Eberlestock packs, anybody have experience with "Gossamer" frame

[txfireguy2003]

Needing a new pack for this season, want one with rifle scabbard, and a frame. I was almost set on the Team Elk or the Gunslinger 2 from Eberlestock but they are pricey. Then I found the X1a2 which is the X1a1 with the addition of the Gossamer frame sheet. I know this specific model is brand new, but she's anyone have experience with this frame sheet? How good is it compared to a real tubular frame like the intex2?

[Bowhuntamistad]

What are you gonna be using it for?

[txfireguy2003]

Right now, primarily short to medium range hikes to a static hunting location, 1-2 miles max. Considering an elk hunt in the future though, wouldn't want to have to buy another pack for that.

Right now, I'd just be carrying a day worth of hunting gear, lunch, clothes etc plus a rifle....all my rifles are heavy though, 12+ pounders.

I don't plan to be hiking 10 miles into the mountains to camp for a week or anything, but with the rifle, and everything else, I'll be carrying a fair load, just for a fairly short distance at a time.

Does anyone have any experience with the X1a1 pack? Does it have a frame at all?

[Bowhuntamistad]

I can tell you right now, that pack would seriously suck for elk hunting. You will need a bigger pack for sure, its just too small IMO.

Here is my take on the built in scabbard. I don't like them, at all. The distance it creates between you and the load absolutely kills proper weight bearing techniques. The load will be swaying side to side as you hike, which would result in a sore back, best case, and falling worst case scenario if you have a big load on uneven terrain. As a simple day pack, you will not go wrong with it. However, if you will grow your hunting portfolio with this pack, you will end up upgrading later on.

Here is what I am utilizing right now, similar to what you are trying to do. I have two packs:

With my Horn Hunter Full Curl system, I take off the big bag and attach my small bag. In here, I can carry absolutely everything I need for a day hunt. Between the bag and frame, I insert my rifle/muzzleloader, barrel up with the butt resting on the meat shelf. It will not move, carries safer, and I can reach back to remove the gun easily. You don't have that big open void in the Eberlestock where not only the rifle sways, but your pack does as well. When I need to carry out meat, I attach the meat canvas bag filled with deboned meat and cape, rifle, and then the small bag. The frame is very solid and the system can be obtained, used, for way cheaper than the Eberlestock plus it is USA made.

With my Mystery Ranch Bighorn, it is very similar. I insert the rifle, butt down, into the beavertail and use a tether to keep the rifle close enough to grab. More expensive option, but also very solid as well.

Just my $.02 and personal experience

[Bowhuntamistad]

Here is a pic for reference. I have a full sheep in there, plus the rifle and all my gear I hiked in with. The entire load is super tight to the frame and my back, prevents sway and carries better.

From my experience, the eberlestock is a great concept but bad execution.

[txfireguy2003]

Thanks for the input. Like I said, I don't plan to trek long distances, but just wanted to have the rifle on my back for easier carrying since it's so heavy. I just liked the idea of a scabbard to protect the rifle and hold it in the center rather than strapped to the side. My old pack had one of those butt buckets that hang from a strap, then you strap the rifle to the outside of the pack. I hate that style because I've never been able to get the rifle stable on the pack.

[Traxx]

I'm a little late to the game but I have the X1A1 and Gunslinger II. They both have their place. The X1A1 is good with a bolt action rifle and snug. I use it for a Win. model 70 classic in 338 win with optic. I originally wanted to use it for a AR-10 but it would not fit. For the 10 I am using the Gunslinger II the rifle with optic fit snug but it has way to much bag. I found this doing a search on the X1A2 to see if it would fit a ar style rifle with optic.