• Watch Out for Scammers!

    We've now added a color code for all accounts. Orange accounts are new members, Blue are full members, and Green are Supporters. If you get a message about a sale from an orange account, make sure you pay attention before sending any money!

What pack is everybody running?

krg648

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Apr 2, 2011
291
0
45
NJ
I'm looking for a 3 day pack and want some ideas. Something big enough to fit what I need but not overly big. Any thoughts?
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

What do you need to fit that would be enough, but not overly big? Are you stashing gun gear in there? Field gear? Emergency supplies? How much gear?
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

go eberlestock, hit up ceylon here on the hide he will answer all your questions and sort you out
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Kifaru Express. Kifaru has sponsored many big matches this year.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Quickdraw40</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Kifaru Express. Kifaru has sponsored many big matches this year. </div></div>


What he said!
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Kifaru Zulu xtl - Shrinks down small with the compression straps, but can carry a ton of gear if you need it. Minimal more weight than the molle express, and the fit and load bearing capacity of the kifaru's is first rate. I run one with the carbon stays, and it has never let me down.

I've carried 100-120lb loads for some pretty good hauls with it, including 80lbs of firewood with my 30 lbs of gear. You can also fit a 5 gallon bucket (full of road base) inside the pack, should said stupidity be required.

Plus, they have sponsored some big matches, and supported the shooting community for a long time.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

I have Kifaru, Mystery Ranch, Gossamer, Maxpedition, etc. I can't recommend them without more information that is gear specific. Do you need MOLLE to add external cubic inches? Do you need a frame? Frameless? Weight considerations? Weight distribution considerations?

Gossamer makes an awesome pack for hikes but it would instantly fall apart with any rough use because it's ultralight. My Kifaru Maurauder stores a ton of my med gear because internal MOLLE allows a ton of organization with pods but the pack is almost 10lbs empty which is excessive without a true frame. My Bighorn from Mystery Ranch is awesome for general gear use but it lacks modularity and quick access because it's a topload that can split open, but you need to unbuckle a big flap to get it to open up wide, making a mess if you pack gear like Tetris blocks.

I can vouch for Mystery Ranch customer service. Once I had an extensive med kit stowed where a scalpel sheath slid back, exposing the blade. it slit my pack wide open and Mystery Ranch repaired it for free, despite it being obvious operator error.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

I'm using an Eagle. I've been pretty hard on it, used it alot, and it's held up really well. It's built well and seems to hold up.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Nothing compared to Mystery Ranch in terms of quality build, great design, and top notch materials. I have a pack built by them (back when it was DANA Designes) that I bought in 1993. I've used it extensively for years and it is still going strong. The most comfortable load hauler I've ever used, and I've used bunches. They are costly, but, build in the USA and they will outlast any and all of the stuff sold by the popular name brands (built over seas).
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

need to be able to carry min 40rounds of ammo, 2 mags, rear bag, wind meter, binos, tools, data book, range finder and a few other misc items. Also going to use the pack to as a rest at times.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

I like my Eberlestock, very comfortable, but I wish I knew about Mystery Ranch before I bought.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Best $30 i've ever spent. I bought one to try it out. I just ordered 2 more. Of coarse there are better ones out there, but for the price you will be extremely impressed. Especially for a bug out type bag. A bag that will be packed and put in a closet and hopefully never used (to bug out). Doesn't make sense to me to buy an more expensive bag for that purpose. The webbing allows you to add what ever suits your needs.

http://www.lapolicegear.com/diplomat-3-day-backpack1.html

 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

For three day trips and more I use a Lowe alpine pack I have found that most there packs are build for climming and mountaineering . If I need it to be camo I just throw a backpack cover other it.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Thanks for the feedback guys. Gonna look them up now.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Several good choices out there. I'm partial to Eberlestock, especially the X3 LoDrag & Gunslinger II, but both Kifaru and Mystery Ranch have some very worthy offerings too. I think 90% of the decision comes down to what YOU want the pack to do. Eberlestock is in a class by itself when it comes to running a pack and weapon system, but both MR and Kifaru build tremendous packs, especially if you're not looking for a scabbard style pack.

Bottom line, tell us what gear you're running & how you want to run it. We can help narrow down your options from there...

