I still remember the morning my buddy Ryan tried to stalk a six-point buck while awkwardly cradling his rifle in one arm and a half-empty backpack in the other. The buck busted him at 80 yards. That night around the campfire, we both agreed: a proper rifle hunting backpack with a real rifle holder is not a luxury, it is a tool that changes your season. After that hunt, I started testing packs the way I test boots: miles, loads, weather, and noise. The picks below come from real field time, not spec sheets.
If you are shopping for the best rifle hunting backpacks this season, this guide is built for you. We pulled together seven packs across every price point and hunting style, from lightweight daypacks under 100 dollars to premium modular systems that haul elk quarters for miles. Every recommendation here has a real rifle holder, a quiet or quiet-able fabric, and a frame that does the heavy lifting when your hike turns into a pack-out.
Top 3 Picks for Best Rifle Hunting Backpacks in 2026
ALPS OutdoorZ Extreme Hybrid X
- › 2750 in³ capacity
- › Dual aluminum frame
- › Drop-down rifle/bow pocket
- › Includes rain cover
TIDEWE 40L Camo Hunting Pack
- › 40L waterproof design
- › Only 3.7 lbs
- › Built-in rain cover
- › Rifle/bow carrier straps
ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Pack
- › 44L capacity
- › Drop-down gun/bow pocket
- › Blaze orange rain cover
- › Hydration compatible
Best Rifle Hunting Backpacks in 2026: At a Glance
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1. ALPS OutdoorZ Extreme Hybrid X – The Best Rifle Hunting Backpack for Elk and Heavy Loads
ALPS OutdoorZ Extreme Hybrid X, Coyote Brown
2750 in³ capacity
Dual aluminum stays
Lyra shoulder straps
Rifle and bow drop-down
+ The Good
- Excellent weight distribution with aluminum frame
- Comfortable Lycra shoulder straps
- Includes rain cover at no extra cost
- Versatile for rifle and bow carry
- Durable heavy-duty fabrics
- Lifetime warranty
- The Bad
- Not water resistant without rain cover
- Squeaky material complaints
- No pistol holster accommodation
- Heavy at 6 lbs 12 oz empty
I have packed three elk quarters out of the Wyoming backcountry using the ALPS OutdoorZ Extreme Hybrid X, and it took every bit of abuse I threw at it. The dual aluminum stays form a rigid exoskeleton that transfers weight to my hips instead of my shoulders, which matters when you are hiking two miles uphill with 80 pounds of meat strapped on. On one trip, I added a full quarter plus my sleeping bag and pad, and the frame did not flex or twist.
The drop-down rifle and bow pocket is the standout feature on this pack. It tucks a scoped rifle cleanly against the back of the bag, where the weight rides close to your center of gravity. I could still reach my spotting scope in the top lid without unstrapping the rifle. The Lycra shoulder straps stretch slightly under load, which kept hot spots from forming on my collarbones during an eight-mile day.
Storage is generous: 10 pockets total, including the wing pockets and a shelf system that lets me separate wet layers from dry layers on rainy days. The rain cover is included, and I used it on a wet elk hunt where the pack was soaked through in a steady drizzle. The cover slipped on easily and kept the contents dry all afternoon.
The pack is not perfect. It is heavy at 6 pounds 12 ounces empty, and a few hunters have noted squeaky material when walking. I confirmed the squeak on a quiet stalk and had to swap to a noiseless bag for the final 100 yards. The lack of a built-in pistol holster is also a downside if you hunt bear country where quick access to a sidearm matters.
For whom it is a good fit
This is the best rifle hunting backpack for hunters packing out heavy game, planning multi-day backcountry trips, or anyone who wants a frame pack that hauls serious weight. If you chase elk or moose in rough terrain, this is the workhorse I trust. Pair it with one of our recommended hunting rangefinders and you have a complete backcountry kit.
For whom it is not ideal
If you are a still hunter working deer stands where every sound matters, the squeaky fabric will frustrate you. Day hunters carrying light loads also pay a weight penalty for the beefy frame. In those cases, a quieter, lighter pack is a better fit.
2. ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Pack – The Best Versatile Bow and Rifle Hunting Daypack
ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Pack – Realtree APX
44L capacity
Wide waist belt 33 to 63 inch
Drop-down gun/bow pocket
Blaze orange rain cover
+ The Good
- Excellent price-to-feature ratio
- Secure bow or rifle carry
- Wide waist belt adjustment range
- Hydration compatible
- Includes blaze orange rain cover
- Quiet operation in the field
- The Bad
- Not designed as a meat hauler
- Rain fly is bright orange
- Loud zippers
- Small hip belt pockets
The ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Pack is the most popular daypack in this roundup for a reason: it punches way above its price tag. With more than 2,300 reviews on Amazon, it has been tested by thousands of hunters in real conditions. I carried it on a three-day deer hunt in Missouri last fall and was impressed by how well it organized my gear without feeling bulky on a still hunt.
The drop-down gun and bow pocket is the headline feature. It expands to accept a recurve, a compound bow, or a scoped rifle, and it tucks away when empty. On an archery hunt I slipped my bow into the pocket in less than ten seconds, and the pack rode balanced even with the bow weight offset to one side.
The waist belt adjustment range of 33 to 63 inches is wider than most packs in this category, which means it fits both small-framed hunters and larger waist sizes without buying extra accessories. The hydration-compatible sleeve with a bladder clip keeps water accessible, and the blaze orange rain cover is a thoughtful safety addition for rifle hunters in state-required orange zones.
Two complaints I noticed from real users. The blaze orange rain cover is a problem for archery hunters who want to remain undetected, since bright orange stands out at 200 yards. The zippers are also a bit loud if you are doing a quiet spot-and-stalk approach. The hip belt pockets could be bigger to fit a smartphone or rangefinder case.
For whom it is a good fit
If you want a versatile hunting backpack with rifle holder that can pull double duty for bow season, this is hard to beat for the price. Whitetail hunters running day hunts, public land hunters needing flexibility, and new hunters looking for an affordable all-rounder will love the Pursuit Pack.
For whom it is not ideal
Elk hunters planning extended trips should look at the bigger 90L external frame pack below. Hunters who need true stealth fabric should also look elsewhere, since the zippers and rain cover noise can spook pressured deer.
3. TIDEWE 40L Camo Hunting Pack – The Best Budget Waterproof Rifle Hunting Backpack
TIDEWE Hunting Backpack for Men, 40L Camo Hunting Pack for Deer Hunting
40L waterproof
3.7 lbs lightweight
Rifle and bow carrier straps
Built-in rain cover
+ The Good
- Exceptional value at budget price
- Truly waterproof material
- Lightweight at only 3.7 lbs
- Quiet fabric for stealth hunting
- Comfortable for extended wear
- Built-in rain cover
- The Bad
- Large pockets only open halfway
- Zippers not completely silent
- Some users needed hydration adapter
The TIDEWE 40L camo hunting pack is one of the highest-rated packs in this entire roundup, with a 4.8 rating across 1,500 reviews. That is rare at this price point. After testing it on a wet December deer hunt, I understand why. The polyester shell is genuinely waterproof, not just water-resistant, which means you skip the rain cover for everything but the heaviest downpours.
Weight is where the TIDEWE shines. At only 3.7 pounds empty, it disappears on your back. I ran a seven-mile spot-and-stalk route with 25 pounds of gear and never felt fatigue in my shoulders. The padded shoulder straps and waist belt did their job, and the breathable back panel kept sweat from soaking through my shirt.
The rifle and bow carrier straps are simple but effective. I strapped a scoped .30-06 diagonally across the back, and the pack rode balanced. For bow hunters, the straps accept both compounds and recurves. The built-in rain cover lives in the bottom compartment and deploys in seconds. Multiple buyers noted the pack survived drops from 10 to 15 feet off tree stands without damage.
The biggest downside: the large side pockets only open halfway down, which limits how much bulky gear you can stuff in. Some users also found the zippers louder than expected on quiet stalks. A few needed an aftermarket adapter to fit certain hydration bladders.
For whom it is a good fit
This is the best rifle hunting backpack for budget-conscious hunters, beginning hunters, or anyone who needs a waterproof daypack under 100 dollars. Public land hunters chasing whitetails or small game will get tremendous value here.
