Best Pack Frames For Hunting [ Tips & Buying Guide ]

As there are a lot of top-quality hunting pack frames out there on the market, it may be tough for you to choose the most suited one.

However, not to worry! Here we’ve made an optimized guide to help you out to choose the best pack frames for hunting.

The List Of The 10 Best Pack Frames For Hunting

After 120 hours of successful research, we’ve compiled 10 best pack frames for hunting.

1# ALPS OutdoorZ Commander + Pack Bag – Best Hunting Backpack With Rifle Holder

Here we start with an excellent pack frame that comes with ALPS OutdoorZ. This pack frame is made from sturdy nylon ripstop fabric that makes it outstandingly durable.

The ALPS OutdoorZ Commander + Pack Bag comes with a 5250 in³ main compartment. Not only that but it also has spin-drift collar top, lashing loops and multiple exterior pockets. The model also features ample room for keeping your essential gear.

With a large side pocket, it will keep your belongings safe and secure. It is perfect for long distance hunting due to its spotting scopes.

One of the the most important things is that the pack frame offers a Drop-Down Rifle Holder. So you can easily carry a rifle by keeping your hands free. 

Moreover, the Commander frame comes with an outstanding lashing system. And it features three extension straps that makes it perfect for taking extra large loads. 

By utilizing the freighter shelf, you can keep your heavy loads secure. Apart from that, you can simply lash the load to the frame. You can adjust the strap on both sides of the shelf in order to enhance the support.

It will allow you to adjust the torso from 17” to 23” for a custom fit of your body. Best of all, you can use this durable and reliable bag in extreme weather conditions. 

2. ALPS OutdoorZ Commander Frame – Best Hunting Packs For Packing Out Meat

This is another great frame that comes with the ALPS OutdoorZ. The frame is made from heavy-duty aluminum. It also features a unique lashing system to secure meat. 

Moreover, the model incorporates 3 extension lashing straps for extra-large loads. And this frame is equipped with the freighter shelf that will support maximum weight during your successful hunting.

In addition, it is featured with a padded waist belt and shoulder straps. So you will get ultimate comfort while carrying the meat or other belongings.   

You can even customize the pack to take the loads with comfort, thanks to its adjustable torso range. But the only drawback is that the frame is compatible with the Commander Pack Bag only.

3. Stansport Deluxe Freighter Aluminum Pack Frame– Best External Frame Pack For Hunting

The Stansport Deluxe Freighter Aluminum Pack  Frame comes with a durable design and construction. It is mainly perfect for those who are looking for the best pack frame for the toughest terrain.

This ergonomically designed lightweight pack frame can support up to 75 lbs. And the pack is supported with an external frame. 

It also comes with a padded hip belt. This belt has multiple attachment points for the ultimate comfort for taking heavy loads. 

Moreover, this external frame pack features a fold down freighter shelf for Hauling Heavy Loads. This freighter pack is versatile enough to carry a wide variety of materials. 

The most important thing is that the pack is fully padded. Apart from that the model features an adjustable suspension system with a cervical neck pad. It makes sure an excellent weight distribution.

So with this heavy duty pack frame, you can confidently prepare yourself for hiking over longer distances with heavy loads.

4. A.L.I.C.E. BackPack Frame – Best Pack Frame Hauling Meat

This is an aluminum-made backpack frame. Measuring 20 ½” X 12 ¼” in dimensions, it is comfortable to use. The model comes with olive drab shoulder straps. The straps of this backpack are made from a comfortable and resilient 100% denier polyester material. This frame features a heavy-duty design and construction. It is compatible with all G.I LC-1 Packs.

5. ALPS OutdoorZ Commander Lite – Best Pack Frames For Hunting

Commander Lite is designed based on the best-selling Commander pack. The framed pack comes with a smaller profile which allows for easier movement. 

It features a unique lashing system that secures meat for long hauls. Moreover, the model incorporates three extension lashing straps for extra support. 

The frame is made from lightweight aluminum that makes it light yet strong. It features hypalon lashing points that offer additional external storage

The lashing panels of this framed pack have several zippered pockets. It also has interior mesh pockets for keeping extra belongings.

You can adjust the shoulder harness to a torso, ranging from 17” – 23”. The model features a padded waist belt. And it also has padded shoulder straps. So it is comfortable to wear.

You can use it in various extreme environments. So this framed backpack is versatile and reliable.

6. Allen Rock Canyon External Hunting Pack Frame For The Money

The Allen Rock Canyon external pack frame is a lightweight but durable frame. It is made out of heavy-duty and sturdy aluminum. 

