Helping in making a choice of packs.

WSMBUCK · #1 (**permalink**) 09-23-2009, 08:52 AM

I have reading alot on here as far a backpacks can i get some of your input on a good back as far as 2 to 5 days staying out and one that can be helpful in packing meat out? I have been looking at the Badlands 4500 and the Alaskan Guide 2 , kind of leaning with the Alaskan because of the Alum. Frame Any input would help. Thanks

betelgeuse · #2 (**permalink**) 09-23-2009, 09:11 AM

Also take a look at the Eberlestock J107 Dragonlfy and J34. The J107 can go from 2900 ci to 7900 ci. The J34 is slightly smaller I just hauled elk quarters and was impressed by the comfort of the J107. It has aluminum frame stays inside. I had about 140 lbs in it and was comfortable.

Eberlestock Hunting Products

BackCountryHNTR · #3 (**permalink**) 09-23-2009, 09:54 AM

I second Betelgeuse on the Eberlestock packs. Well designed, strong and comfortable packs.
One thing to notice is that the J107 is a totally adjustable pack (for different torso lengths), while the J104 is not adjustable but fits most people.
Also, since I mostly bow hunt I use the scabbard in my J107 to carry my trekking poles, that comes very handy to get them when I need them and can put them away as easily without having to remove my pack...you can fit a tripod there too or another water bladder.

coothunter · #4 (**permalink**) 09-23-2009, 01:18 PM

Thank you for the post WSM. I have been looking as well. This is the first year I have backpacked and hunted in the same trip. I have yet to harvest one, but I can see that my usual backpack has no room to pack out an animal. I will have to make separate trip to pack him out!

From what I gather so far, Badlands and Eberlestock are both quality packs, and similar in usefullness and price. Kifaru seems to be top of the line, but really expensive.

encorefan · #5 (**permalink**) 09-23-2009, 01:51 PM

I have been using a J107 for a few years and really love it. it is very well laid out and everything is where it should be and is to last.

CHAD PEZZLE · #6 (**permalink**) 09-23-2009, 02:01 PM

If you're talking about the alaskan series from Cabela's, I wouldn't recomend it. I have one and the quality just is not up to par with the other brands mentioned. The straps and pads are un comfortable, and the supposed rifle scabard doesn't hardly work, if at all. After 5 days in the snow in Idaho I realized the pack was not going to cut it, this year I up graded to an Eberlestock and have enjoyed my pack hunts so much more.

Personally I couldn't afford the Kifaru or Mystery Ranch so I went with the Eberlestock J34. It's a little bit smaller than some packs but it works great for 2-3 excursions and if I need to go longer I can attach their spike camp duffle via zippers and nearly double the packs size.

I got my pack through payson outfitter's, they have some good deals (free shipping) and a few other promotions. Arrived within a few days. They also carry badlands.

Although they're expensive, www.mysteryranch.com is another quality brand.

cammy · #7 (**permalink**) 09-23-2009, 07:11 PM

Dwight Schuh Mega pack by Field Line. Has detachable packs so you have either a back or fanny pack for the day and room enough to tie extra gear on the frame. PLENTY of room in the back pack section to fit a boned out deer. The only problem is that you may tend to overpack because you have so much room. Comes with a hydration bladder integrated in the back pack section. I bought mine for around $160.00 on line.

bodega · #8 (**permalink**) 09-23-2009, 10:19 PM

I really like my Sitka 45, but it looks like they don't make it anymore. Can't have mine.

easymoney · #9 (**permalink**) 09-24-2009, 08:02 AM

This is the classic ford vs chevy debate. Frame or frameless?
I have used both, but for hauling boned meat I use a wilderness pack specialties system which has a high tech frame and a bag that comes off leaving a built in sling to hold the game bags. The frame flexes but not as much as a dwight schuh plastic frame.
Just my two cents...

