PRS Talk Backpack for PRS matches

[Little_Fish]

I shot my first two PRS matches this season and I made a list of needs and wants of items to buy going forward. One item high on the needs list is a backpack. Right now I’m using my Midway USA range bag to carry my gear but with the addition of a tripod I now can’t move everything from stage to stage in one trip. A backpack will be much easier to transport my gear leaving my hands free to carry my rifle.

What packs are people using and seeing at matches? Im looking at options from Mystery Ranch, Stone Glacier, Eberlestock, Kifaru, and Kuiu. I currently run a Kuiu Pro system for my hunting load out and very much like it, but I don’t like to mix my hunting gear with other disciplines. I don’t think the pack needs to be very big. Somewhere in the 2,000 cubic inch range should be plenty.

 

[Olen_4504]

Eberelesrock UPranger is great for PRS matches. I’m loving mine and seeing more and more popping up

 

[Mormegil87]

I run the Eberlestock Bandit. I can fit two, 100 round boxes of ammo, binos, Wiebad Mini Fortune Cookie, wrist coach, Cole Tac Playbook and 2 spare mags in the main compartment. Kestrel gets carabinered to the outside. Wallet, phone and keys go in the top pouch with other miscellaneous items in the top pouch.

Poor weather gear goes on the outside under the front panel.

My packs have gotten progressively smaller over the years. The bigger the pack, the more useless shit you try to pack into it.

 

[Little_Fish]

Eberelesrock UPranger is great for PRS matches. I’m loving mine and seeing more and more popping up

Thank you. I’ve seen that recommended on a few other threads on here. Seems two years ago that was a common answer so it must be being received well.

I run the Eberlestock Bandit. I can fit two, 100 round boxes of ammo, binos, Wiebad Mini Fortune Cookie, wrist coach, Cole Tac Playbook and 2 spare mags in the main compartment. Kestrel gets carabinered to the outside. Wallet, phone and keys go in the top pouch with other miscellaneous items in the top pouch.

Poor weather gear goes on the outside under the front panel.

My packs have gotten progressively smaller over the years. The bigger the pack, the more useless shit you try to pack into it.

I really like that. I agree the bigger the pack the more junk gets added in. Do you ever wish you had the capability to carry your gun on the pack? That was why I was thinking something with a frame and hip belt to carry the weight. I don’t think it will be how I typically carry things but wasn’t sure if I’d want the option occasionally.

 

[iceng]

I have eberlestock gunslinger g2 and a 5.11 tactical rush 24.
Weekend or camping or hike involved is the G2 (rare nower days) and the 5.11 rush for PRS 2 day matches.

 

[Eric32]

Did this write up on a husky pack I use. Never got much traction but a cheap and still handy pack to have. I have a sling on my tripod and carry my rifle

Cheap alternative Match day pack

So no shit there I was, at Home Depot. Burning day light looking for random shit to buy. And out of the corner of my eye. A HUSKY backpack for tools and shit. So I start checking it out. It has a hard bottom so the pack stands on it own. A bunch of little pockets for random stuff. One outside...

www.snipershide.com

 

[Mormegil87]

Thank you. I’ve seen that recommended on a few other threads on here. Seems two years ago that was a common answer so it must be being received well.

I really like that. I agree the bigger the pack the more junk gets added in. Do you ever wish you had the capability to carry your gun on the pack? That was why I was thinking something with a frame and hip belt to carry the weight. I don’t think it will be how I typically carry things but wasn’t sure if I’d want the option occasionally.

I dont. To be honest other than hunting or maybe something like Mammoth Sniper Challenge I think that particular feature is more annoying than it's worth.

I carry my rifle in one hand and tripod in the other. My AMP plate and plate bag are attached to the tripod.

Fair warning, if you go with the Bandit, you're essentially committing to being a "minimalist" by PRS standards. There is no room for extra bags or gear. For example I'll never be able to carry multiple game changers or MPAs tripod leg log

 

[Little_Fish]

I dont. To be honest other than hunting or maybe something like Mammoth Sniper Challenge I think that particular feature is more annoying than it's worth.