Best of luck,

Ceylon
deltaoutdoorsman.com
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

I just looked them all up and think i'm going to go with the Eberlestock G1 Little Brother pack. I need to be able to carry min 40rounds of ammo, 2 mags, rear bag, wind meter, binos, tools, data book, range finder, rain gear, mre's and a few other misc items. Also going to use the pack to as a rest at times. I don't think I would use the scabbard enough to go with the gunslinger but I could always add it to the G1 if I wanted to in the future, plus the size of the G1 looks like it will fit my needs better.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: krg648</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I just looked them all up and think i'm going to go with the Eberlestock G1 Little Brother pack. I need to be able to carry min 40rounds of ammo, 2 mags, rear bag, wind meter, binos, tools, data book, range finder, rain gear, mre's and a few other misc items. Also going to use the pack to as a rest at times. I don't think I would use the scabbard enough to go with the gunslinger but I could always add it to the G1 if I wanted to in the future, plus the size of the G1 looks like it will fit my needs better. </div></div>
The G1 is a good pack, but talk to me before you spend your hard earned $$ on one. It meets a narrow niche well, but there are other options out there that you ought to at least consider first. First, if you're going to do ANY kind of distance hiking/movement with a load OR are going to have a load that would benefit from tHe pack having a frame sheet, then you may be want to look at 1-2 other offering from Eberlestock first.

Regardless, you're looking at some great gear that will fulfill 99% of the applications out there. You're going to be happy with your final decision.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

TAG Sniper Pack is excellent! Plenty of room, while remaining relatively simple. I carried it in Afghanistan and could carry enough water and chow to last in a 3 day hide, along with a radio, extra batteries, and other miscellaneous items. It is small enough so that it does not impede movement and is not bulky. It has 2 seperate zippered compartments.

Excellet pack, but pricey. Take a look.

http://www.tacticalassaultgearstore.com/sniperpack.aspx
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Depends on how much you want to spend on the pack. VooDoo Tactical Packs are not bad and reasonably priced
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Look at the offerings from Kifaru. The X-Ray is excellent. Each one is made to order and not cheap. It is made to last a lifetime. Watch the forum for sale section and what you want will pop up eventually, otherwise its a wait. http://www.kifaruforums.net/forum.php

Mystery Ranch and Eberlestock are top picks also. Voodoo Tactical? I got one as a present once and it almost made it without ripping a zip on the trip from the garage to the truck on its first outing....
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Why three days if no bivvy / overnight or survival type gear listed that you plan to carry?

I run one of these as my main training pack;

http://www.tacticaltailor.com/packs_bags/packs/removable-operator-pack

With TT pouches on each side and one on the main body. Plenty room for day of training off the path. Mine will hold everything you listed plus Bushnell Excursion spotter with tripod and small first aid / tool kit in one of the pouches. Three days? I would have to chisel on the rock some and work out the kit to get three days but it is possible, not comfy possible but possible with the right kit.

I also run Camelback Mother Load. Its just a copy of Greg Lowes design from 1978 that every pack company has copied but the design is why it is copied. Not real weatherproof with the top zipper even with a flap in rain but snow its OK. It sits now half full in the closet and if I ever get to it, probably make it a survival bug in / out bag.

This is my favorite pack that I used guiding, I have had three since 1986 from off the shelf to a custom one-off stitched by the founder of WT John Bouchard.

http://www.wildthingsgear.com/wt-tactical/products/packs-equipment/andinista-pack.html

Its a very unique design. both zippers on the side zipped together for 1800ci day pack, one side zipped and it 3500ci and open 5000ci. I used mine for day trips to month long trips guiding and playing carrying over 100 pounds.

Tip. I place on my kit on the floor. Decide what is do-not-need, necessary and then keep going through it to what is absolutely necessary and then find kit that can double up for other uses. When I gave my classes on packing, it is amazing what users carry thinking they need. I use to do 3 day summer trips in Alaska with 12 pounds of gear to include the weight of the pack.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

I have a Mystery Ranch 3-Day Assault and a Crew Cab. I love them both and the quality is excellent. The Crew Cab gives you a lot of options as far as how big or how small you want to go.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Maybe 3 day was the wrong wording, maybe more along the lines of an assault pack. I'm LE and am going to be taking a few snipers courses my department is sending me to. I need the pack for the classes and will also use it as a range bag while just out shooting. I really just need it to carry my gear for the day along with some mre's/power bar type foods. I will also add the shooting rest to the pack as we will be doing some shooting off the packs from over the top over cars hoods/trunks. I will be doing PT with the pack on while hand carrying the rifle so I'm looking at this as a minimalist angle also.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

LA Police Gear's $29.99 3 day pack. Been running one in comps for years now....

