Every year, the load of gear I need to carry afield while hunting seems to increase. Hunting knives, elk calls, gloves, binoculars, snacks, camera gear, phone battery banks—all of it needs a place.

As a western hunter, the backpack I select to go over my shoulders matters. Janky, subpar builds lead to discomfort. When you're uncomfortable, you're more likely to be distracted. If you're thinking ...