New K4 Pack From Exo - Field Tested Backpack Review

[@dirtfishingdad_2_34]

I believe I commented a thank you on your original pack review for bringing our attention to a possible new pack coming from EXO. I was at that time ready to pull the trigger on a K3. You told us to wait. I tried the K4 5000 on at the outdoor expo in Salt Lake City and immediately placed my order. Received the pack yesterday and immediately threw 80lbs in it and walked the neighborhood. Loved it! This is the second time my wallet has taken a hit because of one of your videos. The first time was the Swaro NL pure video. Hanging out with you is expensive! Keep doing these unbiased honest reviews because it is needed in a world of bought and paid for hunting commercial “reviews”.

[@MindfulHunter]

Dude thank you so much. I’ll take the blame for the hit to you wallet but feel good about it because you ended up with products that were perfect for your needs. That is 100% why I do this. Thanks brother! We’re just getting started!

[@rcj9373]

Last week I ordered the K4 5000 and a Kuiu Pro. It is the innovation and mindfulness of small details that swayed me to send the Kuiu back and keep the K4. Even more, I called Exo and spent time chatting with Jake and firing questions at him. Their company is doing it right.

[@MindfulHunter]

Great crew over there!

[@jamesallan2847]

Thanks for the backpack reviews. I am transitioning from just day hunting to 2-3 day backpack hunts. Your detailed review is what I needed. Thanks keep up the good work.

[@MindfulHunter]

My pleasure man. Good luck on the bigger hunts.

[@marksweeney6260]

I nominate yiu Table Captain! This is so valuable and nobody could tell the total story better! Outstanding and thank you!

[@MindfulHunter]

👍

[@JDaddyT777]

Jay, I absolutely love your videos and the attention to detail. Not just in your reviews but the care and intention behind your filming and edits. Example: at 19:56 how you run your finger along the inside of the slots so not to block the view of what you’re trying to explain. I think this is something most people wouldn’t even consider. Thank you for being so thoughtful and producing such an elevated video. I think it’s as valuable as Steve’s thorough beta test with the K4 in terms of a viewers experience. Love it, you’re the man!!!

[@JDaddyT777]

Also, from one bearded brother to another, love the look! I know you probably need to be clean shaven for your bodybuilding shows, but the beard is just killer.

[@MindfulHunter]

Deeply appreciate you brother. We’re just getting started.

[@MindfulHunter]

It is getting chopped for the show but it will be back for sure.

[@kschmo3981]

I just want to say that you have the best reviews on hunting gear, bar none., in my opinion. Thank you for such real world, unbiased and detailed reviews that directly relate into tangible results for those of us looking to make big investments on critical gear. Don't change a thing and keep doing what you're doing

[@MindfulHunter]

Appreciate the feedback!

[@tsnellyville]

I have been waiting for your review, so thank you. I pulled the trigger on a K4 this AM when it went live and before I watched your review. What you stated validated all my prior concerns as well as what I thought were some of the best pack upgrades I have seen. I am a very loyal SG customer, so it was tough for me to buy a different pack. I’ll know whether I made a good decision or not once I have some miles on the pack, so I am looking forward to that. Thanks for the info!

[@MindfulHunter]

Let me know what your final thoughts are. I love SG as well but find their packs do for fairly different so would be interested in your experience.

[@tsnellyville]

@@MindfulHunter no prob and I’ll let you know. It was a close battle between the two back in 2020 when I bought the packs and compared them the first time. Ultimately the lumbar pad was the reason I went with the SG. There are a lot of things to like about an SG, but I will say their frames barrel under load and when cinched tight. The suspension widens and it caused a stay in my Xcurve to roll and I lost significant performance packing out an elk this year. It was the first time ever that that happen and I had packed 10+ animals out in prior years. SG’s customer service is and has always been awesome. They gave me a new frame and fixed my old one. I’ll stop for now, or I’ll rant on. SG could make some quick upgrades and their packs would be hard to touch. Thanks man and talk soon.

