Is the Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack All Talk?
As an equipment specialist with over a decade immersed in diverse environments – from rugged outdoors to meticulously controlled labs and demanding field conditions – I’ve learned to spot the genuine article. The Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack arrived at a time when my existing daypack was starting to show its age, struggling to keep up with the disorganized chaos of my hunting trips. I needed something that offered dedicated organization for whitetail specific gear, without sacrificing overall capacity or comfort. While many packs tout their features, I was looking for a true workhorse. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of pleasant surprise; the quiet Mossy Oak Break-Up Country fabric felt robust yet pliable, and the overall construction suggested attention to detail. I had briefly considered a more tactical-style pack, but its bulk and lack of specific hunting features steered me away. This Allen pack, however, offered a promising blend of specialized design and functional capacity, sparking a genuine curiosity to see if it could live up to its Bruiser moniker.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds were familiar whitetail woods during early season hunts. I loaded the pack with essentials: layers, calls, rangefinder, snacks, water, and basic first-aid. The fold-down workstation was an immediate revelation; having my calls and small accessories neatly organized and accessible while perched in a treestand was a significant improvement over fumbling in a main compartment. The stretch pouches held my grunt tube and diaphragm calls securely, and the removable patch with elastic loops was surprisingly versatile for securing a scent bomb and my rangefinder.
Conditions were variable, with cool mornings giving way to warmer afternoons, and a brief, light drizzle tested its water resistance. The pack’s material shed the moisture effectively, though I did wish for an integrated rain cover for heavier downpours. The comfort was noticeable even on longer hikes; the padded shoulder straps and ventilated back panel kept sweat manageable. A small quirk emerged during my first extended use: the gun/bow carry system, while clever in its stowaway design, took a moment to deploy and secure my rifle properly.
Extended Use & Reliability
Weeks turned into a couple of months, and this daypack became my go-to for nearly every whitetail excursion. It consistently proved its worth in organizing a wide array of gear, from spare gloves and hats to lunch and emergency supplies. The main compartment’s wide opening was a godsend for quickly stowing or retrieving bulky items like extra jackets.
Durability has been impressive so far; the quiet fabric has resisted snags from branches, and the zippers, while feeling solid on initial inspection, have continued to operate smoothly under regular use. I haven’t encountered any fraying or structural weaknesses, which is a testament to its build quality. Maintenance has been minimal – a quick brush down after dusty outings and an occasional wipe of the interior. Compared to some lighter-weight daypacks I’ve used in the past that started showing wear within a season, this pack feels built for the long haul, rivaling some more expensive, established brands.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack
Specifications
The Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack boasts a substantial 2350 cubic inches of storage capacity, translating to approximately 38.5 liters. This generous volume is constructed from a quiet Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo fabric, designed to minimize noise in the field. The pack’s dimensions are 14 inches x 21 inches x 8 inches, making it a medium-sized day pack suitable for a full day’s outing. It is also hydration compatible, with a dedicated slot for a bladder (not included). The pack’s weight comes in at 4.7 lb, which is on the heavier side for a daypack but understandable given its robust construction and features.
These specifications translate directly into practical benefits for the user. The ample 2350 cubic inches capacity ensures you can carry all necessary hunting essentials without compromise. The quiet fabric is crucial for whitetail hunting, where sound can spook game. Its hydration compatibility is a standard but essential feature for longer treks, ensuring you can stay hydrated. While the 4.7 lb weight might seem significant, it’s a trade-off for the pack’s extensive organizational features and durable build.
Performance & Functionality
The core function of the Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack is to serve as an organized and accessible carrying solution for whitetail hunters. Its performance in this regard is largely excellent, particularly due to the innovative fold-down workstation. This feature provides an unparalleled level of organization and ease of access to calls, calls accessories, and small essentials while in a stationary position, like a treestand. The primary compartment’s wide opening facilitates quick loading and unloading of larger items, which is a significant advantage when time is of the essence.
However, there are areas where performance could be enhanced. While the adjustable gun or bow carry system is a useful addition, its deployment and securement can be slightly fiddly. Additionally, the pack lacks an integrated rain fly, a common feature on many higher-end daypacks, meaning its protection against heavy precipitation relies solely on the included, albeit useful, reversible rain fly which must be manually deployed from its hidden pouch. Overall, it excels at its primary mission of organization and accessibility but has minor points for improvement in deployment speed and all-weather readiness.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack is clearly focused on the whitetail hunter’s needs. The Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camouflage pattern is effective and unobtrusive in its intended environment. The fold-down workstation is the standout ergonomic feature, transforming the pack into a functional mobile desk. This design element significantly enhances usability in a treestand, keeping critical items within reach and organized.
