To get the top rated choices, we carried out extensive research with a keen focus on 15 hunting backpacks that have been receiving positive reviews from customers. Taking into consideration their performance, practicality, weight, storage space, comfort, durability, fabric used, noise produced and many other relevant factors, we compared them against each other. These choices scored highly in all the categories. This is a clear indication that you will definitely get the best hunting backpack for your choice. They are not only a terrific choice for any avid backpacker but also provide you with great value for your money.
If you enjoy hunting, then at some point you will be in the market for an excellent backpack. There are many factors that make up a good hunting backpack, and the choice becomes more difficult when they come in many different colors, shapes and sizes. All this information can be quite overwhelming to understand and make a good decision. It’s such a tall order especially when you are out there shopping with little information on what you are looking for.
An excellent backpack should be able to handle just about anything regardless of the season, terrain or activity. Quality backpacks should also provide enough space for all your hunting gear which will enable you have the ultimate hunting experience. You must keep in mind that not all backpacks are the same. There are some amazing additional features that make the best stand out from the rest. The list below is a compilation of the best hunting backpacks on the market today that have increasingly become popular thanks to their outstanding scores on the features that make a good backpack. If you looking for the best backpack for you, then these guidelines are exactly what you need to make that informed choice.
Best Hunting Backpack Comparison Table
Best Hunting Backpack Reviews
ALPS Outdoor-Z Commander-Freighter Frame Pack
This pack is a full system for packing and hunting. Its lightweight aluminum frame features a comprehensive lashing system along a rifle carrier, a shelf, 5250 cubic inches of storage and an adjustable frame. The frame can easily be adjusted to your height and torso preference. The ALPS Outdoor-Z Commander-Freighter Frame Pack comes with three extra straps for convenience whenever you need to add something else to its capacity.
The waist and shoulder straps are suitably thick and padded. The inside of this pack contains a middle divider right from the top in case you want to keep your gear positioned in the upper part of the central storage compartment. There is a bottom entry zipper that allows for easy access to large loads, making it easy to separate and organize your gear.
This ALPS Outdoor-Z Commander-Freighter Frame Pack gives you numerous hunting options, considering that the frame alone has enough pockets to serve as a sufficient heavy day pack. The quality offered for this price is undeniably hard to beat. It is a perfect all-around hunting pack and an excellent option for its price range.
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Features at a Glance
- 5250 cubic-inch size.
- Weight 2.3 pounds; total 7.5 pounds.
- Rifle carrier, 3 extra straps, top loading & hold-open frame.
- Lower door access – #10 zippers.
- Horizontal divider (internal).
- Range of torso 17″ to 23″.
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Badlands Sacrifice Backpack
Unfortunately, Product Badlands Sacrifice Backpack is not currently available, but you might be interested to check Badlands Sacrifice LS Camouflage Hunting Pack – Bow, that has similar features.
Designed by some of the best back-country hunters, the Badlands was manufactured to be the lightest multiday pack. This backpack is actually designed for serious big-game hunters who are seeking quality and dependability whenever they are on the go in the wilderness. The super 28 * 13 * 12-inch ultra-bag features a generous capacity of 3450 cubic inches, weighing only about 3 pounds and 8 ounces.
Its hybrid hyper-vent suspension system keeps it off your back without making it feel loose. It has seven pockets and two compartments to store all your hunting accessories. When push comes to shove, you can use the adjustable top pocket for any oversized loads. It comes with a lifetime warranty package, guaranteeing that the company will repair any faults at no additional cost.
The Badlands Sacrifice hunting backpack will meet all your basic needs as a hunter. What makes it an exclusive pick is its unique design which accommodates all the great features yet decreases its overall weight. This design is incredible while still being mobile and comfortable.
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Features at a Glance
- Super ultra light multi-day backpack.
- Tough lightweight design.
- Multiple pockets and compartments.
- Hybrid hyper vent suspension keeps pack off your back.
- Lifetime warranty.
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Badlands 2200 Backpack
The Badlands 2200 is one of the most purchased and stylish backpacks by this brand. It is a panel-loading design that has two batwings. In addition to the main panel-zipper, it has a small panel opening on its back panel for direct access to the main compartment. It is designed to extend a little bit above your shoulders.
The Badlands 2200 Backpack has two aluminum stays to provide the molded back with some support. There’s a vertical zippered pocket on the outside which you can use to store items you wish to easily access. One of its great features is notably the zip-out blaze orange-meat shelf that extends up, connecting to the pack’s top. This kit will enable you to carry loads of meat along with the rest of your gear.
The wing pockets allow you to strap almost anything to the outside. Overall, it’s a great pack that’s inarguably well-suited to virtually all tasks. It will easily move well with you while enabling you to carry quite a decent load. It is ideal for securing all your items and hunting gear even when trekking through uneven terrain.
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Features at a Glance
- Lightweight and extremely durable.
- Spotting scope pocket.
- Comprehensive warranty and repair.
- Hydration bladder compatible.
- Multiple pockets.
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Eberlestock X2 Pack
The popular Eberlestock X2 Pack is remarkably in a class of its own. It features a sturdy yet lightweight tubular aluminum frame, several generous pockets on the waist belt and large, scope-sized side pockets.
It has oversized compression straps that conveniently allow for lashing on heavy loads, dual hydration compartments and quick-access pockets for storing tripods and scopes.
