Backpack Elk Hunting Equipment and Clothing.

[bowhnter7]

What specifically what do you guys take on your backpack elk hunts? Equipment and clothing? It's been about 4 years since I have backpack elk hunted and I am starting again this year. Starting to look at my equipment and see what I need to upgrade or change.

[wvbownut]

Check out Cameron Hanes' book "Backcountry Bowhunting" It has all the information you will need.

[ZA206]

I personally would not opt for a bivy sack as Hanes does.... a small, one man tent is a better option IMO for many reasons.

The jetboil + freeze dried foods from Mountain House or Backpacker's Pantry seems like the absolute best way to go for hot meals. I'm experimenting with different freeze dried foods now to see how they taste.

The MSR Miox or the UV water purifier pens seem like the cat's meow. TINY and can treat ALOT of water. I have one of the UV pens... very cool.

-ZA

Originally Posted by wvbownut

Check out Cameron Hanes' book "Backcountry Bowhunting" It has all the information you will need.

[jamaro]

getting a good setup is really a process. Each person is different because each person have a different level of comfort... if you have a setup use that for small excursions and see were you can improve...

j

[bowhnter7]

I got a good SD bag, bought a MSR 1 man Hubba tent. Still have my Sweatwater filter and Apex 2 stove. Looking at a new mattress. What do you guys take for clothing for a week trip? What's in your frame pack for that week? What do you take to eat besides the freeze dried meals, I.E. breakfast etc. Essential items?

[HuntHard00]

Here's another vote for a jetboil stove - packed one bear hunting this spring -it boils 2 cups in 3 minutes and one canister lasted a week.

I also recently upgraded to a new warm jacket from Barney's of Alaska - great weight saver although spendy. Also lets me get away with an lighter sleeping bag.

Helly Hansen impertech rain gear for when you absolutely positively are going to get a soaking - the goretech stuff is heavy and just doesn't cut it.

I like the bivy bag - I'm using a US military goretex bag from ebay for about $50. I also carry a USMC poncho which makes a good awning if I have to sleep in the rain.

I'm using an external frame pack - the internal frame just doesn't cut it on a big load of meat. Elk are big critters.

[bowhnter7]

Originally Posted by HuntHard00

Here's another vote for a jetboil stove - packed one bear hunting this spring -it boils 2 cups in 3 minutes and one canister lasted a week.

I also recently upgraded to a new warm jacket from Barney's of Alaska - great weight saver although spendy. Also lets me get away with an lighter sleeping bag.

Helly Hansen impertech rain gear for when you absolutely positively are going to get a soaking - the goretech stuff is heavy and just doesn't cut it.

I like the bivy bag - I'm using a US military goretex bag from ebay for about $50. I also carry a USMC poncho which makes a good awning if I have to sleep in the rain.

I'm using an external frame pack - the internal frame just doesn't cut it on a big load of meat. Elk are big critters.

I looked at that jetboil stove today and it does sound sweet. It is always gonna rain, and I need to look into some lighter rain gear. I have some MT050 rain gear. it is good stuff but it takes up alot of space and is heavy. Cabelas has some Space Rain Ultra pack Rainwear that I am looking at. Seems small and light weight. I just want to see if it look durable enough. I too like the external frame, I got a well used Alaskan Guide one.

Wondering about the clothes and how little I can get away with. I know it can be freezing cold, wet, and hot all in one day. Are you taking only one set or a second? What type of clothing? I am looking at the Cabelas outfitter Wooltimate Fleece Series for my main set and maybe some Microtex for a second. What is your layering system, etc?

[a3dhunter]

If you are packing in and setting up camp then go with a tent, if you will keep camp on your back then go with a bivy sack. Plan on shedding as much weight as possible and sacrificing comfort as much as possible.
The stove was already covered. Jet boil is great and so is the msr pocket rocket, keep it light and go with Snowpeak titanium cookware sets.
Quality back by Marmot, Big agness, or North face along with a ground pad and your on your way. I have a North Face 20 degree bag.
Plan on one change of clothes with quality undergarments against the skin (underarmour). Find some quiet raingear that you can function in, different people like different stuff but if you aren't comfortable in it you won't use it when you need to. I have found that I can get away with just a top with a hood for most storms. You don't have to spend a lot on this but it does need to work for you. I have used Cabela's space rain ultra pack rain gear and whitewater rain gear. I can usually get those cheaper and they have worked well for me.
Extra socks and I also use liners, they help a lot with keeping your feet dry. The thicker the socks the less blisters I have had. Cabela's or Bass Pro about $10 a pair.
Good boots that won't let in water and will support your ankles, which brand will be your preference. I have good luck with danner pronghorn.

Throw in a compass and maps, first aid kit, parachute cord, firestarter, headlamp with extra batteries, key chain light, baby wipes, toilet paper, electrical tape, duct tape(small amount wrapped around an ink pen), binos, rangefinder, calls, extra release, basic archery repair supplies and a handheld press(bowmaster), matches and lighter, iodine tablets for water purification, hand warmers work well in your sleeping bag on a cold night, a good knife, and a multitool.

