Eberlestock X2 Pack Review

EBERLESTOCK X-2 PACK REVIEW

Basic Description:
Eberlestock’s X2 pack is designed for hunters that are looking for light and fast mobility. The X2 features include a tough, lightweight tubular aluminum frame, generous pockets on the pads on the waist belt, and big spotting scope-sized main side pockets and provides the hunter with the ability to move with their hands free from carrying their weapon. Lightweight and efficient.

The Facts:
Eberlestock’s X2 is a very unique, tough little daypack with big pack features. Designed with oversized compression straps for lashing on heavy loads as well as dual hydration compartments, this pack showcases quick-access pockets for your spotting scopes and tripods. The X2 now has a rugged IntEx™ metal frame to provide greater strength and stability.
Other major features of the X2 include:
• Ample FlexChassis™ which can flip forward for use as a seat or cradle loads you strap to the pack.
• Perfect platform for the Eberlestock ARCG ButtBucket™, or for carrying a compound bow.
• Designed to accept Eberlestock’s A1SS or A2SS Side Scabbards, that carry either shotguns or full-scale hunting rifle.
• Padlock webbing tie-points in key locations for accessory attachment and lashing on gear.
• “Shooter Harness,” which is both thinner for shooting, and more comfortable for heavier loads.
• A full mesh back panel, with pads in the essential places, is separated from the main pack by a big air gap. This is a cool-wearing, tight riding daypack that has endless capabilities than any book bag you’ll ever find. At 1800 cubic inches and a weight of 4.5 lbs. The X2’s NT-7 Waterproof Microfleece fabric or 1000d nylon is very quiet and durable.

Story:
With all the days I spend out on the mountain each fall I’m constantly on the lookout for packs that are lighter, tougher, and efficient. Because most of my hunts are extended day backpack adventures, I generally have to have a pack that is a least 5500 cubic inches. However, there are times when a smaller daypack such as the X2 can be utilized and very effective. This is the exact reason I field tested Eberlestock’s small X2 pack earlier this fall on several bull elk hunts as well as numerous scouting trips where I wasn’t “spiking out” for days at a time. I’m happy to report that the pack performed very well for specific excursions that I will detail. However, it is my honest opinion that it was not meant for extended day trips. Hauling 100 lbs of elk meat in the pack pushed it’s capabilities to the max

The X2 is cleverly designed with bat wings that enable you to pack a lot of gear into another well designed Eberlestock pack. It is a top loading pack with a lightweight aluminum frame which makes it capable of comfortably carrying a reasonably heavy load in and out of the backcountry. At the same time when it is completely compressed, this pack is a perfect option for a daypack or for the bowhunter. When the compression straps are unclipped, the two wings of the pack open up to reveal the main top-loading compartment of the pack. At 1800 cubic inches, I have enough room to pack a lightweight sleeping and other essential items for an overnight stay. The X2 features long compression straps that provided me with the length to utilize the Eberlestock X2′s aluminum frame to secure a heavy load to the pack in order to divide up a boned out bull and get it out off the mountain. I also found that the clips on the inside the pack, when released opened up pockets large enough for me to secure my tripod and a small spotting scope in. There were also pockets on the top of the pack as well as on the hip belt for storing items that you need to access quickly such as a camera or GPS. The batwing pockets were neatly designed for hydration bladders when needed.

Overall, I found the X2 to be comfortable, quiet and tough enough to stand up to my abuse out on the mountain for SHORT day trips.

What They Could Do Better
• The bottom horizontal strap should be made longer
• Eliminate the mesh side pocket. This type of material always separates and tears on packs.
• Shoulder straps need more padding to haul a really heavy load.