Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s Review

First Impressions of Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s

The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s isn’t just another pack; it’s a meticulously designed piece of gear built for serious backcountry pursuits. Manufactured by Mystery Ranch, known for their bombproof construction and innovative designs, the Metcalf 50 promises to be a versatile workhorse for anything from day hunts to multi-day expeditions where weight and durability are paramount. I was immediately drawn to its reputation for handling heavy loads with surprising comfort and its adaptability to various mission profiles.

I’d been searching for a pack that could serve double duty: light and agile for scouting trips, yet capable of hauling a substantial load after a successful hunt. My old pack, a generic 65-liter hiking pack, felt like an overstuffed potato sack when loaded with meat, and lacked the organization I needed for efficient hunting. The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s seemed like the ideal solution, promising a streamlined design with the backbone to carry serious weight.

Upon unboxing, the Metcalf 50 exudes quality. The 330D Lite Plus Cordura feels incredibly durable, while remaining surprisingly lightweight. The stitching is clean and robust, and the frame feels incredibly solid. My initial impression was a blend of excitement and anticipation – this pack looked and felt like it could handle anything I threw at it.

I considered the KUIU PRO 3600 and the Stone Glacier Sky Archer 6200 before settling on the Metcalf 50. The KUIU was lighter, but I questioned its durability for heavy pack-outs. The Stone Glacier was impressive, but the price point was significantly higher than the Mystery Ranch, and I felt the Metcalf offered a better balance of features and value for my specific needs.

The initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s felt like a well-engineered tool, ready for any adventure. My excitement grew as I anticipated putting it through its paces in the rugged backcountry.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s came during a three-day elk hunt in the Montana backcountry. The terrain was steep and rocky, and the weather ranged from sunny afternoons to sudden, cold rainstorms. I loaded the pack with approximately 35 pounds of gear, including my rifle, optics, food, water, and a change of clothes.

The pack performed admirably in diverse conditions. The Cordura fabric shrugged off light rain with ease, and the compression straps kept the load stable and close to my body, even when navigating tricky terrain. I immediately appreciated the side zip, which allowed quick access to items in the main compartment without having to unpack everything from the top.

The only minor issue was adjusting the yoke height to perfectly fit my torso. It took a little experimentation to dial in the optimal setting, but once adjusted, the pack carried incredibly well. The weight distribution was excellent, and the shoulder straps and hip belt remained comfortable even after hours of hiking.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full hunting season and several backpacking trips, the Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s has proven to be an incredibly reliable and durable piece of gear. There are no signs of excessive wear and tear, despite being subjected to harsh conditions. The Cordura fabric has resisted abrasions from rocks and branches, and the stitching remains intact.

Cleaning the pack is straightforward. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or hose it off after particularly muddy trips. The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s has quickly become my go-to pack for all my backcountry adventures.

Compared to my old pack, the Metcalf 50 is in a different league altogether. It carries weight far more efficiently, offers superior organization, and is significantly more durable. The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s has exceeded my expectations and proven to be a worthwhile investment.

Breaking Down the Features of Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s

Specifications

• The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s weighs in at 5 lb, providing a good balance between durability and a manageable pack weight. This is important for hunters and backpackers who need to cover long distances.
• It boasts a 50-liter (3050 cubic inches) capacity, which strikes a sweet spot between a daypack and a full-fledged expedition pack. The volume is ideal for multi-day hunts or backpacking trips where you need to carry essential gear without excessive bulk.
• The Metcalf 50 is constructed from 330D Lite Plus Cordura, offering exceptional abrasion resistance and water repellency. The Cordura fabric is known for its ruggedness and ability to withstand harsh conditions.
• It features the ULTRA LIGHT MT frame, designed for optimal weight distribution and support. This frame allows the pack to comfortably carry heavy loads without compromising stability.
• The pack is designed for top loading with a roll-top closure, ensuring a secure and weatherproof seal. This design also allows for expanding or compressing the pack volume as needed.

Performance & Functionality

The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s excels at its primary function: carrying heavy loads comfortably and efficiently. The ULTRA LIGHT MT frame effectively transfers weight to the hips, minimizing strain on the shoulders and back. The adjustable yoke allows for a customized fit, ensuring optimal weight distribution for different torso lengths.

The pack’s strengths lie in its durability, load-carrying capacity, and thoughtful design. The side zip provides convenient access to the main compartment, while the detachable lid offers additional storage and organization. The multiple compression straps allow you to secure the load and prevent shifting, even when navigating challenging terrain. The primary weakness might be the price point, which is higher than some comparable packs, but the quality and durability justify the investment.

The Metcalf 50 meets and exceeds my expectations. Its performance in the field has been outstanding, and it has proven to be a reliable and versatile companion on numerous adventures. The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s offers a level of comfort and performance that is unmatched.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s is exceptional. The materials are top-notch, the stitching is precise, and the overall construction feels incredibly solid. The 5 lb weight is reasonable for a pack of this size and capacity.

The pack is relatively user-friendly, although some initial adjustment is required to dial in the perfect fit. The adjustable yoke and hip belt allow for a customized fit that maximizes comfort and load-carrying efficiency. The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s ensures a comfortable experience in the field.

Durability & Maintenance

The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s is built to last. The durable Cordura fabric and robust construction ensure that it can withstand years of hard use. The pack requires minimal maintenance.

A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. For more stubborn stains, a mild soap and water solution can be used. The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s is an extremely durable pack.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s features a detachable lid with zippered pockets for organizing essential items. The external blaze orange frame tabs allow for easy attachment of accessories such as the Stick-It or Gravelly 18, expanding the pack’s carrying capacity and versatility. The interior blaze orange ribbon loops are compatible with Small and Medium QUICK ATTACH VOID BAGS, allowing for further organization within the main compartment.

The Metcalf 50 is compatible with many aftermarket accessories, such as hydration reservoirs and MOLLE pouches. You can customize the pack to fit your specific needs and preferences. The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s provides modularity.

Pros and Cons of Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s

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Who Should Buy Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s?

The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s is perfect for serious hunters who need to carry heavy loads of meat and gear in the backcountry. It’s also an excellent choice for backpackers who prioritize durability and comfort over ultralight weight. Anyone who demands a pack that can handle demanding conditions will benefit.

Those who should skip this product are casual hikers who only need to carry light loads for short distances. Also, if budget is a primary concern, there are more affordable options available, though they may not offer the same level of performance and durability.

A must-have accessory is a hydration reservoir. Also, consider adding a Stick-It or Gravelly 18 for additional carrying capacity.

Conclusion on Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s

The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s is an exceptional piece of gear that delivers on its promise of comfortable load-carrying, durability, and versatility. While the price may be a barrier for some, the quality and performance justify the investment for serious backcountry users. The Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s is worth its cost.

The value proposition is strong. The Metcalf 50 offers a level of performance and durability that is unmatched by many other packs on the market. I would absolutely recommend the Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s to anyone who needs a reliable and comfortable pack for demanding backcountry pursuits.

If you’re looking for a pack that can handle heavy loads, withstand harsh conditions, and provide exceptional comfort, the Mystery Ranch Metcalf 50 Backpack – Men’s is an excellent choice. Invest in quality and experience the difference.