Kifaru Shape Charge Backpack Review

Is This Backpack Worth It? | Kifaru Shape Charge Review

Is the Kifaru Shape Charge backpack worth all the hype (and the price)?

It certainly carries a hefty price tag, that’s for sure. But, you know the saying, “you get what you pay for.” Well, we wanted to find out if it was indeed worth the cost of admission… so let’s dive right in to what we learned!

 Kifaru Shape Charge Backpack Up Close

kifaru shape charge unboxing

This is how the Shape Charge came right out of the package.

Many backpack hunters will ask right away, “so how much does it weigh? Well, the Shape Charge weighs right at 4 pounds. Obviously, it packs up pretty tightly, but we wanted to take a closer look and see what it looks like inside and what kind of advantages it has for the backpack hunter, saddle hunter, or anyone that needs to carry their gear into the woods or mountains with them.

The Outside Of The Pack

Kifaru Shape Charge Backpack so well made

So, the first thing we noticed about the Shape Charge is that it’s just so well-put together. It feels so high quality. Everything about it, the stitching on the MOLLE webbing to the quality of the zippers and other materials… everything was just very high quality. So, that was a huge plus right off the bat.

Kifaru Shape Charge Handle stitching

There were also many little details that were also pretty impressive. It looks like they just thought of everything. It comes with stout, high quality zippers and handle material (shown here), with every stitch being meticulously sewn. It was evident that superior quality is paramount with Kifaru’s offerings. And, we hadn’t even gotten to the inside of the pack yet!

One thing we appreciate in hunting equipment, whether it be a deer stand, or archery equipment, or a backpack, is just the attention to detail. And we could tell right off the bat that not only has Kifaru put a lot of thought and effort into creating this backpack, but they’ve used high quality components and materials. Everything from the stitching on the MOLLE webbing to the material that they make the handles out of — everything is very high quality.

Shirts For The Bowhunter!

Kifaru Shape Charge Zipper holders

Kifaru thought of everything… even way to tuck under the zippers!

handles on Kifaru Shape Charge

It’s got a handle on both ends, both very well-constructed, from solid material.

Be sure you know THESE deer hunting tips!
Kifaru Shape Charge MOLLE webbing on waist straps

Also, on the external part of the waist trap, you’ve also got four rows (two on each strap) of 5-section MOLLE webbing, which gives you more options to attach gear or other pouches.

Kifaru shape charge insert

The Shape Charge backpack has an internal 18-inch sheet frame, which gives you the ability to carry a good amount of gear without committing to a full framed pack.

Kifaru shape charge top pocket with key hook

The lid has some zippered pockets. This one on top has a key hook.

The top stoves for backpacking HERE!
Kifaru stretch tweave pockets

It’s also got a large center pocket with three slots, made of 4-way stretch tweave with elastic reinforcement.

KIfaru shape charge zippers of main pouch

The lid will continue to zip all the way around and down to make it a full top and front-loading pack with zippers at the bottom on each side.

Kifaru Shape Charge MOLLE webbing stitching

The front panel of the backpack has 8 rows by 4 channels of the MOLLE webbing.

Kifaru Shape Charge outer drink pockets

It’s also got two outer pockets for holding water bottles or spotting scopes.

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Kifaru Shape Charge padded vented back

Here’s a look at the breathable, padded back material. This pack comes in a small, medium, and large. The small is for a 28 to 33-inch waist, the medium is 34 to 38 inches, and the large is a 39 plus inches.

Inside The Pack

The Shape Charge is a 2,050 cubic inch pack.

Inside of Kifaru Shape Charge pack

It has some nice, mesh pockets on the inside.

Kifaru Shape Charge inner MOLLE webbing

You’ve also got 8 rows of 8 channels of MOLLE webbing. It has also got a bladder-hanging tab and also a chamber pocket connection point.

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Kifaru Shape Charge Size Chart

Kifaru Shape Charge backpack with or without waist belt

The Shape Charge can be purchased with or without the waist belt.

Kifarua Shape Chart Sizing Chart

Experimenting With The Shape Charge

Now, I know we’ve got a lot of you saddle hunters out there, and this pack is used by a lot of saddle hunters. However, there are those who only hunt with climbing stands or use lock-ons/hang-on stands. So, we wanted to do is I wanted to see if this pack could handle a heavier setup.

