Hmm,
I think the problem with your question is that the pack frame has to fit you first and foremost.

For example, I'm a tall guy.....My EXO pack has a 26" long frame and if you compare that to something like an old Army Packboard- mine is much longer.

Numero uno; It's critical the frame fits you.

The EXO and Stone Glacier models are probably the lightest and will pack down to daypack size when not hauling a big load. Also check Kifaru, Kuiu and Seek Outside. My large/long EXO is just under 6# without the top pouch. I only use the pouch on long backpack hunts.

Best advice with these packs; Test them with about 40# of beanbags or equal in them. Thats when you know if it really fits. Most will send to you with a trial period.

FWIW, I went from a custom McHale [excellent] to the EXO also excellent. The only bad thing I can say about the EXO is the shoulder straps deform a little on very heavy loads- about 80# plus. I don't usually pack that much in mine but last year I killed a bull 6 miles in and it was warm.....had to get him out so I had a couple 80# loads- which is not ideal

- kicked my azz.

 

BTW, I would buy another EXO when then one finally gives up the ghost....which is in about a dozen years as the Cordura starts to deteriorate if my McHale is an example.

That^ was a crummy picture as it was only 1/2 way loaded.....this is a better example

 

Probably a MR 18 or 28. I have a 28 with sewn on buckle straps to the outside of the bag for strapping clothes etc.

It's not much lighter than my Exo, and not as comfortable under load. It is definetly smaller and more maneuverable than my prior Metcalf or the Exo

They go pretty cheap now too because they're discontinued.

 

The Popup 18 looks like a good option. I have a larger frame pack (Oregon Pack Works) that is super comfortable, but bulkier than I'd like for saddle hunting. I mainly just want a pack to carry platform and sticks in, but able to haul some meat if needed.

 

I have never seen an 18 in person, but I think that would be about perfect for what you're looking for.

When I exclusively saddle hunted, I used my Metcalf. I put my sticks and platform horizontally on the meat shelf, which keeps all the weight closest to your back. Synch the straps tight and they're solid, no flopping. It was just much larger than I needed, and that's how I ended up with a pop up 28...

 

I don't know about smallest or lightest, but I love my F1 Mainframe, which feels incredibly light and compact compared to others I have tried. Paired with a bag of your choice, it's a tough package that can handle a TON of weight with relative comfort.

RW

 

Checkout badlands mrk series.

 

kuiu propack 2300 is what I'd look at. Its compact, lightweight, and has a very good haul rating at 150lbs.

 

Lots of good packs already mentioned. A good day type pack with a frame and is capable of hauling at least one elk quarter, plus everything that was in it when you started is the Badlands 2200. Not necessarily a backcountry pack, but an excellent day pack that I have used to take out both elk and entire Blacktail deer many times.

 

This is less expensive.

 

Kuiu pro 2300 or Kifaru Stryker xx would be my choices.

i have both and i chose the Kifaru Stryker xl mounted on a duplex light frame for elk hunting. I attached my Kuiu pro bag to my waldrop pac seat. I’ve hauled a bull Front and rear quarter with both setups and the Kifaru was hands down more comfortable and stayed put. JMO

 

The kuiu suspension system and cf frame looks really nice and slick. I have the kifaru duplex lite and its bulky but its meant for heavy work. The new kifaru ark frame looks great but for lighter stuff I would lean towards the kuiu.

 

Mystery Ranch mule is a small bag and same exact meat shelf as all the other size bags from them. I switch between mule, Pintler, and beartooth depending on what I’m doing. Here’s a photo of mule on GL frame

 

I've used a Stone Glacier pack for years and it's been great for hauling game. They're definitely on the pricier side, but the quality is worth it. I've hauled out a whole elk with mine before, and it held up perfectly.

I'd also recommend checking out the Kuiu packs. They're lighter than the Stone Glaciers, but still very durable. I have a friend who uses one for hauling out deer, and he loves it.

For half a deer, I think either of those brands would be a good choice. Just make sure you get a pack with a good frame, so it doesn't put too much strain on your back.

 

So far from what's been suggested the MR Pop-Up 18 looks like the best option.

But, all in all it looks like my Oregon Pack Works Orion in Lumbar mode (Rogue pack) is very comparable to these others. I may just stick with what I have. It's super comfortable and capable of hauling decent size loads. In lumbar mode it's 1,100 cu in and with the upper bags it's 2,500 cu in.

 

So far from what's been suggested the MR Pop-Up 18 looks like the best option.

But, all in all it looks like my Oregon Pack Works Orion in Lumbar mode (Rogue pack) is very comparable to these others. I may just stick with what I have. It's super comfortable and capable of hauling decent size loads. In lumbar mode it's 1,100 cu in and with the upper bags it's 2,500 cu in.

View attachment 8283919

What is your waist size? I have an 18, if it fits you I could ship it to you, and if you like it, I’ll give you a good deal, if not, you can send it back.

I have had some heavy loads on that pack, several whole quartered bucks, and probably 6-7 roosies, for what it is, it’s a cool pack.

the reason I don’t use it much anymore is I don’t like switching packs back and forth because I always forget something that’s in my other pack, so I use my k4 for everything… use different bags for different seasons, but for elk hunting, my pack stays exactly the same, and I bring the same stuff every day… then deer season i switch bags, and make sure everything I need is in there, then it stays for the season, etc

the pop up 18 has a small belt, but I don’t remember the waist size range on the small, but the option is there if it would work

pretty bomb proof little pack too, I have used it a bunch with very little signs of wear. For sure the most compact pack that is capable of carrying 100# a long way. I have owned a pile of packs, and it’s a cool option for what you need

a duplex lite with a Stryker xl would be awesome too, I have hunted in them a bunch too, and it would be great for your needs too

 

I’m a fan of the Kifaru frames with the Stryker or the Stryker XL. The Manimal also looks good but I have no hands on experience with it. Here is a whole quartered Georgia island deer in the Stryker.

 

Mystery ranch pop up 18 on the used market would be a great option and probably found pretty cheap

the 28 is also a good option

 

I have the MR popup 18. Works great, it's my primary hunting day pack. I've packed deer, elk and pronghorn. I have a frame that stays inside the truck and I switch to that for 2nd trips, or if wife is with me she wears that , empty and I wear the Mr 18. She the packs a quarter in the Mr and is use the frame

 

Cool. I definitely like the packs where the meat gets placed between the back and the frame better than ones where the meat goes on top. My current frame pack has internal aluminum stays instead of a full frame, and while I know it is capable of hauling decent loads (the owner of the company has packed out a whole de-boned deer with it, but doesn't recommend it) I'd rather have something a bit more stout. I don't pack much for day hunts so I don't want a giant pack. I've done the same where I leave my bigger frame in the truck in case I need a second trip.

 

I have a SeekOutside frame. I put a light weight kui 1800 bag on it. Works great for all day hunting and hauling meat.
I looked at the MR pop-up packs but they weighs about 2 lbs more than the set-up I have and Mine handles heavy loads nicely and is super comfortable for day hunts.