I'm thinking about doing the 24 hours sniper adventure challenge next year and possibly some other related competitions. My question is what kinds of packs is everyone using? I don't think I want to lug my pelican case for 30 miles lol. Any suggestions are welcome.
- Thread starter HawkDriver
- Start date
Re: Long gun pack questions.
If it makes any difference, I'm working with a Remmington 700 TWS .308 with 20" barrel and 10" suppressor.
If it makes any difference, I'm working with a Remmington 700 TWS .308 with 20" barrel and 10" suppressor.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
I'd take a close look at the Eberlestock packs that will carry your rifle in their pack scabbard. They should handle your 30" barrel/suppressor combo OK.
Personally I like the Dragonfly pack for its versatility but they do make lighter, smaller scabbard packs.
I'd take a close look at the Eberlestock packs that will carry your rifle in their pack scabbard. They should handle your 30" barrel/suppressor combo OK.
Personally I like the Dragonfly pack for its versatility but they do make lighter, smaller scabbard packs.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
I saw in a few after action reports from that event that mentioned that there were problems with certain packs that wouldn't allow you to take a seat quickly to rest a bit. Gotta go back and find out what pack that was talking about. I'm planning on attending that event too next year, so this question is one I was about to post
I saw in a few after action reports from that event that mentioned that there were problems with certain packs that wouldn't allow you to take a seat quickly to rest a bit. Gotta go back and find out what pack that was talking about. I'm planning on attending that event too next year, so this question is one I was about to post
Re: Long gun pack questions.
I've looked at the eberlestock pack/scabbard combo, it looks good but ill continue to read the AAR's. by chance does anyone have links to them? I figure that I'm going to need to start prepping now, this thing sounds intense. What is everyone doing to train?
I've looked at the eberlestock pack/scabbard combo, it looks good but ill continue to read the AAR's. by chance does anyone have links to them? I figure that I'm going to need to start prepping now, this thing sounds intense. What is everyone doing to train?
Re: Long gun pack questions.
I'd be interested in the AAR's as well. Though IIRC, I recall reading some abridged versions of competitors post even thoughts from a few of the 24hr+ comps years back.
Not sure what section of the Hide they'd be in now, as the forum's undergone several changes since then. Worth some digging though.
Has anyone had, or heard of much in the way of crown damage given that most of these packs are designed to run with the rifles stowed muzzle down? Such an issue comes to mind particularly when the sitting in the field aspect is mentioned.
I'd be interested in the AAR's as well. Though IIRC, I recall reading some abridged versions of competitors post even thoughts from a few of the 24hr+ comps years back.
Not sure what section of the Hide they'd be in now, as the forum's undergone several changes since then. Worth some digging though.
Has anyone had, or heard of much in the way of crown damage given that most of these packs are designed to run with the rifles stowed muzzle down? Such an issue comes to mind particularly when the sitting in the field aspect is mentioned.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
I'm pretty sure I just fell in love with the Eberlestock G3 Phantom. Crown damage is something that I didn't even think about. I'll be traveling with a suppressor and I never thought about it getting damaged in the pack.
I'm pretty sure I just fell in love with the Eberlestock G3 Phantom. Crown damage is something that I didn't even think about. I'll be traveling with a suppressor and I never thought about it getting damaged in the pack.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
Check this link, its where I found links to the AARs.... http://competition-dynamics.com/24-hour-sniper-adventure-challenge-2012/
I live about 45 minutes from Sniper Country, so I really have no excuse not to do it. YIKES!
Check this link, its where I found links to the AARs.... http://competition-dynamics.com/24-hour-sniper-adventure-challenge-2012/
I live about 45 minutes from Sniper Country, so I really have no excuse not to do it. YIKES!
Re: Long gun pack questions.
I am another happy Eberlestock owner. After spending a lot of time researching options for carrying 50" plus rifle. I opted for the X3 Low Drag, using the optional scabbard cover, allows my to carry a rifle completely covered. Or using the same clips that lock the scabbard cover in place, can also be used to secure my rifle inside the built in lower scabbard for faster access to my rifle.
