I used the Cabelas Alaskan for many years as a dedicated meat hauler but a heavy load convinced me it was time for a change. Tha last 2 years I've used the Wilderness Specialties composite frame and a couple of different pack combinations. Properly adjusted it handles heavy loads much better for me than the Cabelas model. I was using the Eberlestock X2 as a daypack and first quarter out pack but now go with just go with WP frame and pack only when elk hunting