For the heaviest of loads 100+ lbs the Initial Ascent and Kifaru are in a league of their own. In the 50-70lb range they are all comfortable with different levels of flex. The Kifaru is the stiffest. The EXO is very narrow so there is a lot of side to side twist. The AKEK frame is wider but not as rigid as the EXO carbon stays. When bow hunting with a pack I like the flex in the EXO and AKEK. When side hilling and cruising through deadfall I like how stiff the Kifaru frame holds the load. The EXO pack swings a bit more side to side with a full load. For my height, I like that the EXO and Kifaru packs have a tall frame option. You can’t go wrong with any of those options but you save $200-400 with the AKEK. It doesn’t really lack in any areas although there are a few packs that beat it in specific categories.
@@OneWeekGetAway The EXO K3 won the best overall in the head to head with all of the packs tested. Then the K4 was released and only got better. I would put Initial Ascent and Kifaru at the top for extreme heavy loads. Then EXO and Stone Glacier probably as tier two with AKEK nipping at their heels. I will often pack in with the AKEK or Kuiu pack but keep the Initial Ascent pack in the vehicle while elk hunting. First heavy load comes out and then the Initial Ascent makes an appearance for the dirty work. Probably more info than you need and I am sure this is somewhat subjective based on body types. I struggle the most with Mystery Ranch packs under a heavy load as the yoke system hurts my neck and the belt digs into my waste. I have buddies though that swear by that pack and think it’s amazing. If you are narrowing down between Kifaru, AKEK, and EXO you have done your homework and will end up with a great pack. Those packs are way more than just marketing hype and you will be happy for the next 10 years with any one of them.
@@huntleague thanks, I appreciate the feedback. I am looking at these for very long expedition style treks with less weight (let's say approximately 70-80lbs); I am a big guy - 6'2 and 230 with a broad chest; so hard to get sizing and comfort right on cottage industry packs that you cannot try on at a local store.
![Lp. Точка Невозврата #2 СТАРИНА ВРЕМЯ [Смотрящий] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/rBEcp1Ebl54/mqdefault.jpg)
How does it compare to the Exo K4 and the Kifsru Ark Frame in terms of carrying comfort?
For the heaviest of loads 100+ lbs the Initial Ascent and Kifaru are in a league of their own. In the 50-70lb range they are all comfortable with different levels of flex. The Kifaru is the stiffest. The EXO is very narrow so there is a lot of side to side twist. The AKEK frame is wider but not as rigid as the EXO carbon stays.
When bow hunting with a pack I like the flex in the EXO and AKEK. When side hilling and cruising through deadfall I like how stiff the Kifaru frame holds the load. The EXO pack swings a bit more side to side with a full load.
For my height, I like that the EXO and Kifaru packs have a tall frame option.
You can’t go wrong with any of those options but you save $200-400 with the AKEK. It doesn’t really lack in any areas although there are a few packs that beat it in specific categories.
@@huntleague interesting - I’ve rarely hear the K4 left out of the discussion when it comes to the best at carrying heavy loads. Thanks
@@OneWeekGetAway The EXO K3 won the best overall in the head to head with all of the packs tested. Then the K4 was released and only got better. I would put Initial Ascent and Kifaru at the top for extreme heavy loads. Then EXO and Stone Glacier probably as tier two with AKEK nipping at their heels.
I will often pack in with the AKEK or Kuiu pack but keep the Initial Ascent pack in the vehicle while elk hunting. First heavy load comes out and then the Initial Ascent makes an appearance for the dirty work.
Probably more info than you need and I am sure this is somewhat subjective based on body types. I struggle the most with Mystery Ranch packs under a heavy load as the yoke system hurts my neck and the belt digs into my waste. I have buddies though that swear by that pack and think it’s amazing.
If you are narrowing down between Kifaru, AKEK, and EXO you have done your homework and will end up with a great pack. Those packs are way more than just marketing hype and you will be happy for the next 10 years with any one of them.
@@huntleague thanks, I appreciate the feedback. I am looking at these for very long expedition style treks with less weight (let's say approximately 70-80lbs); I am a big guy - 6'2 and 230 with a broad chest; so hard to get sizing and comfort right on cottage industry packs that you cannot try on at a local store.
@@huntleagueoh man this is the sauce i needed!