I figured this might be of interest to the big game hunters on ARFCOM...  I have been testing out three different hauler packs over the last two years.  While planning an elk hunt in the Rockies back in 2013 I wasn't sure which frame hauler to get.  I couldn't find any information on the different packs other then a handful of reviews or product promotion videos.  As time goes on I find myself spending more time hunting in the back country on extended trips.  When hauling gear to support an extended hunting trek you always end up packing a bit of weight, and sometimes packing out even more!  Due to the lack of opinions and comparisons on hauler packs I wanted to put together something informational that can help those in search of a hauler frame pack.

Nice video.  I'm using a Kelty Cache Hauler solely for the purpose of hauling out as much elk meat as I can.  I've made the mistake of loading half a small bull on it for a 3 mile pack out.  The pack handled the weight fine, and was actually as comfortable as could be expected.  My knees wish I had chosen to do four pack outs instead of two.  While I have not seen anyone actually break the support straps holding the shelf at the bottom of the pack, I like that Kelty uses a metal connector to hold the shelf instead of a fabric strap.  Seems stronger and less likely to break.

My Kelty has been great and I've hauled out 7 elk and a deer with it.  No signs of wear.  I still see them at Sportsman's Warehouse.

I agree.  During our first hunt we also hauled out a bull elk divvied up between two Kelty's.  It was well over 125# each and almost to much to carry safely over that type of terrain.  If any one is looking for a long term versatile hauler pack then get a Kelty while you can.  

The slumberjack is nice as a hauler only, but when compared to the overall versatility of the Kelty. the larger size of the Kelty makes it nicer for longer outings.  Realistically if your packing a hauler pack full for a hunting trip, your not pinching grams anymore.  

My Kelty is 10+ years old and packs out 2-3 elk a year.  It's a workhorse.  Shame they are discontinuing it.

Bull Pacs

bullpacs.com

I'm using a badlands Ox.  It's a little heavy but the features are awesome.

I used the Slumberjack on an elk hunt with marksjeep last year. I found it rode very well and overall I was impressed with the comfort and weight of it

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Heres a pic of my Alps frame pack from a week ago.  Got my first Alaskan Caribou and hiked it out full hide, head, rack, day pack, backstraps and 3 quarters of him ( m y buddy took a much smaller caribou so carried a quarter for me.  I would recommend this pack it did great for me, 5 miles plus in and out to the car

Very nice!  I just used my Kelty on a 8 day hunt in the Rockies, unfortunately I never packed anything other then my gear...