how big a bag?

[-snypershot317-]

how big of a bag does one need to pack out a large size deer, elk, or pronghorn? Just wondering because i have a couple packs, one being a small day pack, and the other a medium size back pack. I ask because i really dont wanna drag a deer out of the deep woods and would rather pack it out...any suggestions?    

[Mr.Magoo]

I use the large ALICE pack I carried in the Army and it's plenty for deer (and I suspect pronghorn).  A elk would probably be a couple of trips (it's probably a few trips with anything unless you're the Hulk).

[Blackhawk]

I bought a Camp Trails Freighter pack frame over 30 years ago, and it's still getting the job done.  They are strong and comfortable, and you can buy a bag to fit it if that's your option.  BTW, getting any critter out in a pack in one trip would be a challenge.

When packing, I use the old mountain man method with the use of 2 packs.  Load both packs and pack one until tired.  Return for the other and overlap your first.  With this method, you are getting the job done without "killing" yourself.

[elkken]

You will not be getting an elk out in the same bag as a deer or antelope ... boning them out a deer fills a big size single compartment day or back pack. Like Lon I always preferred a freightliner style pack because it was easier to secure the load, at least for elk.  

For elk, one man will need four full loads at least unless you shot a small elk ...

[Trumpkin the Dwarf]

Originally posted by elkken:

For elk, one man will need four full loads at least unless you shot a small elk ...

I watched my uncle pack a fully boned out cow elk in one trip once...his pack weighed about 130 lbs though, and it was not a monster cow. That said, elk are a whole different deal than deer/antelope and packing them requires a good frame in the pack, whether internal or external.

[joe ashton]

the first bull elk I shot took 5 trips to pack it out. I did not bone it out. I