Hunting meat packs, What brand?

[Covelo-NdN]

Attention highroaders,

I want to start a discussion to determine what types of hunting packs folks are using to haul out there meat as well tools or pack supplies, whether it be dear, pigs, elk, or any other edible critters.

My Budget that I have set for the pack will be $400. I wanted the pack to be hydros compatible I would like to be able to carry optics, hunting sticks, rain gear, maps, etc...

So what packs do you suggest?

 

[Dr.Rob]

Camp trails external pack frame (only) and bungie cords.

 

[nmlongbow]

Kelty cache hauler is a good freighter style pack for about $100-$120. $50 more for the bag if you want it. You can easily carry 120lbs if you're up to it. Kifaru and Kuiu make some really nice packs starting at $400 and can be custom sized. I still use a 15 year old Gregory internal frame that was top of the line then because it fits so well and has a lot of adjustment. 80lbs is about the limit for the Gregory buts it's my limit in the mountains these days too. It's best to try as any as you can with weight in it but you'll never know for sure til you've spent several hours in the mountains with it carrying a big load.

 

[OYE]

Logged a lot of miles with an Alice pack with a cargo shelf back in the day and I still see them being used in the field from time to time. Still have a couple around here that get used now and then.

We prefer horses for most of our light work these days. OYE

 

[MutinousDoug]

I've hauled a lot of elk meat out on a Camptrails external frame "(only)" but strapped it all together with paracord rather than bungies. The pack bag and camp gear wads up in a trash bag or two and is lashed onto the frame with the quarters as they fit into the 3-4 trips it takes to haul a medium sized, boned cow out. I haven't found the pack shelf helpful much except when putting the pack down to catch my breath.

 

[X-Rap]

Kelty Freighter and Badlands 2800 are both top notch packs. One external the other internal. I've found the 2800 well suited for the tasks you've spelled out.

 

[crazysccrmd]

I use an LL Bean Hunter Carryall. About $75, carries the weight well and has a very minimal profile when not in use to carry meat.