Kifru Shape Charge Backpack with lock on and steps

We took an XPO Air Raid lock-on that we had and some Hawk Helium steps and strapped them the back of the Shape Charge to see if it could handle a heavier load and to see how it felt when wearing it.

After walking out in the woods for a little while with the Shape Charge backpack on with a lock-on stand and some steps (around 30 pounds total), we learned some things. The shaped molded insert in the back of the Shape Charge really does keep the weight off of your lower back and it keeps the pack from sliding down. That is definitely a plus.

This would make the Shape Charge very beneficial, even in the pre-season, for those hanging lock-ons, as it would give them the ability to strap on the stand and the steps and have both hands free.

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Final Thoughts On Kifaru Shape Charge Backpack

We absolutely love this backpack for hunting. You could tell that the folks at Kifaru put a lot of time and effort into thinking through not only what the hunter needs in the field, but also the overall quality, from the stitching, to the components and materials. Everything is crafted in a top-notch manner.

We are confident saddle hunters will appreciate this pack, but, if you’re someone who hangs stands before the season, it’s a great way to not only strap on your lock-on and your steps, but also have your hands free. And, we know from testing it that it can handle the weight of that and still stay off of your back, due to the molded insert inside of the backpack.

Happy and safe hunting!

 

muck boots alpha pursuit review

Waterproof Wonder From Muck Boots? | The Alpha Pursuit Review

I have always thought and even made mention before to other people that if someone could come up with a hiking boot a hunting boot that’s waterproof and had a waterproof upper that wasn’t neoprene on the outside, that was also flexible and comfortable, that the boot could do really well.

Well, I think that boot is finally here… it’s the Alpha Pursuit from the Muck Boot Company!

Muck boots box for all that lies ahead

Muck Boots tagline is, “For All That Lies Ahead.” Well, we wanted to see what lie ahead with the Alpha Pursuit boots, so we found out!

Alpha Pursuit Boots From Muck | A Closer Look

muck boots alpha pursuit unboxing

The Alpha Pursuit looked sharp coming out of the box…

muck boots alpha pursuit ankle notch

They say this Notch right here helps with Achilles fatigue… where I come from that’s called, “ankle don’t feel good!”

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muck boots alpha pursuit memory foam foot bed

But, the Alpha Pursuit boots have a memory foam insole…

muck boots alpha pursuit soft upper

…and the soft, flexible shell is a game-changer as well, as most boots in this category tend to be stiff and inflexible. With these factors, in addition to the achilles cutout, and I’m just telling you, they are comfortable!

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muck boots alpha pursuit tread

The tread on the Alpha Pursuit boots is rugged, yet the boot is still extremely “soft” to walk in, due to the memory foam insole.

muck boots alpha pursuit walking in the creek water

So, as you’re walking through the woods, whether it be hiking or hunting, and navigating wet and rainy conditions, this boot performs fantastically!

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Men's Alpha Pursuit Ankle Boot

Men’s Alpha Pursuit Ankle Boot

THE PINNACLE OF MUCKPROOF PURSUIT BOOTS Featuring Realtree� APX camo, the new Alpha Pursuit boot is built for high endurance pursuit and all terrain adventure. 100% waterproof, 100% MUCKPROOF, the lace up construction provides a tailored fit while the Muckskin overlays gives additional protection without adding unnecessary weight. The notched heel collar eliminates Achilles fatigue, and the rubber heel reinforcement keeps your feet always protected. The midsole is made from BioLite, a top-level, lightweight foam, as well as an aggressive rubber outsole for better traction and debris dispersion.

Final Thoughts On The Alpha Pursuit

It’s hard to come up with something that’s really new in the boot category. However, the Muck Boot Company has done it with the Alpha Pursuit boots. They are extremely comfortable (thanks to the memory foam and soft outer shell), versatile, and of course, 100% Muck-Proof! We would definitely recommend these boots.

Enjoy God’s creation outdoors!

bushcraft survival skills header

Learn 7 Essential Bushcraft & Survival Skills For Beginners

Bushcraft and survival skills are important for thriving inside and outside, offering you the equipment to be self-reliant, adaptable, and creative.