WSMBUCK · #10 (**permalink**) 09-24-2009, 10:30 AM

Thanks everyone for the input been looking at the J34 since i found out about it , Looks like i might go with it , Does any one have any pic of it are any others ones in the field being used, so i could see how it looks loaded up with supplys. Thanks again

Joetech34 · #11 (**permalink**) 09-24-2009, 11:20 AM

I have the Blackcreek pack and love it. Very confortable. I have the western which is a great style of day pack, but he larger Alaskin is great larger pack. They also have the Jim Shockey's Yukon, which I hurd is a great pack.

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betelgeuse · #12 (**permalink**) 09-24-2009, 11:22 AM

Packing Quarters Couple photos here and story here. You can find some more looking on their website.

JP9 "Blue Widow" ( similar but without scabbard built in) loaded up.

fishnhuntfreak · #13 (**permalink**) 09-24-2009, 03:51 PM

why don't you look into the non-hunting brand backpacks like osprey, Gregory, granite gear and others, check out what rei has look for something in the 4000- 5000 cubic in. range. you can get the same quality pack for half the price. plus i promise that the deer wont know the difference. just my two cents.

jindydiver · #14 (**permalink**) 09-24-2009, 04:25 PM

Awesome load

Kit Fox · #15 (**permalink**) 09-24-2009, 07:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fishnhuntfreak

why don't you look into the non-hunting brand backpacks like osprey, Gregory, granite gear and others, check out what rei has look for something in the 4000- 5000 cubic in. range. you can get the same quality pack for half the price. plus i promise that the deer wont know the difference. just my two cents.

I've been thinking the same thing but i'm convinced the standard backpacking packs aren't reinforced, and will self destruct under the forces of a heavy load. Pack size isn't the same as pack durability with extreme loads. Think of it this way, would prefer to carry twenty pounds in a canvas pillow case (hunting pack) versus an equally sized paper bag (regular hikers pack)?

BackCountryHNTR · #16 (**permalink**) 09-25-2009, 08:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kit Fox

I've been thinking the same thing but i'm convinced the standard backpacking packs aren't reinforced, and will self destruct under the forces of a heavy load. Pack size isn't the same as pack durability with extreme loads. Think of it this way, would prefer to carry twenty pounds in a canvas pillow case (hunting pack) versus an equally sized paper bag (regular hikers pack)?

+1
Exactly!

rikkijeep · #17 (**permalink**) 09-25-2009, 09:16 AM

Has everyone gone hoity toity. I use a handy dandy old ALICE pack. I know it can hold the weight because I used to carry 80+ lbs on my back for 7 to 30 miles on a regular basis. It may not have all the bells and whistle. And it may not be feather light like other packs, but IT IS DURABLE!!! And I got mine for $35 at a Surplus store.

Kit Fox · #18 (**permalink**) 09-25-2009, 09:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rikkijeep

Has everyone gone hoity toity. I use a handy dandy old ALICE pack. I know it can hold the weight because I used to carry 80+ lbs on my back for 7 to 30 miles on a regular basis. It may not have all the bells and whistle. And it may not be feather light like other packs, but IT IS DURABLE!!! And I got mine for $35 at a Surplus store.

I've got the replacement for the ALICE, and have tried an ALICE before. Both aren't very comfortable with heavy loads. I've reserved my military pack for a "bug out" bag in case I ever have to evacuate. The packs designed for hunters (Mystery Ranch, Eberlestock, Badlands, etc) are built around the concept of easy expandibility. They also do a great job of keeping the weight up and closer to your back, so the hip belt can carry the load (not the shoulders).

My Badlands 2200 ran out of room during this hike, so I tied a Camelbak Alpine Explorer to the back. I had full survival gear, 3 gallons of water, and 1 ammo can in this load. The load wasn't to bad on my shoulders, but it did hurt the knees more than anything else.

cborders · #19 (**permalink**) 09-30-2009, 02:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kit Fox

I've been thinking the same thing but i'm convinced the standard backpacking packs aren't reinforced, and will self destruct under the forces of a heavy load. Pack size isn't the same as pack durability with extreme loads. Think of it this way, would prefer to carry twenty pounds in a canvas pillow case (hunting pack) versus an equally sized paper bag (regular hikers pack)?