I am very interested in Voodoo Tactical's Mini-Matrix. I've seen one, but they aren't on the market yet.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: krg648</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Maybe 3 day was the wrong wording, maybe more along the lines of an assault pack. I'm LE and am going to be taking a few snipers courses my department is sending me to. I need the pack for the classes and will also use it as a range bag while just out shooting. I really just need it to carry my gear for the day along with some mre's/power bar type foods. I will also add the shooting rest to the pack as we will be doing some shooting off the packs from over the top over cars hoods/trunks. I will be doing PT with the pack on while hand carrying the rifle so I'm looking at this as a minimalist angle also. </div></div>
Have you looked at the Eberlestock X4 HiSpeed? That pack would work VERY well within the applications you describe. Moreover, the harness system with waist belt is much more adjustable, comfortable & robust than any other minimalist pack out there. That could make a big difference since you're going to be hand carrying your rifle...
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

I like the scabbard in the X3, but the plastic 'D' rings in the shoulder straps are stupid, because if you have to carry anything on your shoulders, they become 'dies' that crush 'D' shapes into your traps. Lack of a frame also is kinda bad, considering it's not exactly light. But for carrying a rifle and some basic gear, it is a very nice pack, my favorite.

The kifaru's I have, while excelling at everything that the X3 is bad at (heavy loads, frame, etc) suffer from being able to carry a rifle stowed nicely. You can lash it to the pack, with enough straps it will work, but it's just not easy. The kifaru gunbearers are fine if you are hunting, but if you are trying to cover ground, all that garbage on your shoulder strap and hip is just in the way. It does not work, I don't care what marketing says.

A kifaru with an internal, lightweight scabbard would be the golden configuration... Until then, the nicest tactical rifle pack with scabbard I've used is the elberstock X3, and the best all around heavy load, crazy stuff, OMGWTFBBBQ pack is kifaru.

I've carried loads so heavy with the kifaru I had to empty out the pack, put the pack over the load to be carried, kick the load over, crawl into the straps/waistbelt, then crawl over to a tree to pull myself up on my feet. Amazing suspension, but lacking in pockets and scabbard.

Both might be overkill for your intended use.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

I have an Eberlestock Terminator (purchased from Ceylon, BTW) that I'm very happy with. I don't think you can go wrong with anything in the Eberlestock line-up. That being said, if budget was not a limiting factor I'd definitely be rocking a Mystery Ranch pack (one with a NICE frame would be my choice).
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

For a smaller 3-day pack I just bought a Spec Ops Brand T.H.E. pack and have been happy with it so far. It has the ability to put a pack stiffener in it to make it semi-rigid. It's molle compatible so you can add/subtract whatever you want. I bought a coyote color. Oh, and their construction is bombproof. This camo pattern is even half off right now:

http://www.specopsbrand.com/tactical-gea...esert-camo.html
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Eberlestock X2 because I can carry my spotting scope with tripod attached ready to quickly deploy, plus shooting sticks or a shooting tripod rest. Hydration bladders on the sides without shooting gear if just hiking. Attach a side scabbard for hands free rifle carry. Etc...etc...in a fairly compact package.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Hill people gear Tarahumara Pack gets me though the day shooting the raton sporting rifles match. Its light, comfortable and gear can be easily accessed. I used eagle creek pack-it to further organize things inside the pack.

Another nice pack is the clik elite venture 30 its a outdoor photo pack that has 2 main compartments and dividers in the lower to put ammo, range finder, pda, rear bag, etc.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

I've carried the kifaru xray (internal frame) on some 48 hour excursions, (kifaru calls it a 2 day assault pack), i had mre's , 2 3L camel backs, 300 rounds of 7.62, a bivy sack, woobie and some misc items. The pack has stood up to some rough field use/abuse and carries weight nicely. its pricey but in my opinion worth it.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

I have many of those listed above.

The S.O.C. is pretty sweet and is a personal favorite. I actually use it for school (because of all the nooks and pockets for school supplies. I have used it though at a couple of matches when I didn't need all that my Eberlestock (Gunslinger or X3; can't remember) could carry. It's been great and through 2 deployments, a dozen or so trips to the range and getting thrashed at school, the only thing that's given up on it is one of the plastic loops on the shoulder strap (got that fixed with one stop to the local "tactical" supply store).