The shoulder straps are commendably molded and padded, featuring air mesh sections that promote breathability and reduce heat buildup during hikes. The addition of two large pockets on the padded waist belt is a thoughtful touch, allowing quick access to items like a flashlight, GPS, or snacks without removing the pack. While the pack’s overall dimensions are reasonable for its capacity, it can feel a bit bulky when fully loaded and navigating dense underbrush, though this is a common trade-off for larger capacity packs.
Durability & Maintenance
The Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack appears built for sustained use in rugged conditions. The use of a quiet, durable fabric suggests it can withstand the rigors of the field, including brushing against branches and general wear and tear. The zippers, while not specified as being heavy-duty, have functioned flawlessly in my testing period, showing no signs of stiffness or snagging, which are often early indicators of potential failure.
Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down of the interior and exterior is usually sufficient. The fabric is not overly porous, so dirt and debris don’t tend to adhere aggressively. The most critical element for long-term durability will likely be the integrity of the stitching at stress points and the continued function of the zippers. Based on the initial impression and my extended use, I anticipate this daypack will hold up well for several seasons of regular whitetail hunting.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack comes with a few key integrated accessories that enhance its functionality. The fold-down workstation itself is a prime example, featuring two pouches with stretch closures, a removable patch with elastic loops, and a mesh zippered pocket. This built-in organization is excellent. A significant included accessory is the hidden pouch for the reversible rain fly, ensuring you’re prepared for unexpected weather.
Customization is somewhat limited in the traditional sense, as this is a purpose-built pack. However, the removable patch with elastic loops offers a degree of personalization for arranging scent products or essential tools. The hydration compatible feature means users can easily add their preferred hydration bladder. While there are no modular attachment points for external accessories like MOLLE webbing, the pack’s internal organization is so robust that such additions are unlikely to be necessary for its intended use.
Pros and Cons of Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack
Pros
- Exceptional organization: The fold-down workstation with dedicated pouches and loops is a game-changer for treestand hunters.
- Quiet fabric: The Mossy Oak Break-Up Country fabric minimizes noise, which is critical for spooking whitetail deer.
- Ample storage: 2350 cubic inches provides plenty of space for a full day’s hunt.
- Comfortable carrying: Padded, breathable shoulder straps and air mesh sections enhance comfort during long treks.
- Waist belt pockets: Convenient access to essentials on the go.
- Includes reversible rain fly: Provides essential weather protection.
Cons
- Heavier weight: At 4.7 lb, it’s on the heavier side for a daypack.
- Gun/bow carry system deployment: Can be slightly fiddly to deploy and secure quickly.
- No integrated rain cover: Relies on a separate, albeit included, rain fly for full weather protection.
Who Should Buy Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack?
The Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack is an ideal choice for dedicated whitetail deer hunters who spend significant time in treestands or ground blinds. Its specialized organizational features, particularly the fold-down workstation, are perfectly suited for keeping calls, rangefinders, and other small, essential items readily accessible and organized. This pack is also a great option for hunters who carry a moderate amount of gear for day-long excursions and prioritize minimizing noise in the field.
Individuals who prioritize ultralight gear or need a multi-purpose pack for various outdoor activities beyond whitetail hunting might find this model a bit too specialized and heavy. Those who frequently hunt in extremely wet conditions might also consider a pack with a permanently attached rain cover, though the included fly offers excellent protection. For maximizing comfort and organization during long sits, I highly recommend pairing it with a quality hydration bladder system.
Conclusion on Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack
The Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack delivers on its promise to provide a feature-rich and highly functional carrying solution for the serious whitetail hunter. The 2350 cubic inches of storage, combined with the innovative fold-down workstation, offers a superior level of organization and accessibility that truly enhances the hunting experience. While its 4.7 lb weight is a consideration, it’s a justifiable trade-off for the robust construction, quiet fabric, and comprehensive features. The comfortable harness system and practical waist belt pockets further elevate its usability.
Considering its price point of $116.49, this daypack represents excellent value for the specialized features it offers. It not only meets but often exceeds expectations for a hunting-specific pack in its class. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Allen Gear Fit Pursuit Bruiser Whitetail Daypack to any whitetail hunter looking to streamline their gear management and improve their efficiency in the field. It’s a well-designed, durable pack that truly understands the needs of its target user.