I disagree. A Dana Design Terraplane, Terraframe or Astraplane is far and away better than a "hunting" pack at hauling heavy loads comfortably. The older Osprey Crescent and Gregory Shasta are also capable of doing the same. Most "hunting" packs sell because they are camo, not because they offer any real benefit.

betelgeuse · #20 (**permalink**) 09-30-2009, 03:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cborders

I disagree. A Dana Design Terraplane, Terraframe or Astraplane is far and away better than a "hunting" pack at hauling heavy loads comfortably. The older Osprey Crescent and Gregory Shasta are also capable of doing the same. Most "hunting" packs sell because they are camo, not because they offer any real benefit.

FWIW

I agree with part of what you said. I agree that backpacking backpacks are comfortable and can carry a big load.

but

The hunting packs are also designed to be compact, so you can hunt while wearing them but they able to expand greatly when needed to carry meat. Nackpacking packs are made to carry aload...period.

The hunting packs have some great features. The Eberlestock has a built in sleeve to carry your rilfe. They also have features that can carry your bow where it is easily retrievable. They are made specifically to carry quarters. The have quiet fabric. Some have a pull out orange flap for when you are carrying antlers. I recently loaded an elk hind quarter and backstraps externally on a Eberlestock J107 with only the 3 external straps. It held it securely and carried comfortably. Some have a special pocket for your spotting scope.

Oh yeah and they come in camo !

I think there is a lot of personal preference in packs, but hunting packs have come a long way.

BackCountryHNTR · #21 (**permalink**) 09-30-2009, 03:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cborders

I disagree. A Dana Design Terraplane, Terraframe or Astraplane is far and away better than a "hunting" pack at hauling heavy loads comfortably. The older Osprey Crescent and Gregory Shasta are also capable of doing the same. Most "hunting" packs sell because they are camo, not because they offer any real benefit.

The Terraplane is not what we were referring to as "standard backpacking pack", it's more of a premium pack ($$$), and with a tag price of about $400 I would expect it to be able to handle a heavy load, just like the average hunting pack...BTW it looks a lot like the Badlands 4500...LOL

goindeep · #22 (**permalink**) 10-01-2009, 07:26 PM

Kikaru!!!!! I picked one up this summer and its awesome! I packed out half my buck on one trip, the one in the pic, and half of my buddys elk and my camp on another hunt. that pack was well over a hundred pounds and if felt great. I'm 6' 2" and 160 pounds so its hard to find a pack that fits me. Kifaru custom fits the pack to you. I went with the long hunter guide, its 7200 cubic inch pack. I bought it more for week long trips but it worked fine for 3-5 days because I like to pack everything out in one trip if possible. I also have a badlands 4500 that has been beat to death. I may have overloaded it a few times but the zippers seem week and the plastic internal frame broke on me. I'm in the process of sending it back, hopefully they have corrected a few things over the past 5 years. I'm now looking for a pack in the 2500 cubic inch range. you can never have enough packs!

Dain V · #23 (**permalink**) 10-02-2009, 07:59 PM

Mystery ranch Nice Frame with crewcab. The Nice frame is comfortable, durable and adaptable when used in conjunction with the Crewcab. I used my Nice Frame to haul a lot of heavy loads when working for an outfitter/guide buddy, so I can safely say the pack is solid.

Before I had the cash for the mystery ranch pack I used a REI aluminum frame pack that I customized to my needs. It worked just fine, just not as comfortable under heavy loads, or as adaptable to specific hunts. Adaptability is why I like the mystery ranch pack so much. If I am going out for a day hunt I can take the frame only with the cargo shelf attached and the accessory bags to hold water, food, etc., attached to the belt, or if going out for an extended trip attach the Crewcab and haul all I need for a long backcountry trip.

BigSky · #24 (**permalink**) 10-04-2009, 08:36 PM

I've done a lot of backpacking and especially a lot of backpack hunting. I've used most brands mentioned in this thread. My recommendations, for what it's worth are as follows:

1st - Kifaru or Mystery Ranch
2nd - Black's Creek Alaskan or Eberlestock J104/J105/J107
3rd - Badlands 4500 or 2800

These are just my personal preferences. I would like to ad that, if you get a quality frame for it, the military A.L.I.C.E. pack is a very good pack. Get the large for about $40 and put it on a BullPac frame or a Kelty Hauler frame and you've got a pack that is tough to beat for the money. I'm not a big external frame pack fan; but, the combination I just mentioned would cost you $150 to $200 and would be up there with the $400+ packs.