If going solo, take a personal locator beacon or satelite phone for safety.

I know I have missed something but this was off the top of my head. When I get everything laid out I start looking at what I can cut out. The stuff that goes in no matter what is safety/survival gear, always! Different people have different priorities. Good luck.

After seeing the other posts, I will say I don't like wool outerwear because of weight. I will use underarmour, and then layers of cotton--t-shirt, sweatshirt, pullover, then jacket. If it is real cold you can do some hiking for body heat but archery elk hunts it shouldn't be that cold for very long.

Good gloves and a stocking cap help with heat loss when it's real cold.

[SA_Rob]

sigh..... this could become more of a class than a post. i've taught basic and emergency survival for a few years so my pack is loaded with little goodies -- more or less depends on the length of trip how much i decide to take with me. on a day trip, i can get away with only a lumbar pack, if it's gonna be a multi day trip i use an external frame.

the more i think about it, the more i think you might have tackled a little more than one particular thread can handle. i could go into detail for almost an hour about what kind of clothing you should have. another hour just on equipment. it sounds like you have the kind of gear you're in search of already, but clothes are your main issue..... because this is such an extensive topic, i'm only going to cover base layers

first of all... DON"T USE UNDERARMOUR!!! i don't care what anybody says, it just doesn't evaporate fast enough. i have become a huge fan of Nike's Pro Fit, Sitka Gear, and Justin Charles for base layers. all three of these are at the top of the game as far as moisture management is concerned. they are extremely lightweight, and very comfortable. Justin Charles is the only one of the three that is available in an expedition weight base layer. as long as you aren't wearing cotton (that means socks and boxers too!) then you're going to be more comfortable.

Sitka is going to be the only of these that openly markets itself with scent elimination as well. their boxers, leggings, and top all contain Silver Thread Technology to help kill bacteria and reduce human scent. while this is a huge step in the right direction, you still need to take other precautions to be odor free, and still hunt the wind.

BONUS: kills bacteria to help eliminate scent, EXTREMELY lightweight, available in MothWing Mountain Mimicry and ASAT
DISADVANTAGE: a bit on the expensive side but not bad

Nike is a proven contender in moisture management. this is top performing fabric and one that was recommended to me originally for racquetball and basketball. now i use all of the Pro Fit products on a daily basis.

BONUS: readily available at nearly all sports stores (scheels!), available to fit any body size male or female, less expensive than similar products
DISADVANTAGE: not available in camo, no scent protection

Justin Charles is going to be one of the top dogs as far as hunting undergarments are concerned in the next five years. i haven't found any product that can currently dissuade me from buying these base layers as soon as they hit my shelves in August. simply put, merino wool is so good at everything that is important to archers that no synthetic fiber can achieve its same properties without the aid of an outside product (ie carbon, silver thread).

BONUS: merino wool available in silk weight midweight and expedition weight, need i say more?
DISADVANTAGE: expensive, not many current retailers (most scheels stores will be carrying this product starting this year, i think i ordered about $6,000 worth of shelf merchandise and i'm a relatively small shop)

hopefully this has helped you.... see i told you i could go on for a long time about this subject.... if you have any other specific layers you want info on, i'd be happy to help!

[SA_Rob]

the majority of people i've seen on here know what kinds of products work, because they've been sold to in the store or from a catalog, but not necessarily been told WHY they work or why one is better than another, just what a salesman (that's where i come in) has told them. while most info you will get is good, you need to go to a quality hiking/backpacking shop and talk extensively with someone who has used ALL of the products and can give you real life experiences with several products.

not that anything is wrong with what people post... but saying "get good quality socks" or "get good quality boots" doesn't go as far as "get merino wool socks like SmartWool because it insulates against both heat and cold, will retain those properties when wet, and wool just flat out keeps you drier which leads leads to being more comfortable... whereas cotton will not, and can not do any of these things which is why wool is better than cotton for any and ALL applications" or "while Pronghorns might be the best selling boot nationwide for three years in a row, they will not sustain harsh environments, and they are not going to hold up for more than 9 months worth of wear. they are made to be this way... that's just the way it is, they require no break-in period so they have instant comfort with no long-term benefits. whereas a higher quality boot such as Kenetrek might cost you a little more on the front end, but will save you money in the long run because you will buy fewer boots, have less foot fatigue, less back pain, and more ankle support than any other boot except in specialty markets." now then, again... i could go into a lot of detail on all of these subjects, because it's my job to know them, all of the ins and outs.

whether you are looking for a good set of lightweight cooking pots, ways to collect water in the backcountry, or how much does a footbed really impact your hunting experience... you need to talk with experts. find the shops (hunting, hiking, packing, and the like) that specialize in one certain thing. talk to these people, get to know them, let them tell you their stories because they are the ones that count the most. these are the people that try as many products as they can to get the best of the best, and chances are... you're going to get the true 'best' product for YOU.

