These style of packs are expensive so a review like this, with two different body types, is invaluable to those of us looking at which pack to buy. I had already narrowed it down to either the Stone Glacier or the Kifaru so this really helps in finalizing my decision. Great content!!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Good mention, Glenn! These suckers (the packs, not Brady and I) aren't getting any cheaper. We're happy to hear that this video may have helped in your decision making! - Forest

@Throttle_Wrist_Adventures

Жыл бұрын

Never hiked before, would like to hear your thoughts on this…wouldn’t you say those trekking poles also made a difference with how Forest experienced the weights compared to Brady?

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

@@Throttle_Wrist_Adventures Good observation and suggestion! The truth is that Brady is a professional videographer and film producer by trade, and because of this he usually doesn't have the luxury of hiking with trekking poles in hand. When filming professional hunts with our Huntin' Fool affiliate team, Brady always has a camera in one hand and a tripod or similar in the other! - Forest

Great review. Thank you for testing them in such a realistic manner

Excellent content, I run a stone glacier 5900 & Exo 4800. Looking forward to trying the new Exo k4

Yes I totally agree with you about the kuiu material that's used on the suspension it sucks when it's hot out and your shirt rides up just a bit and that grippy material rubs your lower back raw

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Brady is going to appreciate this comment! - Forest

Great video and comparison. I have the MR Beartooth 80 that I bought used and can confirm getting the sore back of neck after heavy load and long miles. Gets the job done, but looking forward to the day I can upgrade.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Mystery Ranch makes a good product that suits for many people. Some prefer it while others seek different approaches to shoulder straps, waist belt, buckles, etc. It all depends on the end user, their frequency in the field, and their frequency in succeeding with a heavy pack out! - Forest

Have used the same packs . Kifaru over time with loads will shine . That’s 3rd trip the ridged stability isn’t even close especially when your exhausted.

I’ve owned a few packs over the years and I would have to say the two most comfortable packs for my body type are the Eberlestock and Stone Glacier. I really like the Eberlestock, the only downside is they are heavy. The Stone Glacier is lighter and a bit more comfortable. The trade off is the price. That being said, I have yet to get back to the truck, even under heavy loads, with the Stone Glacier bag wishing I can take it off. Great review guys!

Great review - thanks guys!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

We appreciate it!

Great review! Thanks! I’ve tried the Stone Glacier and the Barney’s Alaskan Pack. The Stone Glacier worked best for me with a heavy load. I felt like the Stone pack fit me best and I felt much more balanced with it.

@gearfool

8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the compliment and your opinion of the Stone Glacier backpacks. Much appreciated. - Forest

Great job!! 👍💯 thank you

I enjoyed the video. Thank you for doing the hard work so we didn’t have too. After watching I feel confirmed for my previous decision for a Stone. I’ve been a proud owner for two years now.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment! Are you running the Xcurve or Krux frame? We will have to do a video that breaks down the difference between these two frame designs and to which body types each likely fits best. - Forest

Fellas, talk about taking one for the team! Really great video and great comparison stats. Awesome. The recommendations are built on real test. Well done!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Craig! Hopefully this video will help others in their decision making. - Forest

Great video and lots of miles.

Great video guys! Thanks for the information. New subscriber

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Welcome!

Excellent video. Only thing that could have made this review better would be if you each had our own packs tailored and fit to yourself instead of having to share between the both of you. That way there would be no problems from the pack fitting right and in return making the pack as comfortable as could be given the fact your carrying 100lbs. Lol. But again great video. Each time I watch pack reviews it’s getting harder and harder to pick the very best one for myself. Only way I think could decide would be to actually get to try them on and see how it feels with a normal amount of weight in the pack

Nicely done and it helped to limit my choices many thanks.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

We are happy to hear it. Thanks for the comment!

Ive tried heavy loads in the exo with the original frame. The stone glacier and the kuiu. The kuiu and stone were the best for me comfort wise. The kuiu had better organization in my opinion and cost less so i went that route. Several elk later and long pack outs and im still happy with it. But with all these new frame designs it might be time to do some more testing!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

The testing is endless! LOL. Happy to hear that the KUIU has worked well for you personally. I'm sure you're not alone there. Organization, cost, etc....there are so many endless variables that are of the personal choosing. Thanks for the comment here! - Forest

@ramos208

11 ай бұрын

I’ve packed a lot of elk out of the woods and my kuiu pack has done great.

