I am thinking about buying a Filson strap vest to use next season. The vest I currently use is a traditional style upland vest from LL Bean and sometimes it is a little warm for early season.
I have been checking out the Filson mesh game bag but I haven't really been able to find any reviews on how well that mesh back panel holds up. Anyone have any opinions on either of these strap vests?
I have no Filson dealers near me so I would have to just order one without handling it first.
Thanks

http://www.filson.com/products/mesh...=activity/hunting&fmetaProduct=aa13/

This model seems a better/more durable design with the solid tin cloth on the back rather then the mesh.
http://www.filson.com/products/tin-...=activity/hunting&fmetaProduct=aa13/

I've been using a strap vest for probably more than 25 years. I like it for the following reasons, it is light in weight, adjustable, can be worn over coats for cold weather hunting, lots of pocket capacity, durable and is not hot in the warmer temps. I've bought them for friends.

I've had this one for years and doubt if I will ever be able to wear it out.
Tin cloth vest


I use it for birds,squirrels and bunnies. Not too hot in warmer weather and doesn't get in the way. Has enough pockets to carry everything I need too.

They're expensive to start with but they last forever.

I used a Filson strap vest for years but never liked how small the pockets and game bag were. I went to a McAlister Wing Shooter Guide waxed cotton strap vest about 10 years ago and I like it much better. The pockets and game bag are a little bigger. The McAlister fits a lot better as well. More adjustable and rides better when loaded with two or three roosters in the game bag. The Filson always rode up the front when loaded.

I'd personally stay away from mesh. I believe the brush I hunt in would tear it apart in short order. The McAlister strap vest doesn't have a back like the Filson. So if you're thinking about the mesh for ventilation on your back, it's not an issue with the McAlister. All around, it's a better vest.

Thanks for the input guys! It sounds like a strap vest is going to be the way to go for me. I just need to figure out which model I guess now.

mw406 I will take a look at the McAlister, that is a brand I am unfamiliar with.

Wow! I just looked at some of McAlisters clothing and some of their products are really nice looking. I also just read that they used to supply Filson with their waxed cotton.

I agree with mw about the vest riding up or slipping back when there is weight in the game bag. I have the basic model of strap vest and it has a leather belt in front which I slip under a loop from my pants and this takes care of the slipping. I also added a piece of suspender elastic strap with a clip on each end to keep the straps closer together across the chest

I bought the mesh Filson vest earlier this Fall and wore it a few times. Pretty nice.

I wear an almost identical strap vest to the Filson but it's a Redhead. Dad got it for me for Christmas about ten years ago and it's been excellent in every way. I don't know if they still make them,but if they do I'd wager it'll be cheaper than Filson if that matters to you.

I wore a Filson strap vest for years, then happened to try a synthetic Browning vest, which turned out to be a lot lighter and didn't make my back sweat as much underneath the waxed bag in warmer weather. It also has more room in both the bag and the various pockets.

Big capacity=heavier pack :-)

Anyone use the Pella Bird n' Light strap vest?

I have and use the Filson vest that Smoke linked. It's be very serviceable and I doubt I'll wear it out. If I wasn't so cheap, I would have gotten one from Buck's Bags. My pard has an older one and I like the size and layout better than what I have.
http://www.bucksbags.com/cm_cat.asp?id=27

Not to sound contradictory, but could you supply the link to that info? It sounds to me like a poor name dropping attempt in trying to steal some of Filson's reputation. AFAIK Filson waxed cotton comes from England, hence their "Made in USA of imported material" product description. Anything's possible, but I smell rotten fish..................and again not from you, but from McAlister or whoever was speaking for them.

To the original OP, I've got the original Filson Strap Vest and have no complaints whatsoever. As Muledeer mentioned, the back breathability can be an issue if hiking hard since Tin Cloth doesn't breath. But for ME to get the most from the upland experience, I will continue to wear it rather than something newer, synthetic, or mesh. But I'm a stubborn piece of work.

I've also got the Filson Strap Vest for flyfishing, and they're quite similar other than the front pockets have much more compartmentalization and the cotton is lighter. Either vest is very flexible with the gear being carried and the layers of clothing being worn. It can be a tempting slippery slope to buy larger more complicated vests for either pursuit, but these two do it all while also limiting the crap I carry which I'm ultimately thankful for. I'd buy a replacement for either vest in a heartbeat.

I've used my filson strap vest for over 20 years only thing I done was put electrical tape on the strap adjusters , have several others plus a custom made one but I use the filson.

222Rem- Here is the blog where I read about Filson getting their material from McAlister. After reading it a second time I think the poster meant McAlister bought there material from the same place Filson did. I misunderstood it the first time around.

http://archivalclothing.com/archival-news-mcalister-waxed-cotton-outerwear-and-accessories/

I think I may end going with the Mesh back Filson strap vest. I'm kind of worried the tin cloth backed model may be too warm for early season. The vest I currently use makes my back sweat a lot and I would rather not put out the coin for a Filson and end up with the same problem.

Thanks for the link C75, that makes more sense now.

