Review: Eberlestock H31 Bandit Backpack

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Finding the Perfect Pack

My pursuit of the perfect pack for scouting and mobile tree stand hunting has already lead me through several packs, some non-starters as well as some I’ve added to the arsenal, albeit for different purposes. To this point, I’ve tried and use:

• Tenzing 1440 Archery Sling Pack
• Badlands Superday
• Eberlestock X2

What I’m Looking For

All of these packs have their merits, but for this particular scenario, I was focused on the following pack characteristics:

• Breathability: Able to handle a summer scouting day in the Texas heat
• Capacity: Not overly bulky, but big enough to handle the essentials of an all day sit in the tree stand
• Adaptability: Ability to compartmentalize gear, natively or via expansion pouches
  • PAL webbing system
  • Bow integration

A Winner Emerges?

This list of needs has led me to purchase an Eberlestock H31 Bandit, a small day pack checking in with the following specs:

• Volume: 935 cubic inches
• Weight: 2lbs 5oz
• Dimensions: 18”H x 9”W x 7”D

The verdict is still out, but I think I’m on to something with this one…

DIY Building A Public Land Setup
How I incorporated my Eberlestock H31 Bandit into my mobile setup Learn How

Breathability

The back of the pack has some rather pronounced padding that is meant to breath as it sits against your back. I haven’t had the chance to test it in the warmer months, but it seems like it would provide adequate ventilation. I’ll get an update out come summer scouting.

Capacity

The pack is faily simple in terms of pockets, but they all seem to be in the right places.

The main section has dividers that I tend to store my snacks and seldom-used larger tools in. It’s also bladder compatible.

The side pockets are perfect for water bottles or other larger items such as spotting scopes, trekking poles, saws and pruners.

The top pocket is where I keep my kill kit and keys.

It’s fairly minimal, but that leads me to adaptability.

Adaptability

My favorite part of this pack is the ample amount of PAL webbing. The front flap that I use for jacket storage when walking to the stand is also perforated with PAL webbing.

Additionally, both the sides and bottom have webbing. You can see that I use the said to add a pouch that holds my phone, portable battery backup, license and tags.

I use the bottom webbing for the attachment of a bow boot if I plan to pack my bow around. It’s a small bag that can pack big given the versatility of the webbing.

DIY Making a Bow Boot for Your Eberlestock:
How I adapted a Badlands Bow Boot to my Eberlestock Learn How

Final Thoughts

I think I’ve found my go to day pack. As you can see above, it also adapts well to attach to my mobile setup if I’m planning to hang the day of the hunt.

I put it to the test through 45 degree temps and pouring rain this weekend and everything stayed dry as a bone.

It’s a versatile pack that deters me from overpacking, but give me what I need when I’m traveling light.