I carry my rifle in one hand and tripod in the other. My AMP plate and plate bag are attached to the tripod.

Fair warning, if you go with the Bandit, you're essentially committing to being a "minimalist" by PRS standards. There is no room for extra bags or gear. For example I'll never be able to carry multiple game changers or MPAs tripod leg log

Yeah thanks. I’ve seen more pictures and think it’s going to be too small. Between tripod, water bottle and a GC bag I think I’ll need to upsize. The question is do I want a bag to replace my entire range bag load out with tools and parts and everything else, or just carry everything I need for the match with just in case items back in the truck.

 

[Mormegil87]

A lot depends on where you're shooting matches. If the matches allow for easy vehicle access, there's no reason to carry the extra crap, do the prep work ahead of time and you shouldn't need extra batteries or tools on match day.

If you won't have easy access to your vehicle then prioritize the stuff you will need to save a match.

It doesn't take much to all of a sudden be carrying 35 or 40lbs of stuff, must of it unneeded.

 

[Little_Fish]

A lot depends on where you're shooting matches. If the matches allow for easy vehicle access, there's no reason to carry the extra crap, do the prep work ahead of time and you shouldn't need extra batteries or tools on match day.

If you won't have easy access to your vehicle then prioritize the stuff you will need to save a match.

It doesn't take much to all of a sudden be carrying 35 or 40lbs of stuff, must of it unneeded.

Agreed. Where I shoot is ~150 yards from the truck so I really just need to be able to get from stage to stage, especially when it loops from one of the range back to the first station. Rifle in hand and whatever is necessary for the match in the bag including the tripod and binos. I don’t think the bandit will enough to carry the tripod and water plus necessary gear. Something bigger than that but smaller than the upranger would be ideal.

 

[Sheldon N]

I've shot dozens of one and two day matches with just a little 5.11 Rush 12 pack, almost all of them field style where you're carrying gear at least a mile over the course of the day. Last couple years has been with an Eberlestock Hispeed, it's done the job well too. Switched to it when I got one on a prize table.

I prefer simplicity and lighter weight packs, the only thing that's nice is some sort of sleeve or pouch to hold loaded mags.

If I were buying something brand new right now it would be something like the Kifaru 14'r, almost pulled the trigger on one earlier this year but they are spendy.

 

[Joevolfan]

The UPranger is great for organization. You do have to be selective on your choices to get it all in the bag. The thing I have noticed is that if you use an ammo folder instead of ammo boxes, packing can be challenging. Also I wish the side pouch panel was attached to the bag more securely. I used malice clips on one side and have to deal with the other side being loose to accommodate my tripod.

 

[dscl]

I’ve been using the UpRanger and while I like it I stopped using it immediately after my first 2 day match where I had to do a lot of walking. The thing is very well organized, but big and very heavy! I now use a Mystery Ranch 3 Day Assault bag. I do miss the organization, but it’s lighter and more compact and still holds everything I could possibly need.

 

[Little_Fish]

I've shot dozens of one and two day matches with just a little 5.11 Rush 12 pack, almost all of them field style where you're carrying gear at least a mile over the course of the day. Last couple years has been with an Eberlestock Hispeed, it's done the job well too. Switched to it when I got one on a prize table.

I prefer simplicity and lighter weight packs, the only thing that's nice is some sort of sleeve or pouch to hold loaded mags.

If I were buying something brand new right now it would be something like the Kifaru 14'r, almost pulled the trigger on one earlier this year but they are spendy.

I really like the hispeed. It’s the same as the Lodrag II which I was looking at only with the addition of the scabbard which I can’t decide if I’d use or not. I agree on simplicity. I think the UPranger is too much bulk for how I’d use it.

That Kifaru is nice but much too much $$ for me.

The UPranger is great for organization. You do have to be selective on your choices to get it all in the bag. The thing I have noticed is that if you use an ammo folder instead of ammo boxes, packing can be challenging. Also I wish the side pouch panel was attached to the bag more securely. I used malice clips on one side and have to deal with the other side being loose to accommodate my tripod.

There’s something I don’t like about the UPranger. I think it feels like someone took a suitcase and put straps and a belt on it. I don’t doubt it works well but I don’t think it’s what I’m going for.