The ample Flex-Chassis, intelligently incorporated into this pack’s design, can flip forward to be used as a seat. It can accommodate the A1SS or A2SS side scabbards to store shotguns or any other full-scale hunting rifles. The Eberlestock X2 Pack has padlock webbing tie-points in the critical locations for lashing on gear and accessory attachment.
It also comes with an efficient suspension system in which a significant air gap separates the full mesh back panel from the main pack. This is assuredly a cool-wearing, tight little bag with more capabilities than meets the eye. It is the go-to backpack if you’re looking for one that is light yet offers secure mobility.
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Features at a Glance
- Includes a tough, lightweight tubular aluminum frame.
- Ample room for bows and rifles.
- Easy access to your tools.
- Quick-access pockets for spotting scopes and tripods.
- A variety of colors to choose from.
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Badlands Superday Pack
The Badlands Superday Pack is another new backpack whose popularity is rapidly growing. The people who designed this bag must have spent tons of time outdoors, seemingly addressing almost all shortcomings backpacks usually have. First, it enhances comfort appropriately as the padding on the back and lumbar straps displace the weight quite well. It also has numerous adjustable straps so it can fit almost anyone.
The Badlands Superday Pack has an amazing capacity of 1950 cubic inches, sufficient for carrying all the necessary gear. This space is well divided into 3 compartments with 7 pockets, which in turn leave enough room for essentials. It has several side pockets, including a gun-and-bow strap that looks and feels durable. The zippers are large enough for easy operation with gloves on.
There is space for a water bladder, which is purchased separately from the backpack. This pack is effectively optimized to reduce any discomfort and difficulties. Another thing worth noting is that the pack is not overly decorated.
This Superday Pack has been rated highly by consumers, with design and comfort getting top marks. It’s certainly high quality and reasonably priced.
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Features at a Glance
- Very comfortable.
- Adjustable rifle boot.
- Pistol holding webbing on left and right side of waistbelt.
- Extremely durable & quiet.
- A variety of compartments and pockets.
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Eberlestock M5 Team Elk Pack
This camouflage backpack is one of the best, all-around hunting packs on the market today. It has been designed with user preferences in mind to appeal to all hunters. It has a unique set of top-class features such as the built-in bow carrier, grapple-compression straps, a fold-away rifle scabbard, waist belt range-finder pockets, an Intex tubular aluminum frame and many more. It offers an outstanding capacity capability of 3,100 cubic inches.
It serves perfectly as a day pack, but may also be used for shorter multi-day trips. The Eberlerstock M5 Team Elk Pack offers you an excellent combination of bomber toughness and lightweight comfort, with a quiet and comfortable design suitable for all-day hunting and game hauling.It has a big zippered pocket at the back for storing gear, and a waterproof zip-up front with a padded fleece-lined pocket for GPS, cell phone or sunglasses.
On the sides, there are standard water bottle pockets and more Molle webbing to attach more accessories. You can quickly retrieve your weapon from the built-in scabbard without having to take the pack off.
The Eberlestock M5 Team Elk Pack’s suspension system comprises a fully-adjustable harness with a ladder system to enable you to adjust it to fit your torso length. Given its extensive list of features, many of which have not even been covered here, it would certainly be the ultimate buy. This backpack is sure to enhance your hunting experience.
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Features at a Glance
- A great hunting pack, proudly emblazoned with the Team Elk logo.
- 3100 cubic-inch capacity.
- Fold-away rifle scabbard, built in bow carrier.
- Excellent stability & comfort.
- Dual full-depth spotting scope and hydration pockets.
- Intex tubular aluminum frame.
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Eberlestock J34 Just One Pack
The Eberlestock J34 is a cool backpack in one great respect: it is capable of transforming from a 2,300 cubic-inch daypack to a 7,500 cubic-inch pack. It has a 2,300 cubic inch capacity when unexpanded.
It’s still a great bag even when unexpanded, considering that it can hold your rifles using the built-in scabbard. It has well-designed harnesses with thick padding and shaped contours. The hip strap is conveniently padded to fill the small of your back. The hip belt itself is also nicely padded.
The shoulder straps are also well-padded and suitably comfortable, without being bulky at all. They can be adjusted up or down to help accommodate larger torsos by undoing the Velcro loop and moving them before tying back the Velcro. There are two aluminum stays on the back’s sides which can be pulled out and bend well to take your back’s shape.
All the pack’s zippers are waterproof. You can get to the Eberlestock J34 Just One pack main compartment by opening the top hatch and undoing the two straps underneath. You can fit many items in the two large vertical pockets on either side of this pack. All in all, considering that this pack is hydration compatible, it is quite a neat, well-thought out piece. Coming in 4 different camouflage colors, you have the choice to match your pack to the kind of terrain you’re hunting in.
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Features at a Glance
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Eberlestock X3 LoDrag Pack
The X3 LoDrag by Eberlestock is a tactically handy and highly-mobile minimalist pack that is reliable without any frills. It is specially designed to provide the maximum carrying capacity within a minimum space and with the user’s comfort in mind. Its uniquely contoured design features a tapered top and bottom, placing it close to your body for a natural, smooth ride.
Its great kidney and lumbar padding add extra smoothness to the ride while the vertically-adjustable shooter’s harness ensures that the pack is tailored to your body shape. The side-mounted compression straps will aid you in arranging your load perfectly for optimum weight distribution by pulling all content upwards. This feature makes the Eberlestock X3 LoDrag Pack an optimized bag for all users.
