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What do you experienced guys use for packs to get back a few miles and stay for a week? Use the same pack to haul out game I’m assuming?

Kifaru is always a safe bet and I did mostly like my exo mountain 3500, but I've now settled on the Stone Glacier Xcurve frame and 5900 bag. For me packs are a lot like boots, you have to try some out to see what fits your body type and hunting needs...lots of good choices now days!

+1 for Kifaru very well made and lots of options!

I used a badlands Summit this year and really liked it!

Stellar horse ya got there Hunts. Color me jealous.



As for packs, I have used my Eberlestock X2 the last three years, and it is OK at best. I've killed and packed 5 elk, 3 deer and a few antelope out with it those three years but I am ready for an upgrade.

I suspect my next pack will be a Kuiu, Kirafu or a Mystery Ranch. Gotta play with some of each before deciding.

I have used several backpacks over the years. About five years ago I started using an Osprey Aether 85. I like it because it's the most comfortable backpack that I could find. But it's not a hunting pack.

So I bought a KUIU Ultra 6000 and used it on my AZ Coues deer hunt this year. I give it a high rating. It's a hunting pack that's comfortable to carry and it weighs less than 4#.



Kuiu Ultra 6000

One thing that I really like is that I can use it as a backpack on the way into camp, then shrink it down and use it for a daypack while hunting. So I don't need a second daypack.

KC

My search for a great pack ended with a Mystery Ranch 6500 with the NICE frame, been super happy with it. I don't know how the new ones are but would be surprised if they weren't quality pack still.

My friend had troubles with the Kifaru coming apart but they did fix his pack for him though.

Kifaru duplex frame and pick your bag. I like simple and use a duplex timberline 1 bag most of the time. Compresses down to nothing and has lots of room when you need it.

I have both a Kifaru bikini and duplex frame, but have never owned one of their bags. I use a cargo panel over an old carhartt duffel bag.....

I've been known to stuff a game bag full of everything, and strap it to my old Cabela's external frame pack.

It looks goofy, but works no doubt.

Kifaru duplex frame for me also. Carries weight very well.
Many bag options to choose from, but a bit pricey.
Buy once, cry once.

I've been really impressed with my Kuiu Icon Pro 5200

This year it was a ~25yo Dana Design Alpine, bought used on craigslist for $50. You could do A Lot WORSE, even with packs already mentioned in this thread...

Bought my Dana Astraplane in 1993 and am still using it......

+1

You guys that used the summit how did you pack game out ?

LOL!!

Kifaru by miles and miles.

Stone Glacier would be second on my list.

Whatever you buy make sure you load it up heavy (60+ lbs) as that is where you can really start to tell what's "comfortable."

Another vote for the KUIU Icon Pro. I have a couple different bags, the 1850
Is great for day hunts. I bought a used 3200, but it is a little on the small side for multiple nights.