Even if you have the best hunting gear, the perfect rifle or the latest bow technology, a bad hunting backpack can turn a dream wilderness adventure into a disaster. Just ask anyone who's spent three days with an aching back, torn straps or a metal clinking noisemaker because the pack failed to keep up with the rest of your advanced gear technology.
The backpack market is full of choices - external and internal frames, featherlights, fanny packs, tactical packs and more. Just take the time to figure out what's best for your gear load and your body type. Not all hunting packs are specialized to handle rough terrain, tough conditions and extreme stress on pack material and parts. The right backpack won't guarantee that you'll come home with a trophy animal, but it will let you concentrate on the task.
Top 5 Tips For Choosing The Right Pack:
No Hiking Packs - Always choose a good hunting pack instead of trying to convert a slick hiking pack to do the job. Hunters carry tons of gear that requires more external compartments and special systems to attach rifles and bows. Hiking packs tend to be streamlined for comfort and aren't made to haul back the added weight of deer meat or trophy heads.
Durability Under Duress - Hunting packs function well under normal loads and conditions. The true test comes after a few seasons of wear and tear. When you add an extra 50 to 100 pounds of elk meat, a lousy pack can wobble out of balance and rip the material off the metal frame. Get the right capacity pack with a good reputation for taking care of both the hunter and the hunted.
Comfort Level - Discomfort is a mood killer. If your pack causes problems, then your day outdoors becomes a dilemma, not an adventure. First get the right sized pack for your torso length and make sure shoulder straps and waist belts adjust properly to fit. Make sure the pack model can handle add-on gear bags or equipment and maintain correct support and balance. A stuffed pack must feel just as comfortable as a lightweight one, so pay attention to chest strap placement, hip weight load and cushioned shoulder straps.
Access On The Go - In the field, hunters need to stay focused on the task of tracking game for a chance or two at a good shot. Don't lose time by fidgeting with your pack or struggling to find your weapon when the moment arrives. Hunting backpacks come with either single shoulder sling around access or packs that swivel on the waist belt from back to front and zip open from the back panel. Practice your technique and learn how to get gear without a hassle.
Quiet Please - Hunting is a quiet endeavour with moments of controlled frenzy. A noisy hunting pack not only disturbs the hunting party but lessens your chance of bagging a prized species. Check for rattling metal zippers and clanging buckles and scrunch the pack fabric for softness or loudness. Check for fleece material and ultra-quiet fabrics on gear for tree hunting and cut-off irritating zippers and replace them with elastic pulls.