The shoulder harness is built as a separate assembly, enabling you to adjust the carry height to what works best for your comfort and safety. Another Eberlstock feature is placement of hand grabs so you can easily handle a loaded pack.
I am another happy Eberlestock owner. After spending a lot of time researching options for carrying 50" plus rifle. I opted for the X3 Low Drag, using the optional scabbard cover, allows my to carry a rifle completely covered. Or using the same clips that lock the scabbard cover in place, can also be used to secure my rifle inside the built in lower scabbard for faster access to my rifle.
The shoulder harness is built as a separate assembly, enabling you to adjust the carry height to what works best for your comfort and safety. Another Eberlstock feature is placement of hand grabs so you can easily handle a loaded pack.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
Here's a quote from this AAR from "Love to Lean" who's on this site- http://www.motorcycleaddicts.org/communi...enge-aar.41670/
"Our packs with weapons systems ended up in the 60lb ballpark. My pack alone, an Eberlestock Operator, weighs 10lbs, empty. When we got there, we saw experienced adventure racers that had figured out how to do it in 30lbs. For those of you that have carried 30 lbs on a hike, and then repeated it with 60lbs, which I did in my training, knows exactly what I thought when I saw this. Ohhhhh shiiiiit...."
Haven't been able to find the comment/AAR that discusses not being able to sit with a specific pack.. still looking.
Here's a quote from this AAR from "Love to Lean" who's on this site- http://www.motorcycleaddicts.org/communi...enge-aar.41670/
"Our packs with weapons systems ended up in the 60lb ballpark. My pack alone, an Eberlestock Operator, weighs 10lbs, empty. When we got there, we saw experienced adventure racers that had figured out how to do it in 30lbs. For those of you that have carried 30 lbs on a hike, and then repeated it with 60lbs, which I did in my training, knows exactly what I thought when I saw this. Ohhhhh shiiiiit...."
Haven't been able to find the comment/AAR that discusses not being able to sit with a specific pack.. still looking.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
Bingo- found it on the original thread about the event in AAR comment by 6.5x47
"7. As much as I like my Eberlestock GSII pack and how my LR rifle is carried, it made it improbable to simply plop down to rest with that lower scabbard portion making it difficult if not impossible. No idea what to do next. Oh, wait, did I say next? As if though I'm coming back next year"
Original thread link- http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=2948737&page=14
Bingo- found it on the original thread about the event in AAR comment by 6.5x47
"7. As much as I like my Eberlestock GSII pack and how my LR rifle is carried, it made it improbable to simply plop down to rest with that lower scabbard portion making it difficult if not impossible. No idea what to do next. Oh, wait, did I say next? As if though I'm coming back next year"
Original thread link- http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=2948737&page=14
Re: Long gun pack questions.
The GS-II's scabard is wide enough for me to carry my McM. A-3 stocked w/26" tube 16lb 300RUM w/pod stock end down without a problem.
The GS-II's scabard is wide enough for me to carry my McM. A-3 stocked w/26" tube 16lb 300RUM w/pod stock end down without a problem.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
How does the GSII do with the all up weight including the rile in the 40# range?
How does the GSII do with the all up weight including the rile in the 40# range?
Re: Long gun pack questions.
It is my understanding the the harness is adjustable for ride height but I would also like to hear some feedback from actual users. Would anyone recommend the chest pack to go with it?
It is my understanding the the harness is adjustable for ride height but I would also like to hear some feedback from actual users. Would anyone recommend the chest pack to go with it?
Re: Long gun pack questions.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Smurfwarrior</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Here's a quote from this AAR from "Love to Lean" who's on this site- http://www.motorcycleaddicts.org/communi...enge-aar.41670/
"Our packs with weapons systems ended up in the 60lb ballpark. My pack alone, an Eberlestock Operator, weighs 10lbs, empty. When we got there, we saw experienced adventure racers that had figured out how to do it in 30lbs. For those of you that have carried 30 lbs on a hike, and then repeated it with 60lbs, which I did in my training, knows exactly what I thought when I saw this. Ohhhhh shiiiiit...."