[@benthompson5460]

Thank you. Super useful and the last section about 7000 vs 5000 was exactly the analysis I've been looking for. Cheers

[@MindfulHunter]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kevinmartin2096]

Awesome review man! I just bought the 3600. I live over here in South Dakota and I do a lot of day hunting as well as I get over into Montana and Wyoming occasionally! Thank you very much for all the input on this review. Definitely helped clear up my decision.

[@MindfulHunter]

Happy to help!

[@Frindleeguy]

Just so everyone knows, the difference in weight between the 5000 and the 7200 is 2 oz. 2 oz is literally unnoticeable by anyone at any time on a pack. Just a fwiw. As compressible as these bags are, the 7200 is capable of day to month treks.

[@MindfulHunter]

Excellent oversimplification 🫡

[@Michael.Outside]

Thanks man. Great review. I have been eyeing a pack transition for a couple years. I think this sold me on the K4. 5 days in SE AK this August for her maiden trip.

[@MindfulHunter]

Good luck brother!

[@CarolinaNocked]

Thanks for a great review. I’m fro. The SE and this will be my first backcountry pack. Was leaning this direction. This review locked down my decision. Really appreciate the balanced approach and the fact you used the prototype all season gives it a lot of validity. Thank you

[@MindfulHunter]

My pleasure!

[@Clayton.Thompson]

I know I just got done pestering you on one of your other review videos, but this just swung me toward the K4 7200 from the SG and my current Kifaru. This checks every single box for me. Hoping the 7200 will compress well enough to do okay as a day/bivy pack come elk season, but worst-case, I'll get one of the smaller bags and throw it on this frame. Another banger of a review, Jay.

[@MindfulHunter]

I was actually gonna link you this video but didn’t want to “sell” the K4 too hard if you had your heart set on an SG. I think you’ll be very pleased with the compressibility as well.

[@Clayton.Thompson]

@@MindfulHunter all good! I found my way here naturally anyway hahah. Thanks for all the help. My wallet hates you but my back and shoulders won't mind in a couple weeks.

[@bobellamy7120]

Thanks Jay for the final thoughts you’ve been super helpful with my new pack research.

[@MindfulHunter]

Any time!

[@vancejohnson1778]

Another kick ass review! Appreciate the none sponsored look into gear you always do! I do really love my k3, but damn the k4 looks good tough one to decide on lol

[@MindfulHunter]

She is a work of art for sure!

[@davidlopez1112]

How you don't have a bigger following is mind boggling. You can't be bought and I guess that's why. Love the content. I'm local to Exo and gonna go pick up my K4 3600 today and can't wait!

[@MindfulHunter]

Slow and steady brother. Integrity can be expensive.

[@jordangonzales4444]

Dude you are the best reviewer of anything I've ever seen, ever. Subscribed and gonna buy the pack.

[@MindfulHunter]

Hell I’ll take that compliment all day brother. Thank you very much!

[@PNW_Wolfpack_Adventures]

Great review. After last year's hunts I knew i needed a different pack from what i had been running. I was pretty sure the k4 was what I wanted and now im sold. Something else as a bonus of switching to a molle system is that my existing molle attachments can be used with the new frame. A huge benefit/savings in itself.

[@MindfulHunter]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Rakkadeedoo]

Hey man, thanks for the review! What do you think of this compared to the SG Sky 5900?

[@MindfulHunter]

It’s a great bag as well but for my body type and use case the Exo is superior.

[@Knuckles9797]

Awesome review and the first one I watched. Will be looking into the K4. Along with more reviews. Thanks

[@MindfulHunter]

Welcome to the channel. Glad it was helpful.

[@colebones]

Nice overlook of the new pack and differences between the prototype and the final version.

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks man!

[@torreyintahoe]

Dude, You do such a great job on these reviews. Very thorough and you hit all the important points. I've had the k3 for a couple years and I love it but knowing myself as well as I do I'm sure it's just a question of time before I bump up to the k4.

[@MindfulHunter]

Really appreciate that man! Glad it was helpful.