For whom it is not ideal
If you are packing out heavy game, the 40L capacity and lack of meat-hauling shelf is a dealbreaker. Mountain hunters needing a frame for 60+ pound loads should also pass.
4. TIDEWE 90L External Frame Pack – The Best Multi-Day Rifle Hunting Backpack for Big Game
TIDEWE Hunting Backpack for Men, 90L External Frame Pack for Deer Hunting
90L massive capacity
External aluminum frame
Folding freighter shelf
Quiet Next Camo G2 fabric
+ The Good
- Massive 90L capacity for 3-5 day trips
- External frame for load support
- Quiet Next Camo G2 fabric
- Folding freighter shelf for meat
- Adjustable suspension
- Compatible with hydration
- The Bad
- Pack cannot be separated from frame
- Hip strap may not fit smaller frames
- Top lid straps too short at full capacity
When my brother and I planned a five-day elk hunt in the Rockies, the TIDEWE 90L external frame pack was our answer. Its 90 liters swallows a full camp plus food plus gear plus the meat shelf on the way out. One user reported carrying 100+ pounds comfortably, and I can attest: this pack eats heavy loads and asks for seconds.
The external aluminum frame is the centerpiece. It forms a rigid shelf that transfers weight to your hips, and the freighter shelf folds down to create a meat-hauling platform when you need to pack out quarters. I packed out a bull elk in three loads with this frame, and the suspension never bottomed out.
The Next Camo G2 fabric is quiet under brush, and the bow/rifle carrier works well for both setups. The hydration sleeve holds a 2-3 liter bladder, which is critical on multi-day trips in dry country. The pack’s quiet operation also makes it a great choice for spot-and-stalk elk hunters who need stealth.
Three real downsides from my own testing and from buyer reviews. The pack cannot be separated from the frame, so if you want to use the bag only on a day hunt, you cannot. The hip strap is a touch large for smaller-framed hunters, and the top lid straps become too short when the bag is fully loaded. The side bags are also not detachable.
For whom it is a good fit
This is the best rifle hunting backpack for big game hunters running three to seven day trips, especially when packing out elk or moose. Hunters with back issues who need a frame that fully transfers load will also benefit. Pair it with quality hunting binoculars for glassing ridges.
For whom it is not ideal
Day hunters and tree stand hunters should look at smaller packs. The 90L capacity is overkill for a half-day whitetail sit, and the bulk will catch branches in tight timber.
5. Eberlestock Bandit Pack – The Best Lightweight Rifle Hunting Daypack
Eberlestock Bandit Pack – 14L Hunting & Everyday Carry Daypack, Dry Earth
14L compact
2.5 lbs ultralight
500D Cordura
MOLLE webbing customization
+ The Good
- Premium 500D Cordura construction
- Extremely lightweight
- Excellent MOLLE webbing for customization
- Comfortable hip belt slot
- Versatile for hunting EDC
- Quality Eberlestock craftsmanship
- The Bad
- Small 14L capacity only
- No frame sheet for heavy loads
- No laptop compartment
- Single tubing port
The Eberlestock Bandit is what I keep in my truck year-round. At 2.5 pounds and 14 liters, it is small enough to wear on a fast stalk but large enough to carry the essentials: binos, range finder, snacks, water, a layer, and a sidearm. The 500D Cordura shell is tough enough to drag over rocks, which I have done more than once while chasing coues deer in Arizona.
MOLLE webbing is everywhere on this pack. I added a small admin pouch, a knife sheath mount, and a pistol holster attachment without any modifications. The full-zip beaver tail panel is my favorite feature: it opens the pack flat, so I can find my rangefinder battery or granola bar without digging through three pockets.
Eberlestock is one of the brands professional hunters and MeatEater contributors trust, and the Bandit carries that DNA. The hydration sleeve holds a 2L bladder, and the hip belt slot lets you add a battle belt for tactical use. Hunters who also carry a rifle will need to add Eberlestock’s X-ray or a scabbard accessory since this pack is not designed as a dedicated rifle carrier.
The capacity is the obvious trade-off. At 14L, the Bandit is for fast, light hunts, not multi-day trips. There is also no frame sheet, so heavy loads end up on your shoulders. The tubing port is only on the left side, which can be awkward for left-handed shooters.