Ended up buying the EXO K4 because of y’all’s videos

I appreciate the amount of effort and approach you guys put into this review. Two different body styles, different loads, etc. Great job and very helpful. I'd be interested in the same test on an Initial Ascent or maybe you've already done it and I just need to find the video. Thanks again!

@gearfool

5 ай бұрын

We have not done a video on the Initial Ascent, but I have worn it before and found it similar to the Kifaru. I wasn't a huge fan but I have not put many miles on one. We will likely update this review with some of these brands updating their lineup and we'll consider adding IA to that video. -Brady

I have thoroughly appreciated my Stone Glacier pack with 100+ lbs loads. I have owned a number of expedition packs from Arc'teryx, Kelty, etc. and always had painful hip bruising. When I bought the SG, I was between belt sizes. Kurt @ SG customized my belt, and I am forever grateful!

@gearfool

6 ай бұрын

We're not surprised to hear that a Stone Glacier frame and pack treated you well with 100+ loads, but we're certainly happy to see you leave a comment about it. It's great to hear more good things about their customer service too, especially from Kurt himself! Thanks for the comment. We appreciate it! - Forest

Used a 2013 Kuiu a while ago and loved the pack and organization capability but above 50lbs hip built was lacking. I ended up adding a wool 'seatbelt comfort thing' to the Kuiu belt for additional comfort.. I have sinced moved to Kifaru and like the pack and well worth it.

@gearfool

11 ай бұрын

Thanks for the comment! It's always interesting to hear how others modify their gear to suit their personal needs!

great video guys

I’ve been hunting with Mystery Ranch packs for along time and I will agree that once you push the 60lb range and up they can get the job done but it is not as comfortable as some other packs may be. Great video guys and I appreciate the conversation about different body sizes and how packs relate to that. I’ll be looking for a stone glacier for next season. Cheers

@gearfool

8 ай бұрын

Cheers indeed! 🍻

Yeah, the Kuiu Pro won my heart. So much so, I bought two. Just ordered the Kuiu Divide 3000 for a day pack. Agree on the MR. I never could bond with it. Individual body shapes prefer different systems no doubt. All are great packs.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment! There's certainly nothing wrong with going with what works for you personally. Much agreed. - Forest

bottom line they are all great pack and depends on body type. I personally have the Kuiu pack and its killer no problems period. But im sure that new EXO pack is killer and want it lol haha

Great review guys also, as a filmmaker I love seeing you using the Instamic. Best mic ever for run and gun!

@gearfool

11 ай бұрын

🔥

This was a grreat review!

I wish I would have seen this video about 8 hours ago. I just ordered the Kuiu Pro 7800 for my first big pack. You’ve got a new subscriber

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

We're happy to hear it! Don't sweat the KUIU Pro 7800 as there are plenty of people who rave about the KUIU Pack System. Let us know if you have any questions pertaining to fit and adjustment. We don't offer KUIU here at Gear Fool, but we're still happy to help anyone who is willing to get after it with heavy packs! - Forest

This was exactly the video I needed to see right now. Thank you!

@gearfool

2 ай бұрын

Absolutely! We're headed out tomorrow to film an updated one including the new Kifaru ARK frame and the Initial Ascent!

@MikeJones-vb1me

2 ай бұрын

@@gearfool Looking forward to whether you notice a significant difference with the Ark frame!

Great review 👌🏼

I'm a bit more of a stocky/muscular/semi-fat guy type of build than the gents in the video. I have tried on all the packs in the video at the Western Hunt Expo. For my body type, the Kifaru was hands down the most comfortable and I've had great luck with it over the last few years. The new Stone Glacier and Exo packs are right behind it for me, but I think a lot of that, as was mentioned in the video, comes down to body type as a big factor.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

We appreciate your $0.02 here, Mike. Thanks! - Forest

Great review! I would like to see the new Kifaru Ark frame and new MR Metcalf reviewed. Thanks...

@gearfool

4 ай бұрын

Coming soon!

Great video. Do you guys know if any of them are louder than the next? Both walking thru the brush and the frame squeaking? I’ve been eyeing all of these packs and just want the one that’s the most quiet. Again I really like this video and I’m glad I watched it.