In addition to the pack’s main compartment, there’s a smaller front-loading upper compartment with storage pouches. The side portfolio pockets are ideal for contracts, laptops, maps and any other large equipment. A large integrated tactical weapon scabbard can fit weapons with long barrels and great optics. This simple, handy pack combines efficiency in size with abundant storage capacity to meet all your needs in a backpack.
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Features at a Glance
- Reliable large capacity and convenient size.
- Excellent ventilation.
- Has a unique contoured shape that tapers at both the top and the bottom.
- Great daypack for the road, range or rifle competitions.
- Harness and suspension system.
- A variation of Eberlestock’s exclusive X1A1 Backpack model.
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ALPS OutdoorZ Pathfinder Pack
If you are searching for a hunting pack that has the ability to take care of all your hunting needs, then you might want to consider the ALPS OutdoorZ Pathfinder Pack. This pack is so versatile it can serve as a fanny pack as well as a daypack. In its original state, the Pathfinder is a fanny pack with shoulder straps and a storage capacity of 800 cubic inches. The fanny pack mode is great for hauling gear when you are going to your stand or scouting. If more room is needed, you can easily roll the daypack compartment out from the fanny pack and enjoy an additional storage space of 1900 cubic inches, thereby giving you a total storage capacity of 2700 cubic inches.
The daypack mode allows you to either use the pack in a bow-carrying mode in order to carry your bow hands-free or a hauling mode to haul away meat or additional gear. Carrying heavy loads with the Pathfinder is very comfortable thanks to the pack’s adjustable shoulder harness and well-padded waist belt which ensure the even distribution of weight. Also, the pack comes with lashing straps that allow you to securely and comfortably carry large loads. Unlike certain packs out there, the Pathfinder has the ability to prevent your back from becoming too sweaty thanks to the mesh on its back padding that prevents heat retention.
The pack’s compatibility with ALPS OutdoorZ accessory pockets such as the Turkey Call, Camera and Binocular Pockets allows you to easily attach any of these pockets to the front of the Pathfinder’s harness.
The last but not least highlight of the Pathfinder is its very secure bow-carrying system, which can accommodate various types of compound bows. This bow-carrying system allows you to safely and comfortably carry your bow hands-free.
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Features at a Glance
- Very comfortable and versatile.
- Has the ability to be transformed from a fanny pack to a daypack.
- Extension lashing straps for carrying extra large loads.
- Total capacity of 2700 cubic inches.
- Adjustable shoulder harness.
- Excellent for packing out meat.
- Bow-carrying system for hands-free bow carriage
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ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS Hunting Pack
One of the best rated hunting backpacks available on the market is the Traverse EPS Hunting Pack from the hunting pack manufacturing giants ALPS OutdoorZ. Are you hauling out meat or gear? Do you intend carrying a bow or a rifle on your hunting expedition? Do you need a fanny pack? Do you need a daypack? If you answered yes to these questions, then the Traverse is worth considering. This hunting backpack is so versatile and feature laden that it has the ability to take care of your numerous hunting needs. The Traverse, in its original state, has a storage space of 3300 cubic inches, and if this space isn’t enough for you and you need more space, all you have to do is unzip the pack’s Expandable Pack Section (EPS) in order to enjoy an additional storage space of 1200 cubic inches.
The Traverse comes with an excellent “Hauling Mode” that allows you to easily and conveniently haul out meat, decoys, or extra gear. One of the coolest things about the hauling section of the pack is that it doesn’t sweat, which means the meat you store in there will remain cool and not go bad. When it comes to comfort, the Traverse is one of the most comfortable packs you can get. It comes with a unique “H” Frame Design, well-padded shoulder harness with load lifters, an adjustable torso range and a well-padded waist belt with PE outer shell. All these features come together to make it very easy and comfortable for you to carry heavy loads.
Other notable features of the Traverse include its extension lashing straps that allow you to conveniently carry extra large items such as camera arms and tripods. The pack also comes with a hydration pocket and port to keep you hydrated on the go, a blaze orange rain cover to protect your gear from water, an expandable pocket that allows you to safely and securely carry your gun or bow, front zippered “wing pockets” that offer protection to your meat or gear during the hauling process. All these make the Traverse one of the most important hunting packs on the market.
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Features at a Glance
- Adjustable torso range.
- Side compression straps for attaching extra gear.
- Very spacious main compartment.
- Blaze orange rain cover.
- Well-padded waist belt with excellent load lifters.
- Hauling mode.
- 4500 cubic-inch storage capacity.
- Hydration port and pocket.
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Tenzing TC SP14 Shooter’s Pack Hunting Backpack, Realtree Max Xtra
The TC SP14 Shooter Pack is widely renowned for its versatility. It is designed in such a way that it can easily transform from a hunting pack to a shooting rest for rifle within just a matter of seconds. This defining feature of the TC SP14 saves you from going through the trouble of carrying a tripod shooting rest with you into the field. With a breathable mesh back pad that supports the lumbar area of your back and allows air to circulate between the backpack and your back, the TC SP14 is one of the most comfortable backpacks around.
In addition to the comfort-enhancing breathable mesh back pad, the TC SP14 also comes with several other comfort-enhancing features such as padded hip panels, an internal fluted aluminum frame stay and padded hip belts that efficiently and evenly distribute the entire weight of the pack, thus making the load in the pack feel significantly lighter. With a total of 9 easy access compartments and pockets, the TC SP14 offers you sufficient space to conveniently and securely store your gear and accessories.