In this article we’ll cover beginner bushcraft and survival skills you’ll need to know to help you gain self-confidence, so that you can feel prepared in a wide variety of unforeseen circumstances.

snowy river

You never know when you’ll need them! Being proficient in bushcraft survival skills can be very worthwhile, whether you’re an avid camper, an outdoors enthusiast, or just someone who’s on the lookout for being prepared for emergencies.

What Is Bushcraft?

Bushcraft refers to dwelling sustainably within the wild, using herbal assets and traditional skills to fulfill simple needs like shelter, food, and water.

man starting fire

While bushcraft and survival skills may overlap, bushcraft leans more toward long-term residing, while survival is a more oriented towards disaster.

Bushcraft emphasizes a deep bond with nature and the expertise to work with the surroundings.

Survival skills are centered on overcoming short-time emergencies and situations in which instantaneous action is needed to ensure safety and well-being.

Why Learn Bushcraft and Survival Skills?

Learning these skills offers several benefits:

  1. Self-reliance. You’ll know how to handle emergencies independently.
  2. Adventure. Skills like fireplace-making and foraging increase outdoor adventure possibilities.
  3. Emergency preparedness. You’ll be more prepared to deal with unexpected conditions, from getting lost to natural disasters.
  4. Mental well-being. Bushcraft can reduce stess and improve intellectual abilities.

Beginner Bushcraft & Survival Skills

1. Fire-Making: The Foundation of Survival

public land hunting fire starter

Mastering the skill of fire making is a cornerstone of bushcraft. Fire presents warmth, allows for cooked meals, purifies water and provides safety.

Bushcraft techniques to start a fire you should learn:

  • Ferro rod. A ferro rod (also referred to as a spark rod or ferrocerium rod) is a fire-starting tool that produces sparks when scraped against a hard surface, such as iron, steel, or certain types of rock, even in damp conditions. It is beginner friendly.
  • Flint and steel. Flint and Steel is a traditional way of fire starting. You start by striking the flint stone off of a steel striker. The sparks that this produces will ignite a flammable material that you can then use to ignite other small particles (twigs, leaves, etc.) to start a fire.  
  • Bow drill. A primitive method of fire making that requires skill and patience, but that can be very rewarding to the fire starter. This method uses fireboard (typically woods like cottonwood, cedar, sycamore, poplar and aspen), a spindle (either the same type of wood as the fireboard or harder) and a cord or string to create friction that eventually gets so hot that it creates an ember that can be used to start a fire.

Fire making tips for beginners:

  • Gather dry grass, bark shavings, or cotton that you can use as your “fuel.”
  • Build your fire in layers: tinder, kindling, and larger logs.
  • Practice in various weather conditions to build confidence.
Tips for fifth-wheel trailer camping HERE!

2. Shelter Building: Protection from the Elements

shelter inside tree

Shelters are crucial for staying safe and comfortable while in the wild. They can help protect you from rain, wind, and cold temperatures.

Below are some simple shelter types for beginners:

  • Debris hut. Build a frame from sturdy branches and cover it with leaves and moss.
  • Lean-to shelter. Use a fallen tree or a pole as the primary support, leaning branches against it and covering them with debris.
  • Tarp shelter. A versatile option if you carry a tarp. Learn knots like the taut-line hitch to secure it.

Shelter-building tips for success:

  • When building a shelter, choose a location away from hazards like falling branches or rising water.
  • Insulate the ground with leaves or grass to retain body heat.
  • Building a shelter can be very taxing, so be sure to pace yourself and conserve your much-needed energy.

Note: A reliable axe bushcraft device is also an extremely helpful tool for constructing shelters, as well as gathering firewood. See more helpful tools in the table at the end of this article.

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Review of Rocky Trophy Series Outdoor Boots HERE!

3. Finding and Purifying Water

boiling water over campfire

Staying hydrated is crucial in a survival situation. While rivers and streams might look clean, they often contain harmful bacteria.

How to find water in nature:

  • Look for animal tracks, green vegetation, or low-lying areas. The lowest lying areas will often contain/hold water or moisture.
  • Collect rainwater or morning dew using tarps or leaves.