Haven't been able to find the comment/AAR that discusses not being able to sit with a specific pack.. still looking. </div></div>
I'm one of those experienced adventure racersv
, 30lbs is a fantasy pack. 46lb was my pack weight, with 120oz of water.
I used kifaru, it worked well.
ETA: The plopping down/resting without hitting the scabbard, while nice, probably shouldn't be the deciding factor IMHO. Having the rifle fully protected would have saved us a lot of grief several times during the event - More than once I was cleaning crap out of my gun.
I sold my X3, and regretted it, because I do like that scabbard.... However, everything is a tradeoff. Other packs, sans scabbard, are lighter, but don't offer a nice, easy way to carry and protect the gun.
Anyway, FWIW. One of the match directors suggested that the 50/40/30 plan was what to train for, and he was right. 50 lbs, 40 miles, in 30 hours. My pack was a little too light - I left some gear/food that I regret leaving... So he was spot in in aiming for 50lbs.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Smurfwarrior</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Here's a quote from this AAR from "Love to Lean" who's on this site- http://www.motorcycleaddicts.org/communi...enge-aar.41670/
"Our packs with weapons systems ended up in the 60lb ballpark. My pack alone, an Eberlestock Operator, weighs 10lbs, empty. When we got there, we saw experienced adventure racers that had figured out how to do it in 30lbs. For those of you that have carried 30 lbs on a hike, and then repeated it with 60lbs, which I did in my training, knows exactly what I thought when I saw this. Ohhhhh shiiiiit...."
Haven't been able to find the comment/AAR that discusses not being able to sit with a specific pack.. still looking. </div></div>
I'm one of those experienced adventure racersv
, 30lbs is a fantasy pack. 46lb was my pack weight, with 120oz of water.I used kifaru, it worked well.
ETA: The plopping down/resting without hitting the scabbard, while nice, probably shouldn't be the deciding factor IMHO. Having the rifle fully protected would have saved us a lot of grief several times during the event - More than once I was cleaning crap out of my gun.
I sold my X3, and regretted it, because I do like that scabbard.... However, everything is a tradeoff. Other packs, sans scabbard, are lighter, but don't offer a nice, easy way to carry and protect the gun.
Anyway, FWIW. One of the match directors suggested that the 50/40/30 plan was what to train for, and he was right. 50 lbs, 40 miles, in 30 hours. My pack was a little too light - I left some gear/food that I regret leaving... So he was spot in in aiming for 50lbs.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
With regards to the 50/40/30 training plan, is the 50lbs excluding the weigh of the rifle and if so, any ideas what to put in the scabbard to simulate carrying a rifle? The obvious answer would be the rifle but I'm not sure I want to lug my rifle around and I'm not sure if its legal either.
With regards to the 50/40/30 training plan, is the 50lbs excluding the weigh of the rifle and if so, any ideas what to put in the scabbard to simulate carrying a rifle? The obvious answer would be the rifle but I'm not sure I want to lug my rifle around and I'm not sure if its legal either.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
SRSDriver, thanks for the info. Which Kifaru did you use? I've had the Zulu and loved that pack for running around in Iraq but I'd assume it would be too big for this event. For rifle protection on a pack without a dedicated scabbard, whats your thoughts on using a rifle sock?
SRSDriver, thanks for the info. Which Kifaru did you use? I've had the Zulu and loved that pack for running around in Iraq but I'd assume it would be too big for this event. For rifle protection on a pack without a dedicated scabbard, whats your thoughts on using a rifle sock?
Re: Long gun pack questions.
Anyone want to offer up their $0.02 on using one of these to carry their rifle for this sort of thing. Eagle-DB-BS IIRC they weigh 3lbs, & while they surely aren't as quick as a Eberlestock, they're multifunctional. So I'm curious as to opinons & experiences.