[bowhnter7]

Thanks Rob. I understand what your saying. So you spoke about the base layers. What are you wearing next? I am thinking 3 layers up top. Something to keep warm in the mornings, and something over the base layer for mid day, unless it's real warm. I was thinking of some kind of wool, fleece, or Berber type. Wondering if the wool may end up being too warm?

[PistolPete]

Rob I agree 100%. Merino wool is a miracle fiber; I have not tried the Justin Charles but it sounds like good stuff. I use and love Ullfrotte merino wool long underwear - it is FANTASTIC. For all the reasons you just stated. I have the 600 weight top and 400 weight bottoms, they are simply awesome. I tend not to like the synthetics, though haven't tried Underarmor, but they stink so bad after a day or 2 of my type of run-and-gun high exertion hunting. I agree with Rob again that manmade can't match thousands of years of natures evolution in making the perfect fiber (wool, more specifically merino).

Bowhnter7 - if I may chime in, depending on the type of hunting you are doing, it sounds like you may be thinking too warm - at least in my experience in Colorado bow season. I like a nice fleece or the aforementioned Ullfrotte as my only insulation layer, tops and bottoms, with Microtex type outer layer. A wind-proof layer is also nice to have some days, but since I so rarely stop moving for long (unlike deer stand hunting), that is all I need up to the end of September. You experiences may vary, but that is how I dress.

Thanks, you all are getting me extremely excited,

Pete

[bowhnter7]

Originally Posted by PistolPete

Rob I agree 100%. Merino wool is a miracle fiber; I have not tried the Justin Charles but it sounds like good stuff. I use and love Ullfrotte merino wool long underwear - it is FANTASTIC. For all the reasons you just stated. I have the 600 weight top and 400 weight bottoms, they are simply awesome. I tend not to like the synthetics, though haven't tried Underarmor, but they stink so bad after a day or 2 of my type of run-and-gun high exertion hunting. I agree with Rob again that manmade can't match thousands of years of natures evolution in making the perfect fiber (wool, more specifically merino).

Bowhnter7 - if I may chime in, depending on the type of hunting you are doing, it sounds like you may be thinking too warm - at least in my experience in Colorado bow season. I like a nice fleece or the aforementioned Ullfrotte as my only insulation layer, tops and bottoms, with Microtex type outer layer. A wind-proof layer is also nice to have some days, but since I so rarely stop moving for long (unlike deer stand hunting), that is all I need up to the end of September. You experiences may vary, but that is how I dress.

Thanks, you all are getting me extremely excited,

Pete

Pete,

So your saying you got on a layer of merino wool bottoms and tops (what weight?) a pair of microtex pants and shirt, then maybe a windstopper jacket? Would you take 2 sets of this minus the jacket?
As far as being too warm, yes I know. Most of the time your right. Although last year it seemed more like November than September. We had something like 18" of snow. The weather extremes can be pretty wild.

[Micky]

Originally Posted by bowhnter7

Pete,

So your saying you got on a layer of merino wool bottoms and tops (what weight?) a pair of microtex pants and shirt, then maybe a windstopper jacket? Would you take 2 sets of this minus the jacket?
As far as being too warm, yes I know. Most of the time your right. Although last year it seemed more like November than September. We had something like 18" of snow. The weather extremes can be pretty wild.

I am looking for a good layering system for early September elk in Colorado. Last year we encountered 20-60 degree temps almost every day. One day at +12,500 feet we were practically sunbathing at noon and were caught in a white out snow storm in late afternoon.

[bowhnter7]

Originally Posted by Micky

I am looking for a good layering system for early September elk in Colorado. Last year we encountered 20-60 degree temps almost every day. One day at +12,500 feet we were practically sunbathing at noon and were caught in a white out snow storm in late afternoon.

Yeah I know what your saying. I don't know how many totes I have full of hunting clothing. I really need to find a reliable system of clothing for backpack bowhunting. I may have some of what I need. Trying to find out what everyone relies on, what works for them.

[Bobmuley]

Originally Posted by bowhnter7

Trying to find out what everyone relies on, what works for them.

I'm a stinky hunter. One change of outer garments will last me for a week...makes hunting the wind that much more important. I do have to have lots of polypro socks and shorts for that "clean" feeling.

I like polypro, microtex, fleece, and a packable rainsuit. Hunted from August to December with the same set and is suited to most any application.

[a3dhunter]

By all means if looking for the best, go to a specialty store and you will be able to spend thousands based on what the "experts" tell you that you will "need" to do a backpack hunt. If you are spending 45-50+ days in the backcountry then get the best. It's not "needed" for a regular hunt and not everyone has thousands to spend on getting set up.

I am not a salesman, I don't make my money off fools paying thousands for the best of everything to hunt for a week to ten days.
The things I have mentioned have held up well for multiple years, maybe I don't abuse equipment enough to wear out stuff in 9 months. I hunt for 20-30days a year and thats it. I think its amazing that people tell me what I use doesn't work, it works great for me. Find out what works for you.



