Please be advised that scammers may incorrectly inform you that you have won the giveaway. The actual winner will be announced on July 31st on the Gear Fool Instagram page, and their name will be added to the description of the video for confirmation. Please do not respond to anyone soliciting your personal information under the guise of being Gear Fool. Thank you!
Perfecr timing on this video. Was just looking into picking one of these up for the upcoming season. Appreciate the unbias reviews. Definitely alot more in depth than the other videos ive come across on backpacks
Great review. As novice hunter, I’ve found this and your other review videos really helpful in making a decision on where to spend my coin. Your tripod and fluid head comparison vids also helped big time. Now I’m starting to understand which pack I like. I’ve considered using my internal frame backpacking pack this season, but after some at home testing I realized it would be miserable if I had to carry out game and gear. Watching these videos convince me that a proper hunting pack would be worth it. Thanks!
Thanks for the awesome comment and welcome to the world of backpack hunting. Reach out to us with gear-related questions if you have them. Happy to help!
Good info! Thanks for suffering for us to get a good feel on all the packs. A lot of review videos fail to really put a product through its paces well enough. Good job 👍🏼
Great comparison video and perfect timing since I’m in desperate need of a new pack! Would have liked to see the K4 in this but I’m thinking SG after this video. Thanks fellas!
Thanks for the comment, Donny! Reach out to us if you decide to go with SG. We'd be happy to help further there too. We included the K4 last year where we determined its performance under load to very, very comparable to SG...with no clear winner between the two. When it comes to someone who is in the market between Exo and SG, we recommend they orient their decision making around the bag layout and design rather than comfort and performance. Hope to chat soon!
Booked a dream elk hunt for myself and my father in law next year in Montana thanks to you guys! A new pack to hopefully help pack out two bulls would be extremely necessary!
Good information. Thanks for doing these videos. I watched a couple of the previous pack videos and I’m drawn to the Stone Glacier because of some of the things you’ve pointed out. Keep up the good work!
We really can't emphasize enough just how comfortable a SG frame is if it's fitted properly. Incredible comfort and athleticism with it on and a load applied. Reach out to us with SG questions!
Love these videos. Watched last years as well. I’ve not pulled the cord on a solid hunting pack as of yet, there just has been something lacking in many of them, particularly in the most important area, the waist belt. To me, that belt must be adjustable under a load and as terrain changes. The best pack I’ve found so far has been my Big Agnes pack. It’s made for back packing and multi day trips. The support is just plain solid and the waist adjustment actually adjust around the bottom and top of your pelvic crests with one simple pull down and forward. Drawback, meat goes inside. I’ve been looking for a solid replacement with meat carrying capabilities combined with true back country back packing capability. This video goes a long way to discussing that. Would love to see a bit more detail on those types of on the fly adjustments to the packs you try, and how they work. Keep up the work gents and thank you.
Thanks for the comment! All of these packs allow you to adjust the waist belt under tension, and I also do that often, even if I'm simply shifting weight to my shoulders for a mile, then back to my hips. That being said, I have not tried the Big Agnes pack. The Stone Glacier has straps on top and bottom of the hip belt but honestly I haven't found much use in adjusting those more than once. Go to gearfool.com next time you need some gear if you want to support us!
Give us a call at 435-263-0207 or shoot us an email to info@gearfool.com. We'd love to help you with SG products there. And should you have any questions about other backpack manufacturers, you'll get a straight answer from us. Happy to help!
Love this video. Little disappointed it’s taken me so long to find this Chanel! Love the comparisons and information given. Stone glacier and kifaru definitely looking very nice
I’ve had a couple MR packs over the years and bought a Stone last year. By far my favorite pack I’ve used thanks to your reviews on it. 20-30lbs when I’m day hunting feels like 10-15lbs. It carries well.
Thanks for this video and the previous backpack videos. I like that your full review and the concise review at the end. There’s so many great backpack options out there but overall Stone Glacier seems the most comfortable but not necessarily the most versatile for loads.
Very helpful video! Thank you for being detailed on actually wearability and comfort when thinking about use on the mountain. Awesome that you guys tried it in actual hunting terrain.
We appreciate the comment! We did what we could. Of course, there was more "mountain mobility" achievable with 50lbs vs. 100lbs, and that's what you're seeing here. Good luck this season.
I really appreciate reviews like this with the packs. I’ve had my eyes on a Stone pack or an Initial pack. Though the Initial brand is from my home state of Idaho, I think I’m gonna snag me up a Stone Pack. Thanks guys for the help on this decision. Happy hunting boys!
Very honest and great feedback on which packs to consider! I have an Initial Ascent pack that I love, but I agree it's a bit wide and I don't feel as mobile as I do with other packs. After watching your videos, I'm convinced that I need to get a Stone Glacier to add to my arsenal to use for day hunts and/or for smaller game such as deer, but I agree that the Initial Ascent is better for large game. My buddy and I even talked about using Stone Glacier for day elk hunts once we can afford to get one, and swap it out for our Initial Ascent packs once we get back to our truck with our intial load. Thanks for the video!
Thanks for the review, these videos are awesome! I have been impressed with my Stone Glacier pack. It’s comfortable under heavy loads, but I agree that it has too many straps and the top lid could be improved.