The pack’s inbuilt foldout rain cover completely covers the pack and makes the items in the pack remain dry during bad weather. With specialized compression straps and a deep center channel designed to fit a crossbow, the TC SP14 is one of a handful of hunting packs equipped to securely and comfortably carry a crossbow. In addition to safely carrying your crossbow, the split through center channel also has the ability to securely hold a scoped rifle. And when it comes to hydration, the TC SP14 is equipped with a hydration pocket that allows you to stay hydrated hands-free.
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Features at a Glance
- Breathable mesh back pad.
- Well-padded hip panels.
- Hydration compatible.
- An Internal fluted aluminum frame stay.
- A foldout rain cover.
- Good compression straps.
- Easily convertible for use as a shooters rest.
- Comfortable stretch waist belt system.
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ALPS OutdoorZ 9953110 Extreme Crossfire X Hunting Pack
The Crossfire X Hunting Pack is one of the most popular hunting packs from hunting pack manufacturing giants ALPS OutdoorZ. If you are a hunter looking for a pack that can perform multiple functions, then the Crossfire X is definitely worth considering. It is an extremely versatile pack loaded with several features that all manners of hunters will find useful. The Crossfire is equipped with such features as a lightweight X frame, well-padded Lycra® shoulder straps and a padded waist belt that all work together in making it very comfortable for you to carry loads ranging from light to heavy.
Another important comfort-enhancing feature of the Crossfire worth mentioning is its vented back panel which allows for maximum air flow which saves you from perspiring too much on your back. In addition to being one heck of a comfortable pack, the Crossfire is also a very sturdy and durable pack that can withstand the abuse that hunting packs normally undergo. The pack’s sheer strength comes as a result of the 1680D nylon ballistic fabric it is made of. Unlike certain hunting packs on the market, the Crossfire comes with a drop down pocket that allows you to conveniently and securely move around with your rifle or bow hands-free.
When it comes to storing your gear and accessories, the Crossfire offers you excellent storage thanks to its large main pocket, detachable front pocket, lower side mesh pockets and large organizational pocket. In addition to this, the pack comes with side and bottom compression straps that not only enhance comfort by shrinking or compressing the size of the pack when it is not fully loaded with gear but also allow you to securely lash on extra gear. Another attribute of this pack worth talking about is its rain cover that protects your gear from getting soaked by the rain. When not in use, the rain cover can easily be placed in its designated pocket. With a storage capacity of 2325 cubic inches, the Crossfire is indeed an excellent multi-purpose pack that is suitable for hunting and other outdoor activities such as hiking, mountaineering and camping.
Another attribute of this pack worth talking about is its rain cover that protects your gear from getting soaked by the rain. When not in use, the rain cover can easily be placed in its designated pocket. With a storage capacity of 2325 cubic inches, the Crossfire is indeed an excellent multi-purpose pack that is suitable for hunting and other outdoor activities such as hiking, mountaineering and camping.
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Features at a Glance
- Well-padded Lycra® shoulder straps.
- Punched molded foam waist belt.
- Highly durable and sturdy.
- Removable accessory pocket which can be used independently with its own strap.
- Hydration compatible.
- Rain cover.
- Dual directional heavy duty frame.
- Drop down pocket for carrying bow or gun hands-free.
- Multiple compression straps.
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Eberlestock X1A2 Backpack Nylon
The X1A2, which is an improvement on Eberlestock’s renowned X1A1, is a very useful daypack that comes with all the amazing features of the X1A1 in addition to other great features to provide you with light and fast mobility while at the same time ensuring your comfort. One of such amazing features is the full-depth spotting scope pockets that securely house your spotting scopes as well as other accessories.
The backpack’s Gossamer frame, which is a very lightweight metal frame, provides you with enormous support during the carriage of heavy loads since it effectively shifts a significant portion of the weight of the pack’s load to your hips in order to save your shoulders and back from the pressure of the load. Another notable comfort-enhancing feature that the X1A2 comes with is its padded adjustable shoulder harness that can be adjusted to fit you regardless of your torso size.
If you are a bow hunter, the pack’s improved ripcord Bowtether will not only provide you with the opportunity to conveniently and securely carry your bow through the woods but also allow you to easily reach for the weapon without taking the pack off your shoulder. On the other hand, if you are a gun hunter, the X1A2’s centerline rifle Backscabbard provides you with a safe and secure place to hold your gun while at the same time allowing you easy and fast access to your rifle whenever you need to use it.
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Features at a Glance
- 1500 cubic-inch capacity.
- Full-depth spotting scope pockets.
- Padded adjustable shoulder harness.
- Gossamer lightweight frame for support.
- Ripcord Bowtether.
- Centerline rifle Backscabbard for easy access to gun.
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Badlands Summit Backpack
The Badlands Summit Hunting Backpack is without a shred of doubt one of the most popular hunting packs available on the market. The pack, which is an improvement on Badland’s 4500 Pack (which it has now replaced), comes with all the features of the 4500, but is however, 3 pounds lighter. In addition to being a couple of pounds lighter than its predecessor, the Summit also comes with a number of new features, most notably the AirTrack™ Suspension, which keeps you cool thanks to its impressive ability to allow proper air circulation between you and the pack. The Summit also comes with a removable lid that can easily be detached from the entire pack and used on its own. The pack’s AirTrack™ Suspension feature, coupled with its load lifter straps and waist belt that evenly distribute the pack’s weight, greatly enhances your comfort – especially when carrying heavy loads.
