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Help me with the decision

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Help me with the decision

Postby Elkhntr08 » 07 29, 2017 •  [Post 1]

Exo 3500 or Mystery River Metcalf. I like them both, so which one did or would you choose?
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Re: Help me with the decision

Postby WapitiTalk1 » 07 30, 2017 •  [Post 2]

Man, I don't know brother. I haven't put my mitts on one of the MR Metcalf's but it looks like the real deal. I do love my EXO 3500; I can't see myself replacing it before I'm too old to hunt anymore :lol:. I have a buddy who uses one of the Kuiu's and really likes it; I have a couple of guys that swear by the Kifaru's. I've heard mixed "things" about the customer service with some of the top notch pack companies but always good things about EXO. That's all I got for ya; I hope somebody else can chime in on their experiences with the EXO's and the MR's... Good luck in your decision and happy shopping 8-) .
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Re: Help me with the decision

Postby Elkhntr08 » 08 05, 2017 •  [Post 3]

Decided on the Metcalf, if I can find one.
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Re: Help me with the decision

Postby Swede » 08 05, 2017 •  [Post 4]

Elkhuntro8, let us know how you like it when you have had a season of hunting with it. The question you asked comes around about every year.
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Re: Help me with the decision

Postby Elkhntr08 » 08 23, 2017 •  [Post 5]

Well, broke down today and ordered the EXO K3500. After looking into the Metcalf a bit more, I didn't care for the side zip where they suggest putting a spotting scope. Also like the Velcro on the belt of the 3500 to hold the side pouch in place. Hate things sliding around.
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Re: Help me with the decision

Postby WapitiTalk1 » 08 23, 2017 •  [Post 6]

Elkhntr08 wrote:Well, broke down today and ordered the EXO K3500. After looking into the Metcalf a bit more, I didn't care for the side zip where they suggest putting a spotting scope. Also like the Velcro on the belt of the 3500 to hold the side pouch in place. Hate things sliding around.


Solid choice mister. A pack that will last you, and do any job you ask of it, for many... many years to come. I have a 2016 model EXO 3500 and cannot for the life of me, figure out why I would want another pack? That said.. I do like some of the improved featured on your K3500. Who knows, maybe I'll look at one of those next year (of course, after you let me know how you like yours and post up some success pictures of you packing out your elk this year). ;)
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Re: Help me with the decision

Postby wunder6 » 08 24, 2017 •  [Post 7]

I to just picked up the EXO 3500. Seems to be a pretty solid pack, I like the wider waistband. My old pack(Badlands Summit) is actually very similar besides the fabric and the fact that the EXO's bag separates from the frame.
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Re: Help me with the decision

Postby BrentLaBere » 08 24, 2017 •  [Post 8]

Both seem like great packs. No experience with either so I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
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Re: Help me with the decision

Postby pointysticks » 08 27, 2017 •  [Post 9]

I went the other way with a Metcalf. Very comfy. Did one trip so far. Took my wife backpacking for the first time. I carried most of the stuff. 38lbs. Straight up into the sierras. It was not a problem. First pack I owned that maintain correct hip belt position, keeping the load lifter straps angled correctly.

This week I pack it up for deer archery opener. Hiking into some inhospitable territory above los angelos. Friend has been caching water all week. It's the toughest hunt for me.
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Re: Help me with the decision

Postby Elkhntr08 » 08 29, 2017 •  [Post 10]

Pack shipped out yesterday. Emptied out my old pack and can't wait to load the new pack. Will be here Friday.
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