Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag Review

First Impressions of Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag

The Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag promises a solution for arguably one of the most challenging parts of any successful hunt: getting your hard-earned game from the field to the processor. Made by Alaska Game Bags, this woven canvas bag aims to simplify the often messy and strenuous task of transporting a deer carcass. It claims to be a durable, reliable, and convenient solution.

After years of improvising with tarps, cheap plastic sheeting, and wrestling unwieldy loads, I was in the market for a dedicated transport solution. I’d tried various methods, each with their own shortcomings. I was hoping for something more professional and robust.

Upon receiving the Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag, my initial impression was mixed. The canvas felt sturdy, a definite step up from the flimsy plastic I’d used before. The bag appeared well-stitched, instilling confidence in its ability to handle a full deer carcass. Compared to basic tarps, the bag’s specified dimensions of 36 x 72 inches seemed adequate for most deer I’ve taken. I ultimately chose it over similar canvas bags because of Alaska Game Bags‘ reputation for quality and a sale price that made it particularly appealing.

I was cautiously optimistic. The bag looked the part, but the real test would be its performance in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag came during a late-season deer hunt in the rugged mountains of western Montana. The weather was cold and damp, with light snow falling intermittently. The area had limited vehicle access, requiring a significant pack-out.

After a successful hunt, I used the bag to encase a mature whitetail buck. The bag accommodated the deer with room to spare, allowing for easy closure. Dragging the bagged deer across uneven terrain proved surprisingly manageable. The canvas slid reasonably well, and the stitching held firm despite several snags on rocks and branches. While I didn’t experience any punctures, I did notice some abrasion on the canvas.

Extended Use & Reliability

After using the Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag for an entire hunting season, I have a solid understanding of its long-term performance. The bag has held up reasonably well, showing only minor signs of wear and tear. Several drags across varied terrain, including rocky hillsides and muddy creek bottoms, have left their mark, but the bag remains structurally sound.

Cleaning the bag is relatively straightforward. A thorough hosing down followed by air drying removes most of the blood and debris. The canvas does retain some staining, but this is to be expected with a product designed for this purpose. Compared to using tarps, the dedicated bag provides a much more contained and less messy solution, making the entire process significantly more hygienic and efficient. It noticeably outperforms using a standard tarp, which rips easily.

Breaking Down the Features of Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag

Specifications

The Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag from Alaska Game Bags is designed specifically for transporting deer carcasses and boasts the following specifications:

• Material: Woven canvas, offering a balance of durability and breathability.
• Dimensions: 36 x 72 inches (91.4 x 182.9 cm), providing ample space for most deer.
• Weight: 1.15 lbs (0.52 kg), lightweight enough for easy carrying when not in use.
• Additional Features: None explicitly stated.
• Dimensions (Package): Length 13 mm, Height 2.2 in, Width 10.8 in.

These specifications are important because they dictate the bag’s functionality in the field. The canvas material ensures some breathability and durability. The dimensions define the size of animal the bag can accommodate, while the low weight is crucial for portability, especially when packing into remote hunting locations.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag is to protect and contain a deer carcass during transport, and it performs this task adequately. It helps to keep the meat clean, minimizes blood spillage, and makes dragging easier. The bag’s canvas material offers a degree of protection against abrasion, reducing the risk of damage to the carcass.

However, the absence of handles or reinforced drag points is a significant drawback. These omissions make it less convenient to use, especially when dragging over long distances or challenging terrain. While the bag does its job, it could be significantly improved with these simple additions.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag is simple and functional. Its rectangular shape makes it easy to load and unload a deer carcass. The canvas material is relatively lightweight.

However, the lack of any ergonomic considerations is disappointing. The absence of handles makes it cumbersome to lift and carry the bag, especially when loaded. Reinforcements in the typical drag areas would improve it immensely.

Durability & Maintenance

The Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag is reasonably durable, thanks to its woven canvas construction. After a full season of use, it has shown some wear, but no catastrophic failures. Proper care, including thorough cleaning and air drying after each use, will undoubtedly extend its lifespan.

Maintaining the bag is relatively easy. Hosing it down with water removes most debris and blood. However, the canvas is prone to staining, and some odors may persist.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag comes with no accessories. There are no customization options available from the manufacturer. While there are no dedicated accessories, users could potentially add their own handles or drag straps to improve usability.

Pros and Cons of Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag

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Who Should Buy Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag?

The Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag is perfect for budget-conscious hunters who need a simple and effective way to transport deer carcasses over moderate distances. It’s also well suited for hunters who prioritize packability and weight. The bag is ideal for those who hunt in areas with relatively smooth terrain.

Hunters who frequently drag deer over long distances or rough terrain should skip this product. They may want to invest in a bag with handles, reinforced drag points, or a more robust construction. Additionally, hunters who prioritize ease of cleaning and odor resistance may want to consider alternatives made from synthetic materials.

Must-have modifications would include adding handles or drag straps for easier transport.

Conclusion on Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag

The Alaska Game Bags Northern Transport Bag is a decent entry-level option for hunters seeking a simple and affordable way to transport deer carcasses. It offers adequate protection and durability for moderate use. However, its lack of handles and reinforced drag points are significant drawbacks.

At a price of $39.99, the value proposition is reasonable, especially for hunters on a tight budget. However, the bag’s limitations make it a less compelling choice for those who prioritize convenience and durability.

I would cautiously recommend it to hunters who understand its limitations. Those seeking a more robust and user-friendly solution should consider alternatives. For me, I will continue to use it as a backup.