Correction to my earlier post:
The pullover I use is fleece.

[bowhnter7]

Originally Posted by a3dhunter

By all means if looking for the best, go to a specialty store and you will be able to spend thousands based on what the "experts" tell you that you will "need" to do a backpack hunt. If you are spending 45-50+ days in the backcountry then get the best. It's not "needed" for a regular hunt and not everyone has thousands to spend on getting set up.

I am not a salesman, I don't make my money off fools paying thousands for the best of everything to hunt for a week to ten days.
The things I have mentioned have held up well for multiple years, maybe I don't abuse equipment enough to wear out stuff in 9 months. I hunt for 20-30days a year and thats it. I think its amazing that people tell me what I use doesn't work, it works great for me. Find out what works for you.

Hey, I never said I am on the hunt for the best or ready to spend thousands, don't know where this came from. I probably have most of what I need, just trying to find out what works for you guys and see if there's anything I might want to change in my system. Maybe also just finding a way to talk about and get excited about this upcoming season. Thanks for your 1st post with the info.

[nogood_rounder]

Whatever you do give it a dry run first. I haven't been backpacking in a few years and got all my old stuff together for a spot and stalk bear huntign trip to the Selway wilderness last weekend.

I learned ALOT about my old equiptment and what definately needs to be upgraded and what will do fine for this fall. Only way to find out was to give it a try.

[cdmorten]

I haven't ever done it, but I've read the Backcountry Bowhunting book and between that and my own experience I've come up with my list. Some of it might not make it in the pack if it gets too heavy.

For clothes, I'm going with the Trek-lite pants and shirt from Cabelas and a medium weight waterproof set of clothes from cabelas, a pair of long underwear bottoms, and a synthetic short sleeve and long sleeve shirt.

Here's the list.

-Pack - 3500 cu - 4 days, 4500 cu 5+ Badlands 4500*
-Sleeping Bag - down, light +15 for early season -10 for serious weather *
-Bivy Sack - all Gore-Tex
-Pack Cover*
-Compression Bag *
-Headlamp - LED - Krypton w/AAA *
-Sleeping Pad - Foam - Therm a rest z-lite short
-Stove - MSR Pocket Rocket
-Snow Peak Titanium Spork*
-Rangefinder - Batteries *
-Binos *
-Bino System
-Hydration Bladder 2 liter *
-Water Purifier - Potable Aqua or iodine *
-Knifes/Sharpner *
-Topo Map 7.5 minute map
-Suunto Wristop Computer
-Duct Tape *
-First Aid Kit *
-Nylon Cord - 100 feet small diameter braided
-Extra Release *
-Extra Serving
-Extra Peep Rubber
-Extra D-Loop
-Oversized cotton game bags
-Camera *
-Allen Wrenches *
-Lighter *
-Leatherman *
-Mini Flashlight *
-Windproof/waterproof matches
-Field point and 2 nocks *
-Surveyor's ribbon
-Game calls *
-Fire starter *
-Petrolium Cotton*
-Compass/GPS*
-Chapstick *
-Ibuprofen *
-Small bar unscented soap/washcloth
-Vitamins *
-Moleskin
-Cut Toenails *
-Cell Phone or Satellite phone
-Boots *
-Socks - 2 changes - wool *
-Lightweight 1st layer gear *
-Lightweight waterproof/windproof jacket and pants Mossy Oak APX
-Cheap raingear wallmart
-Plastic Garbage Sack *
-Baseball Hat *
-Stocking Hat *
-Gloves *
-Writing gear *
-Reading Gear *
-Space Blanket*
-TP*
- Alchohol Wipes*
- Hand Sanitizer*
- Zip ties
- Rubber band/cloth for filtering chunks out of the water.




Bag of extra stuff in the car (food, water bottles, clothes, iodine, big tent, etc.)

[bowhnter7]

Originally Posted by nogood_rounder

Whatever you do give it a dry run first. I haven't been backpacking in a few years and got all my old stuff together for a spot and stalk bear huntign trip to the Selway wilderness last weekend.

I learned ALOT about my old equiptment and what definately needs to be upgraded and what will do fine for this fall. Only way to find out was to give it a try.

I will as soon as i can actually get up there.

Originally Posted by Bobmuley

I'm a stinky hunter. One change of outer garments will last me for a week...makes hunting the wind that much more important. I do have to have lots of polypro socks and shorts for that "clean" feeling.

I like polypro, microtex, fleece, and a packable rainsuit. Hunted from August to December with the same set and is suited to most any application.

You dont employ the OG s.s.s.....



































stream. squat. splash.

[Bobmuley]

Originally Posted by cdmorten

I haven't ever done it, but I've read the Backcountry Bowhunting book and between that and my own experience I've come up with my list. Some of it might not make it in the pack if it gets too heavy.

