Exo Journal

Mark Huelsing
Backpack Hunting Basics — How To Put On A Heavy Hunting Pack

Backpack Hunting Basics — How To Put On A Heavy Hunting Pack

What is the best way to put on a heavy hunting pack? That depends on the weight of the pack, the terrain, and your physical abilities. While those variables may change from hunt to hunt or person to person, there are also some things that every person should do every time. In this article, we explain the "5 L's" that you should think through every time you need to put on a heavy pack.

Read More →


Mark Huelsing
Why do we make the K4 7200? (But rarely recommend it...)

Why do we make the K4 7200? (But rarely recommend it...)

Learn why we make the K4 7200, but rarely recommend it. As we discussed in previous Why Do We? articles, performance is the priority in everything we do. And any recommendation we make to our customers will always be to provide the best fit, comfort, and performance from our packs. So while the K4 7200 is only a few ounces heavier (and costs just $25 more) than the K4 5000, there are good reasons to avoid the K4 7200 bag, unless you truly NEED it…

Read More →


Mark Huelsing
Backpack Hunting Basics — What To Do First When You Recover an Animal

Backpack Hunting Basics — What To Do First When You Recover an Animal

The hunt ends, and the work begins. When you recover an animal, there is a combination of excitement, accomplishment, and often circumstances (such as fading light, rising heat, or quickly passing time) that can make you feel a bit rushed. But before you start turning this animal into high-quality protein to feed your family, it is worth pausing, planning, and organizing before you start skinning.

Read More →


Mark Huelsing
Why do we design K4 bags with external pockets and no internal organization?

Why do we design K4 bags with external pockets and no internal organization?

Learn why we design our K4 bags with minimal internal organization and surround the main bag with external pockets. Our bag designs are optimized for lightweight backcountry hunting, with a focus on simplicity and efficiency. Backpacking gear and other items not needed throughout the day can be stored in the large main compartment, while hunt-specific gear and other items that you need quick access to during the day can be stored, organized, and quickly accessed via the bag's external pockets.

Read More →