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Kifaru Shape Charge + Sherman pocket with predator platform + sticks.

vmals

New Member
Joined
Oct 17, 2019
Messages
3
Hey guys and gals

Want to share how I use said system to carry platform and sticks

I was looking for a quality pack to use for hunting/hiking that could pack in everything I needed. Was thinking about getting a framed pack but since I switched the saddle hunting recently I decided to go with the shape charge.

First time out WITHOUT the Sherman pocket I used the compression straps to hold both the sticks and the platform. Steps with this system:
1. take the pack off
2. undo the straps at the base of the tree
3. strap the platform back to the pack
4. Put pack back on
5. make my ascend
6. swing my pack to my side
7. undo the straps to release the platform
8. Swing the pack back on both shoulders

Lots of steps and movement and I felt like there could be a better way. Especially to reduce movement once up the tree.

So I ordered a Sherman pocket. Was initially thinking about getting a grab it but the Sherman pocket is essentially a grab it with pockets so I went with that.

Now I use the Sherman pocket to hold the platform and use the packs existing compression straps to hold the sticks and keep everything secure while I’m hiking through the woods. The Idea was to cut out many steps by only undoing the compression straps holding the sticks and reaching back for the platform.

Steps with new system:
1. Take pack off
2. Undo compression straps at the base of the tree to release sticks. Platform still sandwiched between pack and Sherman pocket
3. Put pack back on
4. Make my ascend
5. Reach back and grab the platform

Done. Super pleased with this system. Everything is tight and secure hiking in and the composite stays give excellent support. The pack feels like it’s part of me. Plenty of space with well over 2000 cc with the Sherman.

Initially I was worried that the Sherman pocket would hold the platform too tight and I would have to swing the pack anyway or too loose and worry about it falling out. I can get it to slide out if i shake it but I’m not shaking like that when climbing. No issues whatsoever in the field.

Here are some pictures and a short video of platform and Sherman pocket.

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Last edited:
Looks better than my rigging. I use strap from strapsworks to carry sticks and predator platform. I don't like taking pack offf and on after I arrive at tree.
 
Interested if anyone else is running the shape charge. Considering it or the .357 mag since I’m having problems getting my platform and sticks solidly attached to my Eastern Ruck
 
Ill be trying one next season. Kifaru makes awesome stuff and very durable.
 
I use the exact same setup. The only difference is I have DoubleSteps steps, so I put my sticks upside down with one of the steps going into the bottom grab loop. That way, there is no chance of my sticks sliding down through the compressions straps (even though that should never happen). I partially open the main bag when my pack is hung and just set my binos on the little shelf that is created where the zipper meets the Sherman pocket straps.
 
How is the size of the bag? Will it carry a sanctuary set?
It's hard to say...I don't own a sanctuary set. I do have the fanatic set and I can get both top and bottom in there, but it's very tight. I have been wearing the bottoms in and unzipping them as much as I can and going slow. Putting top in the pack with all my snacks, water and boot blankets haha.
 
I just ordered the Kifaru Shape Charge with Sherman Pocket. I also got the waist belt. I may End up using my Tethrd Predator pack instead of the Sherman pocket on the back of the main pack though.......
 
great thread and very helpful for an aspiring saddle hunter. I have the sherman, but i took it off and attached the predator bag for the first iteration. Im gonna mess around with it like this for a few weeks, if I need more storage Ill put the sherman back on. But first blush it s super quiet and secure and goes together easily shape charge.jpeg

Thought it may be helpful if anyone is still following along 4 2ft novix sticks with a 17' aider and stick caddy attached to each. predator stand, saddle inside the bag, although i would prob wear it in. Interested to see how High I can get
 
If you want to go this route, I would highly recommend you look at the Eberlestock X2 pack as well.
You put your sticks in the sides. Close it up with the nice big buckles. Platform next. Close it up with the nice big buckles and you roll out and it’s super quiet. Get to the tree. Platform comes out and onto saddle. Sticks come out and on to saddle or hands or whatever. Bow goes where platform was and you’re up the tree. One trip. With everything.
 
How is the size of the bag? Will it carry a sanctuary set?

It will hold the jacket. I wear the bibs in with the legs and rear zipped open. I can try to cram both in to test out but it’s a bulky set and I wear extra large.

It will not hold bibs, jacket and tethred saddle with gear pouches/ropes. I hike in with saddle and bibs on.

I’m moving to Sitka stratus this season for this reason. Layering with equinox midi and Celsius midi. Supposedly this combo is on par with the fanatic set.

I hike in quite a ways sometimes and plan to pack in the jacket/bibs and wear in midi layers. Still warm here so I will see how it goes.


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