How to Pack a Blitz 35 for a Day of Hunting

Quick Answer

To pack your Blitz 35 for a day of hunting, start with a layered system: put heavy, less-used items at the bottom, keep frequently needed gear in the top compartment, and use the external pockets for quick access. Always distribute weight evenly and keep your hydration system easily reachable.

The Blitz 35 is a versatile daypack that can handle demanding hunts, but how you pack it can make or break your day. A well-organized pack means less fumbling, better weight distribution, and quicker access to your gear when you need it most.

In this guide, we'll walk you through a step-by-step approach to packing your Blitz 35 for a day of hunting, from the bottom up. You'll learn how to prioritize your gear, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of the pack's features.

Start with the Bottom: Heavy and Rarely Used Items

The bottom of your pack is the foundation. This is where you should place items that are heavy but not needed until the end of the day or in an emergency. Think of things like a rain shell, an extra layer, or a compact bivy sack. These items won't shift around much if they're packed tightly, and having them at the bottom keeps the center of gravity low, which helps with balance and reduces fatigue.

A common mistake is to put bulky items like a sleeping bag (if you're planning an overnight) or a large first-aid kit at the bottom, but that can make the pack feel bottom-heavy and hard to manage. Instead, use a stuff sack to compress your layers and fill any gaps with smaller items like a headlamp or a multi-tool. This keeps the load stable and prevents items from rattling around.

• Use a stuff sack to compress your rain shell and extra layers.
• Fill gaps with small items like a headlamp or a multi-tool.

Middle Layer: Heavier Gear and Food

The middle section of your pack is for items that are moderately heavy and that you might need during a break or at a moment's notice. This is a good place for your lunch, snacks, and a water filter or purification tablets. You should also store any extra ammunition or hunting-specific tools here, keeping them secure and protected.

One common mistake is to put all your food in one large container, which can be hard to access without unpacking everything. Instead, distribute snacks in smaller pouches and place them at the top of the middle layer. This way, you can grab a snack without digging through the entire pack. Also, keep your hydration reservoir (if you use one) in the dedicated sleeve, which is usually located against the back panel, to keep the weight close to your body.

• Distribute snacks in smaller pouches for easy access.
• Keep your hydration reservoir in the dedicated sleeve against your back.

Top Section: Essentials for Quick Access

The top of your pack is prime real estate for items you need to grab in a hurry. This includes your rangefinder, binoculars, a compact first-aid kit, and your hunting license or tags. If your pack has a top pocket, use it for small items like a compass, a map, or a headlamp. These are items you don't want to dig for when you spot game.

A common mistake is to overstuff the top pocket, making it hard to close or causing items to be crushed. Keep it organized with small pouches or stuff sacks. Also, remember to keep your knife or multi-tool in an easily accessible side pocket, not buried at the bottom of the main compartment.

• Use the top pocket for small, essential items.
• Keep your knife or multi-tool in a side pocket for quick access.

External Pockets and Attachment Points

The Blitz 35 features external pockets and attachment points that can be used to carry items you need to reach without taking off your pack. For example, you can attach a spotting scope or a tripod to the outside using compression straps. The side pockets are perfect for water bottles or a small stuff sack with your calls or other hunting accessories.

One mistake to avoid is overloading the outside of your pack, which can throw off your balance and make the pack unwieldy. Keep external attachments to a minimum and ensure they are securely fastened. Also, be mindful of the weather – if it's raining, you might want to cover external items with a pack cover or keep them in a dry bag.

• Attach a spotting scope or tripod with compression straps.
• Use side pockets for water bottles or calls.

Step-by-Step Packing Process

1. Step 1: Pack the Bottom: Place heavy, rarely used items like a rain shell and extra layers at the bottom. Use a stuff sack to compress them and fill gaps with small items. Checkpoint: Ensure the bottom is stable and doesn't shift when you walk.
2. Step 2: Add the Middle Layer: Put moderately heavy gear like food and a water filter in the middle. Distribute snacks in small pouches and keep your hydration reservoir against your back. Checkpoint: Make sure you can access snacks without unpacking everything.
3. Step 3: Fill the Top Section: Store quick-access items like a rangefinder, binoculars, and first-aid kit in the top. Use the top pocket for small essentials and keep a knife in a side pocket. Checkpoint: Ensure the top pocket isn't overstuffed and closes securely.
4. Step 4: Use External Pockets: Attach items like a spotting scope or tripod to the outside using compression straps. Use side pockets for water bottles or calls. Checkpoint: Keep external attachments minimal and securely fastened.
5. Step 5: Adjust and Test: Put on the pack and adjust the shoulder straps, hip belt, and load lifters. Walk around to ensure the load feels balanced and comfortable. Checkpoint: A well-adjusted pack should feel like part of your body.

Product Facts

• Blitz 35: Built for demanding days and unknown routes. The BLITZ 35 delivers the capacity, comfort, and toughness to carry more and go farther. The Blitz 35 is designed to handle the rigors of a day hunt, providing enough space for all your essentials while maintaining a comfortable fit.
• Pintler Pack: The Pintler Pack is a full-featured overnight hunting pack, thoughtfully designed for the specialized minimalist who values efficiency and reliability in the field. If you find yourself needing to extend your hunt into an overnight trip, the Pintler Pack offers a streamlined solution for carrying more gear.

Packing your Blitz 35 for a day of hunting doesn't have to be complicated. By following this step-by-step approach, you'll have a well-organized pack that keeps your gear accessible and your load balanced. Remember to adjust your pack properly and test it before heading out. With the right setup, you can focus on the hunt, not your gear.