For clothes, I'm going with the Trek-lite pants and shirt from Cabelas and a medium weight waterproof set of clothes from cabelas, a pair of long underwear bottoms, and a synthetic short sleeve and long sleeve shirt.

Here's the list.

-Pack - 3500 cu - 4 days, 4500 cu 5+ Badlands 4500*
-Sleeping Bag - down, light +15 for early season -10 for serious weather *
-Bivy Sack - all Gore-Tex
-Pack Cover*
-Compression Bag *
-Headlamp - LED - Krypton w/AAA *
-Sleeping Pad - Foam - Therm a rest z-lite short
-Stove - MSR Pocket Rocket You plan on any fuel for your rocket?
-Snow Peak Titanium Spork*
-Rangefinder - Batteries *
-Binos *
-Bino System
-Hydration Bladder 2 liter *
-Water Purifier - Potable Aqua or iodine *
-Knifes/Sharpner *
-Topo Map 7.5 minute map
-Suunto Wristop Computer
-Duct Tape *
-First Aid Kit *
-Nylon Cord - 100 feet small diameter braided
-Extra Release *
-Extra Serving
-Extra Peep Rubber
-Extra D-Loop
-Allen Wrenches *
-Leatherman *
-Oversized cotton game bags
-Camera *
-Field point and 2 nocks *

-Lighter *
-Mini Flashlight *
-Windproof/waterproof matches
-Surveyor's ribbon
-Game calls *

-Fire starter *
-Petrolium Cotton*
duplicate
-Compass/GPS*
-Chapstick *
-Ibuprofen *
-Small bar unscented soap/washcloth
-Vitamins *
-Moleskin
-Cut Toenails *
-Cell Phone or Satellite phone
-Boots *
-Socks - 2 changes - wool *
-Lightweight 1st layer gear *
-Lightweight waterproof/windproof jacket and pants Mossy Oak APX
-Cheap raingear wallmartNot the kinda thing you want cheap
-Plastic Garbage Sack *
-Baseball Hat *
-Stocking Hat *
-Gloves *
-Writing gear *
-Reading Gear *
-Space Blanket*
-TP*
- Alchohol Wipes*
- Hand Sanitizer*
- Zip ties
- Rubber band/cloth for filtering chunks out of the water.




Bag of extra stuff in the car (food, water bottles, clothes, iodine, big tent, etc.)

I think you're overloaded...compared to what I take.

A. nothing on my bow is gonna break. Been tested throughout the year, so I leave all the extra "whatevers" at the truck.

B. I like a tent. Easier to cook, change, dry boots, etc in a small tent.

C. Take a couple trash bags. Take nearly no room and weigh next to nothing . Makes a great pack cover, emergency pancho, game bag, shelter, or rainfly.

D. I'd throw a bunch of that stuff out in favor of FOOD.

[bowhnter7]

Originally Posted by cdmorten

I haven't ever done it, but I've read the Backcountry Bowhunting book and between that and my own experience I've come up with my list. Some of it might not make it in the pack if it gets too heavy.

For clothes, I'm going with the Trek-lite pants and shirt from Cabelas and a medium weight waterproof set of clothes from cabelas, a pair of long underwear bottoms, and a synthetic short sleeve and long sleeve shirt.

Here's the list.

-Pack - 3500 cu - 4 days, 4500 cu 5+ Badlands 4500*
-Sleeping Bag - down, light +15 for early season -10 for serious weather *
-Bivy Sack - all Gore-Tex
-Pack Cover*
-Compression Bag *
-Headlamp - LED - Krypton w/AAA *
-Sleeping Pad - Foam - Therm a rest z-lite short
-Stove - MSR Pocket Rocket
-Snow Peak Titanium Spork*
-Rangefinder - Batteries *
-Binos *
-Bino System
-Hydration Bladder 2 liter *
-Water Purifier - Potable Aqua or iodine *
-Knifes/Sharpner *
-Topo Map 7.5 minute map
-Suunto Wristop Computer
-Duct Tape *
-First Aid Kit *
-Nylon Cord - 100 feet small diameter braided
-Extra Release *
-Extra Serving
-Extra Peep Rubber
-Extra D-Loop
-Oversized cotton game bags
-Camera *
-Allen Wrenches *
-Lighter *
-Leatherman *
-Mini Flashlight *
-Windproof/waterproof matches
-Field point and 2 nocks *
-Surveyor's ribbon
-Game calls *
-Fire starter *
-Petrolium Cotton*
-Compass/GPS*
-Chapstick *
-Ibuprofen *
-Small bar unscented soap/washcloth
-Vitamins *
-Moleskin
-Cut Toenails *
-Cell Phone or Satellite phone
-Boots *
-Socks - 2 changes - wool *
-Lightweight 1st layer gear *
-Lightweight waterproof/windproof jacket and pants Mossy Oak APX
-Cheap raingear wallmart
-Plastic Garbage Sack *
-Baseball Hat *
-Stocking Hat *
-Gloves *
-Writing gear *
-Reading Gear *
-Space Blanket*
-TP*
- Alchohol Wipes*
- Hand Sanitizer*
- Zip ties
- Rubber band/cloth for filtering chunks out of the water.




