I am in need of a new pack this year and wanted to know what pack you have had experience with and would buy out of the Sitka Ascent 12, Flash 20, or Biv 30?
I know many will recommend other brands but this is just single day hunting primarily.
If you are just going to use this for single day hunting, then I'd take the Biv 30 off the plate.
It looks like a great pack if the single days were going to turn into overnight trips, but if this is just for single day hunts, then that's a large day pack.
So then you've got the 12 vs 20.
How much gear do you commonly carry?
Are you also trying to haul meat out with this or are you going to pack out and get a meat hauling pack?
Is weight a factor?
Is cost a factor?
Etc....
I will tell you I have zero experience with all of these packs, but your last comment made it seem like you wanted a sitka day pack and didn't want other recommendations.
Me personally I'm going with the Flash 20.
Based off of what I carry into the field the 20 has enough space and some.
This gives me options to carry more if needed verse buying the 12 and not having enough if you ever wanted to carry more.
I usually carry basic kill kit, snacks, camera water, and survival basics. But weight is not a huge factor as I am a big strong guy.
I wish I could find a daypack with meat carrying capability but haven't to this date. Cost is always a bit of a factor but I have a good lead on Sitka gear. I just haven't had the opportunity to use their packs.
Currently running a Badlands 2200 which has been a great daypack. I am leaning to the 20 as well, but there is part of me that says going super light with the 12 would be a good move and another part says get the 30 and be ready for a little more.
But sadly none of them are made to carry meat so it will be back to pick up an Ox together it out.
I am burning all my old came and getting Sitka after 20 years and trying the good lightweight approach.
Cost not being a factor I would probably have two packs one of them being a Kifaru.
Currently running a Badlands 2200 which has been a great daypack. I am leaning to the 20 as well, but there is part of me that says going super light with the 12 would be a good move and another part says get the 30 and be ready for a little more.
Would you say your Badlands 2200 is still in good condition?
If so then maybe that can help you eliminate that need and then you could go with the super light 12.
It sounds like your 2200 was more than enough for what you carry, so if you paired that with the 12... you'd have some great options!
If it's not in good condition then I'm still personally leaning on the 20.
I'm sorry I couldn't give you any more advice or direct experience, but I am sure someone else will be able to chime in.
