How many guys here use Eberlestock Packs?  Which model and what do you like or dislike about it?

I use the J107, have for 2 years now. Good number of compartments, hydration bladder storage, lot's of adjustment, and very comfortable for me. I think there are other packs out there just as good, but for me the built in gun scabbard is one of my favorite features. Once you have your rifle in there, you don't even know you're carrying it. No worries about it slip sliding around or hitting you in the face when you are climbing. It is very well centered in your pack so it doesn't throw everything off balance either. When I first got it I figured it would be a pain have to take the pack off to sit and glass, but I actually just lay on my side and lean on the pack, works very well for me, and would recommend it to anyone.

I have a J107 that I have had for a couple of years and also bought a Mystery Ranch last year. Sadly I may also buy the KUIU when it shows its face to the industry. Each has its benefits and shortcomings. What I like about the Eberle is the organization of space and the gun storage system. Compared to the MR the harness on the Eberle is not quite up to that caliber but is priced in a different category as well.

I picked up a J34 on trade and likely will use it for running around the mountains for sheep and goats...not as light as I would like but I really like the scabbard ( need to protect the 260 ) and I like that I have the capacity if needed to haul stuff out.  I have used an X2 for 3 yrs and it has been a bomber pack but isn't big enough for more than 2-3 days in the early season so the J34 should fix that I hope.

Quote from: The Sheep Reaper on May 10, 2011, 02:47:51 PM

How many guys here use Eberlestock Packs?  Which model and what do you like or dislike about it?

I use the X1 Bow backpack from 2006.  I love the pack, except for the shoulder and bow padding.  The waist and hip padding are great.  I believe the newer versions have improved the padding in the shoulder and bow area of the pack.  I love this pack and never leave without it.

Rick

A picture of the pack as I used when hunting.  It is also the best way to transport my bow while quadding to my hunting area.  Keeps the dirt and mud off the bow and eliminates having to bring a bow case.

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I have a J107 that I've been using for 4 years now and really like it. One thing I've learned to do is when I'm coming down a mountain is to tuck the scabbard in and put my rifle in butt down, that way the barrel isn't hitting the ground going down the steep stuff.

Anybody have a chance to try the new gunrunner daypack yet? Thinking of picking one up and looking for opinions

Tried one out for a few days but found it did not meet my needs.  Would be a great day pack for deer and antelope but i wouldnt want to pack out a sheep in it . I was hoping it would be as beafy as the gunslinger but the hip belt is not quite heafty enough for packing a heavy load IMHO.  Good pack for what it was designed for though, very light and well layed out.

If you are looking for one i have  buddy who is selling his (like new, used it on one fishing trip)

Just looking for a good day pack. Already have the dragonfly, but it makes a pretty heavy day pack. Figured the gunrunner at just over 3 1/2 lbs. with a scabbard should fit the bill nicely.

How many of you guys recomending these packs have had the chance to actually pack an animal out with them?  I had a friend with an internal frame pack and we hauled out 2 sheep with it and I think i will never try to pack horns or antlers with an internal frame.  I have always had an external frame on my pakcs.  Yes they might not be as comfortable but I find a lot of the new packs more fancy dancy with a lot of extras I don't need and when you do pack a critter out it was not nearly as good as the pack I have now.  Maybe it is just me and have not given them a chance yet but I am still sticking with what I am used to.  That being said I am interested in your comments and still would consider trying something new.

Nube, I dont think id pack anything but my Eberlestock especially after using it this season. I have the J107 and it has been used a ton. I packed 80lbs on a mountain goat/sheep hunt this year, two full days in to where we hunt. I would have no hesitations throwing a full elk quarter in this pack or a full deboned sheep and weights of 100lbs+. Ive also done hunts with quads and sleds strapping the pack down and beating though the bush. And have also been packing it alot hunting cats in cold weather through thick bush and havent busted a buckle which other packs do have issues with or put one blemish on the pack.
The rifle scabbord has been used alot as well and a rifle can be drawn super fast. Ive practised and can get it out faster than if you have the rifle over your head or if you strap it on your pack.

As far as if id rather use it or an external frame... there is no way ill ever run an external frame again. Quality internal frames will pack just as much and work just as well as any external frame in my opinion. Ive packed sheep, elk and moose horns in my internal frames without a problem.
SG