Happy with this is an understatement. I hauled out two elk with this and it’s incredible. Light weight and durable. I’m 6.3 250 and it fits me perfectly. I had a a full curl horn hunter before. I like the stability of this one verses floating. Also. When I sit down or stand against a tree I can take the weight off easier.

Back padding is significantly improved, new load lifter system feels 30% more effective,

Removal of ladder system seems acceptable,

Here’s some helpful info for people like myself.

While both frames share the same virtually indestructible 6061-T6 aluminum chassis, the Mainframe II fixes critical failure points found on the original generation that could leave you stranded without replacement parts.Why the Mainframe II Outperforms the Mainframe 1Feature / DimensionMainframe 1 (F1)Mainframe 2 (ModFrame)Survival AdvantageAttachment SystemHeavy-duty zippersSlider hooks & adjustable friction locksMainframe II Wins. Zippers fail permanently if clogged with mud, frozen, or broken. Hooks and straps can be repaired in the field with paracord.Torso AdjustmentMicro-adjustable ladder systemMicro-adjustable ladder systemTie. Both adapt perfectly to different torso lengths, which is crucial if you need to pass the pack to a family member.Material/Durability500D Nylon500D Nylon or NT7 WaterproofMainframe II Wins. The Mainframe II offers a polyurethane waterproof finish variant, keeping gear dry without a separate rain cover.Built-in CompressionRequired separate straps for small loadsBuilt-in compression strapsMainframe II Wins. Fewer separate loose parts to lose when scavenging or moving quickly.Core Survival EvaluationField Repairability: The single greatest threat in a collapse scenario is a gear failure you cannot fix. The Mainframe 1 relies heavily on massive perimeter zippers to attach dry bags and duffels. If a zipper teeth track splits or blows out under a heavy load of scavenged supplies, the pack becomes mostly useless. The Mainframe II uses a series of ultra-tough sliding metal/plastic hooks and heavy webbing straps. If a strap tears, you can knot it or melt it back together; if a hook breaks, you can lash the load with cordage.Load Modularly: In a long-term disaster, you will change roles frequently—from hauling firewood and water to carrying hunting meat or moving a weeks' worth of survival gear to a new camp. The Mainframe II features an upgraded built-in compression system that securely anchors awkward, heavy items (like fuel cans, toolboxes, or meat bags) directly to the frame without requiring you to scavenge for extra aftermarket straps.Actionable Advice for SHTF PreparationIf you are staging either frame for an emergency bug-out or grid-down scenario, add these three items to your kit immediately to mitigate their known real-world vulnerabilities:Spare Buckles: Buy a generic multi-pack of 1-inch and 2-inch side-release plastic buckles. Wrap them in a small baggie and zip it into the frame's built-in mesh pockets.Paracord: Wrap 50 feet of 550 paracord around the top carry handle. This provides emergency lashing material if a primary strap fails.Zip Ties: Stash several heavy-duty industrial zip ties along the aluminum stay channels. They can temporarily replicate the slider hooks if one is crushed.

There wasn't much to complain about with the original version. I definitely appreciate the adjustability of the new harness design. As well as thicker padding on the waist belt, especially the square pad in the middle. That particular section of padding on my original Mainframe flattened out after a few years of use and abuse. I wish the waist belt was about an inch shorter in length for people thinner than 33"s. The new locking style cinch straps were a minor hassle to adjust too, especially in winter months with gloves. Otherwise, I've never had any major issues or failures with this pack or any of the other 6 I've beat on throughout the past decade.

I was skeptical that the Mainframe II could be better than the original. I have been proven wrong. The new belt is thicker and super nice as advertised. The extra straps on the back are a big improvement and will give plenty of options and stability packing meat. I can't imagine a better pack for packing heavy loads of meat. The modularity and versatility is unchanged from the original and is unbeatable. Hopefully, I will have it loaded down with moose meat in a couple of weeks.

I just got back from my first haunt using the mainframe II. I packed 68 lb in no problem and a whole sheep plus my camp back out and it felt like it was somewhere around 100 lb. I never had a problem with the back pad slipping or the waist belt being uncomfortable. When I got home and weighed the pack what I thought was around 100 lb was actually 148 lb. 148 lb. 11 mi and I never felt like the bag was slowing me down.

First day out with this pack, I was able to double the amount of terrain I covered. I recommend this pack to any serious shed hunter. Very comfortable. It was very versatile while tying on antlers!

I’ve recently tested a few different packs and the Mainframe II has been the best and most comfortable. It can carry more than the Modframe if needed, and nothing will hang below your hips due to the shelf. Frame is highly customizable to setup for your needs.

When I got this pack I immediately stuffed everything I could find that was hunting/shooting related into and onto this frame using the Brooks 3500 and 2 standard Batwings.

This frame made the 65 pounds of gear I had loaded up in it seem like it wasn’t even there.

Even my 5’ wife said it felt amazingly light once on the back and strapped on.

If you wonder if you should, do it.

I’ve taken it on a couple day trips hunting rabbits and collecting firewood and it’s hard to believe it’s there even after several miles and a few hundred feet of gain.

I could not be more pleased with this purchase.

Best pack frame for serious hunters, period.

It work amazing for what I needed it for. Allowed me to carry some work equipment off of a hill top in one go, instead of making several trips. Carry the weight exceptionally well.

Exactly what I was looking for.

Great fit, the waist belt sits perfectly on hips. I have it paired with the Vapor 2500 and it makes for a great day hunt pack. The belt padding is stout.

Great

So, I'm using this for a bit of a different purpose than most. I'm an air gunner who competes in PRS rimfire and NRL22 events. I needed something to carry my tank and gear around the matches. I was able to ditch my battle buggy (stroller) for a much better and easier to use platform. This fits my 9l tank, then paired with 2 large batwings, a small batwing, and the pack lid. This is absolutely perfect. Still allows me carry all my gear, in a compact platform. And it all stands up! Keeps the tank surrounded and protected, I'm very pleased with the build and that there are so many different way to go from here! Excellent quality, service, and support.

Great

Great main frame!!! I have 80lbs on the frame to walk around the neighborhood and it supports the weight so well.

I love the frame. As soon as I find one on sale I plan to buy another. Terry

Sweet frame and base for all your pack needs. Versatile and user friendly. I've been beating the crud out of it in the mountains of Idaho.

Was really nice!

Dope

Have yet to put it to work but so far, I love it. Nearly packed for an upcoming elk hunt and seems very light with lots of room, pockets and options for organizing. Especially appreciate the endless number of straps.

Finally made the decision to upgrade to a mainframe II and a Brooks 3500 bundle. Had used a bandit and a brute scout for day packs but wanted a little more room, capability and carrying capacity. Would highly recommend going with a mainframe and a compatible pack. Love the construction and load capability. Intend to use for hunting and competitive shooting like PRS and NRL. May not be the best choice for each scenario but I believe that this is a great all around choice. Looking to add more emod components in the future for more specific applications. Would definitely buy again.

Best pack on the market for heavy pack outs. It’s as tough as they come and can carry more than you can all day everyday. So comfortable when on those 10 day long back country hunts when you go in heavy and come out heavier.

The pack is awesome! What was more impressive is, I was delivered the wrong color pack. No biggie! But they were able to send me the right color pack within a matter of a couple days. Just a few days before my elk hunt. 🙌🙌🙌 💯% props for that!! Thank you!!! Customer service is the best!

I served 15 years in the army. This frame system is far more superior than any other type I've used. I highly recommend this frame to any outdoor enthusiast!