KUIU Icon Packs?

Kwalk · Dec 11, 2013

Anyone have any reviews or advice regarding the 2013 KUIU packs? Specifically the 5200 and 1800? Looking to get out of the Badlands pack I've had for a couple years and really like the looks/design of the KUIU bags.

I've heard of problems/discomfort when packing heavy loads with the frame, but that was also with the earlier generations. From anyone that's used one, likes, dislikes?

I'm leaning this way, but am also a little hesitant to invest in a pack that I can't load up and put on beforehand, so anything you guys can do to ease my concerns.

Thanks in advance!

grizzly · Dec 12, 2013

I have the 2013 Icon 1850 and then bought the 5000 bag for it as well.

It has been awesome. I would definitely rate it above the Badlands or Eberlestock packs (I have both). There was squeaking/discomfort issues with early models, but the new ones have performed flawlessly for me.

Even hauling 120+ lbs of meat/cape/antlers, plus hunting gear, I have no complaints. I just picked up another 1850 for my wife on their X-mas sale. That should tell you more than anything that I can say... if she is willing to spend that type of money to upgrade her pack over a year old Eberlestock X2... it is a freaking phenomenal pack.

PS. I have never used my 5000, because with the load sling on the 1850, I can pack everything I need. Also, check out http://ireviewgear.com/backpacks/kuiu1850.

Grizzly

2stamp · Dec 14, 2013

This may not be the input you're looking for but this is my experience.

I bought the 1850 this summer. I've gone the rounds with Badlands, E-Stock, and Mystery Ranch. Now, I still love my MR Longbow but I wanted something a little lighter. (I'm not decided if I'm keeping the MR or not yet).

I used the 1850 everyday I hunted this year (over 15 or so days on the Wasatch included). I'm loving the way the Kuiu fits and weighs. Unfortunately I didn't harvest this year up to this point. I'm hoping to utilize it carrying weight on a late season cow tag that is coming up.

I also like the ability to take the frame off and still use it as a day pack.

Unless it doesn't carry elk weight efficiently I don't see giving it up.

turkeyneck · Dec 18, 2013

I see where it has a pocket/sleeve for a 85mm spotting scope.
Does it have a pocket or sleeve for a tripod?
Are there outlets or retailers where one can examine the pack?

2stamp · Dec 19, 2013

There is no specific tripod pocket. What it has are two pockets at the bottom on each side, the kind people use to put water bottles in. They are decent sized with a draw cord. I put my tripod head in the pocket and use the compression straps to hold the legs tight to the pack.

I have not seen the pack in any stores; just at the Hunting expo and on the net. The Kuiu blog has a couple good reviews of it with some pictures of it loaded up using the load shelf. If you can wait til Feb, Kuiu is usually at the expo and have them there.

Kwalk · Dec 21, 2013

Thanks for the feedback. That's exactly what I'm looking for. I didn't even think about checking it out at the expo. I'll probably hold off until I can check it out, but it seems like from what I can see, most people with the 2013 models have very few complaints.

I've watched the videos and I feel like they do a good job showing off the unique features. But when a considerable amount of money is required I'd really like to feel the pack on my shoulders before buying.

smitty · Dec 24, 2013

I have a 6000 model that I'm selling. I did carry a cow elk in it, seemed to handle the weight just fine. I do like the overall weight of the pack empty, I do like the load sling on the outside. I do like the comfortable fit as well. I also have a mystery ranch and an outdoorsman pack, hence the reason to sell the KUIU. I bought it used from a guy here on MM in fact, I'm selling it for $325

m48goat · Jan 3, 2014

does anyone have pictures they can put up of there 2013 icon packs? loaded with meat?

Goat

BigSurArcher · Jan 3, 2014

BigSurArcher · Jan 3, 2014

1850

m48goat · Jan 3, 2014

Bigsurarcher, thanks for posting those pictures! Nice country, some of those California? How do you like the 1850? Any dislikes about it? How's the durability? How does the pack/frame feel loaded down?thanks again

Goat

dirtygrass · Jan 7, 2014

I bought the Kuiu 1850 and 5200, used the 1850 on my friends deer hunt. To test the pack I carried the front and hind quarters, I'm guessing 80-90lbs. We only had about two miles to get out and most of it was flat. I have used a lot of different packs and this is my favorite.

cabinfever · Feb 7, 2014

Has anyone used both the KUIU 7200 and the MR 6500 to pack heavy loads. I own the MR 6500 and believe it distributes weight very well because it is a heavier pack with a beefier frame. I'd like the compartments on the KUIU packs and have thought about trying one.

jic3558 · Feb 17, 2014

BigSur,

I have an older model the 3000(I think). What is your system to attach rifle to pack??.I can partially see it on the photo with the bear head. As far as I know, Kuiu doesn't have anything.