We've found that some "refresher training in the home garage" can go along way before diving into the mountains for the first time each year on a multi-day bender resulting in a late-night pack out. Especially when loading on a moonless night, on a side slope, and under heavy fatigue!
Great review. All pretty good packs. Thanks for your perspectives. I guess the decision has a lot to do with the type of hunt you are going to use them for. Budget will also play a part in the decision making. Thanks.
I had the Ark Frame with a Kifaru pack an went to the Initial Ascent only because I liked the bag layout better. Both awesome packs though, can't go wrong with either one. Great comparison you guys did in this video. Thanks
We admit that there isn't any one backpack that will best suit for all users, but it is interesting to see the differences between them when weight is applied and the terrain is uneven. Pros and cons to most any backpack, really. Thanks for the comment!
@@clintmcinnes3348 Take a peek at the video description. Winner of the giveaway will have their choice of any one of these backpacks tested. Good luck!
The new Kifaru ARK frame has significantly more fore-and-aft spring under moderate loads once placed on the user, in our opinion. This isn't necessarily a "bad thing" by any means, but if you have any experience with their prior Duplex Lite Frame, here's a heads up that the wear experience will differ. Best of luck to you!
I used a lot of the things learned from the past video; extremely helpful information. Definitely looking at these packs for an update for this season!
Great video. I enjoy seeing pack comparison videos. Just wondering why you used such a small Kifaru bag? Also I couldn't tell where you guys were putting the weight. It looked like one was strapped to the frame. I'm sure they will carry different if the weight is in the bag vs on a load shelf.
KUIU makes some incredible products, but we agree. When it comes to backpacks and more specifically their performance under heavy load, there are other options on the market worth looking into. Good luck!
I appreciate a pack review video made for hunter by hunters. And by hunters who have experience with heavy backpack loads. I recently helped a buddy pack an elk out of the Colorado backcountry and there was a clear difference between our two packs. I strongly believe if a hunter plans on packing out animals that a good pack is worth every bit of investment. It can make the difference of being completely miserable or happily suffering through a brutal pack out. Interesting to see Initial Ascent performance, one that I haven't considered before either. Thanks for the great review video, I'm sure it will help alot of people.
I've used MR packs the past 3 years. They have been solid and performed well for me but I agree they are in a different tier. I have used them mainly for day hunts and have packed out both deer and elk without a problem. I bought the IA this year and the feel of the frame and hip belt are great, looking forward to loading it up this season.
I would have liked to hear your thoughts on the Kifaru Arc w the 25” frame. It’s hard to compare 26” frames like the SG, IA, MR to a 22” frame on the Arc. I have all except the MR, including the K4 and I do not get the pelvic tilt you described with my Arc in the 25”. I am not picking a fight, but I have used them all and the 22” frame is not apples to apples, especially at heavy weights compared to a 25 or 26” frame. You might want to amend your opening to disclose that.
Really need a new pack for my Oregon Snake River rifle bull hunt in November. This would be amazing. Thank you for giving all of us a chance for a new pack.
Awesome review. I appreciate it. I personally like the Initial Ascents. They seem to fit my body better than others. I wish the EXO had been involved in this as well.
We here you. We included the EXO K4 5000 with last year's comparison and determined that its comfort under load performance was equally comparable to that of the Stone Glacier Krux. We made a mention of this in the description. Anyhow, we dig the K4 and the folks at EXO. All good things.
@@gearfool thanks! Appreciate that. I did not particularly care for the K3. I use it as my ruck pack but do not find it comfortable for my body to do more than flatland rucking to get in shape. My initial ascent fits my body much better and carries weight significantly better in my opinion.
I've owned and used many pack companies and with my current or older Kifaru setups I've never had your experience of "pivoting". Maybe it's unique to your build or adjustments? Thanks for putting in the miles and reviewing the packs.
We appreciate the counter opinion. Perhaps so. It's coincidental that the guy commenting above aligned with us there though! If there's one thing for certain, it's that there are a medley of build types and adjustment techniques. Best of luck this season!
Excellent side by side comparison between 4 popular pack company models. As someone who lives in the eastern United States 🇺🇸 I don’t have actual access to even try them on. I probably would go with the Initial Ascent but it would be cool to compare a couple for myself
When it comes to these backpacks that are tailored to western hunting (amongst other areas of course), there's definitely a disadvantage to being that far east of the Mississippi! We're happy to help further if you'd like. Contact us at 435-263-0207 or info@gearfool.com. Mention commenting on this UA-cam video there. We will gladly answer any questions you may have about these backpacks, whether our store sells their brand or not. This unbiased video review can support that!
I wish these videos existed 3 years ago when I bought my MR. It has functioned for me as you described here. It works, but it’s not ideal. Stone glacier has my attention 👀
Same comments....rocked a MR Marshall for years and my heaviest pack out this last Feb on a whole auodad SUCKED. I think the waist belt is too narrow among other issues....this is the OG Guideline frame, not even the MT update version. I am torn between the IA and the SG but don't have the chance to try out an IA.
Sweet great work guys, I have the kafaru bag and older frame. And I have noticed I do lean a bit forward with a heavy load as well. And I have been debating on getting the arc frame or maybe jumping into a new pack system.
