsport]

How much? Bag only?

https://www.rokslide.com/forums/thr...rcher-6200-xcurve-frame-w-medium-belt.118284/

 

[sr80]

Hard to beat the 5900 as a day pack in my opinion..

 

[kmbrewcrew]

Hard to beat the 5900 as a day pack in my opinion..

How do you like that version of the gun bearer? One complaint I read said it pops open, and being on the back instead of under the arm, it can fall where you can’t catch it? Have you had any problems with that? Also, do you have to remove the pack to get the gun reset in it? Thanks!

 

[handwerk]

I'd vote for the 5900, love mine, and yes it gets small if needed.

 

[Kotaman]

5900...Does everything the 3300 does and more.

 

[Creakylimb]

I have been running the 5900 and x-curve for the last year, it’s a great pack. I used it scouting and hunting elk, mule deer, and whitetail last fall (only managed to end up packing a mule deer out). I also just got back from New Zealand where I used the pack on a tahr hunt, and I did manage to pack two bulls out of there.
I didn’t ever have more than a few days worth of gear on board, but for how I pack a week would be fine for sure since I’ve never even expanded it. I used it for day trips as well and don’t mind it at all for this. With the lid off the pack is super streamlined.
The only thing I see in the Solo (or now the Evo 3300 since the Solo has changed) that I really like is the top pocket that is accessible from outside the main bag. I think it would be very handy for all the crap you use off and on throughout the day. I use a camp pocket in the main bag on the 5900 for this and it’s not bad but a bit of a pain to access at times. It’s a trade off for the spotter pocket on the 5900 I suppose.
I’m considering running the 3300 this year to try it out and see if there’s anything I miss from the 5900.
Hate to say it but I don’t think you can go wrong with either if you like how the frames fit! However if I was considering family camping and carrying kids gear I would pick the 5900 hands down. I just have no plans for backpack camping with kids at this point. Good luck with whichever route you go.


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[B_Reynolds_AK]

You can use the gun bearer and quick release strap under your arm like a Kifaru, Just put the quick release strap on the front of your shoulder strap and run the rifle under your arm.


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[kmbrewcrew]

You can use the gun bearer and quick release strap under your arm like a Kifaru, Just put the quick release strap on the front of your shoulder strap and run the rifle under your arm.


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Good to know...I had wondered if that were possible. The SG one is considerably cheaper than purchasing from Kifaru ($10 Or more?). Thanks!

 

[kmbrewcrew]

I have been running the 5900 and x-curve for the last year, it’s a great pack. I used it scouting and hunting elk, mule deer, and whitetail last fall (only managed to end up packing a mule deer out). I also just got back from New Zealand where I used the pack on a tahr hunt, and I did manage to pack two bulls out of there.
I didn’t ever have more than a few days worth of gear on board, but for how I pack a week would be fine for sure since I’ve never even expanded it. I used it for day trips as well and don’t mind it at all for this. With the lid off the pack is super streamlined.
The only thing I see in the Solo (or now the Evo 3300 since the Solo has changed) that I really like is the top pocket that is accessible from outside the main bag. I think it would be very handy for all the crap you use off and on throughout the day. I use a camp pocket in the main bag on the 5900 for this and it’s not bad but a bit of a pain to access at times. It’s a trade off for the spotter pocket on the 5900 I suppose.
I’m considering running the 3300 this year to try it out and see if there’s anything I miss from the 5900.
Hate to say it but I don’t think you can go wrong with either if you like how the frames fit! However if I was considering family camping and carrying kids gear I would pick the 5900 hands down. I just have no plans for backpack camping with kids at this point. Good luck with whichever route you go.


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If you change it up, I’d be interested to hear what you think!

 

[Wirrex]

No real experience here but I chose the 3300 because I don’t use a spotter and I can have decent access to the bag with a bow strapped down. Also I am more of a day hunter.

 

[R_burg]

I love my SG. I have the 6900 and IMO the larger SG's compress so well it's hard to argue against sizing up.

 

[sr80]

How do you like that version of the gun bearer? One complaint I read said it pops open, and being on the back instead of under the arm, it can fall where you can’t catch it? Have you had any problems with that? Also, do you have to remove the pack to get the gun reset in it? Thanks!

Im a long time kifaru gun bearer fan, this little rabbit trip was the first time ive used the SG one. The bottom bucket is the kifaru gun bearer bucket, and then i also have the SG upper strap attached to the frame, and still have the kifaru strap on my shoulder strap. I think i would use the SG one like this if i was hiking in somewhere and didnt need my rifle fast. But as far as ease and quickness the kifaru one wins.

 

[kmbrewcrew]

Well, I went into the showroom today and plunked down my money.

Decided on the Sky 5900 on a Krux frame. Added a few pockets, a dry bag and a gun bearer. Should be mostly ready to run for the year!

BTW, the guys in the showroom are great. If you are ever in the Bozeman area, stop in and have a look around...talking with the guys/gals in there would be worth your time!

I appreciate all of the suggestions and advice!

 

[Mike 338]

I have a 6900. I use it on solo hunts anywhere from 5 days or more. Believe it or not, I wish I had just a bit more room. Just drop the lid once you get to where your going and it cinches down to a great hunting pack.