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A little review of the Bison Gear pack I bought last winter, now that I’ve had a chance to use it a fair bit:
In deciding which BG pack to get, I went back and forth a fair bit between the “First Trip” and the “Lost River” models, which are similar, but with some significant differences. The FT is a little smaller in capacity than the LR, and while both have ample side pockets, they are removable on the FT, not so on the LR. This was a selling point for me, as I like the more slender profile of the pack without the side pockets, when I don’t need them.
Another big difference between the two models is that the LR has one big internal space, while the FT has two – a lower compartment separate from the upper compartment. To be honest, I wasn’t sure how I would like this, as I generally prefer simplicity in the layout of my packs, so that I can organize them as needed, but after using the pack quite a bit, it really hasn’t been an issue, and actually helpful sometimes. After a good chat with Angelo, he helped me decide that the First Trip was really what I was looking for.
The full ‘First Trip” pack with the side pockets attached, and my Hammock Seat lashed to the top:
The lower compartment of the FT has ample space, in addition to a large zippered pocket and a built-in organizer for smaller items:
The upper compartment (basically the same volume as the lower) contains a game bag that extends up and out when needed. You can re-attach the shoulder straps from the pack to the top of the game bag for hauling.
The upper compartment also has a zippered pocket in the top lid, which I find a great place for maps and other small/flat items:
The side pockets easily attach/detach with beefy webbing loops and heavy-duty snaps:
A mesh back panel adds structure and some rigidity to the pack. There are also two good-sized hip pockets:
Construction is impeccable, and the pack is absolutely silent when worn. I think it can be hard for people to understand why one might opt for such a technologically “primitive” pack in this day and age of carbon fiber pack frames, ultra-lightweight materials, etc. Of course, one could ask these same questions about our choices in “low-tech” bows, and the answers would be largely the same. These packs work really well, are very comfortable with a load, and really are like nothing else out there that I know of – you have to use a BG pack for a while to appreciate how well thought-out and functional they really are.
Bison Gear packs are available in several different colors of wool, as well as a few other material choices, and they can customize a number of pack features to your needs. They are not inexpensive packs, but they are truly built to last a lifetime, handmade in the USA, by someone who is an avid trad hunter himself and cares about every little detail.
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dfudala wrote: Great stuff SH! I’ve been dwelling on the Bison gear packs for a while now and I have my heart set on the Lost River for next year. Thanks for all the info and the solid endorsement!
If you haven’t already done so, give Angelo a ring. He’s a great guy to talk to, and is happy to talk about the various different designs. Also, the BG website is pretty basic, and doesn’t necessarily represent everything that is available, so it’s a good idea to check in with him before placing an order anyway. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on the Lost River after you get it!
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