Smaller frame system, full-size performance.
Our EXS ("extra short") Pack System was developed to offer a hunting pack for women (and youth) that are looking for a quality frame pack without making sacrifices in fit, function, performance, or capabilities.
The EXS System shares the same features, materials, and design as our K4 Pack Systems, but is offered in a shorter, 22" frame height, and also features a thinner and more contoured shoulder harness, which fits the female's upper body and chest better. (Note: The EXS shoulder harness does not have MOLLE for mounting of accessories, such as our K4 InReach Mini Holder.)
NOTE — The 3600 and 5000 systems come with a K4 Lid included. If you would like a K4 Lid with a 2200, you will need to add the K4 Lid Strap Set and a K4 Lid separately.
Built in the USA with 500d Cordura, Squadron fabric, and carbon fiber stays...
Materials & Production Details »Real World Reviews
Had the opportunity to take my k4 EXS 5000 pack out for a week long, overnight ski traverse as well as about 25 days hunting this fall and have nothing but good things to say.
Loaded all the way up for my ski traverse I was super impressed with how it carried a load. It's the first time in 20 years of backpacking and hauling big packs around that I havnt had bruised collar bones after a heavy day. I carried up to 70 lbs over many kms walking and skiing and I was comfortable and able to focus on breaking trail and pow turns. Also loved all the pockets and front main compartment zip for storing avalanche and glacier gear for quick access.
Also a big fan of how well it compressed for day hunts this fall. It worked great with the rifle attachment. I live in interior bc in a temperate rainforest so it's often slippery, thick bush and WET! This pack stood up really well through the devils club and alder bushwacking into zones and stayed surprisingly dry during the odd downpour. Even after hunting for the last month straight it looks new.
Im 5'3 and female and the EXS size was perfect!
Recently upgraded from the K2 and was able to put the K4 EXS to the test this fall! I have worn this pack almost non-stop since the end of August with my husband's archery mountain goat to currently chasing cows in the late season. It's hauled a mountain goat, my archery bull, a mule deer buck way back in the breaks, a deep timber rifle bull, and a whitetail in the hills. This pack has done it all, from day hunts to extended backpacking trips.
The changes to the lumber support and hip belt make it feel a lot firmer when you first put it on but don't notice it after that. I can tell a marked improvement in my heavy-weight carrying performance and comfort, allowing me to keep the weight high without any movement or sway. Defiantly order a couple of extra locking buckles; they are amazing!
Not sure I'm sold on the moly webbing for the hip pouch (phone storage/ fruit snack holder) and my holster, I have managed to snag my hip belt pouch on a few trees/rocks and uncliped the front of it. My pistol holster sits a bit further back then is really comfortable (though it does stay in place better) but those are my only complaints. The narrower shoulder straps and the shorter frame height fit me like a glove. I also really like the fact you don't have to mess around with the load-lifter straps anymore when separating the bag from the frame. Just strap the quarters on and go!
It's hard to pick out what specifically is so much better than my previous backpack but it is significantly more comfortable. Especially as the weight goes up. Heavy is still heavy but there's less suffering involved! Great backpack!
I have gone through many backpacks for work, hunting, and other outdoor activities in the last 30 years. I am 5'5" and about 125, this is by far the most comfortable pack I have ever used for carrying awkward and heavy loads for work and hunting. I used the K4 EXS for work this summer and to pack out 4 elk this fall with lots of backpack hunting mixed in. I couldn't be happier with the way this packframe carries weight. The pack is very adjustable and I found it super easy to use the load shelf.
My work and lifestyle is hard on equipment and the stretchy material on the front pocket is showing wear after 5 months of tough use, not sure it will last through next year. The rest of the pack seems really solid so far. It may be worth mentioning that 9 years ago I broke my T6 vertebrae (between shoulder blades). This is the only pack I have had since the injury that doesn't hurt my back when carrying heavy loads long distances. This pack may be expensive, but the comfort and ease of use is worth every penny.
My pack carries great and allows me to share the load when I hunt with my dad. The frame fits me well!
