Lots of ideas on this thread. I've tried many (except straight out kifaru- those are nice is you can afford them)
I'm using a hybrid setup.
Eberlestock Mainframe F1 (external pack weighs 4# 5oz) plus a drybag
The frame is lightweight and super tough. It will carry more weight than your body can handle.
Cost is $169
Then you can add a bag or dry bag and be set.
I'm using a sea to summit "big river dry bag" 35L that weighs 7.7 oz. Cost was $50
I added the Kifaru gun bearer - cost $31 weighs 4 oz, and a lightweight waist pouch from kuiu "icon pro hip belt pouch" - cost $9 - weighs 1 oz.
All in my set-up weighs right at 5# 1.7oz- total cost was under $260
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I wear this pack everyday, and put on many miles. Biggest load I've had on it was 6x7 rack, 2 front quarters, and one backstrap- from a large bull. The load carried fine, getting myself upright was the hard part.
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If you can afford it there are other options out there. But my combo fits my budget, definitely carries the load and has worked well for the last 2 seasons.