I’ve been using the UpRanger and while I like it I stopped using it immediately after my first 2 day match where I had to do a lot of walking. The thing is very well organized, but big and very heavy! I now use a Mystery Ranch 3 Day Assault bag. I do miss the organization, but it’s lighter and more compact and still holds everything I could possibly need.

I like that option from the MR. I could probably get away with the 2 day assault.

 

[kthomas]

In the past I've used an Arctery'x Khard 30. Great little pack, has worked well for me for this purpose. Weak point is the waist belt, if you need the support to carry some weight.

I recently purchased a Kifaru .22 Mag for hunting, and I think that's going to do double duty for hunting & matches. It seems to be a very versatile bag that can be loaded out for multiple different types of missions.

You don't need a big pack for PRS, and honestly I think less is more for PRS. 2,000 cu in is probably perfect for PRS.

 

[mojavejim]

For square ranges I keep going back to the old MR crewcab, it's just to easy to drop bags & tripod in the expandable area. For true field matches with some mileage I go light with the Kuiu 1500 Divide

 

[Little_Fish]

Still narrowing it down but I think I have my short list. I have decided I "need" front loading (not top loading), interior molle and/or interior pockets, a scabbard or ability to add one later, frame and belt or the ability to add later if needed. I like from this list the Eberlestock Little Brother or the Eberlestock Lodrag II (or the Hispeed if I can add the scabbard on later).

Because I think I want the ability to add a scabbard all of the Mystery Ranch options are out although many of them would fit the bill too. Kifaru is just too expensive even though I know they're worth it.

Anything else I'm missing?

 

[Mudflap621]

Ive been running the Kifaru Shape Charge and I really like it. Easily ad accessories if you need more space but I use it bare most of the time with just some carabiners to attach things easily when moving between stages.

 

[Little_Fish]

Ive been running the Kifaru Shape Charge and I really like it. Easily ad accessories if you need more space but I use it bare most of the time with just some carabiners to attach things easily when moving between stages.

Wow everyone really loves Kifaru. Am I reading their website correct in that it’s going to be ~$400 for the frame and suspension then another ~$350-$500 for the pack?

 

[Downzero]

I have eberlestock gunslinger g2 and a 5.11 tactical rush 24.
Weekend or camping or hike involved is the G2 (rare nower days) and the 5.11 rush for PRS 2 day matches.

I have the Eberlestock Gunslinger too (maybe an older model). Boy do I hate carrying all that crap, but it works great.

 

[kthomas]

Wow everyone really loves Kifaru. Am I reading their website correct in that it’s going to be ~$400 for the frame and suspension then another ~$350-$500 for the pack?

Pretty much.

Definitely expensive, but they are very high quality.

 

[Little_Fish]

Pretty much.

Definitely expensive, but they are very high quality.

I don’t doubt it. I’m firmly in the buy once cry once camp, and fully understand the value in a good pack. But for my limited usage they’re too much $ for me. Now a hunting pack of mine with huge loads and long miles is a different story, but my usage is pretty much a glorified A to B bag and nothing more.

 

[kthomas]

I don’t doubt it. I’m firmly in the buy once cry once camp, and fully understand the value in a good pack. But for my limited usage they’re too much $ for me. Now a hunting pack of mine with huge loads and long miles is a different story, but my usage is pretty much a glorified A to B bag and nothing more.

That's why I bought one, for hunting.

I don't think it's necessary to spend that kind of $$$ for a dedicated comp pack.

 

[Little_Fish]

That's why I bought one, for hunting.

I don't think it's necessary to spend that kind of $$$ for a dedicated comp pack.

Definitely not. I’m taking spending minutes wearing it, walking yards as opposed to days and miles.

 

[b6graham]

you have the kuiu system

just add a 2300 pro and hip pouches and be done. cheaper and easier

 

[Little_Fish]

you have the kuiu system

just add a 2300 pro and hip pouches and be done. cheaper and easier

I’ve got the 1800, 2300, 3200, 4000, and 7000 kuiu packs. My main hang up is that I hate mixing my hunting gear with other disciplines. I bow hunt whitetails and I’m OCD about odor. All my hunting gear is stored in air tight bags so I hate using it where I could get really sweaty or be around guys who are smoking. Also the kuiu packs don’t really excel at interior organization they’re more of a large cavernous main compartment.

