My recent elk hunt in Wyoming involved climbing 2,000 feet each day with enough food, water, and gear to handle any bull elk that wandered my way. My pack, which would weigh 25–30 lbs., had already been a source of difficulty on previous mountain hunts. When I learned of the versatility of the new Tenzing CF Legend, I asked to borrow one for testing, the best decision of the trip. Understand that if you are an athletic 25-year-old, you could easily be my grandchild. When guys nearly 70 test aggressive mountain products with good results, you can multiply the benefits several times for younger generations. With over 80 hours in the field, here’s what I found.
First, the engineering of the pack is the best I’ve encountered. The frame is so ergonomically designed that weight seemed not to matter and I never (yes, never) had any moisture build up. At the end of most days in the mountains I end up with a base layer drenched in sweat, but not this time. I packed all my camera gear in the CF Legend and made it through airports with no trouble.
Secondly, the buckles and snaps worked extremely well. They adjusted easily, allowing me to attach a jacket to the top or bottom of the pack. After hunting with the full pack for three days, I disassembled the combination and used only the daypack section, which was very roomy and comfortable. This separation process is like the old Karate Kid movie — zip on, zip off — and the zippers are extra large, strong, and easy to operate. The side pockets are so roomy that they can carry hunting calls, snacks, emergency gear, a knife and other items.
The carbon fiber frame can tote small items as well as handle up to 400 lbs., but I left that element untested. The pack has a zip-out carry boot for a rifle, bow, or crossbow and a rainfly for bad weather. Here’s a quick outline of the three versions of the CF Legend.
KEY FEATURES:
Frame and Suspension
• Aerospace 24” Carbon Fiber Frame
• Adjustable Pre-Arched Shoulder Straps for a Perfect Fit
• Revolutionary Waist Belt System
• DYNEEMA Back Panel Shelf System
• Detachable Hip Pockets
• Multiple Straps to Secure Any Type of Load
Removable 2220 Pack
• Padded Contoured Shoulder Straps
• Fold Out Bow and Gun Carrying Boot
• Fold Out Rain Cover
• H2O Compatible (2-Liter)
Complete Pack
• 12 Total Pockets and Compartments
• 5 Specialized Zip Compartments
• Multiple Vertical and Horizontal Compression Straps
• Available in Realtree Xtra
Tenzing makes a full line of specialty packs. The CF Legend provides extended support for heavy loads and dissconnects for triple duty as a daypack or pack frame. You never seem to have enough gear in the mountains, yet here’s a way to carry what you need with no sweat. Tenzing products have received numerous recognitions for innovation and quality, including a prestigious Field & Stream Best of the Best 2012 Award for the Tenzing TZ 2220. Learn more at tenzingoutdoors.com.