@gearfool

9 ай бұрын

Thanks for the comment and question! I'd suggest that they are all comparable when it comes to noise through vegetation and frame squeaking. Each of these packs is likely capable of generating comparable noise in each of these areas if the conditions warrant, which include the end user's technique. Frame squeaking is often focalized at the frame stays and their ends, and can be mitigated through proper loading technique, tension, and adjustment. I hope this brief description helps! If we can assist you further through GearFool.com, let us know! - Forest

I love these kind of videos I’ll need a new pack soon

@gearfool

11 ай бұрын

Hi Kamron! Thanks for the comment!

Great video, thank you for doing this compare. I am still dragging my old Osprey pack around to haul elk with, does the job and feels pretty good with ~100 pounds of meat in it but would love to one day own something like this.

@gearfool

10 ай бұрын

Thanks for the comment! If your Osprey gets the job done and feels pretty good while doing it, then perhaps you've already found your solution!? Do you use the Osprey to pack elk quarters with bone-in? Or, are you limited to only packing boned-out meat with the Osprey? - Forest

I have the exo k3 and have zero complaints. Exo is simple easy to use comfortable and flat out gets the job done.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Good mention! One can rarely go wrong so long as they "keep it simple". - Forest

I've been happy with Stone Glacier since my first pack from them back in 2018. I have a fresh Krux frame and 5900 bag with all of the goodies for this falls Elk hunt and I couldn't be more excited or pleased with their gear. It sounds like Exo is right there with SG and a pack I definitely need to try and consider when it comes time to replace the current 5900.

Great video guys, I run the Mystery Ranch Guide Light MT frame with both the Marshall at 6450 cu-ins, as well as the Pintler with 2355 cu-in. I would like to first add Im 51, 5'11, 220, and normally wear a size lg, xl shirt with a 34x34 pant. I love the Guide Light MT frame when I'm packing the Pintler bag the most. I feel with my larger bag there was a lot more side to side movement causing more shoulder fatigue. Hope this helps? P.S. I bought the Marshall with the Guide Light Frame knowing I could buy other bag only's as a option that still fit the same frame!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Good comment! We agree that any lateral movement of the "load" in relation to the frame significantly contributes to fatigue on behalf of the user. Many of these packs offer similar modularity such as that you've described here with the Mystery Ranch. Perhaps we should suggest that type information in a future video of this type? - Forest

@arklaskanadventures

10 ай бұрын

That’s pretty much my build. So you would buy it again? Totally satisfied? Thanks

Thankyou guys sooo much. I'm a new kifaru owner and it was crazy going thru all the options. Exo stone kuiu kifaru mystery ranch Sitka etc etc etc. I felt soo lost guys. But I just loved how the kifaru looked. I'm a user of civilian packs and military. I own 27 packs. From tactical tailor to eberlestock to goruck, osprey to mountain hardwear and to soo many more. But I fall under a more tactical look so I leaned towards kifaru. I care for comfort and that was the whole point what can I get that I love and love to wear. However the prices wow!!! I've spent alot on packs but 700 to 1,000 is getting up there like crazy. And the prices with additions can bring u to 1500 or more. I was gonna get a kuiu but had a second thought. Then exo...but with all the reviews I am now glad I skipped on the kuiu cuz my greatest gripe is lateral shifting. And I love stiff frames. So I'm glad where I landed but I'm eyeing an exo for the next pack. But u guys saved me big trouble with this review. Thanku!! I love the modularity of kifaru I love pals webbing and growth opportunities. I bought the reckoning kifaru pack I love it!!! But I did mods and added a hill people gear molle panel on the front of my bag in black. It's a very large compression panel. And it allows me to run a day ruck under the panel or whatever else I want. It's a nice very large hypalon panel. It covers most of my front of bag. I was rocking mainly hill people gear but I wasn't getting the comfort like alot of people get. Their harness system just didn't work well for my body type and theit belts arent made for alot of body types. I have 3 of their larger packs and only one is good for comfort but putting on the kifaru it's a whole other realm. I'm gonna be a lifelong customer for the company. I like stone and exo but it sounds like exo is really mopping it up with other brands. Everyone is saying the same thing. Be blessed guys!! I hope u guys get alot of exposure!!! Sorry for any typos.

