15 replies to this topic

[Boyd_Crowder]

Hey guys - 

It's my first post here as I've only recently been introduced to ITS Tactical.  Really like what I've seen on here so far.  I did 6 years in the Army in 2nd Ranger battalion and then 4 years in MI once I got old and busted up.  

 

My question is this.  I've been looking all over the place for a good hunting daypack.  I live outside of Portland OR and do a lot of rifle hunting out in the coast range.  It's steep, wet, cold, and dangerous at times to move around out there.  I tend on the minimalist side of EDC / Survival kits so what I'm looking for is a bag that's less than 2000 CCs.  I had a Maxpedition bag in the past but it had WAY too many pockets, gadgets etc...  I'm not afraid to spend some money on a good one.  To further complicate matters, I travel a lot for work and would like to get a bag that I can fly with.  I'm fine with MOLLE but I don't want to look like some boot Marine just out of Pendleton either.  I'd prefer solid colors and don't really require hydration.  I like the look of the USMC FILBE assault pack.  Less is more for me personally.  Looking for quality, compact size, simplicity.  

What are your recommendations?

[pira114]

I find myself saying this a lot here, but the GORUCK packs are awesome. I'm now using mine for hunting too. It's perfect.

I also go out very minimalist. With some other packs, I found myself loading pockets just cuz it had them. Pretty soon, my day pack weighed 80 lbs

[SacRyan]

I'm running either Eberlystock [sp?] (for the rifle scabbard) or a badlands.

 

Been happy with both, been over some 'interesting' terrain with both and they're holding up really well.

[Boyd_Crowder]

Thanks for the feedback.  GoRuck looks like pretty nice stuff.  Albeit expensive.  I suppose that's what top tier gear costs though.  I'll grab a few of these things and let you know my thoughts.  

 

Thanks again for the input.  

[HTEngineer]

You could also check out Hill People Gear. Good stuff (I believe it's actually made by First Spear for HPG) and its a little more on the non-tactical side.

Edited by HTEngineer, 06 October 2015 - 11:32 AM.

[smokey]

Mystery Ranch and Kifaru both have packs that should match your requirements.

[Trad]

Goruck. If you like clean and minimalist goruck is the choice. I have several of their kit bags and a 10l bullet. Absolutely the best quality you can find. And not abnoctious in the military styling.

[MightyP]

I haven't use a Goruck bag, but I really like the Vertx line. Durable, useful and simple.

[Fivesenenguy]

or you can try tactical tailor bags. have had mine over two years still looks and feels brand new..

[tiger-26]

I just recently returned from a...competetive experience, let's say, where we spent most of the time romping around the desert with a pack. For that I had a Mystery Ranch pack that weighed about 48#, plus water. I usually carry an Eberlestock Halftrack or Gunslinger. This was my first experience with Mystery Ranch. I have to say, it impressed the hell out of me. Not once did I have issues with the weight distribution, fit, or stability of the pack. Other than their price tag, I have nothing negative to say about them.

I will, however, throw out a movie quote to sum up my feelings at the time: "I mean, nobody ever hated anything like we hated those [email protected]#^ packs."

[Boyd_Crowder]

I just recently returned from a...competetive experience, let's say, where we spent most of the time romping around the desert with a pack. For that I had a Mystery Ranch pack that weighed about 48#, plus water. I usually carry an Eberlestock Halftrack or Gunslinger. This was my first experience with Mystery Ranch. I have to say, it impressed the hell out of me. Not once did I have issues with the weight distribution, fit, or stability of the pack. Other than their price tag, I have nothing negative to say about them.

I will, however, throw out a movie quote to sum up my feelings at the time: "I mean, nobody ever hated anything like we hated those [email protected]#^ packs."

 

Man, the price on those things are ridiculous.  The one that looks like it would do what I need is $540.  I don't care how tough that bag is, there is no way that I could justify that price.  It looks like good stuff, but that is absolutely outrageous.  

All joking aside, since you used it, do you feel that it's worth that much?  I fought in Khowst Afghanistan and Fallujah Iraq with regular GI issue stuff that was totally adequate so I don't see paying that much for gear.  

[tiger-26]

 

I just recently returned from a...competetive experience, let's say, where we spent most of the time romping around the desert with a pack. For that I had a Mystery Ranch pack that weighed about 48#, plus water. I usually carry an Eberlestock Halftrack or Gunslinger. This was my first experience with Mystery Ranch. I have to say, it impressed the hell out of me. Not once did I have issues with the weight distribution, fit, or stability of the pack. Other than their price tag, I have nothing negative to say about them.

I will, however, throw out a movie quote to sum up my feelings at the time: "I mean, nobody ever hated anything like we hated those [email protected]#^ packs."

 

Man, the price on those things are ridiculous.  The one that looks like it would do what I need is $540.  I don't care how tough that bag is, there is no way that I could justify that price.  It looks like good stuff, but that is absolutely outrageous.  

All joking aside, since you used it, do you feel that it's worth that much?  I fought in Khowst Afghanistan and Fallujah Iraq with regular GI issue stuff that was totally adequate so I don't see paying that much for gear.  

 

It's better than an ALICE pack, and has a better frame than a MOLLE ruck. I wouldn't pay that much for it, personally, and I didn't have to. BUT, if you are under constant load with it for long periods of time - like an OP on a 10,000' peak that you walked for 10 hours to get to while carrying everythign you'll need for a 10 day mission? I could see that as a legitimate reason. But I'd still try to get my unit to pay for it.

[Boyd_Crowder]

So I know this has been a long time coming.  I actually couldn't bring myself to pony up and buy a Goruck bag.  However, for my birthday my wife got me the GR1.  I will never buy another brand.  They are absolutely amazing.  EXACTLY what I have been wanting.  If anyone is on the fence, get a Goruck.  I'm a true believer.  Thanks again for all the feedback.  GR1 FTW.  

[B3dlam]

Eberlestock packs are solid. I emailed you links to three from their line as this computer wont let me post links.  I have two of their packs im happy with. 

[Spartan24]

Maybe the PDW SHADO? I'm not sold onit, but it's worth a look. Personally I am a huge fan of Hill People Gear. I use their front pack along with a TAD FAST EDC. Mystery Ranch is one I would really look at if I were to get another new bag today. 

[Corbs]

I use a TAD Litespeed (V1), Arc'teryx Khard 30, Mystery Ranch 1DAP and a custom pack. To me that's the ideal size. MR has the most comfortable yoke and the litespeed's beavertail and compression is great. The Khard is great for specialised applications where you want to be super organised, but not my favourite for big loads.