It will allow you to pack out your gear or harvest with ease. The frame can be adjusted, ranging from 33″ to 36″ for increased load capacity. 

Moreover, the model is featured with the bottom folding shelf that provides you extra support. You can fold it for easy storage. It also features the exterior lashing points that can take heavy loads. 

The contoured frame includes foam padded waist belt and shoulder straps with cool mesh backing. In addition, it features the chest straps that makes it comfortable to use. The pack also comes with a mesh back support panel for added stability.

7. Badlands Carbon Ox External Frame Hunting Backpack

Badlands is a top-rated brand. The carbon ox external frame hunting backpack from Badlands. The backpack is equipped with a lightweight carbon fiber external frame. It also comes with a built-in meat shelf that you can fold. Apart from that, it is featured with the batwing compression system. Best of all, it is compatible with Badlands vario packs. 

8. Eberlestock Mainframe Pack– Best Frame Pack For Moose Hunting

This is another great one. It comes with an intex ll aluminum frame. It features several zippered attachment points. The model is compatible with the duffels, drybags, and more. 

Moreover, the frame pack comes with a main panel to attach scabbards, pouches, and so on. It has three built-in horizontal compression straps for securing your belongings.

In addition, this frame pack features an adjustable ladder harness system. It is mainly designed for those who are looking for a heavy-duty frame pack.

9. Kelty Yukon Hiking Backpack – Best Frame Pack For Deer Hunting

The Kelty Yukon Hiking Backpack comes with an external frame and multiple storage pockets. Basically, this backpack is perfect for campers who are looking for a medium-sized backpack.

This Hiking Backpack is made from durable polyester fabric. More importantly, it comes with a hydration compatible design with adjustable suspension.

Moreover, the model features a top loading main compartment. Apart from that, it has a sleeping bag compartment that makes it perfect for overnight hunting. 

In addition, it comes with a hold-open bar, four zippered side pockets to hold small belongings. It also  incorporates adjustable straps, a sternum strap, and a hipbelt. These may even make it ultra-comfortable for babies to carry.

10. Army Universe New Black Military Alice Pack Frame For Elk Hunting

New Black Military Alice Pack Frame is still an excellent option. It is designed to fit medium and large sized packs. It is not only perfect for Alice packs but it also supports other types of packs. 

This pack frame is featured with Olive Drab Suspender Straps as well as LC-1 Kidney Pad. The LC-1 kidney pad is easy to remove. It also has a fully adjustable size. 

Moreover, the model features the quick release buckle that is made from plastic. It stretches out to 18 inch long on both sides. So it can perfectly fit almost anyone. 

Things To Consider To Choose The Best Pack Frames For Hunting

These are the things that you should consider while choosing the best pack frames as there are so many options out there on the market.

Purpose and Carrying Capacity

The most crucial factor to consider is the amount of things that the pack frame can hold.

If you want to carry a variety of camping accessories with your hunting gear, then a large frame pack should be the excellent choice for you. In this case, you may consider the ALPS OutdoorZ Commander frame back. This large frame pack bag will allow you to hold a wide variety of items. So you may choose this model to carry all of your essential items.  

However, if you hunt from a cabin or your truck, you can survive with a much smaller backpack. You may need around 2,000 cubic inches. Perhaps, it can be more than enough.

Type of prey

The small prey such as goats and birds can be packed and carried out of the woods. And in this case, you don’t need a huge frame pack. 

When you have a partner while hunting, then s/he may carry the meat. 

However, you must need a large frame pack in terms of carrying the large prey like deer, elk and so on.   

Design

Basically, there are three types of backpacks out there based on their design. 

• Backpack with internal frame.
• Backpack with external frame.

External frames are in the largest type compared to others. And they are the most efficient for carrying the meat and other belongings. Moreover, the pack with external frame comes with more space to hold different types of items. More importantly, you can easily take off the sack and lash the game bag directly to the frame. These make the external frames perfect for longer hunts.

On the other hand, Internal frames can take comparatively less support than external frames. And these are almost lighter. They are typically not so good for taking heavy loads. 

Backpacks without frames always come with compact and lightweight design. These are in the cheapest type among the pack frames. They’re mainly suitable for day hunts.  

Fit and Weight

This is such an important consideration that you can’t overlook it anyway. Basically, comfort is one of the most important considerations for almost every type of product. The weight of a pack frame impact on the comfort. When you walk a long way for hiking, a lightweight backpack makes sure more comfort. 

On the other hand, a properly fitted backpack is outstandingly comfortable. And they are much lighter than those of the other two types. 