Good luck in your quest.

Huntr Pat · #25 (**permalink**) 10-14-2009, 09:07 PM

I own a X2 but here a pic of the J34.
J34 "Just One" Backpack

TonyS · #26 (**permalink**) 10-18-2009, 08:49 PM

AlaskanII:

I just did a 3 day trip which was supposed to be a 9 day but for the rain this week. It was awesome. Although way overpacked it did the job and I had enough room to pack out a big buck if he had cooperated.

There are more pockets plus having a two level center area in the pack that I would not hesitate to recommend it to others. Ridgid frame to keep the load balanced and won't break like the internal (read for gear takers only) packs.

Now back to that buck.

DWarcher · #27 (**permalink**) 10-19-2009, 08:04 PM

[quote=goindeep;2166423] I also have a badlands 4500 that has been beat to death. I may have overloaded it a few times but the zippers seem week and the plastic internal frame broke on me. I'm in the process of sending it back, hopefully they have corrected a few things over the past 5 years. [quote]

Not sure why all of the love for the 4500...I have used mine exclusively over the past 2 years and have broken 2 (Plastic...YES plastic!) frame stays and had my hips beat to heck by this pack! Their customer service was adequate...they sent me 4 replacement frame stays just in case I had any more issues (that's confidence!) with my pack. The problem was it would tale 3-4 phone calls to get anything moving.

That being said I absolutely love my 2200...it is absolutely one of my favorite pieves of hunting equipment!

I'm now saving my pennies for a new Mystery Ranch Nice Frame and Crewcab with accessories...

-Dave

quack_head · #28 (**permalink**) 10-20-2009, 08:37 PM

I beg to differ when you mention the hikers pack versus the hunters pack. I had a jansport i bought last year from sports chalet for 139 i packed out the meat from a 300lb black bear plus my 50lbs of gear and was comfortable. oh it also weighs three pounds and has 6500 cubic inches of space. This year i bought crooked horns extreme country II and i will tell ya i miss that jansport. Next on the list a badlands. Dad has one and he loves it.

easymoney · #29 (**permalink**) 10-21-2009, 08:39 AM

This post has gotten well beyond the ford vs chevy debate.
IMHO, long before all these fancy, camo, new, expensive, internal frame packs ever appeared on the scene, the plain jane external aluminum frame packs were hauling heavy loads into the back country and still are today. They just don't have the added trappings the newer ones do.
It is all a matter of personal taste and the only way to judge a pack (just like boots) is to strap one on and haul 50-60 lbs striaght up hill, then one could make a realistic judgement... Otherwise this is becoming a peeing match over a few new brand names...
Just my two cents, after humping heavy weights for decades on skis and off...

BOWUNTR · #30 (**permalink**) 10-21-2009, 11:33 AM

This is one topic that I'm interested in. I agree that there is a lot of personal preference info here... but I'm interested. Keep it coming.

I'm looking for a new pack to replace my BL 4500. I wish I would of had this info before I bought the pack 3 years ago. There are two posts on here about guys breaking the plastic frame on their BL 4500. That's funny because I broke mine packing a deer out last month and the guy at the BL warranty dept told me that he has never heard of this happening. This is the second time this pack has been back to warranty.

I also own a Cabelas Alaskan II pack. It's 20 years old and is still in good condition. Never had a problem with it. The new ones have a much better load system. I like it, especially for the price.

I've been looking at the Mystery Ranch for my moose hunt next year. I really want to see one before I make the purchase. The same goes for the Barneys of Alaska packs.

Here is a pic of my broken frame. I'm lucky there was just enough plastic to catch the belt or this pack would have been worthless. They should be made of aluminum. It broke on the first day of my 12 day hunt! Ed F