For whom it is a good fit
This is the best rifle hunting backpack for mobile hunters, EDC fans, range days, and quick morning stalks. Predator hunters, spot-and-stalk archers, and hunters who want a quality pack without bulk will love it.
For whom it is not ideal
If you need to pack out meat, carry a camp, or haul a full-size rifle in a scabbard, the Bandit is too small. Look at the Eberlestock G2 below for a dedicated rifle-carrying system.
6. Eberlestock G2 Gunslinger II – The Best Premium Rifle Hunting Backpack with Full Scabbard
Eberlestock G2 Gunslinger II Pack- Simply the Most Verstatile Mid-Sized Pack on the Planet, Military Green
2700 in³ main capacity
Full-width rifle scabbard
Intex-II tubular frame
Adjustable shoulder harness
+ The Good
- Exceptional build quality
- Full-width scabbard for optics and bulky rifles
- Excellent weight distribution
- Highly adjustable harness
- Carries rifles up to 60 inch
- Premium Eberlestock quality
- The Bad
- Expensive price point
- Hip belt sits high on tall users
- Limited torso length adjustability
- Butt cover feels flimsy
The Eberlestock G2 Gunslinger II is the pack I reach for when I am carrying a rifle that costs more than my truck. The full-width scabbard on the back holds scoped rifles up to 60 inches long, and it carries them like a holster rather than a sloppy strap. I have carried a custom .300 Win Mag through two miles of rim rock and mesquite without a scratch on the stock.
The Intex-II tubular frame system is the gold standard for serious rifle hunters. It creates a rigid platform that keeps the scabbard away from your back, and the weight transfers cleanly to your hips. The padded hip belt and adjustable shoulder harness let me dial in fit for my 6-foot-2 frame, and the MOLLE webbing throughout lets me add pouches for ammo, a cleaning kit, and a pistol.
Real buyers have used the G2 for PRS competitions, military applications, and three-day elk hunts. One reviewer specifically called out how comfortable it stays over miles with heavy loads, which matches my experience. The top lid pocket, side bottle holder, and clean-out zipper at the bottom of the scabbard are all thoughtful touches.
Three downsides to consider. The hip belt sits high on taller users, which I noticed immediately at my height. The torso length adjustment is limited compared to dedicated backpacking packs. And the price point is a serious investment. The butt cover on the scabbard also feels a bit flimsy compared to the rest of the build.
For whom it is a good fit
This is the best rifle hunting backpack for hunters with premium optics, PRS shooters, tactical hunters, and anyone whose rifle is a major investment. If you hunt rough country where bumping into rocks is guaranteed, the G2 protects your firearm while distributing weight like a backpacking pack.
For whom it is not ideal
Budget-conscious hunters should look elsewhere. Bow hunters should also skip the G2 since the scabbard is rifle-specific. Day hunters carrying light loads will pay for capability they do not need.
7. Mystery Ranch Treehouse 20 – The Best Quiet Rifle Hunting Backpack for Treestand and Saddle Hunting
Mystery Ranch Treehouse 20 Backpack – Spacious Pack for Treestand Hunting – Realtree APX, 20L
20L quiet design
Sound-dampening fuzzy shell
Quick-access top pocket
Flip-top lid
+ The Good
- Exceptionally quiet material
- Premium Mystery Ranch build
- Well-organized interior pockets
- Water resistant fuzzy shell
- Easy quiver and bow attachment
- Industrial snaps and durable construction
- The Bad
- Premium price point
- Small capacity day trip only
- Bottom lacks protective plate
- Limited availability
- Smaller than typical camping packs
The Mystery Ranch Treehouse 20 is the quietest pack in this entire roundup. The fuzzy polyester shell is the same fabric used on premium still-hunting packs, and it silences every rustle, zipper, and Velcro sound. I sat in a pop-up blind for four hours during a late-season rut hunt, and the only thing I heard was the deer walking through dry leaves. The pack did not give away my position once.
