Real youth hunting packs

[Montana90]

Hello everyone!
I'm a new user and have a question I need help with.

I am a long time backcountry hunter, I am now teaching my sons the tricks of the trade (they are 10 and 12 years old) both have hunted with me from a very young age on day trips. Last year it seemed to grow more serious for them as they pushed me for more information and more and more hunting, longer miles out on day trips 12-15 miles round trip and to hunt harder wow what a treat to have interested kids that put in real effort!! My younger son scored his first buck at 10 on the  apprenticeship program and the other both his buck and a fabulous cow elk opening day and a fathers dream to be able to harvest my bull at the same time together with both my sons there!!!

Fast forward to now both are training on their own for the last 6 weeks in preparation for their first  backcountry hunting trip this September. They want to do the backpack in and bivouac hunt with me so cool!

My question to all is I am at a lost to find a proper pack for them that fits to carry more than just a lunch, water and first aid? Both are strong enough to carry their own gear for a multi-day trip, but I can't find anything that fits them properly with at least a internal frame.

Does anyone have any advice or suggestions? it would be so appreciated!

 

[backcountry_hunter]

Kelty Yukon 48 will be right up your alley.


It's a serious frame for a serious trip but still modeled around smaller frame people. Plus it won't break the bank for when you're kids inevitably outgrow it in a couple years.


I would check most "backpacking" companies and not pigeon-hole yourself into thinking they need a "hunting" packframe. Backpacking/mountaineering has geared alot of sales toward both families with youngsters and smaller frame people. I'm guessing a place like REI owuld be able to further your search beyond the yukon frame if you weren't happy with it. I have a frame from kelty (cache hauler), despite it's price, it's the real deal.....

 

[talarik]

If you're looking for a little lighter pack consider the Deuter Fox 40, it's a really well built pack for kids - fully featured like an adult pack, but for a smaller body. Shoulder straps have a Vari-quick adjustment for growing torsos, it's got a good waist belt and chest strap. Hardly ever find them on sale - but try http://www.tuffkidsoutdoors.com/youth-hunting-gear they have some awesome deals right now on youth hunting gear and clothing, their packs are 20% off right now I think.