I really enjoy geeking out on gear so these videos are great. I have the MR Beartooth and have the same issues it doesn’t feel great with a heavy load. Do to budget and my son finally getting his first deer tag here in Utah it’ll be awhile before I could upgrade cause he needs a pack. So I’ll continue to watch and hopefully have a good idea on what pack to get next. Tossed between EXO K4 and the IA but I’ll keep watching these to help that final decision in the future, Thanks. Also do you guys buy used gear like packs or like a trade in on a new pack?
There's always teammates that have used gear for sale to include backpacks. These would be one-on-one personal exchanges though, and consquently wouldn't be handled through our website at GearFool.com. Shoot us an email to info@gearfool.com and we can tell you what used backpacks we have at the moment. Happy to help.
Thanks for a second comparison video! Do you think if you would have tested the frames with a higher volume bag, the results would have been different...especially at 100lbs?
Enjoyed the comparisons. As a bigger framed build guy I’m very interested the initial ascent with the wider frame and bag. Also that lid seems money. If I won I know what pack I’m taking!
Great Review, I have never tried the Stone Glacier would be interesting to see how the posture is different compared to the Kifaru. The Kifaru does seem to make you have a forward posture from my use also.
Forest used the Kifaru Woodsman on the Duplex Lite Frame for years. He loved it. Then, he switched to the Stone Glacier Krux for trial purposes and never looked back. If you want to get serious about Stone Glacier, reach out to us directly. You'll be glad you did!
@@gearfool I have the duplex lite in the 26", I'm 176# 6'.1" so its the right frame but i cant get comfortable with it. Hoping to win one one of your give away ones as stated. Thanks for the feed back and a great video.
This makes me want a new pack really bad. After watching this video I think I’m going to go sell some antlers and order an ia I’ve been eyeballing it for some time. These reviews help me so dang much thanks for the time I know how much it takes to do this outside of work and family.
Courious if would have a bag size recommendation for goat/sheep type hunts. I’m a smaller person so plan on cutting as much weight as possible. Wouldn’t mind bit of extra room but same time don’t want to over kill it. Would imagine 7-12 day trips at most.
Cheers for the detailed review and hard slogging for our Benifts.. Just looking for a new pack at the moment. Kifaru vs Stone is were I'm at.. looking at the KU 4300... Its not easy..
Choosing the right pack for yourself really isn't easy. We hope these videos help! If you have any questions, we're happy to help. Reach out to us at 435-263-0207 or info@gearfool.com. Chat soon!
Love my stone glacier 5900. I agree with you on the straps though. I wish they would update those to different colors so you can differentiate when loading at night.
Good review. You should review Eberlestock packs. I love the Eberlestock battleship. 100 liter. Very comfortable with weight. It's more of a tactical pack though. But I'm a marine. That's my preference. Keep it up guys. I enjoy watching.
I’ve been rocking with eberlestock for awhile now with very little disappointment. I picked up their new Freefall 3000 when it came out recently and have only rucked with it but it handles weight well. I’m very interested in Initial Ascent for longer hunts
Have you ever considered comparing Eberlestock packs in the reviews? I am curious how a comparable Eberlestock compares to the top three in this review. Thanks
Good one guys. I am trying to decide on which pack I want right now for a spring bear hunt next year. I like the Initial ascent since they went with beaver tail main access. However, I also like the Stone Glacier and EXO. So, you see my dilemma. I guess the only deciding factor would be to go try each one at their shops. I'm 5' 8" and 165 lbs. and in pretty good physical shape. What is your suggestion with that limited info? Thanks for your content, Michael
This is a great comment. All 3 of those you've mentioned here would provide comfort under load. The SG and Exo would provide a little better feeling of athleticism under said loads, but the Initial Ascent would accommodate more bulk and load-carrying capacity due to its wider frame and means of load securing. Additionally, and as you've already alluded to with the beaver tail main access of the Initial Ascent, there are likely some bag features amongst these 3 that may sway your decision too. Fire back with more questions if you have them. 🔥
I enjoy your reviews and find them very helpful and unbiased. I’m an eastern whitetail hunter learning western elk hunting. I’m 6’3”, 260# and large framed and I’m struggling to find a pack sized for someone my size with enough adjustment to carry a load comfortably. Do you have any recommendations?
A large caliber man requires a large caliber pack. Your personal specifications are a bit non-standard. What's your waist circumference? Feel free to contact us through the website or by calling 435-263-0207. We'd be happy to help understand your personal specifications a little better and work with you to determine what would work best.
@@gearfool Gotta use what you're given, but glad you acknowledged it and noted the potential issue with it being the 22". Thought you both did a fair assessment and were candid with pros and cons of the packs, nice work.
I've been trying to decide between the kifaru and stone glacier. Leaning more towards the kifaru due to how beefy their bags seem. I'm upgrading from my old worn out MEC bag so either would be an improvement. I think it would take a very short person to fit that 22" kifaru frame. I wonder if the results would have been better if it was sized more appropriately for them.
Great video. I still feel packs are a lot like boots when it comes to fit and comfort. As long as it’s well made you need to find the one that fits YOU the best.
Now this is an interesting comment. We have extensive experience with the K4 ourselves and we dig it. Kifaru "modernized" their traditional Duplex Lite Frame when they replaced it with the ARK. The ARK definitely has more fore-and-aft spring under certain load weights and configurations. It also offers a different load-carrying posture, whether your mobile or stationary. Both solid products though. 🔥
Very good reviews! I haven’t tried any of the other companies mentioned but I have used a kifaru duplex lite, tactical, and now ark frames. I am super happy with the 22” ark frame and enjoy my 26” lite for my bigger gnargali pack. The tactical was my least favorite.
