Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge Review

My first impression of Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge

In the demanding world of outdoor pursuits, especially hunting and wildlife observation, a reliable binocular harness is more than just an accessory; it’s a vital piece of gear. The Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge promises to deliver convenient access to your binoculars while keeping them protected from the elements. The Realtree Edge camouflage aims to seamlessly blend into a variety of environments.

As a seasoned outdoorsman, I’ve cycled through numerous bino harnesses over the years, each with its own strengths and shortcomings. I was specifically looking for a pack that offered a balance of protection, accessibility, and comfort, without breaking the bank. The Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge, with its appealing price point of $52.49 and promise of silent magnetic closure, seemed like it could be a contender.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was mixed. The Realtree Edge camo pattern looked great, and the materials felt reasonably durable for the price. The magnetic flap closure was a welcome feature, and I was eager to see how it performed in the field. However, the overall construction felt a bit less robust compared to some of the higher-end packs I’ve used. It seemed lighter, which is not necessarily a bad thing.

Compared to my Sitka bino bivy ($189.00) and my Badlands Mag Bino Case ($129.99), the Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge is considerably less expensive. I chose it hoping to find a budget-friendly option that still provides adequate protection and function. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the pack certainly has potential, but the real test would be how it performs under real-world conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge on a recent elk hunting trip in the high country of Colorado. This environment provided a good test, exposing the pack to rugged terrain, variable weather, and the demands of constant glassing. I used the bino pack while hiking through dense forests and sitting on exposed ridgelines.

The pack performed reasonably well in dry conditions. The magnetic flap closure allowed for quick and silent access to my binoculars, which was crucial when trying to spot elk before they spotted me. However, in a light rain shower, I noticed that the pack wasn’t entirely waterproof, and some moisture did seep inside.

The harness was relatively comfortable for the first few hours of use, but after a full day of hiking, I started to feel some pressure points on my shoulders. I did not need a lot of time to get accustomed to using it. After the first day I understood the use and feel of the bino pack.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge has held up surprisingly well, considering its price point. There are no major signs of wear and tear, although the mesh pockets on the sides are starting to show some minor fraying. The Realtree Edge camo has held its color nicely, despite exposure to sun and abrasion.

Cleaning the pack is relatively straightforward. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use, and occasionally use a mild detergent for tougher stains. The interior is easy to access and clean as well.

Compared to higher-end bino harnesses I’ve used in the past, the Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge doesn’t quite match the same level of durability or weather resistance. However, for the price, it’s a solid performer that gets the job done. It certainly outperforms some of the cheaper, generic harnesses I’ve encountered.

Breaking Down the Features of Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge

Specifications

• The Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge is designed to accommodate most standard-sized binoculars. The main compartment is spacious enough for binoculars up to approximately 8×42 or 10×42 in size.

• The pack features an easy open, silent magnetic flap for the main bino compartment. This allows for quick, quiet access to binoculars, crucial for hunting and wildlife observation.

• A secondary clip provides secure closure, offering additional protection against accidental opening, especially in rough terrain. It provides an extra level of security.

• The comfortable back harness panel evenly distributes weight and reduces strain on the neck and shoulders during extended use. This is an important factor for all-day comfort.

• Front and back webbing adjustments ensure a customizable fit for a wide range of body types. This adjustability is key for maximizing comfort and stability.

• A mesh back with zippered pocket adds ventilation and provides a secure storage space for small items. This is useful for storing items such as licenses, keys, or a small cleaning cloth.

• Two side stretch mesh pockets offer additional storage for items like wind gauges or small snacks. They offer added storage that is still easily accessible.

• The soft interior with a top open pocket protects binoculars from scratches and provides a convenient place to store lens cloths. This helps maintain clear optics.

• A dedicated zippered rangerfinder pocket keeps your rangefinder readily accessible. This feature is particularly useful for hunters who rely on accurate distance measurements.

Performance & Functionality

The Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge performs its primary function of protecting and providing access to binoculars adequately. The magnetic closure works as advertised, allowing for silent and quick retrieval. The rangerfinder pocket is a nice touch, and the side mesh pockets are useful for storing small items.

One area for improvement is the harness comfort. While it’s generally comfortable for shorter periods, it can become somewhat uncomfortable after a full day of hiking, especially with heavier binoculars. The material doesn’t breathe exceptionally well.

Overall, the Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge meets expectations for its price point. It’s a functional and affordable option for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who need a basic bino harness. It is important to remember that the price point reflects the quality.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent, with reasonably durable materials used throughout. The Realtree Edge camouflage is effective in blending into various environments. At its price point, it has what you should expect.

The pack is relatively user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The magnetic closure is intuitive, and the harness is easy to adjust. The lightweight design is also a plus.

Durability & Maintenance

The Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge appears to be reasonably durable, and should last for several seasons with proper care. However, it’s unlikely to withstand the same level of abuse as higher-end, more robust harnesses.

Maintaining the pack is simple. Wiping it down with a damp cloth after each use is typically sufficient. The materials are fairly stain-resistant, which helps keep it looking clean.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge comes with the integrated harness system and attached pockets as standard. There aren’t many specific customization options or dedicated accessories for this particular model.

The pack is compatible with most standard-sized binoculars. You may be able to attach small pouches or accessories to the webbing, but this is not a primary design feature.

Pros and Cons of Allen Terrain Mesa Deluxe Bino Pack with Harness Realtree Edge