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In response to the demand for a versatile backcountry hunting pack, Eberlestock has upgraded the benchmark set by the renowned Team Elk with the introduction of the V2. Maintaining the exceptional patented rifle-back scabbard and a robust aluminum frame designed for bearing heavy loads, the Team Elk V2 goes a step further by incorporating an innovative meat-carrying system. This allows the pack to seamlessly detach from the frame, facilitating the transportation of game from deep in the backcountry.
Boasting deep side pockets, an expansive floating lid, and an ergonomic hip belt system, the V2 aims to fulfill the needs of elk hunters. Beyond its impressive features, Eberlestock takes pride in its commitment to conservation by pledging to donate “10% of every sale of the Team Elk pack” to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
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Eberlestock Team Elk V2 Specifications:
- Volume Lid: 392 c.i. / 35.64L
- Volume Bag: 2,175 c.i.
- Weight: 6.5lbs
- Dimensions: 35.5”H x 11”W x 1.75”D
Meat Carrying System
The most distinctive feature that sets hunting packs apart from backpacking packs is the inclusion of a meat shelf or some other versatile way to haul awkward-shaped heavy loads. Eberlestock designed the Team Elk V2 for efficiently carrying these heavy and awkward loads. Their pack features a “no shelf frame” by utilizing a sewn-in load panel that allows the pack to unfold. This allows for easily placing quarters or other gear on the meat-carrying system. It eliminates the need to unpack and re-organize the rest of the pack.
Once the desired gear is placed on the sewn-in load panel, simply fold the pack back up. Then cinch everything down nice and tight with the lengthy straps. Due to this design, it was easy for me to store my tent and sleeping bag. I put them in a trash bag within the load panel for hiking into the backcountry.
In a pinch, this could even be used to carry out an injured buddy. While my wife said it is more uncomfortable than a climbing harness, the pack can definitely fit a person as well. To prove this I had my wife jump in the sewn-in load panel. I wanted to show that even arms and legs fit with this folding style of carrying system.
Internal Storage On The Team Elk
Within the main compartment of the Eberlestock Team Elk V2, there is a divider and a large open space for stuffing essential gear. This main compartment is accessible through the top drawstring opening, or even through the front with the zipper access provided.
Having a dual access system makes accessing gear stored at different levels in the pack possible. It removes the need to completely dump the pack and re-organize everything. The interior of all compartments features a water-resistant lining which worked well for me in the snow.
While I am accustomed to backpacking on long camping trips, I was initially concerned about the Team Elk V2’s storage capacity of only 2,175 cubic inches. I normally use roughly a 7,000 cubic inch pack for weeklong trips. However, the folding meat-carrying system allowed me to easily store the big bulky items such as my tent and sleeping bag.
Floating Lid
One of the most used components of this pack is the floating lid on the top of the pack. With two storage compartments, it serves as an ideal space for storing snacks, frequently used gear, or emergency supplies. Additionally, this floating lid doubles as an effective cover for the drawstring opening and employs four straps for securely fastening down gear. It’s important to note that when using the rifle scabbard, the floating lid must be in place before inserting the rifle. On multiple occasions, I inadvertently placed my rifle in the scabbard and secured my gear in the meat-carrying system, only to realize the lid was open. This required me to loosen everything, remove the rifle, and correctly position the lid. To improve convenience, I would like Eberlestock to consider adding buckles that allow the floating lid to be removable, aligning with the style of my backpacking packs.
READ MORE: Building Barricades for Long Range Rifle Practice
Side Pockets
The side pockets on the Team Elk V2 are admirably large. During my testing, I spent a week hiking in the mountains with a Vortex Razor 27-60 spotting scope. It fits perfectly in the side pocket. Both sides feature large compartments and drawstring elastic bottle holders. In addition to this, they utilize large black straps that secure gear such as tripods or trekking poles.
Hip Belt
All load-bearing packs need a robust and comfortable belt and strap system. Eberlestock utilizes a tri-glide system for the hip belt which provides a more comfortable fit. The belt is easily cinched down once it is put on, and the pads distribute the load well. While I was unsuccessful in shooting an elk to pack out, I did hike around 25 miles with up to 65 lbs of gear. The Team Elk V2 carried this weight well and stayed as comfortable as a pack can with this amount of weight.
Rifle Scabbard
One of my most appreciated features of Team Elk V2 is the utilization of a rifle scabbard. This can be folded up and used as extra storage when a rifle is not being carried. However, when hunting it is beneficial to have quick access to a rifle. The rifle will fit nearly all rifle configurations. I found the ideal overall length to be less than 50″, but I was still able to carry my Weatherby with a 26″ barrel, 8″ SilencerCo suppressor, Vortex 6-36 scope with a Vortex Ranger 4000 ballistic calculator. My rifle was far from the sleek compact option that most people go for, but this scabbard worked even for me.
Eberlestock Team Elk V2 Summary
After living out of the Eberlestock Team Elk V2 for 5 days, I am quite impressed. The pack held up great and was more comfortable than I ever thought it could be. Thanks to the internal Intex II frame, the pack maintains its shape and effectively distributes the load. The clever meat-carrying system adds exceptional versatility, while the rifle scabbard ensures swift access to a rifle in the backcountry. With various color schemes and an MSRP of $399, the updated V2 version of the Team Elk pack offers a compelling package. Personally, I foresee myself relying on this pack for an extended period.