When it comes to hydration compatibility, the Summit is considered one of the most hydration compatible packs out there in the sense that it allows you to carry a 2 liter water reservoir and a 3 liter water reservoir in its removable lid and main compartment respectively. At 4700 cubic inches and with multiple pockets and stash zones, this pack is perfectly designed to not only accommodate as much load as you can carry but to also keep your gear and accessories perfectly organized.
The Summit also comes with a very good camouflage pattern that allows you to easily blend into the brush so your presence and location can be hidden from game. The last but not least thing about the Summit is its renowned strength and lightness which it gets from the 900D Ripstop fabric used in make it.
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Features at a Glance
- Removable lid.
- Camouflage pattern.
- 900D Ripstop fabric for strength and lightness.
- AirTrack™ Suspension.
- Light Polycarbonate Frame.
- Easy access zippers.
- Carries a bow or a rifle.
- Water resistant.
- It has very easy access zippers.
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Timber Hawk Killshot Backpack
This pack is crammed with features that endears it to many a rifle and archery hunter. With a storage capacity of 3000 cubic inches, the Killshot is designed in such a manner that it can conveniently accommodate gear that can last you more than a night in the woods. In addition to being an excellent overnight pack, the Killshot can also work excellently as daypack. Weighing only about six pounds. In addition to all these amazing attributes, the pack also comes with an ultra-quiet lining that makes it very silent and allows you to walk through the woods unnoticed.
The Killshot also features an adjustable shoulder strap system, that when combined with its well-padded waist belt, its lightweight internals frame and its Raptor compression straps that stabilize the load in the pack, massively enhances your comfort.
Other notable features of the pack include an excellent bow or rifle carrying system that can carry your weapons in a variety of ways, the Hawk-Eye binocular strap system for accommodating your binoculars, a blaze orange rain cover, a hydration bladder that can take two liters of water, spotting scope sleeve, silent stalk quick ejection clips that allow you to quickly drop your pack, shoulder strap pockets and lashing points for carrying additional gear on the pack’s exterior.
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Features at a Glance
- Ultra-quiet twill fabric lining.
- Adjustable shoulder strap system.
- Padded waist belt.
- Raptor compression straps.
- Blaze orange rain cover.
- Hydration compatible.
- Lashing points for additional storage.
- Drop-down scabbard to store rifle securely.
- Padded front organizer.
- Detachable shoulder strap pouch.
- Internal frame that is lightweight and flexible.
- Quick-ejection clips.
- Hawk-eye binocular strap system.
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Eberlestock F1 Mainframe Pack
The Eberlestock F1 Mainframe Pack is manufactured by the Eberlestock Company – a company known for manufacturing high-quality hunting packs. The Mainframe, which happens to be one of Eberlestock’s most popular and versatile packs, is so versatile that it can easily be converted from a daypack or a freight pack to a very capable meat hauler within a matter of seconds. This versatile pack features a molle webbing, zippers and side compression straps for securely attaching a variety of gear and accessories. The pack’s sturdy and stable Intex II internal aluminum frame helps in balancing heavy load by shifting the bulk of the weight of the load to your hips. This reduces pressure on your back, thereby reducing fatigue and providing you with stability as you haul heavy loads and hike through the woods.
The Mainframe incorporates a very effective ladder harness system which is so adjustable that regardless of your torso length you can get a nice fit in order to comfortably use the pack. With an overall weight of 4 lbs 5 oz, the Mainframe is a very light pack. But despite being lightweight, it does not compromise on quality. It is very durable and toughly constructed. Unlike many packs on the market, the Mainframe is so quiet that you can hike through the woods without exposing your presence to nearby prey.
The above-mentioned attributes, coupled with other features such as an internal aluminum frame, adjustable waist and shoulder straps and compatibility with over a dozen Eberlestock add-on accessories, make the Mainframe one of the most useful hunting packs on the market.
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Features at a Glance
- Ladder harness system.
- Quiet pack.
- Molle webbing.
- Side compression straps.
- Internal aluminum frame.
- Adjustable shoulder and waist straps.
- Lightweight.
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Badlands Clutch Camouflage Hunting Pack – Hydration Compatible Rifle and Bow Carrying Camo Backpack
The Badlands Clutch Camouflage Hunting Backpack is a versatile and very quiet pack that comes with a very useful removable daypack. With a total storage capacity of 3879 cubic inches and nine easily accessible pockets and compartments, the Clutch gives you sufficient storage space for extended hunting trips. The pack sports an inbuilt rain fly that has the ability to keep the contents of the pack dry whenever the weather turns ugly. The sturdy horizontal compression straps and the rifle boot that the Clutch comes with give you the opportunity to conveniently and safely carry your bow or rifle hands free. In addition to this, the pack also sports an inbuilt rifle boot that securely accommodates your weapon. When it comes to carrying heavy loads, the Clutch performs excellently.
The manufacturers designed the pack using an internal T-6 aluminum frame which evenly distributes the weight of the load you are carrying, thereby giving you comfort and control as you hike. Also, the pack’s molded foam suspension combines forces with its load-lifting frame to further enhance your comfort when carrying heavy loads through all manners of terrain.
Other notable features of the Clutch include its zippered back panel access that gives you access to the gear stored in the main compartment of the pack through the pack’s back, accessory webbing, lash patches, a detachable hydration system and “bed roll” straps to attach large items such as a sleeping bag. All these great attributes of the Clutch are what endear it to many big hunters.
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Features at a Glance
- Load-lifting T-6 aluminum frame.
