Most important statement in the thread in my opinion "but couldn't see any reason to go heavier when realistically all the packs will carry more than I could." I'd put a lot of credit to the weight of the pack.
EXO 3500 - I've used it for the last 3 seasons and couldn't be happier. It is amazingly lite for the weight it can handle. It has worked flawlessly packing out 2 mature bulls, 1 cow, and a deer. The load shelf and beavertail work great. I had an eberlestock and would not recommend. I don' t...
I understand your concern. (I grew up in Sidney and moved to Vegas for work 20+ yrs ago). Your focusing on the negatives, which really aren't that bad (Colorado is not exactly lacking in the outdoor opportunities). I'm sure the money will be better and living in an area with population does...
I'd say it depends on how, when, and where your hunting. I assume you look at deer as opportunity, but elk is the main goal. If your going early season archery, crap shoot - tough to get lucky and catch a buck in range without dedicating some time, which will ultimately screw up your elk time...
Suggestion for you foot soldiers, I was given a great piece of gear last year. It's called "pack out bag", think newspaper delivery bag. The website is packoutbags.com. Took a cow out in 2 trips and Muley buck in 1 (both bone in). It has straps to tighten the load in the bags and tighten the...
Did a diy horse back trip in there last year. I'll give u a run down of what missed and what was invaluable:
Spare tarps & 550 cord; we had 3 days of rain/fog so the tarps were for covering saddles and shelter by the fire.
Double check your meals, somehow we were a day short, had plent of...