@gearfool

11 ай бұрын

Thanks for the awesome comment and feedback! We're happy to hear that our video helped you with your decision making. You're absolutely right concerning the expensive nature of these backpacks, but we're confident you'll find that the Kifaru Reckoning with the Duplex Lite Frame you've selected will last a really, really long time. Best of luck to you! -

Take a look at blacks creek guide gear. Made fully in USA.

My exo sucked and sagged with a load. Kuiu stunk too. Sold them both Ordered both a kifaru and stone glacier and they were both miles better. Returned the kifaru though as the SG was a little more streamlined and most of my hunts are day hunts. The SG also carries the load a lot higher withbtheir load sling which is a huge attribute All this is so subjective like boots, just order your top two brands, load them with a load walk around the house and return the one you dont like. Then youll know for sure what fits you best

Great Video. Really enjoyed the test design. Would have enjoyed a numerical, categorical, scoring system, but clearly not required for a great comparison.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment and solid suggestion, Andrew. We'll see what we can do to include more displayed data such as this in the future! - Forest

Would you test dukuseek heated hunting vest? Looking forward to prepare one for the coming hunting season.

@gearfool

11 ай бұрын

Hi Lilian. We'll take a peek at this product.

These gear reviews are going to save people a lot of back ache and buyers remorse. I've currently used an Exo 5500 for a few years, and it's been great. Looks like I'll be looking at Stone Glacier next!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

😎

The variable frame/stay height of the EXO is the stand out feature over the Kifaru & SG. Had my SG 5100 for a decade & 4 Elk & 1 Moose later it's been bomber,...but time for an upgrade to the K4.

@ET-sp6qm

11 ай бұрын

What’s the major difference between k3 and k4

@lanetaglio

11 ай бұрын

@@ET-sp6qm IMHO,..the variable frame stay height & improved hip belt design.

@ET-sp6qm

11 ай бұрын

@@lanetaglio thanks. I’m looking at either the EXO or the IA system. I need to decide soon. Anything’s better than this worn out Kelty.

@lanetaglio

11 ай бұрын

@@ET-sp6qm Good luck this fall!

Great video!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

We appreciate it!

I love all my SG packs!

I love Mystery Ranch,but this year, I pushed it above 125#and the carry was miserable. This review helped me settle on my next pack. Thanks!

@gearfool

6 ай бұрын

Glad we could help!

Thanks!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

You bet, James!

Just remember when watching these types of videos that there are soo many factors that go into fit and comfort. Besides body type/ shape and personal preference. For one, the break in time on some of these is significant so initial impressions vary from a broke In pack greatly. Second, when packing heavy weight, generally any proper built pack will feel good for the first mile or 2, especially on flat ground. It’s after about 30 minutes to 1 hour where pressure points will start to be felt, also when climbing you will notice a significant difference in comfort. These videos are a great starting point but it really takes more testing to really work out the differences. For reference I currently own the Exo k4, kifaru duplex tactical and lite and have owned both a Stone glacier xcurve and krux evo…

Great review, you guys should test out the Granite Gear CHIEF Patrol Pack made for SOCOM it has a totally unique suspension.

I currently have the KUIU system and once I get more than 60 lbs in it, it sucks the life out of me. I just can’t seem to get the weight off of my shoulders. I love it for hiking, but to pack an animal out, it wears me out quickly. Definitely going to have look at upgrading.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Hi Colby. It sounds like your experiences with the KUIU system mirror what we had to say in the video! It's great to see some continuity there. If you're looking to upgrade, contact us at GearFool.com and we likely can assist you further! - Forest

@jasonbarnett8029

Жыл бұрын

I have the kuiu as well. It tops out at about 75lbs for me. It can’t take >75 without pinching my hips. I took out a 130lb load 1 mile last week. Kuiu handled the weight but destroyed my hips. Very uncomfortable. After seeing loads Gritty team does and how they rave about IA, I finally purchased it. Will test it this week.

Nice review! I have a Kuiu 7200 and I can say that the frame definitely needs to be customized to the individual. Hopefully, time was taken to each individual pack to really identify what can help for comfort when it comes to adjustments? However, “if doesn’t feel right, it doesn’t feel right”. Maybe Kuiu & Mystery Ranch have some investigating to do? Great efforts gentleman!

