First Impressions of Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s
The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s enters a crowded market of mid-sized packs, promising to bridge the gap between a lightweight daypack and a serious load-hauling system. This pack, from the well-respected Mystery Ranch, specifically caters to women with a tailored harness and frame, aiming for unparalleled comfort and performance. The promise of a pack light enough for day hikes yet strong enough for packing out game immediately piqued my interest.
I needed a pack that could serve multiple roles: a spacious daypack for scouting trips, an overnight bag for early season hunts, and a capable hauler for the inevitable task of packing out meat. My previous experiences with ill-fitting packs, especially the shoulder strap digging after a day of hiking, led me to seek a solution specifically designed for a woman’s frame. Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the robust construction and thoughtful design.
The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s appeared incredibly durable, with thick Cordura fabric and beefy zippers. The frame felt supportive yet surprisingly light. Compared to my older, generic 50-liter pack, the Metcalf 50 felt like a serious upgrade. I considered the KUIU PRO 2300 and the Sitka Gear Ascent 40, but the Mystery Ranch’s reputation for bombproof construction and superior load carriage ultimately swayed my decision. My first impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s was a three-day early season scouting trip in the Montana backcountry. The terrain varied from steep, rocky inclines to dense timber, providing a good mix of challenges. I experienced intermittent rain showers throughout the trip. The pack proved surprisingly comfortable from the get-go.
The women’s specific harness distributed the weight evenly, eliminating the dreaded shoulder pain I’d experienced with other packs. I did spend about 20 minutes adjusting all the straps and dialing in the fit before hitting the trail. No major issues presented themselves, even in the wet conditions, and the roll-top closure kept my gear dry.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s has become my go-to pack for nearly everything. The 330D Lite Plus Cordura fabric has proven incredibly resistant to abrasion. After repeated scrapes against rocks and branches, there’s no noticeable wear. Cleaning is easy. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime.
Compared to my old pack, the Metcalf 50 is in a completely different league. The load carriage is far superior. I can comfortably haul heavier loads for longer distances. There are no signs of stitching failure or zipper malfunction. This backpack has exceeded my expectations for durability and comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Mystery Ranch
- Gender: Female. This is a key selling point, ensuring a proper fit.
- Weight: 4.9 lb. A reasonable weight considering the pack’s capacity and durability.
- Capacity: 50 liters, 3050 cubic in. Ideal for day hunts or short overnight trips.
- Color: Foliage. A practical color for hunting and outdoor activities.
- Fabric/Material: YKK Zipper, 330D Lite Plus Cordura. These high-quality materials contribute to the pack’s durability.
- Age Group: Adults
Performance & Functionality
The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It excels as a versatile pack for various outdoor activities. The load carriage is its strongest point. The ULTRA LIGHT MT™ frame and women’s specific harness work together to distribute weight effectively.
The multiple compression straps allow users to secure their gear tightly, preventing shifting and maintaining a streamlined profile. One area for potential improvement could be the integration of a dedicated hydration sleeve inside the main compartment. This would allow for easier access and prevent water from spilling all over the gear, should a bladder leak occur. It easily meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s is outstanding. The materials feel premium, and the stitching is clean and reinforced. At 4.9 lbs, it strikes a good balance between weight and durability. The women’s specific harness is well-padded and contoured.
There is a slight learning curve associated with the roll-top closure system. Initially, it took a few tries to get the hang of cinching it down properly and securing it with the side or front clips. Once mastered, it becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s is built to last. The 330D Lite Plus Cordura fabric is highly resistant to tears and abrasions. The reinforced stitching and durable YKK zippers further contribute to its longevity. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is generally sufficient to keep the pack in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s includes a detachable lid with zippered pockets for organizing essentials. The external blaze orange frame tabs allow for attaching accessories like the Stick-It or Gravelly 18. The interior blaze orange ribbon loops are designed for attaching Small and Medium Quick Attach Zoid Bags. The pack is compatible with many aftermarket accessories.
Pros and Cons of Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s
Pros
- Superior Load Carriage: The women’s specific harness and ULTRA LIGHT MT™ frame provide exceptional comfort and stability, even with heavy loads.
- Durable Construction: The 330D Lite Plus Cordura fabric and YKK zippers ensure long-lasting performance in rugged conditions.
- Versatile Design: The roll-top closure, detachable lid, and multiple attachment points make it adaptable to various activities.
- Women’s Specific Fit: The tailored harness and frame provide a more comfortable and ergonomic fit for women.
- Excellent Organization: The detachable lid with zippered pockets and interior ribbon loops offer convenient storage for essentials.
Cons
- The $519.00 price point will make it inaccessible for some buyers.
- No dedicated hydration sleeve inside the main compartment.
Who Should Buy Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s?
The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s is perfect for female hunters, backpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a durable, comfortable, and versatile pack for day trips and short overnight adventures. It is an excellent choice for those who prioritize load carriage and need a pack that can handle heavy loads without sacrificing comfort. Anyone seeking a purpose-built, woman’s specific hunting pack should consider this.
Anyone on a tight budget or who only needs a pack for occasional light use might find the Metcalf 50 to be overkill. For optimum performance, consider adding a hydration reservoir and potentially a rain cover for extreme weather.
Conclusion on Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s
The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s is an outstanding pack that delivers on its promises of comfort, durability, and versatility. While the price is a significant investment, the quality of materials, construction, and design justify the cost for serious outdoor adventurers. The Metcalf 50 offers a superior load-carrying experience.
It is a welcome change from generic packs. I wholeheartedly recommend the Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s to any woman looking for a reliable and high-performing pack for their outdoor pursuits. If you’re ready to invest in a pack that will last for years and enhance your adventures, the Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Women’s is worth every penny.