Haven't tried the Barta Stalker, but I have the X-1. I didn't use it on this years elk hunt and hated myself for using a fanny pack instead. Won't be making that mistake again. As for the pack, they are well designed and getting that bow or gun out of your hand is wonderful. Getting a compound out of the X-1 is a breeze, I've done it within 50 yards of deer undectected. The only thing I would change would be to size it down a bit. Overall the best hunting daypack I have ever used.