First Impressions of Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack
The Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack is marketed as a revolutionary solution for tree stand hunters, addressing common frustrations with gear accessibility and organization. Tenzing, known for its hunting packs, promises a rigid, EVA-molded shell and specialized storage in this pack. This daypack is intended to simplify the hunting experience.
As a seasoned hunter who has spent countless hours in tree stands, I’ve battled the woes of fumbling for gear and dealing with floppy, unorganized packs. I needed a pack that would stay open and easily accessible while hanging in my stand. My hope was that the Hangtime Day Pack could solve these issues.
Upon unboxing, the rigid structure immediately stood out, a stark contrast to my usual soft-sided packs. The material felt durable, though I did notice the zippers didn’t glide as smoothly as I’d hoped. It weighed next to nothing, which is critical for long days in the field.
Compared to my Badlands Pursuit Pack and my ALPS OutdoorZ Trail Blazer, the Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack appeared more specialized for tree stand use. The others are great all-around packs, but lack the rigid, stay-open design that the Hangtime boasts. I chose the Hangtime Day Pack because of this specialized design, hoping it would drastically improve my organization and access to gear while hunting.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The innovative design and lightweight feel were encouraging, but the zipper quality gave me pause. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack during an early-season whitetail hunt in the hardwood forests of central Wisconsin. The weather was mild, but a light drizzle persisted throughout the morning. I used it to carry my essential gear: rangefinder, calls, snacks, knife, and extra layers.
The rigid design proved invaluable in the tree stand, as the pack maintained its shape and allowed for easy, one-handed access to my gear. However, the drizzle highlighted the lack of a rain cover, and I was worried about my equipment getting wet. I also noticed that the zippers were difficult to operate with gloves on.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack has held up reasonably well. The EVA-molded shell shows no signs of wear, and the fabric has resisted tears, despite a few encounters with branches and thorns. However, the zippers have remained a consistent point of frustration.
The pack is easy to wipe down and clean after a muddy hunt. Compared to my old, soft-sided pack, the Hangtime offers a significant improvement in organizational convenience. I do miss the external water bottle pocket that my old pack had.
Breaking Down the Features of Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack
Specifications
The Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack boasts the following specifications:
- Manufacturer: Tenzing
- Gender: Unisex
- Weight: 1.14 lb
- Pack Application: Outdoor, Hunting
- Pack Type: Day Pack
- Capacity: 1600 cubic in
- Pack Volume: 1600 cubic in
- Color: Camo
- Fabric/Material: EVA
- Age Group: Adults
- Pockets: 7
- Dimensions: 12.50 x 7 x 19 in
These specifications are important for several reasons. The light weight is crucial for reducing fatigue during long hunts. The 1600 cubic inches of space offer sufficient storage for a day’s worth of gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack excels at its primary purpose: providing organized, accessible storage in a tree stand. The rigid shell is the key, allowing the pack to hang open for easy access. However, the zipper quality detracts from the overall user experience.
The pack’s strengths lie in its design and specialized storage. Its weaknesses include the zipper quality, lack of external water bottle holder, and absence of a rain cover. It mostly meets expectations, though the zipper issue is a notable drawback.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack features a well-thought-out design, tailored for tree stand hunters. The EVA molded shell provides excellent structure. The pack is lightweight and relatively comfortable, though the shoulder straps could use more padding for heavier loads.
The pack is generally user-friendly, although the hip belt pockets are awkwardly shaped and difficult to use. The lack of a dedicated water bottle holder also detracts from the overall ergonomic design.
Durability & Maintenance
The EVA shell and durable fabric suggest that the Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack will last for several seasons with proper care. The pack is easy to wipe down and clean. However, the zipper quality remains a concern for long-term durability.
Replacing the zippers if they fail could be challenging, given the pack’s construction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack comes with a removable, ambidextrous bow carrier and a fold-out bow and gun carrying boot. External MOLLE attachment points and webbing straps allow for customization with additional pouches and gear. The pack is also H2O compatible, allowing for the use of a hydration reservoir.
While there are limited customization options beyond adding pouches, the MOLLE system provides flexibility.
Pros and Cons of Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack
Pros
- Rigid EVA molded shell for easy access in tree stands. This is the defining feature, allowing the pack to maintain its shape and offer convenient, one-handed access to gear.
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue. At only 1.14 lbs, the pack is easy to carry for extended periods.
- Specialized storage compartments for hunting gear. Dedicated pockets for optics, calls, and other essentials keep everything organized.
- Removable bow carrier adds versatility. The ambidextrous bow carrier is a valuable addition for bow hunters.
- Durable fabric resists wear and tear. The pack can withstand the rigors of the hunting environment.
Cons
- Zippers are not smooth and can be difficult to operate. This is a recurring issue that detracts from the overall user experience.
- No external water bottle holder. This is an inconvenience for staying hydrated in the field.
- No rain cover included. This leaves gear vulnerable in wet weather.
Who Should Buy Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack?
The Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack is perfect for tree stand hunters who prioritize organization and easy access to their gear. It is also suitable for anyone looking for a lightweight daypack for shorter hunts.
Hunters who frequently hunt in rainy conditions or those who prefer a dedicated water bottle holder might want to skip this product. A must-have modification would be applying a DWR (durable water repellent) spray to enhance water resistance.
Conclusion on Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack
The Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack is a specialized tool that effectively addresses the challenges of gear management in a tree stand. Its rigid design and specialized storage are valuable assets for any serious hunter. However, the zipper quality and lack of certain features detract from its overall appeal.
At $159.49, the price is justified for its innovative design and specialized function, but the zipper issue needs to be addressed. I would recommend it with the caveat that buyers should be aware of the zipper limitations and consider applying a DWR treatment for added water resistance. If you’re tired of fumbling with gear in your tree stand, the Tenzing Hangtime Day Pack is worth considering. Just be prepared to work around the zipper issue.