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.