Commenting for the give away. ❤ I’ve been watching gear reviews for some time going back and forth for years on backpacks doing research and I always get stuck on kifaru or stone glacier, I’ve owned products from both. Love to see updates in frames and technology.
Mystery Ranch makes a product with a meat shelf that will expand the mountain hunting capabilities of most any newbie or intermediate. And honestly, there are a lot of experienced mountain hunters that still love and use them. However, the few shortcomings mentioned here in our observations seem to align with the experiences of others. We appreciate the comment. 👊
The Mystery Ranch Waistbelt has an internal adjusment to give you more or less strap, to prevent slipping, it needs to be moved to the further rear position. To get to that adjustment, the waist strap needs to be undone and the padding pulled forward off of the stiff guide sticking out of the frame.
We included KUIU in our 2023 Pack Comparison (check out the video when you can). It didn't perform nearly as well as some of the other prominent backpack brands in the space then.
Thanks for this comparison video, as a short torso guy I've been looking at that 22" ark frame. Both of you are probably a more"normal" build and would have benefited from the 25" frame.
Please be advised that scammers may incorrectly inform you that you have won the giveaway. The actual winner will be announced on July 31st on the Gear Fool Instagram page, and their name will be added to the description of the video for confirmation. Please do not respond to anyone soliciting your personal information under the guise of being Gear Fool. Thank you!
I got scamned
The fact that the JanSport school backpack was left out of this, makes me not take it seriously.
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Talk about a load hauler!!!
Glory to the poorfags. I cant afford this crap so its either jansport or surplus
Love these kind of reviews. Unbiased and uncut with more than two products. We need more in depth reviews like this
Perfecr timing on this video. Was just looking into picking one of these up for the upcoming season. Appreciate the unbias reviews. Definitely alot more in depth than the other videos ive come across on backpacks
Happy to hear it! Let us know if you have any questions. Happy to help further where we can!
Great review. As novice hunter, I’ve found this and your other review videos really helpful in making a decision on where to spend my coin. Your tripod and fluid head comparison vids also helped big time. Now I’m starting to understand which pack I like. I’ve considered using my internal frame backpacking pack this season, but after some at home testing I realized it would be miserable if I had to carry out game and gear. Watching these videos convince me that a proper hunting pack would be worth it. Thanks!
Thanks for the awesome comment and welcome to the world of backpack hunting. Reach out to us with gear-related questions if you have them. Happy to help!
I don’t see many place comparison videos. The one you did last year helped plus this one have helped a lot! You guys rock!
🔥🔥
Reviews like this are amazing. Definitely worth the time to watch before spending a lot of money on equipment. Nicely done!
Great review guys! Been looking into the Kifaru and Initial Ascent packs lately so this was helpful 👍
Good info! Thanks for suffering for us to get a good feel on all the packs. A lot of review videos fail to really put a product through its paces well enough. Good job 👍🏼
We try to do all that we can. Thanks for the bump!
Great comparison video and perfect timing since I’m in desperate need of a new pack! Would have liked to see the K4 in this but I’m thinking SG after this video. Thanks fellas!
Thanks for the comment, Donny! Reach out to us if you decide to go with SG. We'd be happy to help further there too. We included the K4 last year where we determined its performance under load to very, very comparable to SG...with no clear winner between the two. When it comes to someone who is in the market between Exo and SG, we recommend they orient their decision making around the bag layout and design rather than comfort and performance. Hope to chat soon!
Booked a dream elk hunt for myself and my father in law next year in Montana thanks to you guys! A new pack to hopefully help pack out two bulls would be extremely necessary!
Good information. Thanks for doing these videos. I watched a couple of the previous pack videos and I’m drawn to the Stone Glacier because of some of the things you’ve pointed out. Keep up the good work!
We really can't emphasize enough just how comfortable a SG frame is if it's fitted properly. Incredible comfort and athleticism with it on and a load applied. Reach out to us with SG questions!
Love these videos. Watched last years as well. I’ve not pulled the cord on a solid hunting pack as of yet, there just has been something lacking in many of them, particularly in the most important area, the waist belt. To me, that belt must be adjustable under a load and as terrain changes. The best pack I’ve found so far has been my Big Agnes pack. It’s made for back packing and multi day trips. The support is just plain solid and the waist adjustment actually adjust around the bottom and top of your pelvic crests with one simple pull down and forward. Drawback, meat goes inside. I’ve been looking for a solid replacement with meat carrying capabilities combined with true back country back packing capability. This video goes a long way to discussing that. Would love to see a bit more detail on those types of on the fly adjustments to the packs you try, and how they work. Keep up the work gents and thank you.
Thanks for the comment! All of these packs allow you to adjust the waist belt under tension, and I also do that often, even if I'm simply shifting weight to my shoulders for a mile, then back to my hips. That being said, I have not tried the Big Agnes pack. The Stone Glacier has straps on top and bottom of the hip belt but honestly I haven't found much use in adjusting those more than once. Go to gearfool.com next time you need some gear if you want to support us!
I really appreciate these reviews. I think I'm gonna go with the SG. The way that you guys actually break down these packs is great. Thank you.
