Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

[L3IRQ]

Hey guys, so I am in the market for something bigger than my current pack that will double for hiking and hunting duty. I've only owned internal frame packs besides a terrible alice I had, and was hoping to get some advice from current owners. I'm only looking at what I can find locally for sale since I don't want to order something without trying it on first, so no Kifaru for me right now unfortunately, however I have found an Arcteryx Tango (internal frame) for sale locally, as well as a Mystery Ranch Tactiplane (internal frame) Mystery ranch Nice 6500 (nice frame) and oddly enough one of the new FILBE packs.

Can't really load any of them up before I buy unfortunately so I don't know what it will feel like full, but if anyone here has any experience with these I would greatly appreciate it. I'm currently leaning towards internal frame as balance is key for me considering the terrain where I hunt and I've felt off balance more with external frame packs in general, although I have heard great things about mystery ranch externals. Ideally I would like to be able to haul about 90-100 pounds out at a time, up to 120 on rare occasions. Also I know this may sound silly, but due to the size of my upper arms and chest I've found that certain straps get REALLY uncomfortable REALLY fast with heavy loads, I know the mystery cinch is designed for body armor but do you think it would possible help keep the straps in position for me as well? Thanks for any guidance!

 

[George63]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

pretty hard for someone else to tell you from a distance what pack will work for you, but if gregory still makes the denalli that may be one to try

you are really limiting yourself if unwilling to mail order

best option for more comfort is less weight, I hike mid winter, with snowshoes - starting skin out weight with food for 7 days 42lbs

 

[L3IRQ]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: George63</div><div class="ubbcode-body">pretty hard for someone else to tell you from a distance what pack will work for you, but if gregory still makes the denalli that may be one to try

you are really limiting yourself if unwilling to mail order

best option for more comfort is less weight, I hike mid winter, with snowshoes - starting skin out weight with food for 7 days 42lbs </div></div>

If I did mail order what would you suggest? REI supposedly carries the denali so I will go check it out tomorrow.

 

[George63]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

It is rare for people to want that kind of weight category in a pack so almost for sure REI will not stock it in store, but every purchase from rei is fully returnable - forever
if they have any gregory packs in stock you can try them for sizing

also packs that will last carrying that kind of load will need to be broken in/ formed to you - the belt/ shoulder padding is much stiffer than what is appropriate for lighter packs

 

[45.308]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

I will second its hard to get a recommendation for a pack from the internet just like it is for boots but the Gregory Denali is the pack for carrying heavy loads and over sized loads. It really is that much better than its competition.

I would not recommend or use an Arcteryx. While their clothing is debatable as being top shelf, in my usage time their packs are not close.

Mystery Ranch Danas carry well. I believe they are over built and heavy.

Osprey is another superb pack for the coin if you can find one in your AO. REI does sell them.

Load them up? This should be done at time of purchase. I used sacks of sand and large water jug. A good pack fitter is a must but really the pack should fit your body as close to ideal first, then adjust it for perfect fit. Little things like stap angles, how tight should the straps be, where the waist belt rides, how the frame fits your back, etc.

Next comes how to load a pack. Sounds simple but most users really do not load packs correctly for optimum carry performance.

If you are going to carry that much weight, I would really seek out a Gregory Denali.

 

[Stubb]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: L3IRQ</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Ideally I would like to be able to haul about 90-100 pounds out at a time, up to 120 on rare occasions.</div></div>

A rule of thumb for packs is that the pack should weigh ~10% of the load. So for a total of 100 lb, the pack should constitute ~10 lb. I'd suggest looking at the Mystery Ranch NICE packs for toting that kind of weight. It's a heavy frame to which you can attach different sized packs and accessories. Many are set up so that you can sandwich the heavy load between the pack and the frame.

The stuff you'll find at REI isn't intended for carrying those kind of weights comfortably. They're more geared toward low-density loads. I've hiked with a pack loaded beyond its limitations, and it wasn't much fun.

—Andreas

 

[9H_Cracka]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

MR NICE Crewcab. Go watch their vids. It is designed to be able to haul in your spike camp, be your hunting day pack with emergency overnight stuff in it, then your sling for packing out the meat. While not a "gun pack" per se it is very easy to strap a rifle or bow on the side of it.

Its capacity is not limited by the pack - it is limited by the user. MR told me stories of the Crewcab being loaded with 250 lbs of stuff then dragged for miles because it was too heavy to lift.

