Must-Have Kifaru 44 Mag Pack & Backcountry Prep

Published on March 8, 2025
Duration: 34:18

This guide focuses on preparing for backcountry hunting by conditioning your body and utilizing your pack effectively. It emphasizes training with a loaded pack, specifically incorporating side-hilling techniques to build crucial muscles for mountain terrain. The advice extends to utilizing gym equipment for simulated training when natural hills are unavailable, and highlights the importance of testing gear in spring to ensure readiness for fall hunts.

Quick Summary

For backcountry hunting preparation, focus on conditioning with a loaded pack (40-45 lbs), emphasizing side-hilling techniques on natural terrain or gym equipment. This builds crucial strength in ankles and stabilizing muscles. Testing your gear, including your Kifaru pack, during spring hunts is vital to ensure readiness for fall expeditions.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Gun Talk Hunt & Kifaru
  2. 00:30Kifaru International Overview with Kenneth Thall
  3. 01:51AI Poem: The Hunter's Call
  4. 02:14Sponsors: Silencer Central, Range Ready Studios, Ruger
  5. 02:24Kenneth Thall: The Swiss Army Knife of Kifaru
  6. 02:42What is Kifaru? Company History and Philosophy
  7. 04:02Personal Journey with Kifaru Gear
  8. 04:30The Importance of Pack Reliability
  9. 05:15Consequences of Shoddy Gear
  10. 06:07Comparing Pack Comfort: Kifaru vs. Old External Frames
  11. 07:08Kifaru's Hunter-Centric Design
  12. 08:00Confidence in Gear: Like Confidence in Weaponry
  13. 09:19Modularity and System Integration in Kifaru Packs
  14. 10:01Customizing Your Kifaru System
  15. 11:09Relaunch of the Kifaru 44 Mag Pack
  16. 11:43Ruger Precision Rimfire (RPR) Spotlight
  17. 12:36Range Ready Studios: Training for Success
  18. 13:17Early Season Hunting Prep with the 44 Mag
  19. 13:45Spring as a Gear Testing Ground
  20. 14:07Building Lungs: The Importance of Hiking
  21. 14:18Using the New 44 Mag for Preparation
  22. 15:07Recommended Pack Weight for Training
  23. 15:58The Challenge of Side-Hilling
  24. 16:51Flatlander Training: Gym vs. Outdoors
  25. 17:29The Reality of Elevation Shock
  26. 18:25New Kifaru 44 Mag Pack Features
  27. 19:01Laser Cutting and MOLLE Attachments
  28. 19:11Compression Straps for Gear Attachment
  29. 19:44Side Pockets and Lid Access
  30. 20:03Internal Mesh Pockets and Zipper Changes
  31. 20:43Weight Reduction with Laser Cutting
  32. 21:11Aesthetic and Functional Updates
  33. 21:33The 44 Mag's Versatility: Day Trip to 3-5 Days
  34. 22:18The Kifaru Arc Frame
  35. 23:01Choosing the Right Kifaru Pack
  36. 23:30Pack Recommendations: Bedum, Striker XL, Hellbender
  37. 24:12Pack Recommendations: Absaroka and 44 Mag
  38. 24:44General Advice: Always Go Big
  39. 25:07Compression Straps and Day Mode
  40. 25:28Hauling Meat with Kifaru Packs
  41. 26:29Kifaru's Evolving Product Lineup
  42. 27:11The Emotional Attachment to Gear
  43. 27:34The Challenge of Testing New Gear
  44. 29:36The Steel Head Pack: Versatile Applications
  45. 30:23Steel Head as an NRL Chest Rig
  46. 30:49Kenneth's Spring Hunting Plans
  47. 31:16Alaska Bear Hunt with Viking Armor & Dillinger
  48. 32:01Wyoming and Montana Bear Hunts
  49. 32:14The Appeal of Spring Bear Hunting
  50. 33:07Hunting Bears in Mountain Goat Country
  51. 34:00Closing Remarks and Safe Hunting Practices

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the updated Kifaru 44 Mag pack?

The updated Kifaru 44 Mag pack retains its 4780 cubic inch capacity but now features laser-cut MOLLE for attaching belt pouches and a horizontal zipper for easier access to the main compartment. It also includes a 3/4-inch compression strap for securing gear like bows or rifles.

How should I prepare physically for backcountry hunting with a heavy pack?

For backcountry hunting preparation, it's recommended to hike with a pack loaded to 40-45 pounds. Focus on side-hilling on any available terrain or using gym equipment like the StairMaster to simulate this motion, building strength in your ankles and stabilizing muscles.

What is Kifaru International known for in the hunting community?

Kifaru International is a 28-year-old company renowned for pioneering backpack hunting systems and TP systems. They are known for their durable, American-made products, including backpacks, that are designed to withstand heavy loads and last for many years.

How can I choose the right Kifaru pack for my needs?

To choose a Kifaru pack, consider your primary use: day hunting (Striker XL, Hellbender), 3-5 day trips (Bedum, 44 Mag), or 7+ day trips (Absaroka). Kifaru is also streamlining its lineup to make selection easier for customers.

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