Which bag for the Big Horns in October?

[Ranger619]

What temp bag will I need for a hunt in the Big Horns in WY in October? I am debating between a 15 degree and a 0 degree. Any opinions?
Thanks

 

[BroodBuster]

The rule of thumb is to buy a bag rated 10* below the coldest temp you expect as most companies fudge on their ratings. Western Mountaineering bags are accurate though so you can get one rated the same as the coldest temp you expect but add 10* for any other manufacturer.

 

[Jdog]

I was in the bighorns last Oct--it was brutal cold and blizzardy!

Will you have a stove?

 

[Trr15]

October in the bighorns is a crapshoot. It can get damn cold though. If you're camping without a stove, I'd definitely go with the 0 degree bag to be on the safe side. You can always unzip it or sleep on top if it ends up being warm.

 

[Ranger619]

I was in the bighorns last Oct--it was brutal cold and blizzardy!

Will you have a stove?

No stove.

 

[Buckman]

without a doubt a 0* bag, if its from a quality manufacturer. Maybe a -10* if not.

 

[Jdog]

We hunted first rifle elk season.

Got hit with a couple big snows and single digit temps at night--take at least a zero bag!

Not much elk hunting happened during our hunt. Deep snows made everyone bomb off the mtn fearing getting stuck in for the winter.

There should be some good numbers in there this year!

Good luck!!!

 

[Ranger619]

Thanks for the info. Looks like I will be adding to the stockpile of equipment!

 

[Jdog]

You backpack hunting in there?

 

[Ranger619]

I am still undecided. I have never been in there. I have a mule deer tag for the rifle season.