Elk hunt sleeping bag...what would you do?

[huntsman22]

I use, and like, the Kifaru Slick Bag.......

might not be as compact as down, but dang sure bombproof..... Also use a surplus bivy as a cover to keep the dogs from soaking it....

 

[Longshotjames]

Where exactly in Colorado are you hoping or planning to hunt? Are you using an outfitter for your base camp, etc. or DIY? Will you be sleeping on cots at base camp? Will this be a once in a lifetime hunt or are you just getting into elk hunting? What max elevation do you expect to hunt? If you pack it to the high country will this be on your back or the back of a horse?

Asking specific questions because I live at 9200 feet and hunt elk from the first day of archery until the last day of private land cow season which is January 31st. The rest of the year I am scouting elk from 6000 feet to 12,000 feet. After hunting/scouting elk this way every year for 34 years, I truly have been there and done that as have many people who live for elk hunting! lol Your bag may not be as important as your pad or boots.

Comment here or PM me. I am sure many others will be happy to assist as well.

YES to most of those things....HA Ive hunted 6 seasons and taken at least one elk out of the woods on all of them but 1. I typically DIY around Pagosa or Creede at elevations from 7-11K,. In basecamp I sleep on a cot and love coming in from a long cold day and crawling into a warm sleeping bag! I mainly pack in by foot but have also taken a 4whlr and could do horse, goats or llama in the future for extended stay in the high country. So I want to be prepared for ant of those scenarios mentioned.

I already have very light, small, 10deg bag for spike camping by foot.
Great Questions
James

 

[adk hunter]

I use, and like, the Kifaru Slick Bag.......

might not be as compact as down, but dang sure bombproof..... Also use a surplus bivy as a cover to keep the dogs from soaking it....

I want to be your dog!! Good times...

 

[ahlgringo]

For all that you have mentioned- you don't really need a -30 bag- that stuff is for alpine mountaineering. Get a WM Kodiak 0 or the equivalent FF, pair it with a high r value pad and you will be golden- promise. One of the best purchases I have made, I have hunted all over CO and in Dec/Jan- never needed (or wanted) more.

 

[Reelamin]

Western Mountaineering. Off the hook quality American Made.

Sleeping Bags Specification Chart – Western Mountaineering

www.westernmountaineering.com

 

[KS2506]

I have an Eddie Bauer bag that was the best they made in the 70's. Slept in it in my shorts at 15 below in New Mexico and around zero several other times. Have not used it in years. Contact me at [email protected] or 620 598 2465. Will make you a great deal.

 

[Bigwilly556]

In my experience a -20 bag means you won't freeze to death at the specific temperature rating. I'm all about bomb proof gear. I have a wiggys -20 Ultima Thule. It's a bit heavy and big but I love my sleep and I feel toasty down to 0. They have several on sale right now for $150 with options on size, foot box and zipper options.

 

[Ts3]

I own two WM and one FF. Mine are for warmer temps but the quality is what you pay for. Like buying good glass.

 

[RUFFIAN R - NY]

a down mummy bag is super but don't get it wet- and needs to be aired out during the day if possible. Used mine out west Montana , Utah, Idaho, wyoming up all arounds Canada alberta, NWT, Yukon, made some 5 trips into Alaska and still going strong. Just get a good ground cloth I also use a liner and a outer wrap cover in real cold conditions. ( I also like HOTELS )

 

[Reelamin]

For all that you have mentioned- you don't really need a -30 bag- that stuff is for alpine mountaineering. Get a WM Kodiak 0 or the equivalent FF, pair it with a high r value pad and you will be golden- promise. One of the best purchases I have made, I have hunted all over CO and in Dec/Jan- never needed (or wanted) more.

I good air pad is critical, and there are different insulation levels. It makes a HUGE difference even at base camp to put even just a folded blanket over the pad. Use a inflation sack or pump.....your breath will put a huge amount of moisture (mold/stink) in an air pad. Like a good DOWN....LOVE ME SOME DOWN bag the good pads are stupid expensive...around $200. Therma rest Neoair is quality gear IMO.

 

[epoletna]

Have you considered a buffalo robe? It worked for the mountain men before sleeping bags were invented.

 

[huntercole]

I've had an outdoor vitals 0 degree down bag for several years that's done well. It's been good down into the teens for me and I get cold easy. Well below your budget also. The current ones are even nicer than the version I have.

 

[ajkellerusmc]

I would stay away from the mummy bags because there is no room at the feet and they make me feel cramped. Might be OK if you have skinny boy legs.

 

[skipglo]

down bag and a liner for over the top

That would be a cover....a liner goes INSIDE!