I decided this year to upgrade my pack system. I've been searching for a system that allows me to backpack into a spike camp, switch bags, and dayhunt from a smaller pack. Many folks have said to use the same bag to backpack and dayhunt. I didn't like it.

I loaded the Kuiu 5200 up with 35 lbs and have been hiking in the big field behind my house. I've been wearing my hunting boots and walking through the waist high grass trying to simulate actual hiking conditions. There is one small hill with ~ 100 feet of relief. I do the hill 3 times and hike back to the house - a 1.65 mile trip.

The pack carries well. There is no sliding around, hot spots, or pinch points - and I've been wearing it with a pair of lightweight hiking pants and t-shirt. Can't imagine adding another layer or two is going to be a problem. I really like the way this pack is laid out. It has enough big compartments/pockets to house bulky items but enough smaller pockets/areas to allow some organization to things frequently used. I bought 2 extra zippered belt pouches and they sit back far enough to be out of the way but also easily accessible - you can see them in the second pic. The lid has a dual compartment and is capable of holding 100 cu in or so. The Kimber Montana fits in the big side pocket and straps to the side of the pack but I'll likely get the rifle carrier as the muzzle sticks up to high for my tastes - another problem with a short torso.

All told, this is the pack I've been looking for. I'll load up 75-80 lbs in it in the next couple weeks to simulate packing out a quarter. I'm betting it won't feel much different than it does now.

A couple pics with Kimber attached. (Montana 270 win with 24" brl).

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Adversity doesn't build character, it reveals it.