Getting into the backcountry and away from the crowds is usually a recipe for finding trophy animals. Getting all the necessary gear in and out is usually on your back, unless you want to hire a guide or own some hay burners. Having a pack that can handle the load in as well as your game and gear back out and doing it comfortably is usually a problem. The Commander X Frame and Pack assembly provides all the answers for that hard core backcountry hunter.

The base of this pack is the detachable frame. Its’ strength comes from the dual aluminum stays, with the channeled high density polyethylene frame. It has an adjustable molded foam suspension and Lycra shoulder straps with load lifters. The waist belt is extremely comfortable and the two, well-placed, large pockets will accommodate items you need quick access to. This waist belt is also designed to accommodate a clip-on pistol holster. Most importantly, the frame is designed to carry heavy loads. We personally tested it by carrying a load of over 150 pounds.

The 4,000 cubic inch pack has all the capacity you might need for a full week to ten days in the backcountry. This pack uses heavy duty zippers as well as a lashing system to secure the pack to the frame. The sleeping bag compartment at the bottom of the pack keeps your sleeping system separate from the main bag. The pack is hydration compatible and it also has water bottle pockets on the sides. The top lid seconds as a fanny pack if you only need a few items once you get to your destination. Oversized external zippers give you the versatility to completely detach the pack bag or keep it on if needed.

Through a series of compression straps, you may also utilize the lashing system while still securing the pack bag to the frame. The padded spotting scope pocket not only protects your spotting scope, but keeps it easily accessible. It also comes with its own rifle/bow securing system, which gives you the opportunity to use trekking poles or go hands free. The built-in rain fly tucks into the bottom of the pack and is totally out of the way until it becomes needed.

This is one of the best packs we have ever tested for the all-around hunter. The Commander X gives you the ability to carry all of your items with room to spare and when you punch your tag, you will have everything you need to haul out a super heavy load, with the weight distributed throughout your frame. ALPS OutdoorZ builds affordable high quality gear that won’t let you down and best of all, won’t break the bank.