Give us a call at 435-263-0207 or shoot us an email to info@gearfool.com. We'd love to help you with SG products there. And should you have any questions about other backpack manufacturers, you'll get a straight answer from us. Happy to help!
Your videos are the best guys. Really helps foreign buyers. Keep up the good work
Best of luck adventuring and hunting wherever you may be.
Love this video. Little disappointed it’s taken me so long to find this Chanel! Love the comparisons and information given. Stone glacier and kifaru definitely looking very nice
I’ve had a couple MR packs over the years and bought a Stone last year. By far my favorite pack I’ve used thanks to your reviews on it. 20-30lbs when I’m day hunting feels like 10-15lbs. It carries well.
This is what we like to hear! 🔥
Thanks for this video and the previous backpack videos. I like that your full review and the concise review at the end. There’s so many great backpack options out there but overall Stone Glacier seems the most comfortable but not necessarily the most versatile for loads.
Reviews from hunters who hunt hard and know their way around the mountain. Thanks for putting this together.
Very helpful video! Thank you for being detailed on actually wearability and comfort when thinking about use on the mountain. Awesome that you guys tried it in actual hunting terrain.
We appreciate the comment! We did what we could. Of course, there was more "mountain mobility" achievable with 50lbs vs. 100lbs, and that's what you're seeing here. Good luck this season.
Thank you, best of luck to you guys too!
I really appreciate reviews like this with the packs. I’ve had my eyes on a Stone pack or an Initial pack. Though the Initial brand is from my home state of Idaho, I think I’m gonna snag me up a Stone Pack. Thanks guys for the help on this decision. Happy hunting boys!
Very honest and great feedback on which packs to consider! I have an Initial Ascent pack that I love, but I agree it's a bit wide and I don't feel as mobile as I do with other packs. After watching your videos, I'm convinced that I need to get a Stone Glacier to add to my arsenal to use for day hunts and/or for smaller game such as deer, but I agree that the Initial Ascent is better for large game. My buddy and I even talked about using Stone Glacier for day elk hunts once we can afford to get one, and swap it out for our Initial Ascent packs once we get back to our truck with our intial load. Thanks for the video!
Keep up the good work! I always feel like I learn a lot from these gear review videos.
Here's another comment that we really appreciate. Will do and thank you!
Great comparison video. Really enjoy the info that you guys put out. Well thought out, concise and helpful.
We appreciate the support!
Thank you for being a reliable source for gear information.
We dig comments like this. Thank you!
Thanks for the review, these videos are awesome! I have been impressed with my Stone Glacier pack. It’s comfortable under heavy loads, but I agree that it has too many straps and the top lid could be improved.
We've found that some "refresher training in the home garage" can go along way before diving into the mountains for the first time each year on a multi-day bender resulting in a late-night pack out. Especially when loading on a moonless night, on a side slope, and under heavy fatigue!
Running an EXO K2 5400. Might be nice to have another to compare it to. Thanks for the comparisons.
Great review. All pretty good packs. Thanks for your perspectives. I guess the decision has a lot to do with the type of hunt you are going to use them for. Budget will also play a part in the decision making. Thanks.
You nailed it. Use application and budget are critical to consider when purchasing a backpack such as these. Appreciate the comment!
Great review! Glad to see some thorough comparisons with little to no sugar coating
I had the Ark Frame with a Kifaru pack an went to the Initial Ascent only because I liked the bag layout better. Both awesome packs though, can't go wrong with either one. Great comparison you guys did in this video. Thanks
Thanks for taking the time to review and explain pros and cons of all the packs.
We admit that there isn't any one backpack that will best suit for all users, but it is interesting to see the differences between them when weight is applied and the terrain is uneven. Pros and cons to most any backpack, really. Thanks for the comment!
Y’all’s video last year helped me pick out the K4. Still enjoyed watching this video. Stone Glacier still has my attention though.
Happy to hear it! The K4 offers incredible comfort and athleticism under heavy load. 👊
@gearfooI What’s next?
Great review! Would love the ability to test out several different packs before a purchase. But this definitely helps!
Wouldn't that be nice!? Happy these videos of ours help as many people as possible. Good luck in the mountains or elsewhere this season.
Always great to hear these back to back comparisons. I also want to point out different body styles for backpacks too.
@gearfooI the giveaway for what?
@@clintmcinnes3348 Take a peek at the video description. Winner of the giveaway will have their choice of any one of these backpacks tested. Good luck!
Perfect timing on your video! I was just looking at new packs this weekend.
Contact us! We'd be happy to help further where we can.
Buy the exo k4, best on the market and skipped in this video. Shame on them.
Awesome review Guys. I've been wanting to try the Kifaru pack myself!
The new Kifaru ARK frame has significantly more fore-and-aft spring under moderate loads once placed on the user, in our opinion. This isn't necessarily a "bad thing" by any means, but if you have any experience with their prior Duplex Lite Frame, here's a heads up that the wear experience will differ. Best of luck to you!
I used a lot of the things learned from the past video; extremely helpful information. Definitely looking at these packs for an update for this season!
Right on! If you have any gear-related questions, we're always happy to help where we can. Contact us if you need. 👊
@@gearfool Appreciate it! and will do
Love my stone!!! Two elk and a mule deer and I feel I haven’t even broken it in yet!!
Great video!