Anyone want to offer up their $0.02 on using one of these to carry their rifle for this sort of thing. Eagle-DB-BS IIRC they weigh 3lbs, & while they surely aren't as quick as a Eberlestock, they're multifunctional. So I'm curious as to opinons & experiences.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: a.k.a. Northman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Anyone want to offer up their $0.02 on using one of these to carry their rifle for this sort of thing. Eagle-DB-BS IIRC they weigh 3lbs, & while they surely aren't as quick as a Eberlestock, they're multifunctional. So I'm curious as to opinons & experiences. </div></div>
I'm also interested in seeing if anybody has used this route. I'm looking for a scabbard/case that can be attached to the sides or rear of a Kifaru pack. I'm currently using the Gunbearer, but would like something enclosed for longer hikes when I don't need quick access to it.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: a.k.a. Northman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Anyone want to offer up their $0.02 on using one of these to carry their rifle for this sort of thing. Eagle-DB-BS IIRC they weigh 3lbs, & while they surely aren't as quick as a Eberlestock, they're multifunctional. So I'm curious as to opinons & experiences. </div></div>
I'm also interested in seeing if anybody has used this route. I'm looking for a scabbard/case that can be attached to the sides or rear of a Kifaru pack. I'm currently using the Gunbearer, but would like something enclosed for longer hikes when I don't need quick access to it.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
So I decided to go with the eberlestock X3 low drag. It sacrifices some cargo space for weight but it seems like a fair trade. I also got the chest pack to keep stuff handy (compass, protractor, pistol mags, etc. ). Looks like a pretty good setup.
So I decided to go with the eberlestock X3 low drag. It sacrifices some cargo space for weight but it seems like a fair trade. I also got the chest pack to keep stuff handy (compass, protractor, pistol mags, etc. ). Looks like a pretty good setup.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Casey D</div><div class="ubbcode-body">So I decided to go with the eberlestock X3 low drag. It sacrifices some cargo space for weight but it seems like a fair trade. I also got the chest pack to keep stuff handy (compass, protractor, pistol mags, etc. ). Looks like a pretty good setup. </div></div>
I'm ordering the GSII today, I think. Why did you choose the X3 over the GS?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Casey D</div><div class="ubbcode-body">So I decided to go with the eberlestock X3 low drag. It sacrifices some cargo space for weight but it seems like a fair trade. I also got the chest pack to keep stuff handy (compass, protractor, pistol mags, etc. ). Looks like a pretty good setup. </div></div>
I'm ordering the GSII today, I think. Why did you choose the X3 over the GS?
Re: Long gun pack questions.
i've got both the Eberlestock GSII and the Eagle Hybrid, both suit a different purpose. I have no problem sitting with the GSII. it will touch the ground when on one knee, but not enough to make me research using another pack. I love it, light, functional, heavy duty stitching, quite a bit of room and very comfortable in the carry/running position. Ride height can be easily adjusted and the position of their straps can be cinched down very tight when running.
i've got both the Eberlestock GSII and the Eagle Hybrid, both suit a different purpose. I have no problem sitting with the GSII. it will touch the ground when on one knee, but not enough to make me research using another pack. I love it, light, functional, heavy duty stitching, quite a bit of room and very comfortable in the carry/running position. Ride height can be easily adjusted and the position of their straps can be cinched down very tight when running.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
I have an X3. While I have not run an adventure race, I have spent a lot of time in the field with rucks and rifles hauling ass over varied terrain.
The benefit of the X3 is it keeps your hands free and it protects the rifle. It is a smaller capacity pack meaning the actual weight of the pack will be a little less and it will force you to pack smart instead of throwing in the kitchen sink. It has a padded belt with MOLLE webbing allowing you to attach a holster if you wish (not a good idea for an operational situation). I have magazine pouches and a compass on mine.
Eberlestock packs are heavier than sport hiking packs. However they are also built for more than walking a trail.
If you didn't want to go with a scabbard pack like the Eberlestock, then another option would be to select a pack like an Eagle AIII or other that has side straps. You can then use a padded scope/muzzle protector and lash the rifle to the side or back of the pack. This is not ideal in my opinion.