The X3/Gunslinger, I'm considering selling as I just don't use it any longer (especially since I've got the Shotgun Scabbard for it too). For my bolt rifle stuff, I'm now using a Red Rock Tactical assault pack that I picked up two of on a group buy here. I added a mag carrier & Nalgene bottle carrier to one side and another mag carrier as well as a carrier for my Kestrel on the other. Works well so far. I wouldn't take it to Allegheny as there I'd want to pack more gear (used the Eberlestock at that match) but for local matches and matches where bad weather is less of a concern, I think it's perfect. The main compartment is good for ammo, snacks and data book. Second compartment I put tools. Lower front pocket is glasses and hearing pro. Top pocket is cell phone and so forth. Has a pouch for a water bladder (who doesn't these days). I've used it as a carry on to for small trips with the Mrs. Great for holding reading material, reservations and all the small junk that you want to have on hand without being a big pack.

Kifaru is probably the gold standard and depending on your budget, go for it. However, don't rule out going cheap either with brands like Condor (I'm sure I'll get shredded for that). Let's face it. You're not going to beat the living hell out of the gear (most likely) and frankly, I've seen the expensive stuff give out just as fast as the cheap stuff.

Rich
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

It's been stated before its all about what you want.
if you want a daily carry pack 5.11 rush 24 or a T.A.D. EDC pack is great.

if you mainly want to carry a rifle but no loads the eberlestock packs are great
Say you are going to walk and shoot for the next 6 hours with shooting gear only
Thats what the packs live for. Even the big ones i have a G4, a gunslinger and a destroyer. They aren't great haulers.

The Nice frame from Mystery ranch is the most versatile thing you can get
i have 3 bags for the Nice frame a Mountain Ruck, a 7500 BVS, and a crew cab.
they are all decent bags to big for EDC but wear well.
not a lot of options for caring a weapon either.
very well designed packs though very smart layouts and features.

As its been said the gold standard is Kifaru if you want to carry disgusting loads or have a pack that is uber comfortable Kifaru is the only choice
an Express or x-ray are smaller for EDC and still bomb proof.

Despite others comments. I like the kifaru gun bearer. Kifaru has 2 to models one is for accessing a firearm quickly its a little cheesy. but the second model carries a rifle on the side of the pack and holds it snug. It's not as quick as an eberlestock, but you don't have a chunk of iron riding directly next yo your spine either.

something more discreet look into arcyterex or osprey very nice packs that are not quite so covered in molle or camouflage.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

I run a mystery ranch Crewcab and its an awesome pack. I am going to try out an ebrlestock gunslinger 2 because i want the option of carrying my rifle in my pack and getting it out when need be.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Hey Knabstrupper, you're over your PM limit but if you want to check my Gunslinger II out just let me know. I have four packs that I can use for competitions and general purpose use and keep coming back to the GS II. I like the organization of the pockets, the layout, and versatility of the pack.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

Friend of mine has the GS2 so i'm going to check that one out and see how it is, hopefully make up my mind from there. Thanks for all the input guys.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

+1. I'm using a Gunslinger 2 as my bugout bag. Never leaves the back seat of my truck. I've humped it a few times and it rides nice. Comfortable and easy to access. The other pack that I have and love is my Camelback BFM. Been using it every day on the job for over two years and it's still going strong.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

I have a Kifaru Express and a Marauder. They are both excellent and serve me well in field competitions. Kifaru is also a long time supporter of extreme shooting sports and actually listens to the competitors and adjusts products accordingly. This stated, I have used a Mystery Ranch pack back country Elk hunting and it performed well.

On a related note, SRSDriver (aka Murph), knows what the hell he is talking about and is pretty much an adventure racing badass; when he talks about packs, we should listen...

Here is an interview with him and his partner after the 24 Hour Sniper Adventure Challenge, they took second overall:

<object width="425" height="350"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/NawJlQ2BzGM&feature=player_detailpage"></param> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/NawJlQ2BzGM&feature=player_detailpage" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"> </embed></object>
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

If only I could shoot better!

That race we had a kifaru and an X3, average pack weight of about 45-48#, carrying a lot of water due to the heat.
 
Re: What pack is everybody running?

For the price, the LA Police Gear 3 Day Backpack is hard to beat. There are definitely better quality packs available but at a much higher price point. At $30, it makes a great gear/bug out/whatever pack.