Neck pain / pack fit

Thunderhead2 · Sep 28, 2011

I am leaving for DIY New Mexico Elk in less than a week. I have read the instructions and all kinds of different threads about pack fit. Even watched a couple of videos. I pretty sure i have my pack adjusted correctly. Last week i started strapping 50 pounds to it and walking with it. After about 3/4 mile i can really feel it straining my neck muscles. Getting an elk out by myself is the only concern i have about my DIY hunt. If i can't tote 50 pounds on a pretty flat paved road for more than 20-30 minutes i might be in a fix here. Any suggestions?

Its a cabelas alaskan pack frame.

kingfish · Sep 29, 2011

More weight on the hips less on the shoulders.

Government doesn't fix anything and has spent trillions proving it!!!
Let's face it...After Monday and Tuesday, even the calender says WTF!

heartshot · Sep 29, 2011

"More weight on the hips less on the shoulders."

+1 when fitted right you should be able to easily slide a finger between the strap and your shoulder.

born_2_hunt · Sep 29, 2011

Look up more often. I was getting the same thing and realized I was constantley watching the trail causing my neck to strain.

Hazmat · Sep 29, 2011

+1 Kingfish. Also, think about how and where you secure your load. If it is too high, unsecured and moving around or too far back it can tweak your neck/back. Make sure to tie tight to the frame , down toward the belt and take the lion share of the weight on your hips. I hope you have to deal with this problem...its a good kind of pain.

HAZMAT

www.muddyroad.net

dlaw · Sep 29, 2011

Had a similiar issue recently and realized the shoulder straps were too tight, loosen them and then tighten the waist strap. Always try to walk with your shoulders back as often as you can.