[@Bredsun]

Great review as usual. Despite having very different preferences the breakdowns are extremely useful.

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks man!

[@queenansrevenge]

This is the best breakdown on the K4 I've seen. Thanks. I live on the east coast so use the 5000 as a backpacker. I get to go elk hunt about every other year, and I wanted a lightweight pack that could do both and was sti9ll in the size-weight ratio of the backpacking packs I use. This fits the bill. Thanks for the video.

[@MindfulHunter]

Deeply appreciate the feedback. Glad it was helpful!

[@greyghostnw]

5000 pack for even a 1-3 nite with a ultralight hot tent/stove and winter gear/conditions is a small pack. I run the lightest best gear and its maxed out . Id consider the larger pack just to not squish your stove. A dynema seek cimmaron, large stove,15 degree bag, puffy pant/coat, gaiters, rain gear… food fills that 5, only other items.. first aid, kill kit, xtra top, socks, water, small saw, msr pocket rocket, small ti cup. Spotter, tri pod, water filter, batteries etc, spotting scope, tri pod… personal way i pack but loads of miles in the high country. I stay as minimal as i prefer. This stuff adds up stuffing i to pack.

[@MindfulHunter]

👍

[@13hawks32claws]

Thanks for always providing great unbiased information. 💪

[@MindfulHunter]

Always brother

[@rbljackson]

Thanks for this detailed review. Really considering a K4 5500. I've used nothing but my kifaru Duplex hunter with reckoning for years and its been solid. With that said....there is significant weight savings here if my theory is correct. I will have to empty my bag out sometime and do a real world weight comparison between the two, but im thinking there is at least a 3 pound difference between the two...and that's pretty significant.

[@MindfulHunter]

You’re pretty close. My fulcrum was 9+lbs. and I will say they fit very similar. Of all the bags I’ve tested kifaru and Exo are the closest feeling and kifaru is a very close second for me and I wouldn’t argue anyone who slightly preferred a kifaru.

[@aion1752]

Thank you for the great review. I'll be upgrading from the K3 soon! How do you run the gun bearer on the K4? Can you hook it to the molle webbing and how does the rifle angle when fitted to the pack?

[@MindfulHunter]

Yes you can use the gun bearer on the molle and the angle is good.

[@codyconover1]

Awesome review. You earned my subscribe.

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@davehaddad3229]

Great review 👍

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks man!

[@joshualeach807]

Are you gunna be doing a review of the Stone Glacier COL 4800? Was looking at the exo line but I think that COL is pretty perfect pack and would love to hear your thought on it.

[@MindfulHunter]

I’m a little pack’d out at the moment but I’ll put it on the list for future consideration.

[@crich1218]

This was a great review.

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks man!

[@adamboyd21]

Another awesome review

[@MindfulHunter]

Thank you!

[@DiogoStyx]

About the bladder issue: tried the Source bladder? Way better than Camelbak and you can fill it by pressure, not needing to remove it from the bag.

[@MindfulHunter]

Will do! Had good luck with Hydra pak as well.

[@snoop2477]

Great review Jay. Really extensive product review. I've gotta say I'm surprised that Exo have increased the size (and therefore weight) of the two entry level bags from the 3200 and 4800. Like the positive and negative feedback points. I am happy with my 3200 as I have my gear dialled and don' t hunt winter. I don't see the advantage of the heavier bags with zippered pockets and a stretch panel that is really hard to use even without a full bag. Get the better frame design, belt sizes and fit benefits. Liked your comment about the nalgene holder, I suck at rehydrating, so here you. But, again, just can't see why I'd buy a new bag when the old one is lighter and fits my needs better. Maybe K5 in four years time, or go the South Western dynema pack design, go lighter. At 2.5kg with a dry bag insert, these bags are still heavy.

[@MindfulHunter]

I think those are all really great points and even more importantly highlights why we shouldn’t just run out and buy something because it’s new. Do we even have a problem that it fixes?