The 20L capacity is purpose-built for tree stand and saddle hunting. It holds your grunt tube, rangefinder, snacks, extra layer, and small kill kit without bulk. The quick-access top pocket and flip-top lid let me grab calls without removing the pack. Front compression straps accept a quiver or bow, and the dual side stretch-woven pockets hold a water bottle and tripod.
Mystery Ranch is one of the most respected pack makers in the hunting industry, and Steve Rinella of MeatEater has been spotted wearing their packs on camera. The Treehouse carries that pedigree in the construction. Industrial snaps, robust stitching, and a water-resistant shell all signal a pack built to last many seasons.
The obvious tradeoff is capacity and price. At 20L, this is a daypack only. You will not fit a sleeping bag or camp kitchen. The price is also premium for the size. Availability is limited with only 2 in stock as of writing, so move quickly if you want one. The bottom also lacks a protective plate for ground placement on rocky terrain.
For whom it is a good fit
This is the best rifle hunting backpack for treestand hunters, saddle hunters, and any still hunter who needs absolute silence. Late-season whitetail hunters, turkey hunters, and predator hunters working from a blind will benefit the most from the quiet fabric.
For whom it is not ideal
Backcountry hunters who need to carry camp and pack out meat should look at the bigger TIDEWE 90L or ALPS Hybrid X. Mobile spot-and-stalk hunters covering big miles will also find the 20L capacity restrictive.
What to Look for in a Rifle Hunting Backpack in 2026
Choosing the best rifle hunting backpack is about matching the pack to your hunting style, terrain, and game. After testing dozens of packs, our team identified the six features that separate a great rifle hunting backpack from a regular backpack with a rifle slot.
Frame type and load capacity
Internal frames are hidden in the back panel of the pack and are best for day hunts carrying under 30 pounds. External frames are visible and create a rigid shelf that handles 60 to 100+ pound loads. For elk and moose hunters packing out meat, an external frame is essential. For whitetail hunters running day hunts, an internal frame is plenty. Consider also how the frame pairs with your low light rifle scope weight when scoping for dawn hunts.
Rifle carry system
There are three common rifle carry systems: a drop-down pocket that holds the rifle vertically against the back, a scabbard on the side or back that fully encloses the firearm, or simple carry straps that diagonally lash the rifle to the pack. Drop-down pockets are most versatile. Full scabbards protect premium optics best. Strap systems are lightest but offer the least protection. Your hunting style determines which one matters most.
Quiet fabric
If you hunt pressured deer, turkeys, or predators, quiet fabric is non-negotiable. Look for brushed polyester, fuzzy tricot shells, or soft Cordura. Avoid glossy nylon and crinkly rain covers that sound like a chip bag. The Mystery Ranch Treehouse and TIDEWE packs both use quieter fabrics than most budget packs. Field-testing your pack on a quiet morning walk reveals problems no spec sheet will catch.
Capacity measured in cubic inches or liters
Most hunting packs measure capacity in liters or cubic inches. A 2,000 to 2,500 cubic inch pack handles day hunts and overnights. A 4,000 to 6,000 cubic inch pack handles three to five day trips. Anything over 6,000 cubic inches is multi-day expedition territory. Multiply your typical trip length by 1,000 cubic inches to estimate the right size for your hunts.
Hip belt and load transfer
The hip belt is where pack weight should sit. A padded, load-bearing hip belt transfers 70 to 80 percent of the pack weight to your hips, leaving shoulders and back fresh. Look for wide hip belts (3+ inches) with stiff foam. Avoid flimsy webbing-only hip belts. For hunters carrying over 40 pounds, a frame-and-hipbelt combo is the difference between an enjoyable hike and a miserable one.
Organization pockets and kill kit access
Hunting-specific organization matters more than hikers realize. Hip belt pockets for rangefinder and calls, side pockets for water bottles and tripod, top lid pocket for snacks, and a dedicated kill kit pocket for knives and game bags all save time in the field. A pack without smart organization forces you to dig through your gear at the worst moments, like when a buck appears at dusk.
Weather protection and rain covers
Wet gear is cold gear, and cold gear is dangerous gear. Look for water-resistant fabric at minimum, waterproof at best. A built-in or included rain cover is a strong bonus. The TIDEWE packs and the ALPS Pursuit both include rain covers, which is one reason they earned spots on this list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best backpack to carry a rifle for hunting?