Bag of extra stuff in the car (food, water bottles, clothes, iodine, big tent, etc.)

I am wondering what you use the Cut Toenails for?

[DullTip]

I suggest making a list in an excel program. Weigh everything on an ounces rated scale. Next nit pick everything you 'think' you need. Then nit pick it about 10 more times. Then go on a trial run... even if it's only in the back yard. Take a note pad and pen with you to note what not to bring or what you forgot cuz you'll forget when you're at home. Better yet print out your list and bring it and pen to edit it on the trail runs. Next try a trial run out in the environment that you'll be hunting. Doesn't need to be the exact location but similar altitude and weather would be nice. After testing all your gear you'll have weeded out some bad things and figured out some things you'll want to bring or leave home dependent on weather for the week or hunt.

I've read Cameron's and David Longs pack in style hunting books as well did almost a year of research before I did my first one. All I know is I can't wait to get out and do my next one. If you do a google search on back pack hunting forums you'll be surprised what you may find. Lots of great info. Don't rule out local hiking websites just don't go there to talk hunting. Go with the intent to talk about going on a multi day packing trip.

I'd advice don't go the first time alone and don't push yourself. Going pack hunting it turns the tables on you to the point that getting in and out is the top priority and hunting takes a back seat. Little things like cuts and injury's become huge life challenges when out in the back woods. Think of your safety in everything you do. Should you jump across that gap in the boulders with the heavy pack or go at it slowly and work your way around safely. Things I'd do when I'm out hunting with buds in a big RV and trucks near by I wouldn't think of doing when I'm 10+ miles into the back country. A bum ankle might take you days to travel what took you hours on the way in.

Don't mean to scare anyone but it's worth contemplating before one goes afield with little thought about getting out alive.

But it's an awesome type/style of hunting. Not for everyone but I like it thus far.

cmc

[DullTip]

Here is a list of stuff off my pack list. This was for my 5 day spring bear hunt (rifle). It's just the items copy/past from my excel file and not the weights. Some things are duplicate and it doesn't show the 'X's against the items I took but it's a working list that I used when putting together my pack to mack sure I had everything. Hope it helps some.



-----------------------------------

Rain parka Packable
Trekking Poles
Bandana
Head lamp 1
Head lamp 2
GPS
Range Finder
Binos
leather gloves
Slik V2000 tripod
Slik Pro tripod
Mono pod
fleece Ski Cap
fleece head band
Tent
Tent poles/spikes
stove/cookware
fuel 1 can
poncho
radio
Misc bag *see below for contents
predator calls
Mtn Hardware sleeping bag
Video Camera
Dig. Camera
Kelty Camo 3000cu/in back pack
Kelty Coyote 4750 back pack
7mm 20 ea
Camo Rain Jacket
Under Armor Pants
Socks 1-liner 1-hiking
DuoFold Long Slv Shirt
Long Sleeve Kings camo poly
Sleeping pad
Spare Pants
Spare Jockeys
Baby wipes
Gatorade bottle full, Small size
water 100oz blatter
Spare water blatter 70oz
game bags -cheese cloth
Rain pants
bungee cords



Rifle - Ruger 7mm mag.
W/ safari & regular sling

FOOD
Breakfast (instant oatmeal)
Mid Morning Snack
Lunch
Mid Afternoon snack
Dinner
Fluid supplements
Additional snacks general

lunch items…one each of these items...

Special note on food weights…
Mtn House Beef Stroganoff 1 bag
Sportsman's Jerky 1 bag
Cliff Bar 1 bar

* Contents of Mis. Bag…..
* compass
* knife
* knife sharpener
* rubber gloves
* parachute cord

[ZA206]

You left off the single most important thing when doing ANY camping trip........

BABY WIPES!

Can't leave home without them. They prevent rotten crotch and red-ass better than anything!

-ZA

Originally Posted by cdmorten

I haven't ever done it, but I've read the Backcountry Bowhunting book and between that and my own experience I've come up with my list. Some of it might not make it in the pack if it gets too heavy.

For clothes, I'm going with the Trek-lite pants and shirt from Cabelas and a medium weight waterproof set of clothes from cabelas, a pair of long underwear bottoms, and a synthetic short sleeve and long sleeve shirt.

Here's the list.

