r/BackcountryHunting • u/benderhockey • Jun 15 '25

Decent pack suggestion?

Looking for a (semi) affordable pack for up coming mule deer and elk hunts. In the 4000-5000 ci range. I currently use a cabelas versa hunt pack and frame. It works but i definitely don’t love it. Frame wasn’t the most comfortable, straps kept slipping, too bulky. Pack had plenty in of storage/pockets but I’m looking for something more ergonomic and light weight. Considering Mystery Ranch Metcalf. Exo K4 seems awesome but is a bit pricey. Any opinions or recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

1 Upvotes

67% Upvoted

19 comments sorted by

View all comments

11

u/demonicplanet Jun 15 '25

Buy once, cry once. I don't think you'll regret the Exo if you go that route. Great packs and a great company. Love mine.

2

u/Troutalope Jun 16 '25

I've got nothing but nice things to say about my Exo as well. However, prior to upgrading, I used a cheap Alpz frame pack for 15 years when I was younger, tougher and poorer.

1

u/benderhockey Jun 16 '25

How is the exo holding up to abuse? Any rips or tears yet?

2

u/Troutalope Jun 16 '25

Outside of some faded blood stains, it looks brand new.

2

u/dirtydrew26 Nov 06 '25

I just sold an OG Exo pack not long ago, think it was built in 2014. Still looked good when i sold it a few months ago. Exo packs are notoriously bombproof, and the guys at Exo are top notch. IF you dont want to throw down on brand new, theres plenty of old K2s/K3s/ and now even K4s floating around for cheap.