Internal frame or external frame pack for elk hunting?

[Hess]

I absolutely love my Mystery Ranch pack.  I couldn't imagine using anything else IMO.

[Cootling]

I've always used pack frames for packing meat and my preference was solidified a couple of years ago.  Carried a mule deer 6 miles in an Eberlestock before stashing it in a tree.  Came back in the morning with a Kelty external frame pack to finish the job (3 more miles).  I really, really, really prefer the external frame!

With that said, I'm not about to carry a frame pack while hunting and I like being able to carry out the first load on my way out to get a frame.  Haven't found the right pack yet, though.  My Eberlestock is unnecessarily heavy.  Don't like the fabric of my Badlands pack (loud and stiff in cold weather) and I don't think it will survive more than 1 or 2 heavy loads.  Don't relish the idea of spending even more than I spent on the packs I have.  I'm starting to think a mountaineering pack with a lightweight homemade cover might be the way to go.

[neargeezer]

An internal frame and keep that weight close to my body, we all are a little different. You might try loading up your internal with a sand bag or two and then try you sons, I think it was, external and see which is to your liking.

I just ordered one of Kifaru's new ultra light packs and am hoping it will be the "One".

Terry K.

[jhg]

Eberlestock X2. Best of both worlds.

This pack has an external frame that seems almost a part of the pack its so well designed.

Joshua

[FerretWYO]

As some have said we are all a little different. I have been a badlands fan for a long time. I also have an alaskan outfitter. I have a 2200 that has packed a lot of game. A friend of mine recently got a Badlands Ox. I was very impressed with its comfort and usability. Whip was there to help me out and answer my questions and the the pack on the way. I love it. It had some small noise issues but all were easy fixes. I wore it every day this year hunting elk and Mule Deer.

 

 


There are a lot of great packs out there. I advise you to try as many as you can before buying one. One may fit me and 20 others bbut may not fit you. You could be bound to that thiing 14 hours a day for however long your hunt is. Get the right one. There is nothing wrong with an internal frame. As Whip said though and I couttion the same thing. Have a pack that you can use as a Day pack, and still carry something out on. You want to make every step count when you have an elk down.

[eagleone]

wow- that badlands ox looks really sweet

[Bernie B.]

Thanks for all the great information guys!  I'll sift through all of this.  Nice pictures Ferret.  I really appreciate all of your comments!

Bernie Bjorklund

NC Iowa/SW Wisconsin

48# Spirit longbow
45# Martin Hunter recurve

[ScottinPA]

I've been batting around the same thing.  Right now I'm leaning toward the MR.  Like was said here it seems to be the best of both worlds.  I do like the looks of the Ox though.  IMO anything beats the GI ruck I've been using for training.  Anything above 40-50lbs gets uncomfortable.

Just my $.02

[TDHunter]

Nothing carriers weight like a good quality external frame pack. I've always loved the idea of an internal but I've tried a bunch and they just do not carry the weight like an external pack.

If you plan on carry heavy loads get one with a good suspension system.