I think this afternoon I am going to throw my rifle in the X3, grab the dog and go for a hike.
I have an X3. While I have not run an adventure race, I have spent a lot of time in the field with rucks and rifles hauling ass over varied terrain.
The benefit of the X3 is it keeps your hands free and it protects the rifle. It is a smaller capacity pack meaning the actual weight of the pack will be a little less and it will force you to pack smart instead of throwing in the kitchen sink. It has a padded belt with MOLLE webbing allowing you to attach a holster if you wish (not a good idea for an operational situation). I have magazine pouches and a compass on mine.
Eberlestock packs are heavier than sport hiking packs. However they are also built for more than walking a trail.
If you didn't want to go with a scabbard pack like the Eberlestock, then another option would be to select a pack like an Eagle AIII or other that has side straps. You can then use a padded scope/muzzle protector and lash the rifle to the side or back of the pack. This is not ideal in my opinion.
I think this afternoon I am going to throw my rifle in the X3, grab the dog and go for a hike.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
Just ordered my GSII from Ceylon. He's a class act with superior prices. I couldn't be happier.
Just ordered my GSII from Ceylon. He's a class act with superior prices. I couldn't be happier.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Tim K</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just ordered my GSII from Ceylon. He's a class act with superior prices. I couldn't be happier. </div></div>
Gear Queer.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Tim K</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just ordered my GSII from Ceylon. He's a class act with superior prices. I couldn't be happier. </div></div>
Gear Queer.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: _9H_Cracka</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Tim K</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just ordered my GSII from Ceylon. He's a class act with superior prices. I couldn't be happier. </div></div>
Gear Queer. </div></div>
Look who's talking...
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: _9H_Cracka</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Tim K</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just ordered my GSII from Ceylon. He's a class act with superior prices. I couldn't be happier. </div></div>
Gear Queer. </div></div>
Look who's talking...
Re: Long gun pack questions.
I've used eberlestock packs along with Kifaru and Mystery Ranch. In my opinion Eberlestock doesn't even compare in comfortability and the ability to carry weight. While I haven't done any endurance matches like you are talking about, I would be much more inclined to get a NICE framed Mystery Ranch pack and carry the rifle slung in front of me. Mystery Ranch also makes a pack that can carry your rifle if you are set on that.
I've used eberlestock packs along with Kifaru and Mystery Ranch. In my opinion Eberlestock doesn't even compare in comfortability and the ability to carry weight. While I haven't done any endurance matches like you are talking about, I would be much more inclined to get a NICE framed Mystery Ranch pack and carry the rifle slung in front of me. Mystery Ranch also makes a pack that can carry your rifle if you are set on that.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
You can put the rifle on the Crewcab (and other MR packs) without the gun bay. It is expensive and adds a lot of weight.
http://vimeo.com/channels/mrbh/14016458
You can put the rifle on the Crewcab (and other MR packs) without the gun bay. It is expensive and adds a lot of weight.
http://vimeo.com/channels/mrbh/14016458
Re: Long gun pack questions.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bward</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've used eberlestock packs along with Kifaru and Mystery Ranch. In my opinion Eberlestock doesn't even compare in comfortability and the ability to carry weight. While I haven't done any endurance matches like you are talking about, I would be much more inclined to get a NICE framed Mystery Ranch pack and carry the rifle slung in front of me. Mystery Ranch also makes a pack that can carry your rifle if you are set on that. </div></div>
Same here.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bward</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've used eberlestock packs along with Kifaru and Mystery Ranch. In my opinion Eberlestock doesn't even compare in comfortability and the ability to carry weight. While I haven't done any endurance matches like you are talking about, I would be much more inclined to get a NICE framed Mystery Ranch pack and carry the rifle slung in front of me. Mystery Ranch also makes a pack that can carry your rifle if you are set on that. </div></div>
Same here.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
I have a phantom and while I love the pack I am severely disappointed that the support straps go from the shoulder harness around the side of the scabbard to attach to the pack. When carrying weight this has a tendency to pull the shoulder straps outward off the shoulders. These support straps should have been placed over the scabbard like every other support strap design or a least attach to the top of the scabbard instead of around the side.