This is what we like to hear! 🔥
Great video. I enjoy seeing pack comparison videos. Just wondering why you used such a small Kifaru bag? Also I couldn't tell where you guys were putting the weight. It looked like one was strapped to the frame. I'm sure they will carry different if the weight is in the bag vs on a load shelf.
So pumped for this one! Y'all make me want to buy another Stone Glacier pack.
Hey! We recognize the name. You know that we're just an email or phone call away, ready to help there when you're ready. Until then, take care! 🔥
@@gearfool you know I’ll be calling when the time comes!
Love the review. I've been looking to get my first pack and this really helped me out.
Thanks for the helpful information! I’m really liking the sound of the Stone Glacier. I’m ready to move on from my Mystery Ranch haha
Needing a new pack for this year. This helps with determining what pack to get. Thank you.
Happy to help! Give us a call at 435-263-0207 if you have any questions we may be able to help with.
Great comparisons and personal perspectives. Gave me a lot to think about in my upcoming purchase.
Modern backpacks are EXPENSIVE! We get it. Let us know if you have any questions that we may answer for you. Good luck. 👍
Currently have a Kuiu pack and have been looking to try something new. That initial ascent is sounding pretty appealing to me! Thanks for the video.
KUIU makes some incredible products, but we agree. When it comes to backpacks and more specifically their performance under heavy load, there are other options on the market worth looking into. Good luck!
I appreciate a pack review video made for hunter by hunters. And by hunters who have experience with heavy backpack loads. I recently helped a buddy pack an elk out of the Colorado backcountry and there was a clear difference between our two packs. I strongly believe if a hunter plans on packing out animals that a good pack is worth every bit of investment. It can make the difference of being completely miserable or happily suffering through a brutal pack out. Interesting to see Initial Ascent performance, one that I haven't considered before either. Thanks for the great review video, I'm sure it will help alot of people.
Really enjoy your hands on, honest informative videos comparing different products for the outdoor world…..Great Job….❗️❗️👍👍
We try our best. Thanks for the support. 👍
I've used MR packs the past 3 years. They have been solid and performed well for me but I agree they are in a different tier. I have used them mainly for day hunts and have packed out both deer and elk without a problem. I bought the IA this year and the feel of the frame and hip belt are great, looking forward to loading it up this season.
Best of luck this season. Thanks for the comment!
Great insight and helpful details for making a choice of packs. Thanks for your help. That Stone Glacier looks perfect.
Reach out to us directly if you decide that SG is the pack for you. Happy to help further there.
I would have liked to hear your thoughts on the Kifaru Arc w the 25” frame. It’s hard to compare 26” frames like the SG, IA, MR to a 22” frame on the Arc. I have all except the MR, including the K4 and I do not get the pelvic tilt you described with my Arc in the 25”. I am not picking a fight, but I have used them all and the 22” frame is not apples to apples, especially at heavy weights compared to a 25 or 26” frame. You might want to amend your opening to disclose that.
This is a solid comment. We agree the 25" frame would have served the comparison better. Unfortunately, we weren't able to obtain it.
I completely agree the 22" had no place here, however the 25" would undoubtedly have completely changed your experience with the ark frame in 25"!
Really need a new pack for my Oregon Snake River rifle bull hunt in November. This would be amazing. Thank you for giving all of us a chance for a new pack.
Great review and I love your content. So now I have to choose between the Stone Glacier and the Initial Ascent
Awesome review. I appreciate it. I personally like the Initial Ascents. They seem to fit my body better than others. I wish the EXO had been involved in this as well.
We here you. We included the EXO K4 5000 with last year's comparison and determined that its comfort under load performance was equally comparable to that of the Stone Glacier Krux. We made a mention of this in the description. Anyhow, we dig the K4 and the folks at EXO. All good things.
@@gearfool thanks! Appreciate that. I did not particularly care for the K3. I use it as my ruck pack but do not find it comfortable for my body to do more than flatland rucking to get in shape. My initial ascent fits my body much better and carries weight significantly better in my opinion.
I've owned and used many pack companies and with my current or older Kifaru setups I've never had your experience of "pivoting". Maybe it's unique to your build or adjustments? Thanks for putting in the miles and reviewing the packs.
We appreciate the counter opinion. Perhaps so. It's coincidental that the guy commenting above aligned with us there though! If there's one thing for certain, it's that there are a medley of build types and adjustment techniques. Best of luck this season!
Excellent side by side comparison between 4 popular pack company models. As someone who lives in the eastern United States 🇺🇸 I don’t have actual access to even try them on.
I probably would go with the Initial Ascent but it would be cool to compare a couple for myself
When it comes to these backpacks that are tailored to western hunting (amongst other areas of course), there's definitely a disadvantage to being that far east of the Mississippi! We're happy to help further if you'd like. Contact us at 435-263-0207 or info@gearfool.com. Mention commenting on this UA-cam video there. We will gladly answer any questions you may have about these backpacks, whether our store sells their brand or not. This unbiased video review can support that!
Awesome review. I’m sold on the initial ascent despite the issues with finish quality
When it comes to comfort and performance under load, we're confident that you'll be happy with your purchase there. Good luck this fall!
Thank you for doing this! Makes choosing a new pack much easier
Great video. Packs have come a long long ways. Good stuff!