[@ExoMtnGear]

Hey Donovan! Glad to hear you're loving your K3 3200. We are lightweight guys at heart, but there is certainly a tradeoff when chasing ultralight at the expense of usability, durability, and performance. The K4 3600 is 4oz heavier than the K4 3200, but it is larger in capacity and does have more functionality with new pocket layout/design. Not hopping in here to try and sway you to K4, as we're happy you've found what you want and need in your current pack. Keep putting it to work!

[@snoop2477]

@@ExoMtnGear Yeah, absolutely agree - and no doubt the K4 would fit better as well given the "in between sizing options". They look like awesome packs. My comments come from a place where I personally have got my gear dialed to the point where I don't use a tripod anymore, nor a spotter. I use a walking pole to glass from, and the other to hold up an Argali Rincon tent (which is the shiz). If anything, I'm probably in the Steve-Speck "ultra light pack with a meat shelf" future product development window, so my comments above really only come from my personal set up and use. That, and I'm surprised Steve has allowed 113g more weight! :)

[@mattgarner1234]

Hey Jay - you reference the gun bearer. Does the Kifaru set up work on the molle? Or do you have to use the universal set up?

[@MindfulHunter]

Works perfect on the molle.

[@chris8887]

Thanks for the review! I was one of the few that the K3 didn’t fit just right and would always slip down, even after adding the stiffer lumbar pad. I finally made the switch the Kifaru and have been extremely happy, but I have yet to find a bag I like as much as the K3 4800. Do you like the feeling and fit of the K4 better than Kifaru?

[@MindfulHunter]

They are extremely close. Kifaru is definitely my second fav. If the kifaru fits you well the K4 should as well but not significantly better so likely not worth the switch unless the bag is that important to you.

[@chris8887]

Thanks, man! I appreciate it.

[@khomatech0]

Many people are very happy running Exo bags on a Duplex frame. You can get the best of both worlds if that's how you feel.

[@chris8887]

I’ve seen guys with the K3 on a Kifaru frame and that’s what I’m thinking I’ll do. One of the guys that just got a K4 confirmed they will not fit on the Kifaru frame unfortunately.

[@khomatech0]

@@chris8887 Good to know, thanks.

[@mattjones2705]

You should try Hardside Hydration. It's a Nalgene bottle with a "Hose" set up. Great innovation. I hav3 used one for over a year now and it's been great.

[@MindfulHunter]

I actually have one I just need to open it and try it 🤣

[@bulletterminalperformance]

Excellent review and overview in general!!!

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@OneWeekGetAway]

Great review as always, any comparisons to the Stone Glacier or Kifaru expedition packs?

[@MindfulHunter]

I put the links to those comparisons in the video and in the description.

[@OneWeekGetAway]

@@MindfulHunter Yes - but those are the older versions of the Exo, no?

[@MindfulHunter]

@@OneWeekGetAway correct and if the older version beat those and the newer version is better what do you think the outcome might be?

[@OneWeekGetAway]

@@MindfulHunter ah - excellent - I had forgotten the Exo came in as the winner. Fair - and many thanks!

[@MindfulHunter]

@@OneWeekGetAway 💪

[@danmoreno425]

Great review thanks

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks man!

[@danmoreno425]

I’ve watched three more sense that one love all the content 🤙🏽also started following your channel it’s going to be my go to thanks again

[@channelnamehere4065]

Thanks for this! As a current K3 4800 user, this is valuable information! Since it sags and fallls on my hips, my next move is to get a stiffer lumbar pad to see if that helps. If that doesn't work, I will have to just jump ships, unfortunately... Like you, I dislike the hip belt of the K3, where it's either too short or too long.

[@MindfulHunter]

Did you try the lumbar upgrade kit from the Exo site? I think it’s $10

[@channelnamehere4065]

@@MindfulHunter I heard of it and on my to-buy list. Will see how that goes! Thanks for suggestion!

[@ExoMtnGear]

@ChannelNameHere, shoot us an email and we'll get you set up with the dense lumbar pad to try out.