If you do not need to carry huge gears, then still, it is an excellent choice for you.  You know how much load you can take. So choose the model that is perfect for you.

Weather Resistance

All of your gears are not waterproof. So it’s better to have a weather resistant framed pack. You also have to ensure that the zippers are waterproof.

Some framed packs feature a built-in rainfly to protect it from the rain.

Weapon Holders

Walking in rough terrain can be very difficult and even dangerous if you have a rifle. Many people, including me, recommend that you keep your bow or rifle until it is in its hunting location.

Many hunting bags come with covers, or other types of rifle holders. Some also have ways to wear bows. Some even have space for gun cases.

With these you can carry a weapon with your hands free.

Top Backpack Brands

ALPS OutdoorZ

ALPS OutdoorZ has been producing outdoor gear since 2007. They mainly focus on producing hunting gear. Their main goal is to maintain the high-performance with affordable cost. They never compromise with the quality. They make sure that the hunters can enjoy the best with a minimal cost. 

ALPS OutdoorZ produces not only the framed backpack but also offers sleeping bags, gun cases, hunting blinds, and even camouflaged camping furniture.

They have partnered with several charities. They also work in association with several conservation groups to ensure safe wildlife habitats.

ALPS OutdoorZ has co-operation with the National Federation of Wild Turkey, the Sportsmen’s Alliance, Delta Wildfowl, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and Whitetails Unlimited to mention a few.

This also promotes a mentoring program that helps experienced hunters to teach others about the sport. In this way, they have been playing an important role in spreading a safe and healthy hunting culture.

Although their product may not be expensive, they are durable and reliable. Most importantly, you will get the best for value. So surely the ALPS OutdoorZ is one of the top-rated brands in the world.

Badlands

Badlands is one of the leading manufacturers of hunting backpacks. They have been producing high quality hunting equipment for years.

They are known for their backpacks, which are some of the best you can buy. That is why three of them appeared on this list.

They also have gloves, blankets, binoculars, sleeping bags and more. Although their products are expensive, they are really excellent.

FAQs On The Best Pack Frames For Hunting

Can’t I just use a simple backpack?

If you’re hunting from a cabin or vehicle, then a regular backpack is more than enough to carry your hunting gear. As you will get enough space in the cabin or truck, you can put the heavy items there.    

However, if you want to hunt over longer distances from the street, then a large framed backpack is a must for you. The large large framed backpack is mainly designed for wild use. 

Basically, the framed backpacks are more convenient to use for hunting as they come with a meat shelf and rifle holder.

So a large framed backpack will make your hunting experience more pleasant.  

What should I pack in my framed backpack for hunting?

A bunch of proper hunting gear and other essential belongings will make you more comfortable while hunting. So you have to make the list of essential gear wisely and smartly. 

Here’s a list of most essential gear for hunting:

• Weapon-rifle, hunting bow, arrows, hunting sight, and so on. 
• A rangefinder ( if your bow hunting sight doesn’t come with a built-in rangefinder).
• A flashlight or torch light.
• First aid kit for emergency treatment.
• Ground Blind or Hunting Tent.
• Knife and rubber gloves.
• Rain gear.
• Warm or thin dress ( Depending on the weather).
• Enough food and water.

How Do I Adjust My Hunting Backpack?

You will be using your backpack for hours or days, so it is important that your backpack fits you comfortably.

Moreover, you will feel comfort by adjusting the backpack perfectly. You know the different loading weights and the adjustments of different parts can change the movement of the backpack. It may, therefore, be necessary to adapt it properly.

Well, now follow the following tips to adjust the framed backpack properly: 

Firstly, you should wear the waist belt in line with the top of your hip bones and not around your hips. Then, try to tighten it at your comfortable level. Make sure that you can put your finger between the straps and shoulder as well.

Pull the stabilizer and lift straps to bring the weight of the backpack closer to your body and increase its impact.

Attach the chest strap and tighten it. 

You should feel that the weight is taking a little off your shoulders. Check each strap again to make sure it is comfortable. You can also do this on site.

How much do you know about the weight distribution? Two thirds of the weight should rest on the hips and the remaining one on the shoulders. 

This way you can carry the weight of all your equipment as well as a lot of meat without additional pressure.

Final Verdict: All right, now, you are confident enough to choose the best pack frame for hunting. Here we’ve discussed in detail about the pack frame. Most importantly our in depth reviews will help you to make your purchase smartly and wisely.

However, do not forget to consider the above things to choose your most suited one. If you have any question yet on your mind, feel free to write down below in the comment section.