I wish these videos existed 3 years ago when I bought my MR. It has functioned for me as you described here. It works, but it’s not ideal. Stone glacier has my attention 👀
We couldn't agree more. Reach out to us about a new Stone Glacier setup when you're ready. 🔥
Literally same dude - had a MR for the last 8 hunts out west, stopped in Bozeman at SG HQ and tried the r3 on. I missed out on so much comfort 😂😞
@@gearfoolI’m looking at my first elk ruck, love this video
Same comments....rocked a MR Marshall for years and my heaviest pack out this last Feb on a whole auodad SUCKED. I think the waist belt is too narrow among other issues....this is the OG Guideline frame, not even the MT update version. I am torn between the IA and the SG but don't have the chance to try out an IA.
Sweet great work guys, I have the kafaru bag and older frame. And I have noticed I do lean a bit forward with a heavy load as well. And I have been debating on getting the arc frame or maybe jumping into a new pack system.
Reach out to us directly with any questions you may have. Happy to help enhance your future field experiences.
@gearfool thanks I will, I've been hearing lots of good stuff for the new k4 pack. Definitely worth checking out.
I really enjoy geeking out on gear so these videos are great. I have the MR Beartooth and have the same issues it doesn’t feel great with a heavy load. Do to budget and my son finally getting his first deer tag here in Utah it’ll be awhile before I could upgrade cause he needs a pack. So I’ll continue to watch and hopefully have a good idea on what pack to get next. Tossed between EXO K4 and the IA but I’ll keep watching these to help that final decision in the future, Thanks. Also do you guys buy used gear like packs or like a trade in on a new pack?
There's always teammates that have used gear for sale to include backpacks. These would be one-on-one personal exchanges though, and consquently wouldn't be handled through our website at GearFool.com. Shoot us an email to info@gearfool.com and we can tell you what used backpacks we have at the moment. Happy to help.
Thanks for a second comparison video! Do you think if you would have tested the frames with a higher volume bag, the results would have been different...especially at 100lbs?
The AKEK packs are gaining lots of traction and attention! Hope you guys will review one of these soon and add to the channel
We've seen them, might add them to the next comparison!
Enjoyed the comparisons. As a bigger framed build guy I’m very interested the initial ascent with the wider frame and bag. Also that lid seems money. If I won I know what pack I’m taking!
Great Review, I have never tried the Stone Glacier would be interesting to see how the posture is different compared to the Kifaru. The Kifaru does seem to make you have a forward posture from my use also.
Forest used the Kifaru Woodsman on the Duplex Lite Frame for years. He loved it. Then, he switched to the Stone Glacier Krux for trial purposes and never looked back. If you want to get serious about Stone Glacier, reach out to us directly. You'll be glad you did!
@@gearfool I have the duplex lite in the 26", I'm 176# 6'.1" so its the right frame but i cant get comfortable with it. Hoping to win one one of your give away ones as stated. Thanks for the feed back and a great video.
Love these kinds of videos. Wish you would’ve included the exo pack as well though. I would’ve loved to see that comparison.
This makes me want a new pack really bad. After watching this video I think I’m going to go sell some antlers and order an ia I’ve been eyeballing it for some time. These reviews help me so dang much thanks for the time I know how much it takes to do this outside of work and family.
Hard work!💪🏻 definitely helps a man with limited time decide on a pack!
We get it! 👊
Great review! Would have loved a recomparison of the k4 to those packs, but I get why you didn’t do it since you did last year
Awesome video with great information! Definitely helps when deciding on a new pack.
Nice review I wish the stone had more side pockets for tripods & trekking poles and all the other random stuff I pack in there.
This was great! I was looking at the Mystery ranch… making me rethink some things…
Reach out to us directly if you have any questions. Happy to help you find the best pack for the year ahead.
Have yet to get a real pack yet but I been leaning stone glacier, and you guys making me lean that way even more.
Courious if would have a bag size recommendation for goat/sheep type hunts. I’m a smaller person so plan on cutting as much weight as possible. Wouldn’t mind bit of extra room but same time don’t want to over kill it. Would imagine 7-12 day trips at most.
Cheers for the detailed review and hard slogging for our Benifts.. Just looking for a new pack at the moment. Kifaru vs Stone is were I'm at.. looking at the KU 4300... Its not easy..
Choosing the right pack for yourself really isn't easy. We hope these videos help! If you have any questions, we're happy to help. Reach out to us at 435-263-0207 or info@gearfool.com. Chat soon!
This video was very informative thanks for sharing. Those Stone Glacier and Kifaru packs look sweet
We agree!
Love my stone glacier 5900. I agree with you on the straps though. I wish they would update those to different colors so you can differentiate when loading at night.
Just a bit of color coding could go a long way here with the Stone Glacier Sky 5900. Incredible frames and suspension though.
Good review. You should review Eberlestock packs. I love the Eberlestock battleship. 100 liter. Very comfortable with weight. It's more of a tactical pack though. But I'm a marine. That's my preference. Keep it up guys. I enjoy watching.
I’ve been rocking with eberlestock for awhile now with very little disappointment. I picked up their new Freefall 3000 when it came out recently and have only rucked with it but it handles weight well. I’m very interested in Initial Ascent for longer hunts
Really enjoying the reviews. Thanks for the detail and insight.