- Detachable hydration pack.
- 3,879 cubic-inch storage capacity.
- Molded foam suspension.
- Bow and rifle compatible.
- Zippered back panel access.
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Badlands Kali Day Pack
Are you a female rifle or bow hunter searching for a hunting pack specifically tailored for a female hunter? If you answered yes to this question, then you might want to give the Kali, aka the Goddess of Hunting, a try. The Kali is widely regarded as one of the best female hunting packs available on the market thanks to its numerous female specific features such as shoulder straps that are more contoured, a shorter torso and a waist belt designed to accommodate the natural curvature of the hips of a woman.
Besides these great women specific features, the pack also comes with other important features such as a heat hardened steel frame which supports the carriage of heavy load, Hypervent™ Suspension Technology that keeps the pack away from your back while allowing for proper air circulation at the same time and an excellent hydration system. The pack also comes with a storage space of 2,500 cubic inches and features multiple pockets and compartments that not only help in securely storing your hunting/hiking gear and accessories but also help in keeping them well organized.
The pack also comes with a storage space of 2,500 cubic inches and features multiple pockets and compartments that not only help in securely storing your hunting/hiking gear and accessories but also help in keeping them well organized.
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Features at a Glance
- Female Specific Shoulder Straps.
- Hypervent™ Suspension.
- Heat Hardened Steel Frame.
- Ultra Quiet KXO-32™ Material.
- Bow or rifle carrying ability.
- Lifetime Warranty.
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Things to Consider Before Buying a Hunting Backpack
Storage
There is a lot of gear that one needs to carry around during hunting expeditions, including weapons used for hunting. This makes the storage space very important. Thus, it is essential for packs to have special compartments for items like water, GPS, tripods, bows, spotting scopes and rifles. When moving around with weapons such as a rifle or bow, then you must figure out how to properly and safely transport them. A hunting backpack with a weapon-carrying system becomes quite handy. A good backpack should allow you to quickly remove your tools and still strongly secure them while travelling.
Depending on what type of hunting expedition you want to undertake, you should choose a hunting pack that can carry enough gear for your entire trip. For example, if you are making a day trip or a short hunting trip, then a pack such as a daypack with a storage capacity of between 1500 cubic inches and 2500 cubic inches would be suitable for you. On the other hand, if you are going to be making an extended hunting trip or an overnight hunting trip, then the pack (multiday pack) should have a minimum of about 2500 cubic inches of space to accommodate all your essential hunting/hiking gear including your preferred weapon.
A good hunting backpack should not only be able to provide you with a sufficient, safe and comfortable storage space for all your essential hunting gear and accessories, including tools for dressing your kill in the field but should also provide you with the ability to keep your gear well-organized and easily reachable. Another very important thing you need to look out for in a hunting pack with regard to storage is its ability to properly store your meat from a successful hunt. Think about it this way; of what use is your hunting pack if it does not provide you with a convenient and conducive storage place or room for your meat to be transported from the field to your home?
Away from this, there are also instances where you would be travelling with extra large gear such as a tent, camera arms, tripods or even a bulky weapon such as a bow or rifle that cannot be placed into the backpack. In such instances, your pack’s ability to conveniently store these equipments on its exterior becomes very important. It is for this reason that good hunting packs come with important things such as compressions straps, extension lashing straps and multiple attachment points to conveniently and securely lash extra large gear on their exterior.
Durability
Hunting backpacks are usually used in rugged terrain. They get whipped by branches and are exposed to all weather conditions. The ideal hunting pack should be sturdy, tear-resistant and have reinforced stitching. Investing in a durable backpack guarantees that you’ll get quality and value for a long time.
One of the most important questions you should ask yourself before buying a hunting pack is, “Is the pack durable?” If the answer to your question is no, then it is not advisable to go in for that pack regardless of how nice it may look. Unlike other types of packs, hunting packs are regularly subjected to intense abuse. This is why it is imperative that the pack you buy is one that is built to be both rugged and durable. The pack’s durable construction will ensure that despite the amount of abuse it undergoes, it is resistant to wear and tear.
The type of material used in constructing your backpack is largely what determines the durability and strength of the pack. Below are some of the most common materials used in making backpacks:
- Nylon: This material is known for its strength and ability to dry quickly after coming in contact with water.
- Rip-Stop Nylon: This material is similar to the traditional nylon with the only difference being it is much stronger and doesn’t rip easily.
- Cordura Nylon: This material is light and durable. However, it doesn’t waterproof very easily.
- Polyester: In addition to being a strong material, polyester also provides a great amount of UV protection. However, it is worth noting that polyester isn’t as strong as nylon.
- Canvas: This fabric is one of the most durable fabrics used in making backpacks. The only problem with canvas is the fact that it is heavy and cannot be waterproofed very easily. It is worth noting that canvas used to be the most commonly used material in the construction of hunting packs but today the use of canvas in constructing hunting packs has significantly declined.
Besides the above-mentioned fabrics, other fabrics commonly used in constructing backpacks include suede and leather, among other synthetic materials. Before we conclude our discussion on the durability of the backpack, it is imperative that you know that backpacks that are constructed with materials that resist ultraviolet (UV) rays are the best in terms of durability. Why is this so? The thing about ultraviolet rays is that they weaken the material your hunting pack is made of and make it more susceptible to tearing and ripping. This is the reason why it is a very good idea to buy a backpack that is made of a material that has a high resistance to ultraviolet (UV) degradation. And of all the materials mentioned above, Nylon and Polyester happen to have the highest resistance to the degradation caused by ultraviolet (UV).