[@henryfitzpatrick2539]

I wish I didn't watch this haha, I've been trying to convince myself that my k3 is fine and no need to upgrade, but all your things you didn't like about k3 were the same for me, especially the Nalgene holder, plus molle is great and that was a big one for me. Great review, ill probably be trying to sell my k3 now

[@MindfulHunter]

Sorry not sorry? 🤣

[@Alberta_MTN_Bear]

My dilemma is do I buy a k3 6400 or do I get the k4 7200 for the extra $90 Canadian, I have no experience with the Exo bags so this is where I’m at… thank you for the great review Jay!

[@MindfulHunter]

Get the K4. 100%. We’ll worth the extra $90.

[@Alberta_MTN_Bear]

@@MindfulHunter done. K4 in fusion coming up next week

[@dj1s_fishing830]

What belt on the K4 did you go with? Your build and mine seem similar and I’ve had similar experiences with belt sizing

[@MindfulHunter]

I’m a 38 waist but hips measure 39. I wear a large belt.

[@jordanfogle8750]

Jay, How well does the K4 handle weight compared to the K3? I have a K3 and I'm thinking about upgrading to the K4. Whatever pack handles heavy weight better is the pack I'm going to end up going with.

[@MindfulHunter]

It’s really a question of fit. While the k4 is marginally structurally superior if your K3 fits you like a glove I don’t think you’re going to notice a substantial difference. However if you had hip belt issues the updated lumbar pad and hip belt would definitely allow you to carry a larger load more comfortably.

[@stephens208]

Jay did Exo give you both packs or did you buy the new 5000 at full price? Also I feel it’s a must you do a full review on the Initial Ascent, after listening to Brian Call and now Ryan Lampers who used to be hardcore SG guys hype up the IA packs I need your opinion! I’m torn between the IA and Exo K4, currently a SG user myself I wish I could find the one pack that will out perform all others!

[@MindfulHunter]

They gave me both. And listen man there are no perfect packs. Every individual is going to have their own needs. When you get up to packs of this quality the difference are very minor. If you really want me to look at the initial ascent I suggest you ask them to send me one for review. I’m done spending money on packs for a while.

[@stephens208]

Roger that, thanks for the honesty Jay! I have reached out to Initial Ascent and asked them to send you a pack for review but who knows how that will go.

[@carsonkauffman1767]

You seemed to like Kifaru the best for carrying heavy loads when doing your pack shootout, how does this one compare?

[@MindfulHunter]

I’d say it’s a tie. Mayyyyyyybe a slight edge to the Exo.

[@toddbaltzley2938]

Great review on the K4. I have ran K2 since 2017, had 5500 first year then added a 2k bag to it in camo. It has stayed like that till I did 7 day then back to the 5500 for more space. I have intended to upgrade to the K4 on Tuesday when I heard Brian Call speaking about and with the guys from Initial Ascent. They talk like no other frame is better with external hooks to hang even more off the frame and serious amounts of weight. I am now waffling. I still think EXO with the accessories I like will be better. What say you, backpack answerman?

[@MindfulHunter]

I have not run the initial ascent so can’t comment personally.

[@lrpetric]

I have a hard time trusting anything brian says about gear. I feel like anyone that gives him gear and sponsorships he will say its the best. I don't doubt initial assent is a great pack but I can't take one guys word for it.

[@CarolinaNocked]

Most of the reviews I’ve seen have said the IA is great for heavy loads but tends to rate lower in the other categories like comfort, fit, etc. I don’t own one so I’m not speaking from experience but I’ve been watching a lot of reviews as this will be my first backcountry pack and that seems to be the consistent takeaway.

[@trussell2505]

Would you say the 20% the k4 is better than the k3 is mostly in the hip belt/lumbar pad? Or in the complete frame of the k4? I'm one of those guys with a k3 and it slides down on my hips (no butt to hold it up). Thanks

[@MindfulHunter]

I’d say that figure referred to the whole package. This pack definitely sits up on the hips better.

[@richardmargarine5756]

So what size belt did you end up with?

[@MindfulHunter]

I run a large. Pant size 38. Hips measure 39.

