Backpacks?

[bitterroot bulls]

jmden, thanks for the reply. It seems we may be in similar spots. Both of us love our packs and have not tried each other's. It seems as though the Kifaru is a very nice pack and very adaptable. I'm also glad you found a pack that works for you. The Eberlestock website lists the weight at 6.8 lbs. Mine is not that heavy. I weighed my j104 at just over 6 pounds. I encourage you to put an Eberlestock in your hands and you will discover that it is anything but complex. It has three main pockets and the expanding compartment. There is little need to "add on" anything, although the 11 ounce spike camp duffel is nice to have in some situations. It does take some movement to get your rifle out of the pack, but it is quick, quiet, and no, it did not spook the elk when I removed my rifle. I can not stress enough how much I like the scabbard feature. I do not use a sling on my rifles anymore, as it is unnecessary. The stock does extend a few inches above my head, but it rarely causes any trouble in the field ... in fact I am struggling to think of a time I caught it on anything. The barrel likewise extends below my waist, but it really is quite out of the way. I can remember tapping it with heel of my boot when going over a jackpot of deadfall, but I wouldn't even think that makes the threshold of nuisance, and would take it over struggling with my slung rifle any day. The scabbard is truly a "Why didn't I think of it" feature.

I also want to assure you that putting meat in the expanding compartment is quick and easy - just slide it in and buckle three straps. And there is no need to empty your pack. Carrying a heavy load with the meat in this compartment, right against your back, is the most comfortable way to pack out quarters that I have found.

I am looking for someone with a Kifaru to lend me one for some field testing, as I am always looking for better equipment. Until then, though, the j104 is going on my back, and I'm going looking for the big bulls in the bad spots.

BTW, I am somewhat near Missoula, although I try to avoid it. I don't know what you may have heard, but there aren't any elk left around here... really ... tell your friends

[jmden]

"BTW, I am somewhat near Missoula, although I try to avoid it. I don't know what you may have heard, but there aren't any elk left around here... really ... tell your friends"



I'll have to get my hands on one of those Eberlestocks...

Oh...right. I think they go 'elsewhere' to hunt.

[tomv8541]

I am a believer of the badlands 4500 pack. I am a military guy,former infantry,sniper etc...and have spent ALOT of time in the field. I have had blisters, back pain you name it. This pack has never failed me. I have two 10 day hunts coming up and this coming season. This is the pack that will be on my back. I have heard good things about the Kifaru. I have never had to try it though.