Color
Most hunting backpacks come in both camouflage and orange patterns to choose from while others are in solid colors such as pinks and neutrals. The rule of thumb has always been that a hunting backpack shouldn’t make you stand out. Camouflage patterns and colors are perfect since they blend in with the environment. On the other hand, solid colors are very visible and might not be exactly what you want when carefully stalking that prey. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and you should decide on a color you are comfortable with. That being said, it is advisable to always go in for a hunting pack that is camouflaged. Why is a camouflaged hunting pack very important? A pack that comes in patterns of camo makes it very easy for you to blend into the brush and with the surrounding environment so that the animals you are hunting are less likely to visually detect your presence or location. The less likely animals are able to visually detect your location, the higher your chances become of making a kill during your hunting trip. This is the reason why almost all the best hunting packs on the market come in camouflage patterns.
Size
When we talk of the size of a hunting backpack oftentimes people think of only the amount of gear and accessories it can carry. But the size of a hunting pack goes beyond just that; it is also about how the pack fits you. So in essence, when we talk about the perfect size backpack, we are talking about a pack that not only conveniently carries all your hunting/hiking gear but also fits your body type very well. It is important that the pack you use properly fit the length of your torso so you can carry the pack very comfortably. If the pack does not fit you well, then the weight of the load in the pack won’t be balanced well and this can easily cause backaches and fatigue – especially when you are going on very long hikes.
As much as people try to overlook the size factor, it’s very important since it contributes to the general comfort when carrying the backpack. A good backpack should be appropriate for your size and fit well. When purchasing a hunting pack, always make sure that you get one that is in line with your torso size. And fortunately, today, many good hunting packs come with features such as adjustable suspensions that allow the packs to be adjusted to fit different torso lengths. Such packs allow a wearer to comfortably use them regardless of the wearer’s size.
Quietness
Another very important thing you should consider before buying your hunting pack is the pack’s noise production level. Every serious hunter will tell you that a noisy pack is bad news when it comes to hunting. A quiet hunting pack not only conceals your presence from the animals you are hunting but also does not create noise that will spook the animals and reduce your likelihood of enjoying a successful hunting trip. Depending on the type of material or fabric used in constructing the pack, the pack can be quiet or noisy. Some materials make more noise than others when brushed against objects or touched, and noisy materials make noisy packs. Fortunately, there are a number of companies out there that are making good hunting packs with materials that are quiet and zippers that do not make noise when you open or close them. The bottom line is, the less sound the bag produces, the better it is. So it is imperative that you take the quietness of the pack into consideration before going for it.
Gear Protection
A hunting backpack is not considered very useful if it cannot offer protection to its contents. A good hunting backpack should be water resistant and come with padding to protect the gear you put inside it – especially very delicate equipment such as binoculars, phone, compass, GPS, etc. When it comes to protection from water, while it is not possible to get a pack that is totally waterproof, you can get a pack that repels or resists water to a certain degree. In addition to being water resistant, a number of packs also come with inbuilt rain covers which protect their contents from rain or moisture. You will appreciate the importance of this inbuilt rain cover when you open your pack after a downpour and find your gear still dry.
Comfort-Enhancing Features
Since you’ll be carrying the hunting pack with you to the field over and over again, it is imperative that you choose a hunting pack that’s going to be comfortable to carry even through long distances. Various features enhance the comfort provided by backpacks, allowing for proper adjustment to ease compression on the pressure points while still ensuring that they fit well. It would be wise to consider purchasing a backpack that comes with the following comfort-enhancing features:
- Lightweight: Carrying a light backpack plays a major role in enhancing your comfort in the field – especially if you would be doing a lot of long distance hiking. A pack that is extremely heavy will not only cause you discomfort but will also make you move slower and get fatigued faster. All in all, the lighter your pack, the more comfortable you are going to be.
- Padded hip belts: Since the strongest muscles in your body are found in the legs, this feature transfers the bulk of the weight of the load in the pack to your hips so that your weaker shoulders don’t have to carry the load. And since over 60 percent of the pack’s weight is going to be carried by your hips, it is imperative that the hip belts are adequately padded in order to prevent your hips from becoming sore.
- Internal and External frame: It is never advisable to buy a hunting pack that does not come with either an internal or an external frame. A pack without a frame (internal or external) is bad news since it will make the load in the pack to be carried solely by your weaker shoulders instead of being transferred to your stronger hips. A good frame will help in evenly distributing the weight of the load in the pack so that it feels as though you are carrying less.
- Adjustable and Padded shoulder straps: A hunting pack that comes with adjustable, padded shoulder straps not only makes the load in the pack less cumbersome for you to carry but also ensures that you have a nice and snug fit, thereby enhancing your comfort.
- Adjustable sternum strap: A good hunting pack will come with a sternum strap, which is the strap that travels across your sternum from one shoulder to the other. The main role of the sternum strap is to reduce the pressure of the load of the pack on your shoulders while at the same time stabilizing the load by distributing it evenly.
- Compression straps: Packs that come with compression straps are more comfortable to carry since they provide plenty of stability.
- Ventilated back support panel: Another important thing you should consider before buying your hunting pack is to check whether the pack comes with back support panels or not. A pack that comes with this feature will normally have its back shaped to fit the natural shape of your back in order to make it very comfortable for you to carry the bag. In addition to this, the pack’s back would be adequately padded and lined with an air mesh to provide decent ventilation in order to reduce sweatiness.