[@Eric-bh7jy]

I got the k3 last November when it was 20% off. Hard to say this pack is $150 better. At least that's what I tell myself

[@MindfulHunter]

You’re good bro. That packs a beast.

[@MonasheeStickbows]

How bad was the duty fees?

[@MindfulHunter]

I have my shit delivered to Blaine and drive over to get it.

[@MonasheeStickbows]

@@MindfulHunter nice! I’m gonna see if they know how much it cost roughly for duty fees that 3600 looks great!

[@ExoMtnGear]

Hey Richie. There shouldn't be duty fees, as our Made in the USA and labeled accordingly to comply with trade agreements. Local taxes may be assessed, but not import duties.

[@MonasheeStickbows]

@@ExoMtnGear sweet that is good to know!!! Thanks for the reply

[@BottlecapDwarf]

This is probably the third review that mentioned the molle and not know how to use it. Crazy considering kifaru ,hill people gear and mystery ranch have them on their bags.

[@MindfulHunter]

They have the molle webbing but not the same weavable tabs. Kifaru just has pop in metal tabs. It’s the tabs most people find confusing not the molle. I’ve never used hill people so can’t speak to their system.

[@BottlecapDwarf]

@MindfulHunter Thank you for the clarification. I didn't know that about the kifaru pack as I don't personally own one.

[@1024Pete]

Thanks for the thought provoking real world experience review. For me, I am looking for a quality pack for an AT thru hike. I figured hunters have the most experience hiking and carrying heavier gear in all types of weather. Based on your experience and EXO's website I am correct. I am not a minimalist ultralight hiker. I don't trust thin light weight backpacks to hold 40 pounds of gear comfortably. I am looking for something heavy duty that can handle the tooth and claw of nature and be comfortable. As result, I am waiting for a Savotta Jääkäri L rucksack from Finland. It is a 1000D pack that can hold about 3400 cu in. It is a favorite in Europe. Seemingly, it compares to EXO Gear. Although, it is not a hunting pack. Just robust and in theory a comfort with heavy loads. My concern is part of the AT has a 100 mile trail. Resupply may be not possible. With that in mind, do you think a K4 5000 is ideal for what could be a 5 or 6 day hike without civilization? Best wishes.

[@MindfulHunter]

A 5000 is defintely big enough for 5-6 days. You could prolly even fit it in a 3400 as long as you don’t go overboard.

[@1024Pete]

@@MindfulHunter Thank you

[@gone4days956]

how does this man have only 8k subs????

[@MindfulHunter]

Slow and steady brother!

[@DPNW98]

👍

[@MindfulHunter]

💪

[@radikgistov1860]

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks!

[@radikgistov1860]

💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@MindfulHunter]

💯

[@Quantumanticz]

Had me at big hip pads. Because, yes, I too have no ass.

[@MindfulHunter]

👍

[@backcountry_PRWLR]

I'll never recommend Exo to anyone, had an issue with my K3 and Mark didn't want to help me out, in fact he ghosted my emails. Terrible customer service.

[@MindfulHunter]

Surprised to hear that. Everyone I’ve talked to has had great customer service.

[@sammiller4321]

That’s interesting, I have not heard anything negative about their customer service.

[@trentroberdeau1462]

Great review, except for the deal with the Nalgene bottles. And easy way to get dehydrated with Nalgene bottles because there’s no capacity there and you have to stop to drink from them generally. And they take up a lot of space because of their structure, way over priced, irritating to clean, the best thing I ever did is throw Nalgene bottles in the dumpster and moved to bladder.

[@MindfulHunter]

As long as your system works for you man, right on.

[@Alberta_MTN_Bear]

I’m curious how many miles you’re putting in a day. And more so how you’re cooking your dehydrated meals?

[@MindfulHunter]

@@Alberta_MTN_Bear really depends upon the hunt. I can do anywhere from 4 to 12 miles per day. I use a small iso butane stove to boil water and pour it in the meal pack.

[@HappyJacque]

Excellent review! Very well done!

[@MindfulHunter]

Thanks!