I am working with a start up pack company and am exploring packs specifically for bowhunting. Any input everyone has would be greatly appreciated. I was wondering what different backpacks or packs people used in the field. What features do you like about your pack and what don't you like about it? If you could change anything, what would it be? What materials do you like? Finally, in terms of actually strapping the bow to the pack, what system have you found works the best? I currently use a Badlands day pack which I think is a great pack. It has a ton of space (a little too much space sometimes) and is extremely comfortable. I am not a huge fan of how the bow straps to the pack as the system is not made specifically for bow. I also sometimes feel there are too many pockets for a bag that size. Thanks!
It would be nice to have a water proof liner. Have one pouch specifically designed for scents. The main pocket lined on the bottom with rubber or something so i can carry things like tree steps and hangers (so they don't puncture the pack). I like that my pack has a fanny pack that you can unzip from the main pack and the belt for the fanny also detaches. Must have a clip that goes from one shoulder strap to the other. Needs a hydro pack. I like how the Remington pack has a little compartment that folds out a gun/ bow sleeve.
I would love a pack with a built in quiver that works for broadheads so I dont have to have one on my bow when stalking. Where I can just reach over my shoulder and pull out an arrow. indian style
Make a Gerber Quadrent butt pack that has a decent zipper on it and I will buy one... Can't get them any longer and my zipper broke this year, I have it hacked together for now...
I'm currently looking at the Eberelstock X1a1 as it has nearly most what I'm looking for. The exceptions would be I'd like to see something like ice axe lashes/straps in places to anchor bow and such to better than they currently are. Also, size is crucial. Most packs I look at look like a kid's pack on me. Sized for larger frames would be a benefit.
I'm currently using a Redhead Big Bore Waist Pack (which is actually a backpack) that I like. It has plenty of compartments and carries just about everything I need. I also wear a Primos Bowhunting vest for items I need to get to all the time. I have 3 or fanny packs I don't use for bowhunting now and 2 or 3 backpacks as well. This pack has a couple of drawbacks. First, it is heavy to start with, but it is well made. So I would say a new pack needs to be light weight empty. Second, the two large inner compartments are separated by a flap that velcros in place. It also has a 2-level foam insert that goes into the lower compartment that is accessible from a side zipper. With the insert in place, the flap stays where it should. But without it the flap will not stay in place and you have 1 large compartment. I like the insert because I can slide sodas or water, spare gloves or hats in it and still get them out easily. But the insert takes up alot of space. Speaking of zippers, they MUST be quiet and have large zipper tabs or straps (that don't break). Extra straps on the sides and bottom to hold gear is mandatory. My pack has straps underneath it to hold my rolled up chill pad, an extra jacket or rain gear, or camo netting and fold-up stool. Waist belt and sternum strap are required. The ability to attach smaller bags or a holster to the waist belt are a plus to me. For me, a hydration bladder is not mandatory but will be for others. Cost is a factor. While I don't own a Badlands, I have looked at them and they are good packs. It's hard to justify that kind of price, though. Not all emcompassing but I hope this helps.
I use daypacks/fanny packs/camel backs in a series of combos for day hunts - all spot and stalk. Not found the exact right thing yet tho. For me the ultimate day pack has to have the following. Padded waist band with large pockets for rangefinder (one side) and camera (other side). These are the two things you need to be able to get to without taking off the pack. The waistband is also great if you have a bit more weight in the pack but still need to jog to gain a position quickly (keeps it in place) Chest strap - same as above Hydration bladder made to fit in a dedicated pocket - 3L is a good size (better too much water than not enough) Quiet material - no squeaks when moving or crawling, no noisy rustling with dragging thru bushes. Big solid zips - none of these poxy little things that bust under a bit of pressure or a load of meat. Not too many compartments - one large and one smaller external is enough for me. hope thats helpful cheers benno
I actually bought the RedHead Hybrid Day Pack and modified it.. Will post pictures when I get home. 1) I took the large zippered pocket in the back and sewed in a long piece of camo material about 8 inches long, leaving only the top open. I took several small hunting items and placed them in one at a time marking the width. I then sewed a line up. This made about 6 pockets to custom fit my small gear. I then did another row under it. Each of my zippered pockets have up to 20 small individual slip in pockets to hold the items. One thing I have found with backpacks/fanny packs is that they all have large compartments but all the small loose items get lost in the bottom... Solved that problem by making my own pockets... 2) Think about all the small items you have: GPS, Talk-A-Bout Radio, Grunt Call, Doe Call, Small Flashlight, Small Knife, Thermocell Pads, Thermocell Refill Bottles, Small Scent Killer Spray Bottle, The Can, Phone, Scent Wicks, Small Bottle Buck Urine, Small Bottle Doe Urine, Small Bottle Scrape Juice, Small Bottle Cover Scent, Range finder, Small Bino's, Bright Eyes, Orange Flagging Tape, Hand Pruners, Gear Hooks, Hand Warmers, Lighter/Matches, Camera, Headlamp, etc........ See my point? You can make pockets for each one without having to dig like a woman with a huge purse looking for her keys......
one with a holder for a grunt call on the shoulder strap might be cool. like on spot and stalk you just put your head down and use the call hands free
