Cabela's packs

[Tater]

I'm looking at getting a pack for hunting and was wondering how much cargo the frame will hold without the pack. Like if I was packing out an animal, how much weight could I put on before the straps broke or the frame bent? I like the Outfitter and Guide models from Cabela's but it doesn't really say how much they'll hold. Anyone have any experience with either of these? Thanks.

[270man]

Tater,

I wouldn't worry about the Cabela's frame packs. Haven't owned one myself but I have owned and used much cheaper ones. If you can pack a load without your knees buckling first, then the Cabela's frame will hold without bending or breaking. Padded shoulder straps can wear over time and should be checked before your trips. They are easily replaceable.

270man

[Hawkeye6]

I second that 270. I suppose its possible that you could get so much on a pack frame that it would collapse, but I doubt you'd be able to strap it on and carry it then anyway.

[M.T. Pockets]

My buddy & I each bought the Alaskan Packs from Cabela's in 1995. He just got the frame, I got the frame with the pack. We've both used ours over many trips and have packed a lot of elk, deer and caribou over the terrain. The pack will carry all that you want on your back at one time. When we pack we usually tie the bigger, awkward pieces on my buddies frame, just tie it on with some light rope. The other smaller pieces go in the bag on my frame and away we go. We've also used game bags and boned meat right on the spot and either tied the bags to the frame, or put them in my bag, and carried them back to camp. I like mine and would buy another. If you packed for a living or were on a 2-week pack back pack sheep hunt, you might want to spend more, but for packing an animal or two each fall you'll like it. Good boots are probably more important.