First Impressions of Tethrd Grit Platform Pack
The Tethrd Grit Platform Pack from Tethrd promises a minimalist solution for the saddle hunter who needs a versatile pack. At first glance, it appears to be a well-thought-out design that balances the need for a functional pack with the desire to remain lightweight and mobile in the woods. I was particularly intrigued by the “workhorse” claim and the idea that it can be used as a standalone pack or integrated with a larger system.
My hunting style has evolved toward minimalist saddle hunting setups where every ounce counts. I was searching for a pack that could carry essential gear close to my body without being bulky or cumbersome. I hoped the Tethrd Grit Platform Pack would solve the problem of carrying necessary items like rangefinders, knives, and first-aid kits comfortably while ascending and descending trees.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the rugged feel of the material and the simplicity of the design. The Tethrd Grit Platform Pack felt robust, yet surprisingly lightweight. It seems to strike a great balance. The stitching appeared solid, and the zippers felt smooth and durable. My initial impression was that Tethrd had put a lot of thought into the construction and choice of materials.
I considered the ALPS OutdoorZ Little Bear Pack and the Badlands Tree Stand Pack before ultimately choosing the Tethrd Grit Platform Pack. The ALPS pack seemed too bulky for my minimalist approach, and the Badlands pack, while durable, was overkill for most of my hunts. The Tethrd Grit Platform Pack seemed to offer the perfect middle ground in terms of size, weight, and functionality.
My first impression was definitely positive. I was excited to get the Tethrd Grit Platform Pack out in the field and see how it performed under real hunting conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tethrd Grit Platform Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Tethrd Grit Platform Pack during a three-day deer hunt in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was steep and rugged, with thick underbrush. I used it as a standalone pack, carrying my rangefinder, knife, folding saw, first-aid kit, and a small water bottle.
The weather during the hunt was mixed, with periods of heavy rain followed by sunshine. The Tethrd Grit Platform Pack handled the wet conditions surprisingly well. While not waterproof, the material repelled water effectively, and my gear stayed relatively dry. The pack’s minimalist design meant it didn’t hold much water weight.
The Tethrd Grit Platform Pack required virtually no break-in period. The pack was comfortable to wear from the start, and the minimalist straps didn’t dig into my shoulders or chest. The pack stayed securely in place while I ascended and descended trees, a crucial feature for saddle hunting. There were no unpleasant surprises during my first outing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Tethrd Grit Platform Pack has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I’ve used it on numerous hunting trips, scouting expeditions, and even some hiking adventures. It’s performed admirably in all conditions.
The pack shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to harsh conditions. The stitching remains intact, the zippers still operate smoothly, and the material hasn’t faded or frayed. The Tethrd Grit Platform Pack feels like it will last for many seasons to come.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. I usually just wipe the pack down with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt and mud. I have not needed to do any major cleaning or repairs. In comparison to previous packs I’ve owned, the Tethrd Grit Platform Pack is noticeably more durable and easier to maintain. It outperforms those packs in almost every aspect.
Breaking Down the Features of Tethrd Grit Platform Pack
Specifications
- The Tethrd Grit Platform Pack is designed to be a versatile and lightweight pack for saddle hunters. It can be used as a standalone pack with minimalist straps or attached to a larger pack for added capacity.
- The exact dimensions and weight of the pack are not explicitly listed, but it is designed with minimalist intentions. The pack is crafted from durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of hunting.
- There are no special features like electronic compatibility, but its design focuses on modularity and versatility. Its primary function is to provide a streamlined carrying solution for essential hunting gear.
These specifications are crucial for saddle hunters because they emphasize mobility and efficiency. A lightweight and compact pack reduces fatigue and allows for greater freedom of movement while climbing and maneuvering in the tree. The modular design allows hunters to customize their pack setup based on the specific needs of each hunt.
Performance & Functionality
The Tethrd Grit Platform Pack excels at its primary job: carrying essential gear in a streamlined and accessible manner. It keeps items like rangefinders, knives, and first-aid kits readily available without hindering movement.
The pack’s strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and versatility. One notable weakness might be limited capacity for extended trips. It could benefit from additional external attachment points for carrying larger items. However, it meets and exceeds expectations for hunters seeking a minimalist carrying solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tethrd Grit Platform Pack is constructed from rugged materials that feel durable and weather-resistant. The stitching is clean and precise, and the zippers are smooth and reliable.
The design is intuitive and user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve. The minimalist straps are comfortable and adjustable, and the pack sits securely against the body.
Durability & Maintenance
The Tethrd Grit Platform Pack appears to be built to last. The materials and construction suggest that it can withstand years of use in harsh environments.
Maintaining the pack is easy; a simple wipe-down is usually sufficient. Due to its durable design, repairs are likely to be infrequent.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product details did not explicitly list any included accessories beyond the minimalist straps. The modular design implies compatibility with other Tethrd products and potentially other MOLLE-compatible accessories.
Due to its minimalist nature, customization options might be limited to attaching external pouches or accessories using MOLLE webbing. However, its design philosophy centers around integration with other gear rather than standalone customization.
Pros and Cons of Tethrd Grit Platform Pack
Pros
- Lightweight and minimalist design ideal for mobile hunting.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Versatile: can be used as a standalone pack or attached to a larger system.
- Provides easy access to essential gear.
- Comfortable to wear during extended periods.
Cons
- Capacity might be limited for longer trips or hunters requiring more gear.
- Product details lack specifics about included accessories or customization options.
Who Should Buy Tethrd Grit Platform Pack?
The Tethrd Grit Platform Pack is perfect for minimalist saddle hunters who prioritize mobility and efficiency. It’s also well-suited for hunters who want a versatile pack that can be integrated into a larger system.
This product might not be ideal for hunters who require a large-capacity pack for extended trips or those who prefer a more traditional backpack design.
A must-have modification might be the addition of external MOLLE-compatible pouches for those who need to carry a bit more gear, but prefer to keep the core pack streamlined.
Conclusion on Tethrd Grit Platform Pack
The Tethrd Grit Platform Pack delivers on its promise of providing a lightweight, durable, and versatile carrying solution for saddle hunters. Its minimalist design and rugged construction make it an excellent choice for those who value mobility and efficiency in the woods.
At $61.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials and construction, as well as the pack’s versatility. I personally recommend the Tethrd Grit Platform Pack to any saddle hunter looking to streamline their gear and enhance their mobility.
If you’re tired of bulky, cumbersome packs that weigh you down in the woods, give the Tethrd Grit Platform Pack a try. It might just revolutionize the way you hunt.