@robertnevarez7599

Жыл бұрын

Correction: Kuiu 7800.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment, Robert! We can honestly say that we took a reasonable amount of time to understand each pack and frame. Brady and I spent a few hours prior to the event breaking down the packs together, removing the bags from their frames, playing with the various hardware designs, employing each meat shelf, etc. We did the best we could with presenting an unbiased, authentic comparison for the benefit of our audience! We also understand that some packs take a few more miles, or even days, to achieve optimum fit and adjustment. - Forest

Nice pack review, might be the first review I've seen where the packs were adjusted and fit properly.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

We appreciate it! It looks like you understand the importance of proper adjustment and fit! - Forest

@CMFent

Жыл бұрын

@@gearfool i had a MR before the SG and my biggest gripe with the MR was that the shoulder straps werent adjustable and would pinch my traps under heavy loads. With the SG you can change the angle of the shoulder strap making it customizable for the perfect fit.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

@@CMFent 💯

Great video gents.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Thank you, Rodney!

Real world test, love it.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

🔥

Excellent review about the mystery ranch. I have the Marshall and you nailed it about the frame. I did a 2 week hunting trip and the flex of the frame was horrible. That all I heard when walking through the woods. After the hunt I had the frame serviced because it started to squeak. The frame needs an upgrade. Before I bought the mystery ranch pack, I had a bounty 2.0 pack from slumberjack. I prefer that frame over mystery ranch. I like the stiffer frames. My next pack is going to be kifaru pack.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Hey Tyler! After your hunt, was it Mystery Ranch that serviced your frame?

@tylerberry4081

Жыл бұрын

@@gearfool yes, they service the frame. Their customer service is excellent they back their products. The pack is great I just didn’t realize how much flex the frame had. The pack is made with great quality.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

@@tylerberry4081 Roger that. Our Austin Atkinson (Gear Consultant) can attest to the customer service offered by Mystery Ranch as well. He's ran the Marshall for years in AK while guiding, and Mystery Ranch took care of him when a few backpack issues presented themselves over time.

Love my kifaru!

Would like to see same challenge with 7-8k size packs loaded out for an AK trip. Good vid!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Some of the Gear Fool Team are slotted for an AK moose hunt this year. Maybe we should put something together for this? 🤔 - Forest

Excellent Review! ... I would love to see a comparison with the Packs from Hillpeoplegear (HPG). Why was it not among the tested Packs?

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment, Robert. There's always room for improvement. We've made a note to take an even broader look with future comparisons. - Forest

That'd be a great ad line for kifaru, "Gear so tough, it'll make it to the summit, with or without you."

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

It's almost true! - Forest

Crossfire Australia makes the best packs hands down. They are a little new to the market - but they blow Mystery ranch and all those others out of the water. External frame packs.

I like the mystery ranch sawtooth it’s not a huge pack but it’s light and I have enough crap inside to build a city the belt could be a little bigger but I don’t mind it the big packs I really don’t like I don’t like the packs with the heavy poles either I want to be able to get my pack down to nothing if the legs are a little sore one day or I’m going straight up I’ll unload just about everything so no use in having a house on my back I don’t sleep in it I have a summit

Mystery ranch Metcalf has never let me down, and is super durable. I've definitely experienced so shoulder and neck discomfort picking heavier loads out though.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

I couldn't agree more with the durability comment here, having used the Mystery Ranch Metcalf extensively in 2018. Mystery Ranch products are incredibly resilient to abuse on the trail, and should you experience a material or design failure, their warranty and customer service is incredible. I also agree with your comment concerning neck and shoulder fatigue. Some people may not experience this due to their body profile or other reasons, but some do. - Forest

@desertBirdDogs

8 ай бұрын

​@@gearfoolthat yoke adjustment is really important. I've had some discomfort with my Metcalf in the shoulders until I got that right. You almost need a second person to help you eyeball it as you make that adjustment

@gearfool

8 ай бұрын

@@desertBirdDogs Indeed it is. We couldn't agree more!

Wish you would have included the initial accent into the line up. I prefer my kifaru, but i do love my stone

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

There's always room for some improvement! We'll make a note of including the Initial Ascent in future comparisons such as this. - Forest

@pemborsky

Жыл бұрын

Good call. As far as load carrying capacity, I think Initial Ascent is the only frame that can hang with Kifaru. Besides Barney's. but that's a whole different kind of pack.