Thanks for the bump! 👊
Have you ever considered comparing Eberlestock packs in the reviews? I am curious how a comparable Eberlestock compares to the top three in this review. Thanks
Thank you. I’ve been wanting to see an initial ascent stone glacier kifaru comparison! I’m not 100% sold on my kifaru.
Love your reviews, helps narrow down my decisions
Good one guys. I am trying to decide on which pack I want right now for a spring bear hunt next year. I like the Initial ascent since they went with beaver tail main access. However, I also like the Stone Glacier and EXO. So, you see my dilemma. I guess the only deciding factor would be to go try each one at their shops. I'm 5' 8" and 165 lbs. and in pretty good physical shape. What is your suggestion with that limited info? Thanks for your content, Michael
This is a great comment. All 3 of those you've mentioned here would provide comfort under load. The SG and Exo would provide a little better feeling of athleticism under said loads, but the Initial Ascent would accommodate more bulk and load-carrying capacity due to its wider frame and means of load securing. Additionally, and as you've already alluded to with the beaver tail main access of the Initial Ascent, there are likely some bag features amongst these 3 that may sway your decision too. Fire back with more questions if you have them. 🔥
I enjoy your reviews and find them very helpful and unbiased. I’m an eastern whitetail hunter learning western elk hunting. I’m 6’3”, 260# and large framed and I’m struggling to find a pack sized for someone my size with enough adjustment to carry a load comfortably. Do you have any recommendations?
A large caliber man requires a large caliber pack. Your personal specifications are a bit non-standard. What's your waist circumference? Feel free to contact us through the website or by calling 435-263-0207. We'd be happy to help understand your personal specifications a little better and work with you to determine what would work best.
@@gearfool 40” waist. 52” chest.
Love your videos and real world usage of pack's. Would love you to test a Akek pack and see how it compares.
This was a very informative review thanks so much. Interested in a better pack. I have a mystery ranch now.
Thanks for the quick reviews. I agree the 25" frame on the Ark would have allowed a more fair comparison for heavier loads.
Unfortunately, we had to work with what we had.
@@gearfool Gotta use what you're given, but glad you acknowledged it and noted the potential issue with it being the 22". Thought you both did a fair assessment and were candid with pros and cons of the packs, nice work.
I've been trying to decide between the kifaru and stone glacier. Leaning more towards the kifaru due to how beefy their bags seem. I'm upgrading from my old worn out MEC bag so either would be an improvement. I think it would take a very short person to fit that 22" kifaru frame. I wonder if the results would have been better if it was sized more appropriately for them.
Great video. I still feel packs are a lot like boots when it comes to fit and comfort. As long as it’s well made you need to find the one that fits YOU the best.
Nailed it!
Thanks for making great gear reviews!
Stay tuned for more. We appreciate the bump!
Great stuff as always. I had to laugh when Brady mentions that 100lbs will suck in any pack. All good info fellas, keep it up.
There's our man, Craig! Good to see you in the comments, and as always, thank you much!
I really enjoy my K4 but I’m interested in the new Kifaru frame. Thanks for the info.
Now this is an interesting comment. We have extensive experience with the K4 ourselves and we dig it. Kifaru "modernized" their traditional Duplex Lite Frame when they replaced it with the ARK. The ARK definitely has more fore-and-aft spring under certain load weights and configurations. It also offers a different load-carrying posture, whether your mobile or stationary. Both solid products though. 🔥
Looking for feedback on the Eberlestock Mainframe pack system
Very good reviews! I haven’t tried any of the other companies mentioned but I have used a kifaru duplex lite, tactical, and now ark frames. I am super happy with the 22” ark frame and enjoy my 26” lite for my bigger gnargali pack. The tactical was my least favorite.
Commenting for the give away. ❤
I’ve been watching gear reviews for some time going back and forth for years on backpacks doing research and I always get stuck on kifaru or stone glacier, I’ve owned products from both. Love to see updates in frames and technology.
thanks for the review, i have the same issue from the mystery ranch.
Mystery Ranch makes a product with a meat shelf that will expand the mountain hunting capabilities of most any newbie or intermediate. And honestly, there are a lot of experienced mountain hunters that still love and use them. However, the few shortcomings mentioned here in our observations seem to align with the experiences of others. We appreciate the comment. 👊
Thanks for the reviews. I enjoy watching your videos
Thanks for watching. We really appreciate the support. Stay tuned for more to come!
Way to go on keeping up with reviews of the new pack frames.
The Mystery Ranch Waistbelt has an internal adjusment to give you more or less strap, to prevent slipping, it needs to be moved to the further rear position. To get to that adjustment, the waist strap needs to be undone and the padding pulled forward off of the stiff guide sticking out of the frame.
Interesting, and after doing this you no longer had an issue with the belt slipping?
Great video. Any chance you fellas are going to look at the new-ish Kuiu 4500?
We included KUIU in our 2023 Pack Comparison (check out the video when you can). It didn't perform nearly as well as some of the other prominent backpack brands in the space then.
@@gearfool will do. Thank you and keep up the great content!
@gearfooI awesome man. Thank you. I’ll use it in a video soon and make sure to give you guys a huge shout out!!!
@gearfooI is there an email I can reach you at to send you my info?
Absolutely! Forest@gearfool.com
Apologies for the late response, things have been busy here!
Thanks for this comparison video, as a short torso guy I've been looking at that 22" ark frame. Both of you are probably a more"normal" build and would have benefited from the 25" frame.