I recently returned from a Montana backcountry hunt where I was told by the outfitter to bring a small day pack. Having never gone on this type of hunt, I stuck to the recommendations and purchased this pack.
First of all, I am not knocking this pack. It is a smaller size and I did put a elk shoulder in the bag and was able to haul it comfortably. You cannot fit a hind quarter in it though.
I also purchased a 3 liter water reservoir which came in handy. Something to remember is the line and spout WILL freeze in cold weather. Top, keep the spout your jacket which keeps it from freezing and blow the water back into the resovior after drinking.
The weather, as you can tell, was cold and snowy. I did not like carrying my rifle on a sling, so I used the rifle carry system on the pack. Mistake. I know this was probably my fault, but it is something you need to be aware of. While carrying the rifle up and down mountains and through pine forests, snow was able to come into contact with the breech area of the rifle. This caused moisture to seep into the breech and bolt area which froze and caused my rifle to not advance the round, and when it did, the firing pin did not fully strike the round causing the dreaded "click" sound instead of bang.
My point, if you intend on hunting in possible inclimate weather, you NEED a pack that has a drop in design or other option that will guard against moisture coming into contact with critical areas of the rifle.
Also, I noticed that the buckle, which holds the rifle to the pack, often times came loose causing the rifle to sway. I contacted Badlands and made suggestions for improvement to their customer service and we will see what happens.
Again, I am not blaming Badlands, this is a great small pack, but I unfortunately learned it was not the pack I needed. Do your research, think about what you will use the pack for, consider the elements, and if you can physically look at the product before buying, do so. The good thing is I can use this product in Maryland and not have to worry about this issues I faced in Montana. It is a comfortable small day pack, just not the right pack for what I needed out west. Hope this helps someone.