I had computer issues a few years ago and lost most of photos. I jumped out in my barn and did quick set up for reference. We use 18g and 10g rough necks, typically on each side. I typically won't go any higher than the top of the lids when packing heavy loads and if we decide to fill the void on the middle of the pack saddle it is usually filled with sleeping bags and or other soft and lightweight items. If you do, make sure you use a rectangular top back. That top pack can be a source of issues if the items in it move around, which they usually do if you have much weight in it.
Prior to the hunt, we have all of the totes prepacked with non-perishable and other items. Weighed out to the pound on each and have each tote labeled and marked - such as A1/A1 B1/B1 or B2/B2. This allows us to hit the trailhead and saddle up and go instead of spending time sorting and weighing. The two A1 totes go in on first load if the tote has B2 or A2 on it, then it goes in on the 2nd trip in. We can't get all of stuff in one trip so we usually make 2 trips with our animals depending how many animals or hunting buddies we have.
The 18g totes are great for packing out elk quarters.
As far as hitting trees, we are on old govt trails and if I can't duck under the tree when riding and leading the pack animals then I will get off and find a way around or get out the handsaw. Besides when you get off the horses it usually a good time to have a beer and rest the animals for a few minutes.
I am sure most of you know this but, for several years we went to the school of hard knocks and rodeos until I got some good packing advice from another hunting camp that used to hunt near ours.
-Weigh your loads to the pound and make sure EACH SIDE IS Equal.
-Stop EVERY Time one of your loads starts shifting and readjust it.
-Don't grain your riders or your pack animals before you ride and pack them.
-If your animal wants to laydown, the cinch is to tight or you have to much weight on them.
-The taller the load the more problems you will have.
-Bring Hobbles - animals hate being tied up all day.
Pulling out my gear, reminded me I need to spend some time working on my pack gear and making repairs.
Hope this helps!
Prior to the hunt, we have all of the totes prepacked with non-perishable and other items. Weighed out to the pound on each and have each tote labeled and marked - such as A1/A1 B1/B1 or B2/B2. This allows us to hit the trailhead and saddle up and go instead of spending time sorting and weighing. The two A1 totes go in on first load if the tote has B2 or A2 on it, then it goes in on the 2nd trip in. We can't get all of stuff in one trip so we usually make 2 trips with our animals depending how many animals or hunting buddies we have.
The 18g totes are great for packing out elk quarters.
As far as hitting trees, we are on old govt trails and if I can't duck under the tree when riding and leading the pack animals then I will get off and find a way around or get out the handsaw. Besides when you get off the horses it usually a good time to have a beer and rest the animals for a few minutes.
I am sure most of you know this but, for several years we went to the school of hard knocks and rodeos until I got some good packing advice from another hunting camp that used to hunt near ours.
-Weigh your loads to the pound and make sure EACH SIDE IS Equal.
-Stop EVERY Time one of your loads starts shifting and readjust it.
-Don't grain your riders or your pack animals before you ride and pack them.
-If your animal wants to laydown, the cinch is to tight or you have to much weight on them.
-The taller the load the more problems you will have.
-Bring Hobbles - animals hate being tied up all day.
Pulling out my gear, reminded me I need to spend some time working on my pack gear and making repairs.
Hope this helps!
