Fanboy warning, but the exo k4 2200 has been working well for me as a late season saddle hunting pack. I've been using it with the lid, larger lid pocket fits ring of steps and smaller one fits my gear hanger/whatever else I need in the tree. One stick straps to the outside of the pack just fine and doesn't interfere with bucking lid (or unbuckling to get at inner pockets) I don't see any lack of function compared to the MR popup id been using previously. It is a bit overkill for a day hunt, but then again so was the popup if I'm being realistic.
Honestly, I’d love to see EXO do better in a (whitetail) day pack (for 2024).
The ‘2023 2200 pack is out there already. If it works well as you suggest, then…problem solved. But it’s not exactly working for me so far. However, the lightweight frame seems pretty legit.
TBH, even a Tethrd FAS pack can handle a ROS and gear hanger and ONE stick. Far cheaper packs can as well. Need a mountaineering frame and bag and a lid to do that? Many will answer that mail.
The whole shebang of the 2200 over K3 1800 is the top pocket design…and you’re adding a lid atop that? Meh. I think a more specific design would do better. Idk, but the 2200 is not one of my favorite designs.
Some basic dimensional redistribution would make a much better pack, imo, for a 2200 for 2024.