Backpack help!!

[k9bowman]

Would like some input from some hardcore DIY wilderness backpackers. I have narrowed down my search for a new backpack to the Badlands 4500, Kifaru Longhunter or Oregon packworks greengate with lumbar and overflows. Any advice would be greatly apprecdiated.    

[Bjorn]

I would say from personal experience that Joe Lash at Prairie Traditions knows more about packs than anyone else and he is a sponsor here.

[Rosco1]

I know that my Cabelas Alaskan Outfitters pack has lasted me 10 plus years. I've packed out a lot of critters with it and have done a lot of pack trips with NO complaints!

I can comment on the ones you mentioned as I haven't had the need.

[bowhunter97]

I have used the Longhunter for about 6 years now, lots of miles and elk quarters with no problems at all. They are not cheep but worth every cent. the thing I like the most about this pack is that Patrick makes packs to fit you. I'm 5'8" 135 and the pack fits me like a glove. most packs I tryed the waistbelts would not get tight on me, not a problem for most people. also like that I can pull the main bag off and hunt with the frame and top pocket of the pack. every oz counts on a backpack hunt your gear needs to be versatile.

[Rosco1]

Oopps - that should have been "can't" comment. My bad

[sunny hill archer]

Originally posted by bowhunter97:
I have used the Longhunter for about 6 years now, lots of miles and elk quarters with no problems at all. They are not cheep but worth every cent. the thing I like the most about this pack is that Patrick makes packs to fit you. I'm 5'8" 135 and the pack fits me like a glove. most packs I tryed the waistbelts would not get tight on me, not a problem for most people. also like that I can pull the main bag off and hunt with the frame and top pocket of the pack. every oz counts on a backpack hunt your gear needs to be versatile.

X2

[JockC]

Depending on your torso length, you should look at the Mystery Ranch packs, too.  Made in Montana, with many fans.  Different designs than Kifaru, but equal quality.  I wound up going with Crew Cab so I could pack out meat without making a mess.

You could burn a lot of time looking at pack discussions on the backpack hunting forum at 24hourcampfire.com.  Lots of knowledge there.

If at all possible, borrow what you are considering, put 50-75 lbs in it, and walk for a few hours.  Packs fit different people differently, like boots.

It's tempting to try to save some weight with a light pack, but if you're carrying meat it's a bad idea.  A broken pack with a load of fresh meat 5-8 miles back is a bummer.

[Tutanka]

X2 on the Mystery Ranch, the nice thing about the crew cab is that you can order load cells for your gear (at a extra cost).  These can be placed in the load cell, and then taken out when your camp is setup and you are left with a smaller day pack. The other nice function of the Crew Cab is the harness system, otherwise known as the NICE Frame.  Once you have a NICE Frame you can then order different backpacks to attach to it, and you still have the same frame on your shoulders. These packs range from 2000 cu. in. up to 6000 cu. in.

[frassettor]

Did you look at Mystery Ranch yet? I have the Wolfpack. Its 6100 cu and has seperate pouches so you can break it down if you don't feel the need to pack the kitchen sink

[J. Oles]

I have and use the Kifaru Longhunter Guide.

My favorite big pack/frame pack.  I would advise agains getting the whole package and just buy the cargo chair.

I rarely use the fleece panels etc when hunting here in Kodiak.

Jason

[FerretWYO]

I would stay away from the 4500. That is just me though.

[k9bowman]

Thanks, lot of good info. I'm still researching right now but,  your advice will help. Also I didn't know this but, one guy said that Badlands had been bought by Zebco. Anybody else hear this?

[neargeezer]

I used a Kifaru Siwash for a number of years and thought it was great. Kifaru just came out with there ultralight series. I have been selling all my stuff to get one of these. Having a 2 lb. 12 ounce pack that will hold everything you need is a huge weight savings to start any trip. It has a full suspension that a couple of "gorilla" guys gave a real work out and thought it was top notch. Worth a look before you decide.

[Thueb]

I use a Mystery Ranch Crew Cab, is very expensive, but worth the $ when I'm humping the Ruby mountains for a week or so.  The nice thing about the crew cab is its a daypack, short range pack, and week long backpack, all you need to do is add the day pack lid, and some load cells (or just waterproof bags).

[Mojo Rising]

Out of the three you mentioned it would definately be the Kifaru!

[J. Oles]

I'd like to try the Kifaru 3700 ultra light too.

Looking to it for my go to hunting pack for next season.


Jason

[neargeezer]

Jason - Thats what I ordered a couple of days ago with the same thoughts as you. Ordered a couple lash straps and a medium pod also.

[Daz]

How important is camo to you? A lot of the best pound for pound, load hauling packs are made for backpacking, not hunting.
REI XT85, Arc-Teryx Bora 80 or 95, Osprey Argon all come to mind. Some of the old Dana Designs are great as well. These packs are engineered to haul loads on multi day trips, and to be comfortable.
Head to an REI outlet or other backpacking gear store and get sized by a knowledgeable pack fitter and see what really suits your needs.

[wv lungbuster]

http://www.kuiu.com/  Take a look a the pack reviews in the blog.

[Bowwild]

Lot of great packs out there, I'm familiar with only two: Sitka and Badlands. I just auctioned my Badlands 2200 in favor of Sitka. I have two Sitka now (fanny and daypack). I'll be ordering a large one before fall.

I have a Monster Badlands that I am keeping because I like the shoulder and sternum straps.