Hydration System Compatibility
These days a lot of good hunting packs come with hydration systems (hydration pockets and ports) that give you the opportunity to enjoy hands free drinking. Using a hunting backpack that is hydration system compatible provides you with a very convenient way of drinking water without having to hold a water bottle in your hands.
Warranty
One more very important thing you ought to do before purchasing a hunting pack is to find out whether the pack comes with a warranty or not. It is a very risky thing purchasing a pack that comes with no warranty. Many experts advise that any pack you buy should be one that comes with a full warranty. Today, a number of hunting pack manufacturers such as Eberlestock, Badlands Packs and Timber Hawk Killshot back their packs with unconditional lifetime warranties, which means regardless of how long the packs are used, the manufacturers would fix or change them whenever they develop a manufacturing related problem. We strongly advise against purchasing a hunting pack from manufacturers who don’t back up their packs with a warranty.
Types of Hunting Packs
Below are the most common types of hunting backs available for purchase on the market.
Multiday Pack
Multiday packs are normally large hunting backpacks which are specifically designed for multi-day use. With a minimum storage capacity of about 2500 cubic inches, these packs are pretty spacious and therefore have room big enough to contain enough gear and accessories for overnight hunting or hiking expeditions. Because of the large storage capacity of these packs, they often come with either internal or external frames that offer the wearer with great support.
Features of Multiday packs
Here are some of the most common features that many modern day multiday packs come with:
- Hydration system compatibility.
- Internal/external frame.
- Padded hip belts.
- Padded shoulder straps.
- Extension lashing straps.
- Compression straps.
- Inbuilt rain cover.
- Air-cooled back panel.
- Weapon-carriage system.
- Attachment points for extra gear.
Daypack
A daypack is smaller than a rucksack or multi-day pack but larger than a waist pack (fanny pack). Hunting daypacks are normally suitable for single-day hunting expeditions or other one-day outdoor activities, which is how they got the name “day pack”. They are often lighter than the multi-day packs and have a lower storage capacity, which often ranges between 1300 cubic inches and 2500 cubic inches. More often than not, these packs don’t come with meat hauling compartments.
Features of Hunting Daypacks
These days it is very common to see many daypacks come with the following features:
- Hydration system compatibility.
- Padded hip belts.
- Padded shoulder straps.
- Compression straps.
- Inbuilt rain cover.
- Air-cooled back panel.
- Weapon-carriage system.
- Attachment points for extra gear.
Hunting Fanny Pack
Hunting fanny packs are generally smaller both in size and capacity than hunting daypacks and are normally worn around the waist with the help of a strap. With a storage capacity that is often less than 1300 cubic inches, the average fanny pack will come with a large pocket at its center and additional multiple smaller pockets and compartments to keep your little items such as gloves, extra ammo, sunscreen, cell phone, etc better organized and easily reachable. Unlike multiday packs and daypacks, fanny packs provide the easiest and fastest way to get to your gear. Fanny packs tend to be very light and fit easy around the waist. They are great for hauling all the essential things you would need for activities such as going to your stand or making quick scouting trips.
Features of a Hunting Fanny Pack
- Adjustable belt strap.
- Some fanny packs these days come with shoulder straps.
- Lightweight.
- Fits easy around the waist.
- Multiple compartments and pockets for better organization.
Features of a good Hunting Pack
It is a fact that hunting packs come in different sizes, designs, storage capacities and shapes. However, there are a number of features that all good hunting packs should have. Some of these features include the following:
- Durable: The pack should be durable enough to withstand the abuse that hunting packs traditionally undergo. A durable and tough hunting pack is less likely to let you down in the field.
- Water Resistant: The pack should be made of a water resistant or waterproof material so that it can protect your gear and accessories from water.
- Noiseless: A good hunting pack should be as noiseless as possible so that it doesn’t advertise the presence of the hunter to the animals he or she is hunting.
- Light: When empty, the ideal hunting pack shouldn’t be very heavy. If the pack is heavy in its empty state, then you can only imagine how extremely heavy it is going to be when fully loaded with gear and other items.
- Hydration Compatible: The pack should be hydration compatible so that the wearer can easily and conveniently quench their thirst while in the field.
- Camouflage: A good hunting pack should come in camouflage patterns so that you can easily blend into the woods without being noticed by game.
- Comfortable: A hunting pack is no good if it does not come with comfort-enhancing features that enhance the comfort of the wearer. This is the reason why all good hunting packs on the market come with comfort-enhancing features such as padded hip belts, adjustable sternum strap, padded shoulder straps, internal or external frames, air-cooled back support, etc.
- Multiple Pockets and Compartments: The pack should come with multiple sized pockets and compartments to allow for proper organization of your gear and easy access to them.
- Good Weapon Carrying System: The ideal hunting pack should provide the hunter with a safe and secure way to carry his or her weapon hands free. Also, the pack should allow the hunter easy access to the weapon.
- Warranty: All good hunting packs come with warranties.
Final Word
Choosing the best hunting backpack for you depends on what you intend to do during your hunting trip. You should consider what you plan on carrying and what your preferences are when it comes to hunting. A reliable, convenient backpack is an excellent way to store and transport equipment and gear, leaving your hands free.
Following the above guide will be helpful in the long run once you start realizing the benefits. The above backpacks have been chosen wisely, considering all the essential features, and will definitely make your hunting experience far more enjoyable.