I have a phantom and while I love the pack I am severely disappointed that the support straps go from the shoulder harness around the side of the scabbard to attach to the pack. When carrying weight this has a tendency to pull the shoulder straps outward off the shoulders. These support straps should have been placed over the scabbard like every other support strap design or a least attach to the top of the scabbard instead of around the side.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Tim K</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Casey D</div><div class="ubbcode-body">So I decided to go with the eberlestock X3 low drag. It sacrifices some cargo space for weight but it seems like a fair trade. I also got the chest pack to keep stuff handy (compass, protractor, pistol mags, etc. ). Looks like a pretty good setup. </div></div>
I'm ordering the GSII today, I think. Why did you choose the X3 over the GS?</div></div>
I chose the X3 because I'm trying to keep the weight low and I don't need much to stay out for a week or so. A few Army courses taught me how to do without if you know what I mean.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Tim K</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Casey D</div><div class="ubbcode-body">So I decided to go with the eberlestock X3 low drag. It sacrifices some cargo space for weight but it seems like a fair trade. I also got the chest pack to keep stuff handy (compass, protractor, pistol mags, etc. ). Looks like a pretty good setup. </div></div>
I'm ordering the GSII today, I think. Why did you choose the X3 over the GS?</div></div>
I chose the X3 because I'm trying to keep the weight low and I don't need much to stay out for a week or so. A few Army courses taught me how to do without if you know what I mean.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
I have a couple of Eberlestock packs and they are great for hauling your rifle around and keeping your hands free. I am a good sized person 5' 11" and 240. I was recently on a hunt with my Dragonfly pack and got a nice bull elk. I quickly realized how easy it is to get really heavy really quickly. None of us wanted to make two trips in and out of this rugged, but beautiful country so I took half the meat (about 150 lbs. give or take) in one trip. The pack was completely full of meat and rifle. Going uphill sucked. Going back down sucked even worse.
Go with one of the smaller packs. If you have the room, you'll feel like you have to use it, possibly to your own detriment.
I have a couple of Eberlestock packs and they are great for hauling your rifle around and keeping your hands free. I am a good sized person 5' 11" and 240. I was recently on a hunt with my Dragonfly pack and got a nice bull elk. I quickly realized how easy it is to get really heavy really quickly. None of us wanted to make two trips in and out of this rugged, but beautiful country so I took half the meat (about 150 lbs. give or take) in one trip. The pack was completely full of meat and rifle. Going uphill sucked. Going back down sucked even worse.
Go with one of the smaller packs. If you have the room, you'll feel like you have to use it, possibly to your own detriment.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
Size - you need to determine if you want to haul a "spike camp" in on your back and hunt from there versus hunt from the truck, trailer, or cabin.
You can strap a rifle and meat on a wide variety of packs, but not all of them will haul a camp in.
The two camp method lets you get away from all the people hunting from the truck, yet you can still hunt back that way if you want.
There's a reason Kifaru makes all that cool lightweight spike camp stuff - flies, tipis, stoves... study that stuff independent of your pack for a while before making a decision.
Size - you need to determine if you want to haul a "spike camp" in on your back and hunt from there versus hunt from the truck, trailer, or cabin.
You can strap a rifle and meat on a wide variety of packs, but not all of them will haul a camp in.
The two camp method lets you get away from all the people hunting from the truck, yet you can still hunt back that way if you want.
There's a reason Kifaru makes all that cool lightweight spike camp stuff - flies, tipis, stoves... study that stuff independent of your pack for a while before making a decision.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
A lot of people pack tents not realizing ( or have never been shown) that a poncho and some para cord will keep you just as warm and dry as any manufactured tent without taking up space or adding weight. That's why I'm ok with a minimalist pack. I care more about protecting my rifle than I do about carrying gear.