I had the Kuiu and couldn't stand it haha it had a squeak as I walked, then I packed an elk out and the heavy load did not feel great. I now have a Kifaru pack and I love it. Even with a heavy load it feels much better and the Versatility is so nice.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Your experience seems to align very well with our conclusions made in this video! - Forest

@daryenmirabal2656

10 ай бұрын

I had the same issue with the kuiu ended up getting an eberlestock and it worked great with my skinny ass 😂😅

@gearfool

10 ай бұрын

@@daryenmirabal2656 Thanks for the comment!

It looks like the kuiu and MR load lifters were not as high as tge others, not sure if that was pack design or just the way you had them adjusted.

I'm sorry if I missed it, but did you mention what SG frame you were using? The Xcurve or the Krux? Great review! Thanks!

@gearfool

10 ай бұрын

The Krux Frame was used here. - Forest

Great review! Do you think securing the concrete bags to the load shelf would have made a difference? It looks like you just secured it directly inside the bags, slightly further from the frame. Thanks!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

It certainly is possible although it would be difficult to secure two 50 lbs. sand bags within each meat shelf design. Good mention! - Forest

@jhford1234

Жыл бұрын

@gearfool no doubt. Perhaps securing one bag for the gear and one to the load shelf for the meat you would be hauling out...Not that I am about to try it myself 😂 appreciate the channel!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

@@jhford1234 Still a solid mention. Appreciate the interaction and support! - Forest

Hiking with trekking poles makes things 10X easier. The comparison is flawed in that manner.

Please review the Barney's Alaskan Yukon Pack and the initial ascent 8k in comparison to the stone and the exo. 💪😁

@gearfool

10 ай бұрын

We haven't had any personal experience with Barney's packs, but perhaps we should give them a look!

thanks

And this is how you review a pack! 👏

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

🔥

U should review the akek backpack load system ?!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Perhaps we should indeed. Thanks for the mention. - Forest

If only anyone knew to always pack heavy high. 😂 first thing I learned in infantry school. Weight distribution can make the difference between a walk and a death march.

I love my Kifaru packs. If messed with a Stone Glacier before and I liked the Kifaru better.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment, Jim. I too love my Kifaru Woodsman (long since discontinued) with the Duplex Lite Frame, and having used the Stone Glacier Sky 5900 for the past year I can say that I enjoy it just as much. Solid products from both companies, and good people too. - Forest

I was considering the SAVOTTA Jaakari XL Made in Finland, but now I'm considering either the Stone Glacier or the Kifaru Bedlam after watching this video on carrying 100 LBS and still wanting to walk further.... Have you guys tried the SAVOTTA?????

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Hi Sylvain. Either option between Stone Glacier and Kifaru would likely serve you very well, and the deciding factor will likely come down to the "bag design" itself. How many cubic inches, what accessibility options you prefer, etc. We haven't tried a SAVOTTA product ourselves. -Forest

Next time I hope you add an AKEK pack into the test!!

I have very wide shoulders so the KUIU works very well for me. Would like to try the Kifaru.

@gearfool

11 ай бұрын

Thanks for the comment! Both Brady and I can honestly say that we weren't born with the genetics for "very wide shoulders". That's just how the hand was dealt I suppose. It's good to have some added perspective from someone such as yourself here. - Forest

@BC_Hunter

11 ай бұрын

@@gearfool Of course. I appreciate your guys reviews. I just wish I had more money to try all the other packs.

@gearfool

11 ай бұрын

@@BC_Hunter Thank you for this. These packs certainly bring with them a premium price point. Hopefully these type of unbiased, authentic field-vetting will assist others in their decision making. Appreciate ya!

Wwwaaww What a Great and good test .

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

We appreciate the comment! We've made a few notes to enhance these type comparisons even further in the future. - Forest

Do you guys have any opinions or why you didn’t include the Eberlestock? Would be interested in how it compares to these. Like many people on here, I’m trying to decide on the ONE pack for me. Thanks guys!