 

[O_W]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

I have not used the Gregory Denali but I do have and use the Robson Pro which is just slightly smaller and lighter than the denali. same frame, suspension, etc. It is as awesome as the reviews say. you can load that thing down as much as you want and it carries like a dream. If you have the cash - buy the denali and never look back!

Osprey is another good option too.

 

[SPAK]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

I know its not one you listed but I've been happy with my kuiu icon 7000. They have a 60day return policy as well... Most I've loaded it so far was 75lbs and it rode very well.... Haven't had the chance to load it heavier but I know some folks who have gone as high as 150lbs.... Needless to say it wasn't fun but the pack didn't break...

Kuiu.com

 

[Armed Ferret]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Frogman77</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I know its not one you listed but I've been happy with my kuiu icon 7000. They have a 60day return policy as well... Most I've loaded it so far was 75lbs and it rode very well.... Haven't had the chance to load it heavier but I know some folks who have gone as high as 150lbs.... Needless to say it wasn't fun but the pack didn't break...

Kuiu.com</div></div>

Kuiu's moving overseas for production though. Plenty of options that are still made here.

I've been able to try a few different MR pack styles out here, and have to say I'm HUGELY impressed over my Eberlestock Gunslinger (the original, bought off the hide actually before my '09 deployment).

I foresee Mystery Ranch in my hunting future.

 

[pcweidman]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

EBERLESTOCK ONLY!! Unless you need a more "arctic" type bag with fancy North Face and climber color schemes. For a shooter/hunter that hunts adventure style that hikes to a kill its MONEY! I try not to Polaris wherever i go. Seems like cheating.....

 

[Armed Ferret]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pcweidman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">EBERLESTOCK ONLY!! Unless you need a more "arctic" type bag with fancy North Face and climber color schemes. For a shooter/hunter that hunts adventure style that hikes to a kill its MONEY! I try not to Polaris wherever i go. Seems like cheating.....</div></div>


Which models in the Eberlestock lineup offer the ability to function as a load hauler as well as a daypack?

I'm not familiar with their current lineup, hence my asking.

 

[pcweidman]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

Yeah bro they really are the most impressive setup I have come across as far as zipper quality, nylon quality, layout, and gun toting ability. The gun travels next to your body on your back to keep center of gravity center which means less energy spent for you. The good thing about them speaking of load size is up to you. They have a huge line up. I have a gunslinger 2 and I have hunted the cumberland mts in TN primitive for hogs for 3 days out of one. They go all the way up to operator style which is the same exact pack Recon used in the sandbox wars. Click on the packs and watch their videos. The owner is a sharp guy and gives good advise. They even have a more tame version in their hunting bags that offer a more traditional camo. I purchased their UniCam and pack a 26 inch barrel Accuracy International 300wm as well as Remington .308 compact tactical in it. I have put AK's and my FN SLP MKI in it for different hunts. I have hunted hogs in Cali, AL, TN, MI, and NC and that cam works across the board. Great product

http://www.eberlestock.com/Tactical%20Master.htm

 

[pcweidman]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

PS look at the Volume/CI they offer on every pack and you will get an idea of its expanded capacity. The Operator is HUGE! They actually show what I think is a Marine in what looks like Afghanistan using it. Pretty huge sh*t. Good luck!

 

[ryanjay11]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Armed Ferret</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Frogman77</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I know its not one you listed but I've been happy with my kuiu icon 7000. They have a 60day return policy as well... Most I've loaded it so far was 75lbs and it rode very well.... Haven't had the chance to load it heavier but I know some folks who have gone as high as 150lbs.... Needless to say it wasn't fun but the pack didn't break...

Kuiu.com</div></div>

Kuiu's moving overseas for production though. Plenty of options that are still made here.

I've been able to try a few different MR pack styles out here, and have to say I'm HUGELY impressed over my Eberlestock Gunslinger (the original, bought off the hide actually before my '09 deployment).

I foresee Mystery Ranch in my hunting future. </div></div>

Mystery Ranch and Kifaru both make great packs. I have several pieces of pre-China Kuiu gear that are high quality. I hope they last because I doubt I buy more.

You should know that Eberlestock is also made in China. USA made pricing and its made in China.

 

[jbailey]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

Kifaru will take any piece of gear they make back up to 30days after the order arrives, so you do have some coverage from the "bought something crappy without seeing it" risk.

They make a really nice pack.