 

[kthomas]

This is what I use:

Arc'teryx LEAF Assault Pack 30

A weatherproof Assault Pack that is carried when conducting Direct Action tasks that is also combat enabler capable.

www.us-elitegear.com

Sometimes you can find them on sale in the mid-200's

 

[DLS]

I use the Stone Glacier Kiowa 3200 and so far haven’t found a reason to look further.

 

[Rob01]

Been using an Eberlestock FAC Trac for the past few years and really like it. Plenty of room for everything I need. I put a couple pouches on each side for water and snacks and the center is all match gear.

 

[Krob95]

I've been using the erbelestock hispeed for the last year and a half. It works. But I wish the pouch behind the front pouch on the bottom was easier to access. It's a two handed operation to open or close and can be a pain in the ass some times. Other than that, it provides plenty of room for everything I need (snacks, water, tripod, extra bag if needed, extra mags, etc, etc). It does not leave me wishing for more room.

 

[Jefe's Dope]

Mystery Ranch Coulee 25. I sling my rifle and carry my tripod extended w/ the binoculars attached. Leaves one hand free and I can stand the tripod very easily since it's already extended and the binos are attached. Can always stow the binos and collapse the tripod and attach it in one of the side pockets and compression straps and have both hands free. Just the right size and filets open to expose everything at once.

 

[Little_Fish]

By the sound of it nobody carries their rifle on their back at matches? I figured most of the time I wouldn’t want or need to, but was thinking it would be a nice option to have just in case.

 

[iceng]

Sling your gun differently ? Good for short travel, but id expect longer than 5mins would be.... Not fun. Unless you had a really light hunting rig.

 

[High Desert duck]

I’m currently using the mystery ranch crew cab. It’s my hunting pack but has done pretty well with PRS. I can attach the rifle and tripod to the sides if I’d like. I usually attach the game changer to the outside as well.
I am looking however at moving to the Fehu outdoors tilpasse pack. They’ve designed it with Prs in mind. Currently out of stock but worth a wait. I’ve seen a couple in the wild and they look like they’ll fit the bill.

Tilpasse Backpack | FehuOutdoors

Tilpasse | \`til-pas-ə\ - Norweigian for adapt. This backpack system is designed around being able to customize the internal storage and organizers to fit the equipment you carry and need. Built to be rugged for use in tough conditions, the bag exterior is made with coated nylon to be highly...

www.fehuoutdoors.com

 

[gonzaga]

I have an eberlestock pack. I used to use the Mystery Ranch but I've found this to suit my needs better.
I use the softcock ammo carriers and there is a shelf inside that holds 2 carriers perfectly. That same pocket holds my binos and range card.
The other pocket holds drinks, fix it sticks, and an emergency Otis cleaning kit, as well as snacks.
I use the gun scabbard to put my tripod in.
Not sure which model it is but I'm sure you can figure that out if you're interested enough.

 

[Little_Fish]

Sling your gun differently ? Good for short travel, but id expect longer than 5mins would be.... Not fun. Unless you had a really light hunting rig.

That's a neat idea, I like that a lot.

I’m currently using the mystery ranch crew cab. It’s my hunting pack but has done pretty well with PRS. I can attach the rifle and tripod to the sides if I’d like. I usually attach the game changer to the outside as well.
I am looking however at moving to the Fehu outdoors tilpasse pack. They’ve designed it with Prs in mind. Currently out of stock but worth a wait. I’ve seen a couple in the wild and they look like they’ll fit the bill.

Tilpasse Backpack | FehuOutdoors

Tilpasse | \`til-pas-ə\ - Norweigian for adapt. This backpack system is designed around being able to customize the internal storage and organizers to fit the equipment you carry and need. Built to be rugged for use in tough conditions, the bag exterior is made with coated nylon to be highly...

www.fehuoutdoors.com

The Fehu does seem to be what will probably be the best since it's so tailor made.