@gearfool

10 ай бұрын

We don't have an opinion of Eberlestock at this time because we haven't personally used them. We didn't purposefully omit Eberlestock from this 2023 Pack Comparison. We simply "had to start somewhere" and it would be nearly impossible to include every pack manufacturer in a given comparison. With that being said, we've heard our audience here in the comments concerning Eberlestock and will happily include their system in our next round of pack comparisons! Very much looking forward to it! We've heard some good things and know that they have good people working there too. - Forest

If I could take a kuiu bag and put it on a stone glacier frame and suspension I think I would have the perfect pack

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Now there's an interesting thought. Thanks for the comment!

Any opinion on where an eberlestock f1 frame and pack would fit into this lineup?

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

We haven't gotten our hands on an Eberlestock F1 frame and pack yet. Perhaps we should add that system to the mix on a future video of this type. - Forest

@Luke-eg1gn

10 ай бұрын

I returned the eberlestock mainframe after testing it. It's about the same level as the MR.

Heading out to Ileamna in September. Currently going with a Kuiu 5500 Pro LT, but looking at the MR Marshall or EXO K4. 6’1” 192 lbs. 34x34.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Hi Blake. That's awesome concerning your upcoming trip to Ileamna! Contact us at GearFool.com and mention this video. We likely can assist you further!

I feel like you guys need to try the initial ascent pack. I think you would have a new favorite pack. None of these packs even compare under heavy load.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

We've made a note to include Initial Ascent in our future pack comparisons. Thank you for the suggestion! Have you already tried each these packs here with heavy load personally?

You should compare the black creek guide gear as well

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the suggestion. We'll take a look at them.

I am not a gear snob. I do have the exo 3500, few years old now. Its been a great pack and never felt the need to buy anything else.

@gearfool

11 ай бұрын

Thanks for the interesting comment, Paul. EXO makes a solid backpack and we're happy to hear that yours is performing well after a few years!

My thing is you didn't strap the poad between the bag and the frame like some are designed to experience how they're suppose to handle the weight.

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment. You make a fair point; however, there really isn't a meat shelf within this group that would effectively carry (i.e. secure) two 50# sand bags, at least without detaching the main bag and adding an accessory where available, such as a "load hauler" attachment or similar. I can honestly say that these main bags were 100% empty aside from the 50# sand bags, so the weight was only separated from the main frame by the thickness of the material (i.e. 1/4-1/2" at most) on behalf of the main bag. Hopefully this helps "paint a picture". Appreciate you and your suggestion here! - Forest

I loved this video, but my brain does a por job of following the dialog or remembering what was said about which pack. Is there a written review of these pack by y'all? I feel reading would do me much better. Keep up the awesome work!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

We appreciate the support! We wrote a short magazine article for Huntin' Fool which can be found here: www.huntinfool.com/articles/type/staff-articles/2023-weighted-pack-trials

Great testing and review of how these backpacks feel and performed! Of the bags you have worn can you make a recommendation for which one might be the best choice for someone with a curved back? I know the SG X-curve is said to fit a curved back well but how about the Exo or Kifaru?

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Hi Kevin. I would suggest the SG Xcurve with full confidence when it comes to comfort, fit, and function so long as your are content with whichever bag design offered there. Contact us at GearFool.com and we can chat more on that subject to get you squared away. If you're convinced of going with either Exo or Kifaru, I can say that both frame designs offer some moderate curvature (the Kifaru perhaps just a bit more than the Exo K4) to potentially support someone with a curved back. - Forest

Boy, wish I could slap 100lbs in all of these packs and go a mile before committing to one! Great test and comparison, thanks so much.

@gearfool

10 ай бұрын

This opportunity was certainly a blessing! We're happy to hear that you enjoyed our pack comparison! - Forest

@gcruishank9663

10 ай бұрын

Ya, deciding between the Stone 5900 and the Exo K4 5000. I really like the Stone's waterproof exterior lining that runs all the way down the shelf and even on the bottom. Would be great if you're putting your pack down on snow or wet ground. I'm waiting to hear back from Exo about how waterproof the bottom of the K4 is. Do you know if that water bladder lining runs along the bottom of the pack as well, or just the side? @@gearfool

@gearfool

10 ай бұрын

@@gcruishank9663 I believe the bottom fabric found on the bag(s) of the K4 is the same fabric that's found on the remainder of the bag(s). It may not add any additional water resistance/proofing such as with the Stone Glacier comparable. Perhaps the guys at Exo Mtn Gear may suggest otherwise though. - Forest

@gcruishank9663

9 ай бұрын

Ended up going with the Exo and after trying it out with a 60lb load and hiking about a kilometer, I'm glad I did. @@gearfool

@gearfool

9 ай бұрын

@@gcruishank9663🔥

Great video! What about Hill People Gear Ute or Qui Ya?