Water purification methods:

Method                      ProsCons
Boiling            Kills all pathogensRequires fire and container
Water Filter    Easy and portable      Limited lifespan
Purification TabletsLightweight and effectiveMay leave a chemical taste

4. Navigation Skills

compass and map

Getting lost in the wilderness can be life-threatening. Learn basic navigation skills to stay oriented.

Things to help you to navigate in the wilderness:

  • Compass: Understand how to use it with a map to set bearings.
  • Landmarks: Make note of natural features like mountains, rivers, or rock formations.
  • The sun and stars: Learn to find cardinal directions (i.e. North, South, East, West) based on the sun’s movement, or by constellations like the North Star.
  • Pro tip: If possible, carry a detailed map of the area you are exploring and practice navigation before heading into unfamiliar terrain.
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03/14/2025 08:28 am GMT
Does your type of camping make THIS list?

5. Foraging for Food

mushrooms foraging

Nature provides plenty of edible plants, nuts, berries, and fungi. However, proper identification is critical.

Rules for safe foraging:

  • Learn first: When foraging for food, use a reliable field guide or attend a foraging workshop prior to your first attempt.
  • The universal edibility test: Test for unknown plants by checking for adverse reactions (only as a last resort). This involves a series of steps that gradually expose your body to the plant over the course of a day. The test includes smelling the plant, (avoding plants with almond, acidic, or bitter smells), making contact with your inner elbow or wrist for 8 hours to test for contact poisoning/adverse skin reactions), and a 15-minute taste test, where you would chew it and hold in your mouth for 15 minutes before ingesting. If you have determined you can ingest the food, you would swallow and wait 8 hours to find if there are any adverse reactions. You would also drink plenty of filtered water during the 8-hour period.
  • Avoid lookalikes: Many edible plants have poisonous doppelgangers, so always be wary of poisonous imposters.

Beginner-friendly foraging foods:

  • Dandelion leaves and roots.
  • Wild berries like blackberries and raspberries.
  • Acorns (after leaching tannins with water).
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6. Basic First Aid                                      

first aid kit for survival kit

Injuries can happen, even during simple outdoor activities. Knowing basic first aid is essential.

Key first-aid skills:

  • Wound care: Clean cuts with water, apply antiseptic and cover them with a bandage.
  • Splinting: Use sticks and cloth to stabilize broken bones or sprains.
  • CPR: Become certified in CPR and learn how to revive someone who has stopped breathing.
  • Pro tip: Carry a first-aid kit tailored for outdoor activities, including bandages, antiseptics, and tools like tweezers.

7. Knots and Ropes

bowline knot

Knots (like this blowline knot) are versatile tools in bushcraft, essential for shelter building, climbing, or securing items.

Top knots to learn:

  • Square knot: For securing two ropes together.
  • Bowline: Creates a secure loop that won’t tighten.
  • Clove hitch: A quick way to secure a rope to a post or tree.
Tips every kayak fisherman should know HERE!

How to Practice Bushcraft Safely

  1. Start small: Practice basic skills like fire-making or shelter-building in your backyard or a nearby park.
  2. Respect nature: Leave no trace, ensuring you don’t harm the environment.
  3. Join a group: Learning bushcraft with others accelerates progress and provides safety.
  4. Take a course: Many organizations offer bushcraft courses tailored for beginners.

Essential Gear for Beginners

Investing in the right gear can make learning bushcraft and survival easier and safer.

Item                PurposeRecommended Features
Knife   Cutting, carving, and food prep    Full tang, durable steel
Fire Starter     Creating fire easily     Waterproof
Tarp                Shelter buildingLightweight, durable
Water Bottle/Filter      Hydration       BPA-free, portable filter
Compass                    NavigationHigh-quality, liquid-filled
Is this the PERFECT hunting backpack? [Kifaru Shape Charge]

Final Thoughts On Bushcraft Survival Skills

Learning bushcraft and survival abilities is an enriching journey that connects you with nature and equips you for challenges. Start with basic skills like fire-making, shelter-building, and navigation, and build your confidence little by little. Remember, learning bushcraft survival skills takes time to master, so get started soon!