backpack with a rifle scabbard what do you recommend ..

2brassballs

New Member
Aug 27, 2013
34
0
I'm looking for a backpack that has a scabbard built in. I been using a Tenzing 2200 and its a great pack but I just don't feel that my rifle is secure. TZ 2200 is a great day pack but I'm thinking about a pack/system that I can build on and that could be used for more then just a day pack.. thanks
 

CoHiCntry

Veteran member
Mar 31, 2011
1,390
21
Colorado Mountains
j34 would this be your choice

I have the Eberlestock Blue Widow that you can attach either a scabbard too for your rifle or the butt bucket for your bow. For the price and functionality I still think its a solid choice. The " hard core gear guys" will undoubtedly disagree. There are probably better packs out there but there also double or more the price. I thought about upgrading the pack this summer but after looking at the price of some of these packs I changed my mind. I used my Blue Widow again this summer backpacking and even though there might be better packs out there I couldn't find much wrong with my current set up. If I had tons of money to burn I might have a different opinion!
 

LaHunter

Active Member
Aug 24, 2012
322
0
N.E. LA
I have the Eberlestock J34. I have been training with it since early July with 68 lbs total wt. 2 days / week, about 4 miles each day. That is my only experience with it. I will be using it this October on a mule deer hunt. I think for the price, the J34 is a good pack.

When loaded down, it will have a tendency to feel like it 'sags' just a bit after about 30 to 45 minutes into my hike, which puts more weight on the shoulders and pecs There are definitely better packs out there, but as CoHiCntry stated above, they are significantly more $$$.
It does have a built in rifle scabbard which is nice. The material is very durable and quiet. The pack will haul more than most people can physically carry without risk of injury. I think there are several dealers on line that sell them for somewhere around $325 to $350.

Good Luck
 

Muleys 24/7

Veteran member
Jan 12, 2012
1,406
12
The Golden State
If your looking for a little bigger pack with a few more options than the j34 the eberlestock j107 dragon fly would be the way to go. I've been happy with mine.
 

LaHunter

Active Member
Aug 24, 2012
322
0
N.E. LA
Many people with a LOT of backpack hunting experience consider Kifaru and Stone Glacier packs to be the best hunting packs available.
Kuiu is another pack that gets some very good reviews, especially from their later versions. It is my understanding that Kuiu is a new player in the hunting pack game.

These 3 are light weight (SG is lightest weight) and can haul heavy loads as per reviews on various forums, I personally have no experience with any of these.

These 3 packs will cost $550-$750+, depending on accessories and custom modifications. Each one will have its own advantages.

Just remember, everyone has their own favorite pack and will have valid reasons why they think it is best. I sort of compare it to the "best rifle caliber discussion", there is no right or wrong answer, you have to find what works best for your application within a given price range.

Hopefully some of the guys on this forum that have a lot of experience with packs and back pack hunting will give some input.

Good Luck on your research
 

CoHiCntry

Veteran member
Mar 31, 2011
1,390
21
Colorado Mountains
Many people with a LOT of backpack hunting experience consider Kifaru and Stone Glacier packs to be the best hunting packs available.
Kuiu is another pack that gets some very good reviews, especially from their later versions. It is my understanding that Kuiu is a new player in the hunting pack game.
Definitely can't argue this. If your backpack hunting a lot these packs are probably the way to go. They are pricey but a good pack if your using it for the intended purpose is worth it. It really depends on what your looking for. If your hunting style is mostly day hunts where you want a scabbard and the potential to expand and carry out meat with the occasional 1 or 2 day over nighters, then an Eberlestock or similar would probably suite your needs. If you want a pack for 5 to 10 day backpack hunts, you probably should look at the packs mentioned above. Its all about your style of hunting.
 

MtnBoy

Member
Dec 27, 2012
56
0
ID
Eberelestock Blue Widow is an excellent pack and you can easily take on/off a scabbard or bow bucket. It also expands out huge, especially with accessories, and also compacts down to a decent size day pack.

The Eberlestock Team Elk Pack is pretty sweet too, has scabbard and bow bucket built in, decent frame built in and is big enough to bivy out for a night or 2.

The new Remedy 7/Blacks Creek packs are pretty nice too but they carry the rifle on the side (exposed) as do some of the others mentioned.

If you want a scabbard and a decent price, Eberlestock is the way to go, I love both of mine!
 

2brassballs

New Member
Aug 27, 2013
34
0
I'm thinking about pulling the trigger on J34 today . I seen them on eBay $329 with free attachment .