2016 Gear of the Year: Browning Packs by SPG

by
posted on May 3, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
gear_of_year_2016.jpg

“Best in class” just about says it all. It announces to the world that you stand head and shoulders above your peers. To those companies whose products are featured herein, we say, “Welcome to the ‘best’ class.”

Gear of the Year: Browning Packs by SPG
Browning teamed with licensee Signature Products Group in Utah to produce some of the best pack designs we’ve seen in years. The Buck 2500RT Daypack ($199.99) and Billy 1500 Lumbar Pack ($179.99) are built from high-strength, super-light Baumshell fabric with reinforced stitching to hold more weight than you can imagine. The Bear 3500 Dry Duffel carries gear via back straps from truck to field with water-resistant, welded technology that weighs only a pound.

The Buck is water-resistant, weighs only 3.25 pounds and features: a rifle sling; treestand strap; front compression flap; silent-slide Hyposonic zipper on the hip pocket hunters use most; lash points; hunter-specific organization in numerous pockets; a roll-top enclosure for silent entry; and ventilated padding. Shoulder straps on an infinite loop move with the wearer whether drawing a bow or climbing a treestand. A cam buckle on the hip belt cinches tight and stays tight. The Billy has many of the same features but won’t leave your back sweaty.

Editor's Note: Winning products must be tested by the editors, meet or exceed expectations on innovation, and provide hunters and shooters with value for their money. NRA Publications will present the annual Golden Bullseye Awards at an invitation-only breakfast during the 2016 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Louisville, Ky., May 20-22.

Latest

Platinum Stalker Lede
Platinum Stalker Lede

New for 2026: Bergara Platinum Stalker

Bergara has introduced the Bergara Platinum Stalker, designed for hunters who appreciate the traditional look and feel of a wood stock rifle, but want the stiffness and rigidity that laminate offers.

First Look: Tuo Solent Jacket and Pant

Tuo has introduced it's Solent Jacket and Pant, designed to take hunters from the midseason all the way through that last icy eyelash of winter.

New for 2026: Ol' Man Outdoors Elevated Command Posts

For hunters seeking a sturdy and spacious elevated platform, a standard tripod or ladder stand often isn't enough. The Quad Pod series from Ol'Man Outdoors offers a solution, featuring the BaseCamp 7-foot Quad Pod (OT-702) and the Fortress Deluxe 12-foot Quad Pod (OT-703).

Beretta Releases A300 Ultima in Mossy Oak Original Bottomland and Shadow Grass

Beretta has introduced the A300 Ultima in two legendary Mossy Oak camouflage patterns: Original Bottomland and Original Shadow Grass.

No Agreement in Texas Screwworm Response Plan

A response plan in Texas, for implementation if the New World Screwworm parasite crosses the border, was unveiled by U.S. officials late last year and some ranchers are not on board with all the requirements.

Downsize for End of Season Ducks

If you slog through just one frustrating morning of hunting off the “X,” you’ll learn the biggest spreads and best calling this time of year won’t do a thing to pull ducks toward you.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.