I've bumped into McAlister stuff on a couple occasions (Sportsmans & Cabelas IIRC), and it struck me as Filson knock-offs designed to lure away some of their customers with a lower price point. The quality seemed OK, but never impressed me enough to stray from Filson------------kind of like buying tickets for a cover band rather than the real one. Not saying McAlister is the wrong decision for others, just me. But then I've also refused to buy anything from Filson's "imported" line in recent years, and I'm not alone either, because most of that stuff ended up on clearance after their little marketing experiment.

I've used a tin cloth vest for years. It's simple but very functional. I hunt in AZ and don't see this as being too warm. My only (minor) complaint would be that the buckle may rub on your buttstock depending on how you tote your gun, but you could put a piece of tape or something on it.

Depends what type of hunting you do. Sold both of my Filson's as IMO they were not very functional for me. They are a very basic vest and not many options. Very few vests have any contour if that makes sense. I hike a lot so wanted water bladder capacity along with extra carrying capacity. I don't know if the perfect vests exists but I went with the Badlands this year and so far I really like it.

Pete

Have had one for years; like it and will probably never wear it out.

What I do.

Thread the strap through a short length of bicycle inner tube. cover the buckle with the tube.

For those slumming with Purdey .410 doubles, consider replacing the inner tube with leather .

25+ years and still going strong.
The last thing I want in my hunting gear is synthetic or god forbid,,, Velcro.

That sounds like the best solution. I was thinking some kind of hose but innertube would be easier to work with.

The buckle that I have to worry about is the slider on the shoulder strap, NOT the short leather strap/buckle between the front pockets. The shoulder straps dont have a loose end to get innner tube threaded onto. Duct tape or some other tasteless but practical approach is the most logical. A classier option would be some sort of thin leather snap-over cover..............or just hunt with an ugly gun.

This McAlister vest has seen some hard use over the last 10 or 12 seasons. Every bit as durable as my 30 year old Filson, same classic looks but more adjustable, fits better when loaded-up, no back panel just a game bag and it has straps on the back for carrying a rolled up coat. Seems like McAlister took the original Filson vest and put more thought into than Filson ever did.



Not to worry, the old Filson found a new huntin' partner, my kid.

I use mine for turkey hunting, the filson is hard to beat.

My Filson strap vest with a pair of Filson Chaps is what I do 90% of my bird hunting in hear in Michigan and Pelee Island Ontario. It is fine for temps in the 40's, 50's, 60's 70's in the Fall, If it is going into the 30's with Rain or Snow I switch to the Filson Coat and Pants in Tin Cloth. The vest is so comfortable on the warm days and has plenty of space for shells and birds. I have been able to stuff 4 Roosters in the back. However with those many birds it will ride up on you. What I have learned is to use a piece of leathr shoe lace and secure the strap to a front belt loop on your pants to keep it riding even on your waist. Try it, it really helps.

I've had a Filson strap vest for about 8 years. I really like it when empty, but when loaded with pheasants it rides up in the front like others have mentioned. I'm gonna try the belt buckle cinch and see if it helps. Otherwise I love the vest. It rides in the back of my truck all season and takes a beating. If I lost it I'd buy a new one no question. I won't ever wear it out that is a fact.

I've had mine for 8-10 seasons now, it is what it is. Basic vest, indestructible, Filson quality. If you're looking for cool mesh, Velcro, and twenty-seven specialty pockets for a GPS, cell phone, electronic dog collar remote, solar charger, I-Pod, cigar holder and cutter, scotch flask, etc., probably not a good choice. If you're wanting a basic vest that will hold your birds and shells, and will last forever, can't imagine you'd be disappointed.

Great suggestion. Fortunately my wingshooting abilities suck enough my vest is never that far off balance.

Oregon is a fair piece from Pelee Island Ontarior. You would fill that vest with 10 birds (limit) on your first day!

You over estimate my abilities. Worst case, I DO connect with the first 5 birds...........I'd just stop by the truck to drop them off and dump another box of shells in the front pockets.

222Rem I was just giving you the benefit of the doubt. I also swing by the vehicle to drop off the first 4 or 5 birds and get more shells. I would not want to carry more than 4 birds for very long, they do get heavy for us Senior Citizen bird hunters.

Thanks for your kindness.

Depending on how long the hike, I also carry a quart or two of water back there also. I'm never burdened by too many birds however.

I have a tan/blaze strap vest, have had it 4 or 5 seasons and love it. We partridge/woodcock hunt in northeast MN and it works great from sept high 70s with a tshirt to below 0s of december and heavier clothes. My huntin' buddy is saving up for one because he likes mine so much.

I've bird hunted using the Filson Strap Vest for a number of years now. The bird pouch is plenty big for quail, but you couldn't put many pheasant in it. The shell pockets will each hold a box of shells, but I don't get the chance to fire that many. For our typically mild winters a long sleeve shirt and a wool vest under the strap vest on cool days is normally just right - couple that with some old jeans and Filson Single-Tin chaps and you can walk through the briers well.