 

[BIGGLEE0351]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

Mystery Ranch

 

[Fisky]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Armed Ferret</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pcweidman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">EBERLESTOCK ONLY!! Unless you need a more "arctic" type bag with fancy North Face and climber color schemes. For a shooter/hunter that hunts adventure style that hikes to a kill its MONEY! I try not to Polaris wherever i go. Seems like cheating.....</div></div>


Which models in the Eberlestock lineup offer the ability to function as a load hauler as well as a daypack?

I'm not familiar with their current lineup, hence my asking. </div></div>

While I don't share the "EBERLESTOCK ONLY" mentality, The "Just One" series work OK for what you're asking. I've had my Blue Widow on two spike in trips so far, as well as a number of other hunts, from hauling rifles to strapping big ground blinds to the outside of it chasing antelope. I've carried all gear needed for two nights with no problem. One trip the pack was about 50lbs, the second trip was 45. I use the Eberlestock spike duffel in it as well. The video on their site can show the versatility of the pack much better than I can. Once in, it can be converted to a day pack with little effort.

 

[batarrier]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

mystery ranch for sure!

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

My vote is for the MR Crewcab. I just got one and took it Elk hunting. I didn't get an Elk this time, so it had little weight in it but it was very comfortable to wear with the 20lbs or so I had in it. A very nice feature is that its so compact when your not carrying a load. By the way, I ran the Kifaru Gun Bearer on it to carry my rifle while using my hands for other things.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

Check out this thread, where I was puzzeling over essentially a similar decision. I got really sold on the durability of the MR pack, I also wanted something made in the USA.

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthre...113#Post3595113

Carrying a man in the pack as a stress test seems to be a pretty strong recommendation for its durability...

 

[Armed Ferret]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pcweidman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Yeah bro they really are the most impressive setup I have come across as far as zipper quality, nylon quality, layout, and gun toting ability. The gun travels next to your body on your back to keep center of gravity center which means less energy spent for you. The good thing about them speaking of load size is up to you. They have a huge line up. I have a gunslinger 2 and I have hunted the cumberland mts in TN primitive for hogs for 3 days out of one. They go all the way up to operator style which is the same exact pack Recon used in the sandbox wars. Click on the packs and watch their videos. The owner is a sharp guy and gives good advise. They even have a more tame version in their hunting bags that offer a more traditional camo. I purchased their UniCam and pack a 26 inch barrel Accuracy International 300wm as well as Remington .308 compact tactical in it. I have put AK's and my FN SLP MKI in it for different hunts. I have hunted hogs in Cali, AL, TN, MI, and NC and that cam works across the board. Great product

http://www.eberlestock.com/Tactical%20Master.htm</div></div>


"gun toting" != "load bearing"

can you carry a dead beast in your gun scabbard? cause my gunslinger sure as hell won't. Can't even fit my laptop in there for plane rides.

 

[HellsCanyonArmory]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

Not a fan of Eberlestock... they really top out around 60 lbs for comfortable packing. Get yourself a Kifaru/MR/Kuiu and don't look back. If you have a longer torso however you might not be very happy with the load lifters on the MR NICE frame.

Mike

 

[SPAK]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

I have an gen 1 sky crane which I absolutely love.. I used it packing out caribou and moose for quite a few years.. Never did put a whole moose quarter in it though. This year I was going to take it on a goat hunt and while I was training with heavy loads I put a 100lbs in the skycrane... 2 miles into my hike one of the shoulder clips broke loose.. I snapped it back in and walked for another 1/4 mile and it broke loose again... The pack rode well but pulled me backwards a little more than I liked once the weight was above 75lbs..I didn't have time to trouble shoot the pack and send it back in to Eberlestock.. I bought the kuiu icon 7000, saved a few pounds and I've been very happy with it for a mountain hunting pack..I will still keep the Eberlestock though. It's an awesome pack and for general use and moderate loads It will be my pack of choice... For up in the mountains I'm taking the kuiu.. Just my .02

 

[-=boone=-]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

For hunting I prefer Eberlestock packs. I hunt alone on public land where no vehicles are allowed. This forces me to use a cart to carry out my game. I love the ability in having my rifle tucked safely away in my pack. Slings absolutely suck for carry and rifle. My rifle stays put while I cart my game out of the mountains.

When carrying heavy loads, 150-200 pounds I use Duluth packs. While not Tacticool they hull serious weight. I currently have two of these packs that have survived 10+ years of hiking/canoe trips.

Can't comment on the other packs mentioned. Good luck in finding what you need.

