Backpack around the waist
BOG is primarily known for producing high-quality shooting supports, but they also offer a range of backpacks, complemented by a chest panel and the BOG Ultimatum carrying system, which we tested in the field.
The BOG Ultimatum Lumbar Funny Pack is a carrying system with storage compartments located around the waist in several pockets towards the lower back, with a total capacity of around 20 liters. The front is free, and each side has a fairly large pocket with external loops for attaching additional accessories. These pockets connect to the main storage compartment in the form of a large back "bag." On its exterior, there are two smaller and one central larger pocket for smaller gear, also fitted with loops. The weight distributionis supported by built-in straps and a wide, anatomically shaped yoke with a balance of firmness and softness just right—not too tight, but also not just a"piece of fabric." On the underside, you have two straps for attaching more gear, and there's a handling "loop" on the back. The result is truly comfortable even when fully loaded. Nothing pinches, nothing shifts side to side, the front doesn’t pull the buckle up, and it doesn't restrict movement, even during long hikes.
For the test, I replaced my backpack with the Ultimatum, carrying all the gear I needed for two days of camping in the wilderness, and apart from some slightly sweaty back after walking 2x12 kilometers, I had no complaints about comfort. Additionally, I tried loading and carrying the Ultimatum with various hunting gear for a short patrol of the hunting grounds, a full day of stalking, a stakeout, and, of course, I checked how it worked with carrying a rifle.
I took the Ultimatum with all the camping gear I needed for the wilderness, and I have no complaints.
Excellently manufactured
The quality of this "carry system" is immediately apparent upon closer inspection. The craftsmanship is flawless—no loose threads, only quality zippers, and the 420D Micro-Ripstop material in neutral color won't offend either conservatives or modernists. The design is well thought out, the stitching comfortable, and I can assure you, nothing rustles or jingles. Additionally, the gear is quite lightweight, weighing just slightly over one kilogram. I found no shortcomings here. The length of the straps and waist circumference are adjustable across a wide range, but I did encounter a minor issue with the side pockets. These are fastened in the front by adjustable straps, but if you have a slim figure, even when fully tightened, the pockets may still protrude a little from the sides. However, if you unfasten the Velcro that secures the excess strap length and tighten it all the way, the issue is more or less resolved.
The sidep ocket is just the right size for most thermal imaging scopes, and you can also fit regular cameras and, of course, a rangefinder. In short, it’s perfect for items that need to be quickly accessible. The pockets are easy to reach, you can see inside them, and they hold their shape. I can imagine bird hunters using them to carry loose shotgun shells. It's not a problem to access the smaller rear pockets either, which are ideal for small items like spare ammunition, batteries, a folding knife, spare magazines, and similar items. My one critique here is that the pockets could use a few more internal elastic loops for cartridges, so they would stay securely in place. Only in the rearpocket will you find a few mesh dividers that neatly organize the interior. You can access the main compartment and the rear pocket by feel, but the accessibility remains good.
Thanks to the well-designed anatomical yoke, with just the right balance of firmness and softness, the carrying system is extremely comfortable even when fully loaded.
The side pockets can fit a thermal imager, camera, or rangefinder—basically anything you need to have quickly accessible.
For slimmer users, the side pocket may protrude.
The carrying system can hold everything you need for a multi-day hunt or camping trip.
For an afternoon or two days
The straps are subtle enough not to chafe when carrying a rifle sling or backpack straps over them, yet wide and form-holding enough to allow for ventilation without cutting into the skin. Their movement is prevented by a chest strap with a buckle. If for some reason the straps are not suitable for you, they can easily be detached from the base and used independently.
The pocket layout and capacity are excellent, suitable for half a day in the field or a two-day expedition with overnight camping, fitting everything you might need. I had no trouble packing a hammock, tarp, inflatable mat, mess kit, and jacket into the main pocket. Additionally, if the space is not enough, the pack can be combined with a backpack worn on the back, or you can secure extra gear under or on top of the main compartment using the strap system. For example, I easily carried a sleeping bag underneath it. If you don't want to carry a knife in one of the pockets, you can attach it to the loops on the side pockets or conveniently between the pocket and the base, where a strap is provided for this purpose.
As for shortcomings, they are mostly minor. Instead of robust, proprietary attachments on the back and sides, I would have preferred a more universal, traditional MOLLE system, but for hunting purposes, what’s provided is sufficient. What Ido miss a little, however, is a separate pocket for a water bottle. You can, of course, carry it in the main bag, where it’s relatively easy and quick to insert and remove, or use a camelback and route the hose over your shoulder, but a dedicated pocket would be more convenient, even if it came at the cost ofs pace in the main bag.
Rifle yes, pistol no
Many hunters may wonder about how a firearm will carry with this system, but it works perfectly whether you're using the classic European method with the barrel pointing upward, the African style with the barrel pointing down, or theAmerican way of carrying it on the back with the barrel upward. The rifle fits well in the space between the pockets and stays in place without negatively impacting the ability to quickly shoulder the weapon. The only thing to watch for is if the main bag is really stuffed full, it's advisable to leave the small rear pocket on the side where you carry the weapon empty. I personally carry my rifle across my back, and this position works great with the carrying system. On the other hand, if you're carrying a pistol for self-defense in the traditional 4-5 o’clock position, you won’t be able to access it quickly over the carrying system, and it may even cause discomfort. One option is to get a chest panel for the gun, carry it in one of the side pockets, or place the holster with the gun between the side pocket and the base, where it fits snugly. However, this would require adding a flap for the space to comply with concealed carry requirements.
BOG is known as a manufacturer of premium quality products, and they have never shied away from reflecting this in the higher price of their products. The Ultimatum is no exception. On the market, it costs 3,469 CZK, which is not exactly cheap. However, the quality is uncompromising and reflects the price. The carrying system is very comfortable and practical, with better accessibility and organization of your gear compared to a backpack. In addition to its general application for all types of hunting, it’s especially a good choice for situations where you'll be walking a lot in challenging terrain, like in the mountains. The overall excellent impression of this piece of gear is slightly tarnished by minor and often unnecessary drawbacks, such as the side pockets sticking out for slimmer users, the lack of loops for individual cartridges, and the absence of a pocket for a water bottle. Its wider adoption is also limited by the fact that it’s a carrying system, while most hunters rely primarily on backpacks or bags. However, this is a bit of a shame because the carrying system can be very practical and versatile. The Ultimatum is proof of that.
The Ultimatum is very well made and will serve you for many years.
The Ultimatum carrying system, along with other products from BOG, can be purchased at Strobl s.r.o. For more information, visit strobl.cz or the manufacturer's website at boghunt.com.
Advantages/ Disadvantages
+ Practical design
+ High quality
+ Everything is within reach
- Higher price
- Side pockets protrude (for slim users)
- Lack of loops for individual cartridges and no pocket for a water bottle
Photo sources: Author’s Archive
Author: Tomáš Ježek
The article originally appeared in the magazine Lovec by Extra Publishing, 06/2024