I have an eberlestock pack. I used to use the Mystery Ranch but I've found this to suit my needs better.
I use the softcock ammo carriers and there is a shelf inside that holds 2 carriers perfectly. That same pocket holds my binos and range card.
The other pocket holds drinks, fix it sticks, and an emergency Otis cleaning kit, as well as snacks.
I use the gun scabbard to put my tripod in.
Not sure which model it is but I'm sure you can figure that out if you're interested enough.

Looks like a Lodrag I think.

 

[b6graham]

I’m currently using the mystery ranch crew cab. It’s my hunting pack but has done pretty well with PRS. I can attach the rifle and tripod to the sides if I’d like. I usually attach the game changer to the outside as well.
I am looking however at moving to the Fehu outdoors tilpasse pack. They’ve designed it with Prs in mind. Currently out of stock but worth a wait. I’ve seen a couple in the wild and they look like they’ll fit the bill.

Tilpasse Backpack | FehuOutdoors

Tilpasse | \`til-pas-ə\ - Norweigian for adapt. This backpack system is designed around being able to customize the internal storage and organizers to fit the equipment you carry and need. Built to be rugged for use in tough conditions, the bag exterior is made with coated nylon to be highly...

www.fehuoutdoors.com

and the owner of FeHu is a good dude. pretty good NRL Hunter shooter too

 

[kthomas]

By the sound of it nobody carries their rifle on their back at matches? I figured most of the time I wouldn’t want or need to, but was thinking it would be a nice option to have just in case.

Never really saw the need. Most matches it would be annoying to have to pack up and unpack your rifle between stages.

Perhaps certain field matches it may make sense.

This seems like an interesting way to carry if you don't want to use a sling:

OBi LINK SYSTEM

The OBi Rifle Link is our favorite new way to carry your rifle without a sling. It is hands free and user friendly. Simply slip the Slide Lock onto your backpack strap or bolt the Clamp Lock onto your backpack strap. Mount the RP M, RP M Mini to the M-lok or the QD P to your rifle and now you...

oldballsinc.com

 

[todd]

I have an Eberlestock Halftrack. Plenty of room inside the main compartment for a Schmedium, Pint Size, bipod, LRF, binos, Kestrel, Ammo Novel(s), Fix it sticks, pens, notebook, spare knee pads. Top external compartment holds two spare mags, in-ear pro, tools. Side scabbard on one side holds my tripod, side scabbard on the other side holds a tiny lightweight camping chair so I can repose while reloading. Also external storage pouches for rifle cover and elbow pads for prone unsupported stages. Plenty of places on the side to attach carabiners to clip on the pump pillow, gloves, etc.

Halftrack

The Halftrack is an extremely versatile and popular 3-day pack. It features two levels of varying-sized tuck-pockets lining its interior, MOLLE-style Padlock webbing racks inside and out, and a fold-down shelf that can be used to divide the main compartment into upper and lower chambers. It will...

eberlestock.com

 

[Mormegil87]

By the sound of it nobody carries their rifle on their back at matches? I figured most of the time I wouldn’t want or need to, but was thinking it would be a nice option to have just in case.

I ran a couple of eberlestock stock bags with the scabbard and it was a bigger pain than it was worth. Especially for carrying a rifle. Felt like I had to be extra cautious to avoid flagging people while loading and unloading the rifle.

Same with the tripod. Bigger pain in the butt taking it and out of the scabbard than it's worth. Same goes for sticking the tripod in the water bottle pouches. I personally think it's just easier to carry.

YMMV, keep in mind I'm shooting in my matches east of the Mississippi. My longest walk is around a half mile and that's if I get unlucky on what stage I start the day.

 

[Little_Fish]

I ran a couple of eberlestock stock bags with the scabbard and it was a bigger pain than it was worth. Especially for carrying a rifle. Felt like I had to be extra cautious to avoid flagging people while loading and unloading the rifle.

Same with the tripod. Bigger pain in the butt taking it and out of the scabbard than it's worth. Same goes for sticking the tripod in the water bottle pouches. I personally think it's just easier to carry.

