K4 7200 Pack System

Overall, the K4 is sleek, simple, solid, with an appropriate amount of versatility, and out performs the other packs I have used.

I have tried several packs with loads (measured on a scale) between 125 to 160 pounds. The K4 not only handles whatever load I throw at it, but also fits my body well and enables the load to ride more comfortably than the other packs I have tried. For reference, I have used MR Metcalf, MR Marshall, Kuiu Pro, Kifaru, Stone Glacier, and my beloved K3. The Kuiu and MR packs simply could not handle the load I was throwing at them and actually hurt me under heavy loads. The Kifaru did not agree with my back. The SG did not perform any better than my K3. Many of them, I was unable to prevent slippage under load or it excessively squeezed my hips, which negatively impacted my lumbar and hip mobility. (Note: I have short legs - 29 inch inseam) The K4, however, solved all the issues I had with any of the other packs I tried, and it can handle loads beyond what I can carry. I run a 5000 as my go-to bag in early season, and bump up to a 7200 for longer solo / late season / winter stuff. If I get lazy, I just run the 7200 because I can compress it down to virtually nothing more than the frame.

It terms of K4 design, EXO nailed it with the lumbar pad / hip belt redesign. Slippage and impact on my hip muscles were two of my main struggles with many of the other packs I used previously. The K4 address this and I have zero issues in that regard. In terms of unloaded / loaded comfort. Again, EXO makes purpose built packs that are comfortable and easy to wear. The K4 unloaded might feel a tad stiff upon first use, but honestly I prefer that because under heavy load that stiffness conforms a bit under load and manages the weight better than the more pliable frames I have previously used. In terms of back comfort, the K4 absolutely is a dream for my back and I don’t have any issues with how the K4 fits my back. The K4 has a use-specific design that also offers a great deal of versatility. The molle panels allow for end user customization for specific needs / desires without getting so crazy on options that the premise of a sleek simple design is lost, or the presence of so many options it becomes confusing to end users. I have found that I can devise a rigging / attachment strategy for anything I want to add to the K4, albeit not much is needed beyond what is readily available.

Nuances I have with the K4 are me waffling back and forth over zippered side pockets / stuff pockets, zippered stretch pocket / stuff stretch pocket, and internal mesh pocket / no internal mesh pocket. This is more me than anything else, as I have a variety of bags in all these configurations. Just when I think I want a zippered stretch pocket, I find myself wishing it were a stuff pocket. This is really me not able to make up my mind or trying to carry too much crap.

Overall, I only have praise for the K4 and don’t have complaints, which with me being a grumpy old goat, that is a hard bill to fill. For me, the K4 has addressed the issues I had with packs that I have previously used. As mentioned above, it is sleek, simple, solid, with an appropriate amount of versatility, and out performs the other packs I have used. Currently, we have four K4’s in our household that we love and use rather extensively. I hope my rambling provides some useful information.

Very fast shipping, great customer service and the pack is even better! I train with it 5x a week and I love it. Can’t wait to use it on some hunts later this year.

I truly cannot say enough good things about this pack. I did so much research before finally choosing this pack and I am glad that I did. I hauled out one Mule Buck with it. Unfortunately, I did not get to haul an elk out this year.

However, all of that being said, this is the best pack I have ever owned. I have used many packs in my day and the fit and finish, material durability, well-thought-out layout and every aspect of this pack are indicative of it being designed by serious outdoorsmen and hunters.

It has even replaced all of my summertime backpacking packs as my staple that I go to. The hipbelt width is absolutely perfect. It shines so much carrying heavy loads that when I used it for regular backpacking, it is a dream.

Thank you to all these fine American companies for listening, designing, and making such a fine product!

Overall i have loved the K4. Although i only packed out 1 elk this past season, i have spent a significant number of days hiking with the pack full of weight around 75-80 lbs. I love it. Compared to my previous packs, as well as my hunting buddies while packing out the elk, it carries the weight far more comfortably. i would highly reccomend it to anyone thinking about an upgrade, or new pack. Its worth it. The bag is simple, with not many pockets, i would reccomend the stash pockets to help stay organized, and the nalgene holder is a must. The bag has great waterbottle pockets without it, but that add on is a game changer. I found the 7200 bag to be great for just day hunts, as well as longer overnight or multi days. It shrinks down and is perfect even if all you have is a water bottle, snacks, and a spare jacket!

As a guide that spends a lot of Tim in the backcountry of the Rockies I need gear that performs. I have used several different packs. For the 2023 season I chose to give the new K4 a chance and after a few days getting use to it and getting the micro adjustments just right I can say this is the best pack I have ever had. It carries 130 lbs like 85-90 and the thought process that went into the build of this pack is superior to any other pack I’ve ran. It’s not complicated and everything has a function and excels at it! I’m happy I bought this pack and highly recommend it!