A lot of people pack tents not realizing ( or have never been shown) that a poncho and some para cord will keep you just as warm and dry as any manufactured tent without taking up space or adding weight. That's why I'm ok with a minimalist pack. I care more about protecting my rifle than I do about carrying gear.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
So the X3 came in the mail today and I'm in the process of switching everything into it. I have to say, so far I like it
So the X3 came in the mail today and I'm in the process of switching everything into it. I have to say, so far I like it
Re: Long gun pack questions.
I've had my Eberlestock Gunslinger II now for a couple of weeks. To date, I have something like 55 - 60 miles in it carrying 50#. At that weight, I can't find anything to dislike about it. I can put all the weight on my hips if I want, or tighten up the shoulders to get it stable.
My target weight for the 24hr snipers challenge is 50#, but I'll try it with 60 just to see. I'm thinking 60ish might be the limit for this pack.
All my training has been with an AR in the scabbard. I've yet to walk any distance with my precision rifle. I'll give that a whack over the weekend.
I don't know how much it matters, but I can snug it up well enough with 50# in it to run without too much movement. I don't run too damn far with a pack, but 1/4 mile on the flats is fairly comfortable.
I got mine with the additional internal frame. I don't know if it's doing anything since I haven't tried it without it, but I was able to bend it up to my liking to get the pack to more closely follow my back. I think it's worthwhile.
For what I'm doing, I think it's about perfect.
I've had my Eberlestock Gunslinger II now for a couple of weeks. To date, I have something like 55 - 60 miles in it carrying 50#. At that weight, I can't find anything to dislike about it. I can put all the weight on my hips if I want, or tighten up the shoulders to get it stable.
My target weight for the 24hr snipers challenge is 50#, but I'll try it with 60 just to see. I'm thinking 60ish might be the limit for this pack.
All my training has been with an AR in the scabbard. I've yet to walk any distance with my precision rifle. I'll give that a whack over the weekend.
I don't know how much it matters, but I can snug it up well enough with 50# in it to run without too much movement. I don't run too damn far with a pack, but 1/4 mile on the flats is fairly comfortable.
I got mine with the additional internal frame. I don't know if it's doing anything since I haven't tried it without it, but I was able to bend it up to my liking to get the pack to more closely follow my back. I think it's worthwhile.
For what I'm doing, I think it's about perfect.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
eberlystocks have a bunch of different models
eberlystocks have a bunch of different models
Re: Long gun pack questions.
Casey I also have the X3 low drag pack and love it. Hauls an AR with a 30 mag in it or any bolt gun I have. I also have a X1E for back country hunts that I will need to bone out and haul meat out with. Great company and great packs for sure. Good choice.
Casey I also have the X3 low drag pack and love it. Hauls an AR with a 30 mag in it or any bolt gun I have. I also have a X1E for back country hunts that I will need to bone out and haul meat out with. Great company and great packs for sure. Good choice.
Re: Long gun pack questions.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Smurfwarrior</div><div class="ubbcode-body">SRSDriver, thanks for the info. Which Kifaru did you use? I've had the Zulu and loved that pack for running around in Iraq but I'd assume it would be too big for this event. For rifle protection on a pack without a dedicated scabbard, whats your thoughts on using a rifle sock? </div></div>
I used one of their ultralights (it's great), but will probably use my zulu next time. Let's just say there is some rough terrain, and while I didn't have any problems with the ultralight material, there is some tough obstacles, and I was wishing I had the bulletproof zulu type material.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Smurfwarrior</div><div class="ubbcode-body">SRSDriver, thanks for the info. Which Kifaru did you use? I've had the Zulu and loved that pack for running around in Iraq but I'd assume it would be too big for this event. For rifle protection on a pack without a dedicated scabbard, whats your thoughts on using a rifle sock? </div></div>
I used one of their ultralights (it's great), but will probably use my zulu next time. Let's just say there is some rough terrain, and while I didn't have any problems with the ultralight material, there is some tough obstacles, and I was wishing I had the bulletproof zulu type material.