-Pack - 3500 cu - 4 days, 4500 cu 5+ Badlands 4500*
-Sleeping Bag - down, light +15 for early season -10 for serious weather *
-Bivy Sack - all Gore-Tex
-Pack Cover*
-Compression Bag *
-Headlamp - LED - Krypton w/AAA *
-Sleeping Pad - Foam - Therm a rest z-lite short
-Stove - MSR Pocket Rocket
-Snow Peak Titanium Spork*
-Rangefinder - Batteries *
-Binos *
-Bino System
-Hydration Bladder 2 liter *
-Water Purifier - Potable Aqua or iodine *
-Knifes/Sharpner *
-Topo Map 7.5 minute map
-Suunto Wristop Computer
-Duct Tape *
-First Aid Kit *
-Nylon Cord - 100 feet small diameter braided
-Extra Release *
-Extra Serving
-Extra Peep Rubber
-Extra D-Loop
-Oversized cotton game bags
-Camera *
-Allen Wrenches *
-Lighter *
-Leatherman *
-Mini Flashlight *
-Windproof/waterproof matches
-Field point and 2 nocks *
-Surveyor's ribbon
-Game calls *
-Fire starter *
-Petrolium Cotton*
-Compass/GPS*
-Chapstick *
-Ibuprofen *
-Small bar unscented soap/washcloth
-Vitamins *
-Moleskin
-Cut Toenails *
-Cell Phone or Satellite phone
-Boots *
-Socks - 2 changes - wool *
-Lightweight 1st layer gear *
-Lightweight waterproof/windproof jacket and pants Mossy Oak APX
-Cheap raingear wallmart
-Plastic Garbage Sack *
-Baseball Hat *
-Stocking Hat *
-Gloves *
-Writing gear *
-Reading Gear *
-Space Blanket*
-TP*
- Alchohol Wipes*
- Hand Sanitizer*
- Zip ties
- Rubber band/cloth for filtering chunks out of the water.




Bag of extra stuff in the car (food, water bottles, clothes, iodine, big tent, etc.)

[VorTexan]

Dang ZA please, although important do we really need to describe it!

[mla1356]

Jetboil is great.Add the meal packages that you pour hot water in to heat and leave the cooking pans at home.Less weight the better. Try to stay under forty lbs.I speak from experience my first backcountry hunt was with a 65 lb pack and believe me that is a lot of weight when hiking up steep mountain trails.Pack the essentials first sleeping bag,mat,one-man tent,jetboil,lantern and food.I also use a pump water purifier but you can use tablets to save weight.I like the pump since I can then take my water from any source even standing water.Just dont forget the safety items....small first aid kit,fire starter,water proof matches,good rain gear,compass and maybe even a GPS.Then add the other items that you might desire?I do take clean socks for each day and if I have a long hike I my swap out my wet socks for a dry pair along the trail,anything to reduce chance of blisters.Just my two cents worth. Good luck & have a great hunt.

[SA_Rob]

Originally Posted by Durocab1

Dang ZA please, although important do we really need to describe it!

HECK YES!!!!!!! otherwise it tends to be grossly overlooked

*pardon the language*

*No pardoning of the language...please refrain from text masking of expletives...Thanks~Doc*

[SA_Rob]

ok, so here is my little spiel on a small niche of my closet (or rather, a medium sized corner of my basement) i like to call... Mountain Hunting Stuff!!!

so i put together all of the items i would take with me on a 4 day hunt in the mountains expecting nighttime temps of 40s and daytime temps of 60 -70degrees (seems pretty realistic to me), assuming i'd be hunting from a bascamp and hunting from that location each day ... and here's what i came up with.

CLOTHING:

Socks: 3 pairs Scheels Upland (lightweight, heavy cushion), 3 pairs SmartWool Adrenaline (lightweight, light cushion)

Boxers: 5 pairs Nike Pro Fit

Base Layers: Sitka Summit bottom and top

Pants: Adidas sweatpants

Shirts: Sitka Timberline Vest, 4 Nike Pro Fit shirts, University of Montana sweatshirt

Raingear: Guide Series TecH2O (if it's raining that hard, i'm not hunting just waiting it out)

Gloves: Mossy Oak Pass-thru, Arctic Shield System Glove liner

Headcover: H.S. 3/4 headnet

GEAR

Tent: MSR Missing Link

Sleeping Bag: SlumberJack Glacier 0

Pad: ThermaRest Trail Comfort Large

Pillow: ThermaRest compressible pillow

Food: Homemade dehydrated dinners, instant oatmeal, granola bars, sour candy, beef jerky, powdered Gatorade

Various Essentials:
MSR Pocket Rocket
MSR BlackLite Classic cook pots
MSR fuel
Lexan Spoons
Waterproof/Windproof matches
Lighters
MSR MiniWorks (if near a water source)
Nalgene bottle (to screw the MiniWorks on to, and mix gatorade)
Mini First Aid kit
Packtowel
GPS
Batteries
Headlamp with Blue and Red filters
Pocket knife
Collapsible Shovel
Zip (string) Saw
Flares
100' Parachute Cord
Orange Tape
Electrician's Tape
Badlands Monster Fanny
Extra release

WEARING

Kenetrek Mountain Extreme NI
SmartWool Adrenaline socks
Nike Pro Fit Boxers
Sitka 90% pant
Sitka Mountain Shirt
Sitka Ballcap
Nikon Monarch ATB
Crooked Horn Bino System
Buck folding knife
Sagen Saw
Guide Series External frame pack
Beretta 96 w/ extra magazines

Total Weight: somewhere in the vicinity of 55 lbs

well........ i know there are a few other little things i carry, but can't remember as i don't have them on hand. guess i'll have to make a little trip through our camping department this week and make a list of stuff to buy/replace.

