OK, you just cashed in on the sale of a new compound bow and a bunch of hunting/shooting accessories to boot. But before that proud new owner exits your shop, it’s your job to make sure he or she has a premium bow case and a suitable backpack to keep it all safe and secure. This is almost an afterthought with a lot of bow owners (and retailers), but it could be argued that these two items are as important as the original investment for both parties — a case for protecting the owner’s new bow and arrows and a backpack for keeping other gear secure and accessible — and an avenue for increased revenue for the archery retailer.
Bowhunting packs come in a variety of makes, models and configurations, and it’s important for archers to acquire those that will best serve their specific needs. It might even require more than one — say a compact daypack for short trips to the treestand after work and a larger robust model, maybe even a frame pack, for extended bowhunts into the backcountry. Space management is paramount — a large pocket-less main compartment to store clothes and larger gear and smaller, easily accessible pockets for those items that need to be retrieved quickly and quietly, such as a rangefinder, grunt call, lure, extra release, or maybe even a granola bar and water bottle. Good bowhunting packs are typically manufactured from sound-deadening materials, such as microsuede, with a dull or camo finish to provide hunters with the stealth needed to enter and exit their hunting grounds without being detected.
Bow cases are the unsung heroes of the archery world, quietly going about the business of keeping bows and arrows safe from damage while in transit or during storage. There are hardshell as well and softshell models and many are watertight. Key features typically include storage areas for a quiver and arrows, heavy-duty hinges, padlock loops, tie-down straps and a cushioned grip handle. Some even accommodate the bow with a quiver attached.
For today’s archers — and archery retailers — there has never been a better time in regard to the number of fine bow cases and special-purpose backpacks that are on the market — makes and models to fit every conceivable situation and application — to keep equipment safe and gear organized. Here are some top-shelf models designed with the discriminating bowhunter in mind.
Alaska Guide Creations Kobuk 28 Frame Pack
The Kobuk 28 Bag from Alaska Guide Creations has a volume capacity of 2,800 cubic inches and attaches easily to the Kobuk frame. It is best suited for day trips and can be compressed to a lower profile while not utilizing the bag’s full capacity. Each side has four lash points with auto-locking buckles, and two 22-inch waterproof zippers make access to the main bag simple, even with a load. An additional basement zipper opens to a built-in pouch that is great for storing small items that require quick access. The double layered 500D load shelf can be deployed and adjusted for carrying extra large loads or transporting meat. Inside the bag there are internal loops and a hydration sleeve. MSRP: $639.98; alaskaguidecreations.com
Badlands ATX 12 Pack
Known for its high-quality packs, gear and innovative camouflage patterns, Badlands’ new All-Terrain Xtreme (ATX) line of rugged, water-repellent daypacks come in three sizes: ATX 12, ATX 16 and ATX 25. All ATX packs are compatible with the Badlands SWAP system, allowing users to custom configure for different loadouts, and all work with the Badlands Bino Connect system to carry a binocular afield securely and easily. The ATX 12 is a good choice for bowhunters who like to travel light, but don’t underestimate this little guy. That’s the idea behind the ATX 12 hunting pack — the lightest, most compact edition of the All-Terrain Xtreme pack lineup. It has 1,200 cubic inches of storage space and weighs just 1.76 pounds. MSRP: $129.99; badlandsgear.com
Eberlestock Basin EMOD System
An evolution of the EMOD system, the Basin Pack from Eberlestock brings new functionality and features to this ever-expanding platform. Keeping gear in check is a breeze with a variety of interior and exterior pockets and sleeves. And when not paired with the main frame, the Basin can also be configured as a stand alone duffel for easy transport and storage. Constructed from either 500D ripstop (solids) or quiet yet rugged microsuede material (camos), this pack gives hunters an edge when the stakes are high. Key options include front zipper loading, two front stretch zippered pockets, six 25mm buckled compression straps, padded shoulder strap and a hydration sleeve, hanger and port. Color options are Dry Earth, Military Green, Mountain, Skye and Mirage. MSRP: $129; eberlestock.com
Mission First Tactical Ambush 40-Liter Backpack
The robust Ambush 40-Liter Backpack from Mission First Tactical was designed to carry hunting gear comfortably and securely. Made from 600 denier ballistic nylon for outstanding durability, it is outfitted with EVA back padding and thick padded shoulder straps for comfortable carrying. There is even a padded laptop sleeve to keep a computer protected during off-season use. Other features include a sunglasses compartment, utility pocket, ITW buckles, nylon Velcro backing and MOLLE sections for expanded attachment options. The MFT Ambush 40L backpack is a great choice for hunting, camping, hiking and various other outdoor activities — built for users who require ample space to carry their gear. MSRP: $89.99; missionfirsttactical.com
MTM Case-Gard Traveler Bow Case
Sized to accept conventional bows up to 44 inches in length, the Traveler Bow Case from MTM Case-Gard is made of rugged polypropylene, with fortified wall construction designed to protect a bow and arrows in the back of a truck, strapped to an ATV or as checked luggage. Further protection comes courtesy of high-quality foam padding and adjustable hook-and-loop strapping. The Traveler Bow Case is engineered to accept most bows with a quiver attached, and comes with MTM’s Traveler Arrow Case, which is designed to hold up to six broadhead-tipped arrows and three practice arrows suspended in protective notched foam padding. The Traveler Bow Case meets TSA approval for airline transport when used with TSA-approved locks. MSRP: $79.98; mtmcase-gard.com
Pelican Air 1745 Lightweight Bow Case
Designed for rugged and secure protection, the Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case offers smart organization for bows, arrows and gear in a lightweight package — up to 40 percent lighter than the competition — to minimize additional travel costs. The exterior features six heavy-duty, push-button latches, including two TSA-approved combo locks and four stainless-steel padlock hasps, as well as wheels for easy transit. The interior components provide modular storage, allowing for a range of configurations for unique bows and accessory kits. Other key features include integrated internal tie-down points to secure the bow in place, external corner tie-down points, MOLLE channels on the lid and base for modular organization, deep lid design for accessory storage and much more. MSRP: $494.95; pelican.com
RGD Waterproof Compound Bow Case
Expensive compound bows and water are not compatible, but there’s a solution. The durable 39-inches long x 18.5-inches wide x 6-inches high RGD floating, waterproof compound bow case fits most modern parallel limbed bows and keeps them secure and dry. Made from 500D PVC, it features a water-resistant zippered enclosure that protects against rain, snow and indirect water and provides full submersion protection and floats even when fully loaded. Features include an arrow pocket, dual front pockets with 6-inch zippers, rear tie-down straps, heavy-duty carrying strap with a neoprene handle and a lifetime warranty against defect. Removable foam padding provides protection and flotation. Low minimum orders and favorable terms make RGD a profitable choice for both large and small retailers. MSRP: $269.99; rgdgear.com
SKB iSeries Shaped Bow Case
The iSeries Shaped Bow Case from SKB Cases uses the same waterproof, virtually indestructible, military-grade construction of all SKB iSeries cases, but with an innovative curved bow shape that reduces weight and provides a more compact footprint. It fits bows up to 41 inches long and 17 inches wide and includes hook-and-loop tie-downs for a secure fit, storage below the bow for a dozen arrows, lid storage for a quiver and two mesh pockets for accessory boxes or other gear. Standard features include a molded-in hinge, padlock loops, patented trigger release latches (can be retrofitted with TSA-accepted key locking latches), snap-down rubber over-molded cushion grip handle, automatic ambient pressure equalization valve and are resistance to UV, solvents, corrosion, fungus and impact damage. MSRP: $289.99; skbcases.com