 

[L3IRQ]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

Ended up buying a mystery ranch 6500, I had my wife stand in it and I could actually walk around comfortably with her in the bag which I thought was pretty impressive. Never considered eberlestock as the suspension definitely leaves much to be desired. What ended up selling me on the mystery ranch was the load sling, seems like I could toss a whole bear on my back and carry it out with this thing.

 

[Armed Ferret]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: L3IRQ</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Ended up buying a mystery ranch 6500, I had my wife stand in it and I could actually walk around comfortably with her in the bag which I thought was pretty impressive. Never considered eberlestock as the suspension definitely leaves much to be desired. What ended up selling me on the mystery ranch was the load sling, seems like I could toss a whole bear on my back and carry it out with this thing.</div></div>

You're likely only limited by your own physical abilities; the pack is probably well capable.

ETA: One of our dismounted teams just got back about an hour ago, and stated they were using the load-bearing section of their crewcabs for a PLT-5, and the rest of the pack for provisions/clothing/etc....easily 100 pounds of gear, no issues or complaints from any of 'em.

 

[45.308]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

Why the Denali Pro is the premier pack for such loads.

Stiff hard waist belt for massive heavy loads, its not soft and wimpy that will collapse and roll under massive weight like the other packs. Hard plastic support inside the waist belt to keep its shape and support heavy loads on the hips.
Frame stays are bolted into the harness system. This gives control and support right onto the frame, no slippage or unequal support pressure points.
Can be compressed down for carry like an external for 5gal can of blazo, fire wood, moose 5th, whole sheep / goat / bou, etc.
Up on the hill where massive over sized loads are carried daily the Denali is 50% of the packs used.

No other pack on the market carries massive over-sized loads as well as the Denali Pro. Don't like the color, Krylon.

And is Made in the USA

Dana/MR, Eber, Kifaru, Kuiu, are great packs but their design limits them in support and comfort. Can there be videos, testimonials and paid endorsements, absolutely. Of all the packs I sold over the years, probably can count on a single hand those who did not like the Denali. Of course I am but one single voice but I have sold and used everything mentioned here and they all do not compare at heavy over-sized loads to the Denali for mountaineers and hunters.

It may be mountaineer based but for those who do not know, the klettersak was the first backpack and was designed in the Alps by mountaineers over 200 years ago, all military designed or used packs these days come right out that hippy climbers designs. Take every vendors 3 day assault type pack. This pack was designed by Greg Lowe in the late 70s and promoted by his brother Jeff for light fast climbs with easy to access and with little restrictions to body movement. Now its called an assault pack not an alpine pack. I bought my first one in 1981 and now everyone has Gregs design. Greg Lowe designed the first internal frame pack and his brother and cousin promoted them. Now every pack is a copy of his mountaineering design. The Lowe Expedition from the mid 70s is still considered by many in the know as the finest backpack every designed.

 

[Tactical]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

I understand you want to try before purchasing but I suggest Kifaru as one to try on and look at. The MMR would serve you well. 100lbs in that pack is nothing if you can handle it ( 100lbs is alot of load for most and I am way past too broken to carry that anymore)

If you are in California I would let you try my packs ( I dont have any financial interest in Kifaru or any pack but years ago I did some field testing for them and still have some packs) I have carried Kifaru in sevral badlands and never had a worry.

Kifaru never paid me a dime. Frank/Lowlight also loves Kifaru and he never took a dime from them either, so the claim of paid indorsements is not correct when talking of Kifaru.

If you are going to Shot Show, Kifaru normally sets up a place so you can try them on.

Lastly Kifaru mkaes them to fit the individual so they are to order.

I believe in Kifaru so much my daughter is about to go off to badlands for two years and I plann on purchasing one for her.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

OP - I think you will be really happy with the MR. Please either PM me or post here your review after a trip or two - as I would be very interested in the comparison between mine which doesn't have the sling vs. yours which does. I can always get the pack to go onto the frame (now that I have it) but didn't need the extra space - though I would have liked the sling combined with the crew cab pack

 

[pcweidman]

Re: Hunting/Hiking Pack? Arcteryx vs FILBE vs MR

I agree guys that all these packs are great packs. The problem with packs are that they are very subject to personal preference, body type, gear combo, how many days you are going to be out, how much sh*t you carry, AND THEN THE BIG QUESTION...How MANY packs to you wanna own or can afford. I like the ES because with the use of Molle I can strap a goat or sheep or boar to the bad boy and be done with it, even if I cant get it inside my Gunslinger II. Put it in a nylon waterproof bag and molle that bad boy to your pack. I dont want to and cant afford if I am already into my pack 3oo.00 to spend more. Period.