YMMV, keep in mind I'm shooting in my matches east of the Mississippi. My longest walk is around a half mile and that's if I get unlucky on what stage I start the day.

Thanks. The more I talk to everyone on here the less I want or feel the need for the scabbard. I can either just use a sling or if I wanted I could get the old balls device listed above. Like you, I can measure the amount I walk during a match day in yards, not miles. Stages are all next to each other with the exception of when I loop back to stage 1.

I've narrowed down my final list to the MR Blitz 35, Eberlestock

I ran a couple of eberlestock stock bags with the scabbard and it was a bigger pain than it was worth. Especially for carrying a rifle. Felt like I had to be extra cautious to avoid flagging people while loading and unloading the rifle.

Same with the tripod. Bigger pain in the butt taking it and out of the scabbard than it's worth. Same goes for sticking the tripod in the water bottle pouches. I personally think it's just easier to carry.

YMMV, keep in mind I'm shooting in my matches east of the Mississippi. My longest walk is around a half mile and that's if I get unlucky on what stage I start the day.

I’ve heard that sentiment enough times that I’m going to cross scabbard off my list. Furthermore all of the scabbard packs I was looking at can’t remove the scabbard so I’m going to cross those off entirely.

I’ve narrowed it down to the MR blitz 35, or the Eberlestock Fac Trac or the Hispeed II. Thinking the Blitz is actually going to be the direction I go.

 

[AMTGMC]

I had a hazard 4 for carrying a spotting scope and a tripod around, just started we using it at PRS/NRL 22 matches.



I added an extra water bottle pouch and have room for more. I also like the one strap since you don’t move very far.

 

[CK1.0]

Eberlestock Upranger... knee pads, bags, tools, shooting mat, binos, tripod, ammo, mags, etc, you name it ...one way to not forget anything is just to bring everything (it's a beast though lol).

 

[High Desert duck]

and the owner of FeHu is a good dude. pretty good NRL Hunter shooter too

100%

 

[The Durk]

I use an Eberlestock Operator for matches where I know I'll do a lot of walking. On normal matches, I found Eberlestock Bandit is just the ticket for a regional small match.

 

[Firststrike89]

I used to use an Eberlestock Upranger and loved the organization that it provides, but found it to be heavy (took it to a class and didn't enjoy carrying it around). I'm currently using a Mystery Ranch 2 Day pack. I used this for the GAP Grind and absolutely loved it. I wish I had gone with the 3 day so that I can have a bit more room, but the 2 day works for now.

 

[NovaHunter]

Eberelesrock UPranger is great for PRS matches. I’m loving mine and seeing more and more popping up

I bought one of these and it's been great for matches.

 

[lycokayaker]

im in similar boat and looking for pack. Saw some people liking the FAC track pack anyone have one? One of the things caught my eye is the pouches on side can hold a tripod super easy

 

[Little_Fish]

im in similar boat and looking for pack. Saw some people liking the FAC track pack anyone have one? One of the things caught my eye is the pouches on side can hold a tripod super easy

After reading everyone’s responses here I’ve pretty much settled on the FAC track too. Just waiting for their Black Friday sale at this point.

 

[DeathBeforeDismount]

Wow everyone really loves Kifaru. Am I reading their website correct in that it’s going to be ~$400 for the frame and suspension then another ~$350-$500 for the pack?

Don't get the Shape Charge. its too Small and the mistake I made.

I have dozens of bags from years in the military and collecting shit over the last 20 years. ALL my bags going forward will be Kifaru/EXO/Stone Glaicer. There is zero reason to buy anything else.

Eberlestock is cheap chinese shit that weighs half a ton. I gave my eberlestocks away I hated them so much. MR makes some decent bags, but they are imported as well and almost as expensive as the Alpha, Made in USA Bags, so no reason to waste money on them. Kifaru organization is second to none and unbelievably comfortable.

Replaced it with a 357 MAG and its the PERFECT match bag.

I have broken 3 bags shooting PRS before buying Kifaru. I even broke my Shape charge, which is back with them getting repaired.

Spend the money on Kifaru. Get a Internal frame pack and save the money/weight.