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Hi Matt! Thank you for the comment and question. We don't have any experience with their products, but we intend to branch even further outward in future pack comparisons. Hope this helps in the future! - Forest

@matts9

Жыл бұрын

@@gearfool They make awesome packs! As a former Infantryman, I learned about these new fangled non ALICE packs with comfort in mind. I have Kifaru, Eberlestock and Hill People Gear (HPG) packs. I love the comfort and load distro of an HPG pack! I have the Ute and the Ashton Backcountry. I also really like their Kit Bags! They are like chest rig but made for concealed carry and keeping essentials close at hand when backpacking. New to your channel - but have subscribed!

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

@@matts9 Which branch of the military? It's possible that I supported you with close air support from overhead H-1 aircraft. LOL. We appreciate your support, subscription, and suggestion concerning the Eberlestock and Hill People Gear products! 👊 - Forest

how does vanquest, maxpedition, alps, granite gear compare in quality and comfort?

@gearfool

5 ай бұрын

I haven't used many variations of those brands, but the biggest difference between them and these packs is the weight load they're designed to carry. All of the packs in this review are meant to carry far more than your normal expedition type pack is. Therefore, if your pack is closer to 75lbs for a multi day trip, you'll likely find one of these heavy duty packs to hold up better and be more comfortable. -Brady

Where was the eberleestock??? I’m trying that exo this year

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Hi Justin. We've made it a point to include Eberlestock in our future pack comparisons. As this video was the "first of its kind" on our behalf, we simply started somewhere amongst the better (some of THE best) pack manufacturers in our industry. It admittedly was not all-encompassing, and we intend to do better moving forward. If you're trying the Exo K4 this year, you should be very happy with your choice post-trip! We appreciate ya. - Forest

Does body type and size make a difference? 5:40ish the gent on the right is talking about his size? If he was a little thicker on top would it make a difference? Thoughts?

@RayGrau

11 ай бұрын

7:30 ish... interesting 🤔

@RayGrau

11 ай бұрын

@gearfool how big are these guys? Height weight?

@gearfool

11 ай бұрын

@RayGrau - Thanks for the questions, Ray. Absolutely! The body composition of the individual user, and their mental characteristics for that matter too, play a critical role in in their interpretation of a given pack...especially under heavier loads. That's the primary reason we include Brady and myself here, so we could look at each backpack subjectively based on our own traits. You'll see where the metallic KUIU shoulder strap buckles, for example, bothered Brady by not myself. For your reference, I (Forest) am 5'9" and 170 lbs while Brady is 6'0" and 165 lbs. Hope this helps you! - Forest

Great video and test ,,not a hunter or backpacker but found this to be so well done that will save if ever needed,,,,,thanks for your sweat to save mine….

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment, Michael! It's awesome to see that even those who don't personally backpack the backcountry (whether hunting or not) found this video helpful. - Forest

Love my exo

How would eblerstock bags rank in this group? What would you recommend for a bigger guy- 6'4, 260

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

Hi Kevin. We've made a note to include Eberlerstock and some other manufacturers in future comparisons. We're not personally familiar with their product line, so we can't speak to them intelligently (apologies). For a guy of your size, I would still highly recommend a Stone Glacier Krux or Xcurve Frame with a bag of your choice due to their proven "comfort under load" found here and 26" frame height. Contact us at GearFool.com and we can likely assist you even further! - Forest

shoulda included Initial ascent. One of the best packs out there

@gearfool

Жыл бұрын

We have this noted for a future comparison. Thanks for the comment. - Forest

This wouldn’t even be a debate if the Initial Ascent pack was part of the lineup. Make sure you guys get your hands on one of those! It’s the Cadillac of these packs. 😎😎

@gearfool

5 ай бұрын

I have used their packs before and wasn't blown away myself, but we do plan to do another review this year and include them!