getting started

[crittergetter]

I've been on several extended hikes up to 100 miles in 11 days so I get the sierra hiking part but that was not pack hunting and it was a while ago. I have no idea what size the pack was. So I'am wondering how many quart or cubic inch you all are using. I am also looking for the pros/cons of frame VS frameless. I estimate to be out from three to six nights. Right now I've been looking at packs from 4000-6800 cubic inches. I like the idea of some I've seen with detachable day packs too. Any info in appreciated. Thanks

[SierraFool]

Critter...So I assume you will be backpack hunting and not just backpacking, right? they are 2 different animals.
There has been alot of discussion in this forum about which pack is best,frame vs. frameless and so on.
But heres my http://www.jesseshunting.com/forums/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/two-cents.gif I have used a aluminum frame with a 3500ci backpack attached to it for years.
The pros of that were, it was cheaper and you could lash alot of things off the frame.
The cons were, it was bulky and noisy.
Now I own a Eberlestock J105, its an internal frame pack designed specifically for HUNTING!!! and nothing else.
Not to say you cant backpack with it.
The pros are, It is expandable from 2200ci to 7000ci. It is narrow, its rugged and quiet.
The cons are, expensive $275.
There is other good internal frame packs that are designed for hunting such as the Badlands 4500ci

Its all about personal opinion and budget but try to buy the very best you can afford,trust me its cheaper in the long run. http://www.jesseshunting.com/forums/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smiley-cool-shades-down.gif

[Hawk 1]

Check out the Kifaru line of backpacks. I have been using the longhunter for three years now and it incorporates a number of features that are of real benefit to the backpack hunter such as the detachable day pack, cargo chair and rifle carrying system. Patrick has a wide variety of internal framed packs to meet most needs. All the best.

[easymoney]

Critter,
As has been said, there are lots of pros vs cons of the frame or frameless debate.
IMHO, I use a external frame pack because it allows me to drop the pack bags when I need to pack out my quarters on a pack frame, it can carry a greater load(IMHO), cleans up better after getting bloody, and allows me to strap on different configurations of bag sizes depending on how long I will be out. I always seem to tweak the pads, belts, straps any way to get that "perfect" fit.
On that topic, I would get one that carrys at least 3000 ci for 5-7days, 5000ci if your out longer without cache drops. Some people get by with little dedicated internal frame day packs, but for me( I own two mentioned here many times) they are just too small.
Once, you decide on "black or white", most of your choices will boil down to amount of money spent, and I would save up and by the best, it pays off in the long run. Make sure you get one that fits your torso size.

[stv in bfe]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (SierraFool @ Mar 27 2006, 03:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> (index.php?act=findpost&pid=688186)</div>
Now I own a Eberlestock J105, its an internal frame pack designed specifically for HUNTING!!! and nothing else.[/b]
x2, it&#39;s an awsome pack

[crittergetter]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE </div>
I use a external frame pack because it allows me to drop the pack bags when I need to pack out my quarters on a pack frame,[/b] I really like that Idea. The clean up too. I am used to that. Currently I day hunt with pack frame with a fanny pack on it. Works good. Thanks fopr the cubic info. I&#39;m leaning toward the 5000 range. Like the Eberlstock but the specs seemed they are a little heavier on average. Thanks all.

[easymoney]

critter,
I now use a Dwight Shuh pack, based on a peak one frame and I have modified quite a bit it to fit me better. It&#39;s a very nice setup, but the frame flexes and bends to much under heavy loads.
I am going to be going with a Wilderness Pack Specialties Bighorn Frame Combo, based on a Molle pack. I got this tip from a couple others on ths site.
I have tried all sorts of packs and frames, and the lightest, quietest, strongest is what I need. I have tried to clean blood out my internal frame pack and it will never be "clean" and scent free again.