I like strap vests - I've used a couple by Orvis for over a decade. I'd avoid anything with metal hardware, unless you don't care about marring your gun. There are several out there.

Another worth a look is the Boyt mesh vest. It's excellent, although not a strap vest, is very cool. I really like the front load game bag.

Here's one loaded with a couple wild roosters.

The old and true time tested waxed cotton works the best.
Besides I can pass on to my son and grandson some day. Have any of you seen the latest Filson Catalogue. They have gone Urban Outfitter with all the non hunting and logging clothing that made them famous for the last 100 years. I understand that they have been bought out by Shinola, they make watches. I am really dissapointed that they have abandoned their tranditional market. Also they have switched to imported material, still made in the USA. I am glad I bought my Filson hunting gear 15 years ago, I don't think I could afford to buy the same stuff today.

Yeah, I noticed that. They're constantly introducing some ugly new product while discontinuing the good stuff. Just a week ago the discontinued the Shelter Cloth version of their Packer Coat. It was one of the very best coats they made, and pooooof, it's gone. Pure genius........

And now you have to read the fine print in the product descriptions to learn if it's a "Seattle Fit" or "Alaska Fit." I guess calling it Fairy Fit vs. Man Fit would offend their new target customers.

And thank you for mine! I have used it a ton since you gave it to me and I really love it, especially compared to the old style vests I have worn for so long!

I missed the size note on Seattle or Alaskan Fit? Must be that Urban Outfitter thing. I ordered a Shelter Cloth shirt from them about 7 years ago, the material was great and the fit was perfect. I sent the shirt back because their was a flaw in the sew pattern, where it had actually gone off the material and then back on leaving a raw edge. Sent it back and did not follow up with the reorder, now I can kick myself since that style and material is no longer offered. Great Hunting Shirt, my mistake. At least I got the strap vest, hunting coat, pants and chaps in Tin Cloth. Also got a blaze orange cape and a pair of suspenders. I bought all this stuff at a Gander Mountain after Christmas sale 10 years ago for 45% of the orginal sticker price. That was a great stroke of luck that day, Gander Mt. stopped carrying Filson gear at that time and was getting rid of the existing stock.

The Seattle/Alaska fit issue is only with their coats----------probably about half of them. Some coats like the Logger and Packer still come only as originally designed. Original fit= Alaska fit.

My wife has used Filson as a fallback plan for many Birthday and Christmas presents, and I've NEVER complained about her strategy. Several years ago when Sportsmans went bankrupt, I scored a pile of Filson gear (vests, Macks, and sweaters) for half off. From that point I pretty well had more clothing/gear than I could wear out in my lifetime. Sadly, like you, there are some styles I missed out on though.

Just yesterday we watched our 3yr old son and the other preschoolers sing and hand out cookies at a retirement center. A very nice elderly lady came walking in and asked what she'd missed. A conversation ensued, during which time we learned she was 91yoa. Later that day my wife commented "can you believe that lady is 91? She doesn't look it, or act like it at all!" My reply was "that's why I buy Filson honey, it's just as classy now as it will be when I'm 91." She about spit her tea.

222Rem, great response. I am going to have to remember that one when someone notices my Filson Gear. I hope to pass my stuff on to my son or grandson, depending on when I stop hunting and my grandson, I hope, takes up the sport. They live in New Mexico, but they got some liberal anti hunters near by who will probably win out. I got my fingers crossed that my son won't let that happen since he is a Michigan Man and enjoys shooting and the outdoors.

I'm just old enough I could have a small grandson..........instead I'm the proud father of a 3.5yr old. Anyway, I share your same sentiment, and so I CHEAT. I had him sitting on my lap at 6 months while I reading Rifle and Handloader, and have at least 50hrs of Randy Anderson coyote vids over the last 3yrs. He knows Randy by name, and loves spotting (and counting) the dogs as they come in to call. He shoots 'em with his Cabelas pop gun, and proclaims "dead coyote!" and giggles. I'm so proud I can't put it to words.

The World will shape your kids for the worse if you don't intervene. I'm a fighter, and beyond proud of how my little one is already developing.

I'm as sentimental as anyone you'll ever meet, so quality gear that's functional and enjoyable to use/wear, that still has enough life in it to pass down is a no-brainer for THIS consumer.

Young son picked up one of the vest as mentioned here and loves it.

As for Filson going hipster, well yup! The sporting goods/gun shop where I did a bit of work before I had to leave, handled Filson. And I could get the stuff 10% over our cost. So I could kinda afford it then. . But this past hunting season saw the shop purchaser acquire their new line of metrosexual clothing! Quite depressing. I was able to finally get a pair of the waxed tin cloth pants. Took 3 months! Quite depressing to see the old companies go this route!

That's the one I have. I like it.

I finally got my strap vest today. By the time I decided to finally buy one they seemed to be out of stock everywhere (including Filson). I ended up ordering it through LCS since they were literally the only place that had it in stock. My first order with LCS and I could not be happier. Very fast shipping and it came with some free goodies.