Re: hunting pack
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: chucknelson</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Charles</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just FYI...
While the Eberlestock may make some good packs for certain applications, handling heavy loads is not one of them. The rifle scabbard is neat, but it forces the load further away from the frame and your back which decreases comfort and balance. Due to the design, and construction they will not handle loads as well as MR packs.
Now 6.5lbs is kind of ridiculous for a 2200ci day pack... Unless you envision having to carry 60-80+ pounds on the way out. </div></div>
That is exactly what I envision.</div></div>
The Blue Widow pack from Eberlestock eliminates the large gap left by an integral scabbard, letting you pack the load closer to your back. I had the J017 in 2007, and it performed exceptional for me. I changed to the Blue Widow for a pair of hunts last fall, and packed 2 deer out of the backcountry with it.
The reason why the J014 doesn't feel comfortable when you haul a load is because it doesn't have an adjustable torso, and my guess is that you were not molded to fit that pack.
All things considered, it is hard to beat an Eberlestock for the money.