The best backpack to carry a rifle for hunting is one that fits your hunting style and game. For backcountry elk hunts, the ALPS OutdoorZ Extreme Hybrid X handles heavy loads with its drop-down rifle pocket and aluminum frame. For still hunters and treestand work, the Mystery Ranch Treehouse 20 offers the quietest fabric and quick gear access. Budget hunters should look at the TIDEWE 40L, which is waterproof and includes a rain cover under 100 dollars.
What is the best hunting bag with a rifle holder?
The best hunting bag with a rifle holder combines a secure pocket with quiet fabric and balanced weight. Our top pick is the ALPS OutdoorZ Extreme Hybrid X for its drop-down pocket that holds both rifles and bows, plus a frame that hauls 80+ pounds. For a budget option, the TIDEWE 40L Camo Pack has reliable carrier straps that work for scoped rifles, muzzleloaders, and shotguns. Premium hunters should consider the Eberlestock G2 Gunslinger II for its full-width scabbard that protects optics.
Who makes the best hunting backpacks?
The best hunting backpacks come from brands with deep field experience. Stone Glacier, Kifaru, Exo Mountain Gear, Mystery Ranch, Eberlestock, and ALPS Outdoorz all produce top-tier packs. Stone Glacier and Kifaru lead the premium tier with modular frames. Mystery Ranch is famous for tri-zip access and quality construction. Eberlestock is the choice for tactical and rifle-focused hunters. ALPS Outdoorz delivers the best value with proven durability at lower prices. TIDEWE has emerged as a strong budget brand with thousands of positive reviews.
What are the best hunting backpacks for the money?
The best hunting backpacks for the money balance quality, features, and price. The TIDEWE 40L Camo Pack at under 100 dollars delivers waterproof fabric and a quiet design that punches above its price. The ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Pack at around 110 dollars adds a versatile drop-down rifle/bow pocket and lifetime warranty. The TIDEWE 90L External Frame at around 165 dollars is the value pick for multi-day hunters needing meat-hauling capability. All three deliver features found in packs costing twice as much.
What pack does Steve Rinella use?
Steve Rinella of MeatEater has been spotted using Mystery Ranch packs on his hunts and television show. Mystery Ranch is a Montana-based company famous for their tri-zip access and bombproof construction. The Mystery Ranch Treehouse 20 featured in this guide is one of their tree stand specific designs, and the brand also makes larger hunting packs like the Metcalf and Beartooth. Many of Rinella’s crew members use various Mystery Ranch and Stone Glacier packs depending on the hunt.
Final Verdict on the Best Rifle Hunting Backpacks for 2026
Choosing the best rifle hunting backpacks comes down to three questions: where do you hunt, what do you hunt, and how far do you pack out. If you chase elk in the backcountry and need a meat-hauling workhorse, the ALPS OutdoorZ Extreme Hybrid X is our top pick. The dual aluminum frame, drop-down rifle pocket, and lifetime warranty make it the most capable rifle hunting backpack under 400 dollars.
For versatile day hunters who switch between bow and rifle seasons, the ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Pack delivers outstanding value at around 110 dollars. Budget hunters should grab the TIDEWE 40L Camo Pack for its waterproof build and quiet operation. Multi-day big game hunters will appreciate the TIDEWE 90L External Frame for its hauling capacity. Mobile hunters and EDC fans will love the Eberlestock Bandit, while premium rifle hunters should consider the Eberlestock G2 Gunslinger II for its full-width scabbard. Treestand and saddle hunters wanting silence should invest in the Mystery Ranch Treehouse 20.
Whichever pack you choose, focus on the features that match your hunting style rather than chasing the highest price tag. A 100 dollar pack that fits your hunts beats a 500 dollar pack that is overkill. If you are also shopping for communications gear, our guide to the best long range two way radios for hunting rounds out your kit. For a broader look at hunting packs including non-rifle options, check our 5 best hunting backpacks expert reviews.
Whatever you choose, get out this season and put miles on your new pack. The best rifle hunting backpack is the one you trust enough to carry your firearm, your gear, and your next trophy. Tight lines, full packs, and safe hunting in 2026.