[PistolPete]

Originally Posted by bowhnter7

Pete,

So your saying you got on a layer of merino wool bottoms and tops (what weight?) a pair of microtex pants and shirt, then maybe a windstopper jacket? Would you take 2 sets of this minus the jacket?
As far as being too warm, yes I know. Most of the time your right. Although last year it seemed more like November than September. We had something like 18" of snow. The weather extremes can be pretty wild.

Bowhnter7 - the Ullfrotte I have is 600 weight top and 400 weight bottoms - its almost like a sweater, pretty heavy stuff. Then I use a windproof fleece, and microtex/wolfskin outer layers. I wouldn't take duplicates of any of it, except a plenty of socks, underwear, and a few lightweight shirts; add a fleece neck gaiter and light gloves, and I have been set for any extremes of September. Although I know what you mean about extremes, but my hunt last year was too extreme on the opposite end - it was in the 80s almost every day. Also know what you're saying about totes of hunting clothing...

And I forgot to add on socks - for me the most important thing is density, not necessarily thickness. Some cheaper socks feel fairly thick but are not dense/tough enough to really stop blisters. I look for a good medium/heavy weight sock that feels more felt-like.

Pete

[SA_Rob]

Originally Posted by Durocab1

Dang ZA please, although important do we really need to describe it!

yes..... yes we do, lest we forget

[mjacobs576jq]

Originally Posted by ZA206

You left off the single most important thing when doing ANY camping trip........

BABY WIPES!

Can't leave home without them. They prevent rotten crotch and red-ass better than anything!

-ZA

Holy crap you just about made me spit out my water when I read this, that is some serious humor.I know what you are saying is true, I have never been on a backpack hunt out west. But heck humping around bluffs in Wisconsin all day for a week or week and a half straight up in the national forrest, man them baby wipes are a life saver.

[nogood_rounder]

Originally Posted by Bobmuley

C. Take a couple trash bags. Take nearly no room and weigh next to nothing . Makes a great pack cover, emergency pancho, game bag, shelter, or rainfly. b

Uh, I don't know if you've heard, but you're really not supposed to use garbage bags for meat. They coat the bags in all kinds of preservatives that are toxic and can actually make the meat spoil faster. Stick to regular cloth bags. Four quarter bags only weigh .5 lb max.

Oh, and CDmorten, I agree with the others - you're a bit overloaded. Load up your pack with all that (if you can fit it) and see how much it weghs. I'll bet ya its over 70#.

[cdmorten]

Originally Posted by nogood_rounder

Oh, and CDmorten, I agree with the others - you're a bit overloaded. Load up your pack with all that (if you can fit it) and see how much it weghs. I'll bet ya its over 70#.

You got that right...I'll be going through the scaling back excercise prior to leaving and some of that community stuff is getting spread out to the other guys such as fuel for the stove, camera, extra release, leatherman, tarp, duct tape, etc. I may throw any "extra stuff" in a bag and leave it in the truck just to make me feel better.

[Naphtali]

Two things come to mind. You can eat food that needs no heating for a couple of weeks so long as you are getting a decent night's rest. How much energy will it take to maintain a day's supply of liquid?

Pamper your feet. Many pairs of socks, perferrably always wearing socks having silver thread -- a permanently bacteriostatic thread -- next to your skin.

Good rest and comfortable feet will make the hunt while keeping you safe.

[ZA206]

FYI... if you gotta use trash bags as "make shift" game bags, turn them inside out, as most bag manufacturers only coat the insides of the bags with the chemicals.

-ZA

Originally Posted by nogood_rounder

Uh, I don't know if you've heard, but you're really not supposed to use garbage bags for meat. They coat the bags in all kinds of preservatives that are toxic and can actually make the meat spoil faster. Stick to regular cloth bags. Four quarter bags only weigh .5 lb max.

Oh, and CDmorten, I agree with the others - you're a bit overloaded. Load up your pack with all that (if you can fit it) and see how much it weghs. I'll bet ya its over 70#.

[Bobmuley]

Originally Posted by nogood_rounder

Uh, I don't know if you've heard, but you're really not supposed to use garbage bags for meat. They coat the bags in all kinds of preservatives that are toxic and can actually make the meat spoil faster. Stick to regular cloth bags. Four quarter bags only weigh .5 lb max.

That was meant as an emergency game bag, emergency shelter, emergency rainfly... Never heard of the toxic argument before...gonna have to quit taking out the trash to prevent poisoning.

I've actually used tee shirts as emergency game bags before instead of using my stash of trash bags.

[cactus kid]

great thread!