I wouldn't use my points for a 0 draw area.  I'd save them for the following year.

Well from my research, not to many units left where zero points will get you in the door. Less than 50 percent in most with no points.

But going with someone might be a good idea, because I don't think I could pack that 200"  out by myself. LOL

I'm putting together my gear and on a budget looking at theses, for high country mule deer bow hunt.

Kelty gunnison 1.2 4.3 lbs

Kelty ignite dry/down 20 degree bag. 2.12 oz

Kelty backpack pad 1.8 oz

= 8.6 lbs.

I figure since I shot trad bow, no range finder or release or extra release, and use a havalon knife, I can make up diff and put me under 8lbs and save some money for better glass.

I plan to use a sitka bivy 45 pack, take as much as I can on the 1st trip out with it, and return with frame pack if I make a harvest.

Ur thoughts?

Well, after many weeks of research, phone calls and some help from you guys, I have narrowed my search down on units with muliple loacion. My goal is to survive he trip in the alpine terrian and hunt hard and locate some bucks, getting one will be icing on the cake.

Can't wait till next April to apply and dive in sink or swim.

I would skip the sitka pack myself.
I am suspicious of gear marketed to hunters.
It tends to be heavy, dubious quality and with all sorts of added frills you dont need

Ive got many years experience with mountaineering packs.
Fit is key.
You can get a lightweight, comfortable, durable multipurpose pack for less than that Sitka.

Additionaly you have a much, much larger variety.

Mountaineering packs are designed for fast unencumbered movement, thats what you want.

Look at packs by Osprey, Arc'Teryx or The North Face (Profit series). Also lean towards models that have adjustable torso lengths.
I own many mountaineering packs, the one I'll use for my backcountry hunt(s) is an older North Face Profit 65. It wieghs just  over 3 lbs itself and I can fit plenty in there. About 60 lbs is my tipping point for wieght/comfort.
Also in an emergency you can slip you lower body in the pack and provide substantial warmth...

One last thing, only you can answer this, is your sleeping bag roomy enough?
I have spent many nights in a bag that didnt fit right. If you get a lil chilly, and need to toss around a bit, if your bag doesnt let ya. Your not sleeping.

I have changed my mine on the pack, based on advice from people like ur self. Going with a kelty or mnt  smith pak and a marmot bag.

Well been 9 months in the making, the units have been selected the draw opens in a few days. The tag will be put in for and pretty sure I will draw it.

Then it's off to high country 2 weeks solo hunt. I will be 40 this year, the mnts are calling my name it's time.

Good luck.
homebru

 go get em bud!
Maybe I'll run into you out there.

If you have not got a pack yet look into the horn hunter full curl system. They are the best packs for the money in my opinion.

Also did you draw you're tag I drew my mule deer tag for the high country