Need back pack advice

[amicus]

I know there has been a lot of threads on the subject but im having a hard time deciding what I need. I will be black bear hunting in Sept, spot and stalk. What I need is enough room for a few items i.e. rain gear, first aid, knives,etc. But also need to be able to pack a bear hide. Hydration system would be a plus and the ability to strap my bow to it would be another plus. We'll be sleeping on a boat so I don't need to carry any over night stuff. I like the bison gear but was thinking about the Badlands 2200. Any advise would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. Gilbert

[Curtiss Cardinal]

First off you'll need to revise that idea of not needing any over night stuff. It sounds like you're talkin about hunting in Alaska. That being the case you need to be prepared for the unexpected. One thing I would recommend you do is go to REI they match people to packs very well. They will measure you and get you the right size frame and harness for you. Ask them towrite down al their recommendations. Then search the web for the best prices and more appropriate for hunting than some of the hiker packs. My recommendation would be a medium exterior frame pack. Roll your back up clothes and rain gear to optimize packing space. include a survival kit(search what should be in it. also ask the guide what they would recommend you have in one.)A tarp and a wool blanket can make the accidental overnight a lot more comfortable.

[snag]

I would consider the Badlands 2800 also. It is large enough to take a load of meat out.  C2 has good ideas on the survival aspect! Always plan for the unexpected.

[amicus]

Thanks for the advise, guys. We are very prepared for emergency situations. What I meant by overnight stuff is that I wont have to carry camp with me. But I appreciate the advise. Gilbert

[Steve O]

2200 Badlands would be minnimum IMO, 2800 would be better.  I think an Eberlestock J104 would be an upgrade from that.  I have upgraded from both of those to the J107...kind of overkill for many situations, but I know it will haul all my stuff plus a big boned out mule deer in one trip.  You can do what you to do with the 2200--but it is not a pleasurable experience-I used one for a Sitka BT, which is probably about the same weight as you black bear skin and head.

[allan f]

I really like my Nimrod pack it is really well made and you can switch around for a day out to multi-days. It has a lot of great options.  the nice thing is it sits low on the back, and as you are sneaking through the bush it won't get caught on things.  Check out their website.

Nimrodpacks.com

Allan

[elk ninja]

Kelty has some fantastic packs out there for a lot less that Eberlestock, Badlands Nimrod, Buison and such.  I have a 4650 Coyote that is some kind of quiet cloth, big enough for a week of elk hunting.  I also have a Kelty cougar, great little 2000 ci daypack, hydration, yadda, yadda, yadda.
Mike

[matt g meyers]

All i know is that Bad lands has a great warranty,and that if i could justify three packs i would for sure go with the 2200.

[JockC]

I'm trying something new this year--a huge Nimrod fanny pack (I really like having my shoulders clear for slipping through brush and taking shots) and a collapsing pack frame to carry the first load of meat or a boned out deer.  I'll have a real meat pack back at the truck.  Jury's still out on the collapsing frame...

[sendero25]

Try  www.kifaru.net,  they have both hunting and military catalogs. I personally like the military packs, they range from 900 to 7500 cubic inches and are so adjustable they are almost custom fit. They are also tough as nails, perfect for the tough terrain of Alaska.
John

[amicus]

Thanks everyone. I really appreciate all the advise. I like the nimrod folding pack  frame and the ablity to add a fanny pack or other pack. I also like the badlands. I will hopefully be able to check some out today. Thanks again. Gilbert