Ran a dropshipping outdoor gear store for a bit now, and the #1 return/complaint pattern I keep seeing isn't about the gear itself — it's pack weight distribution.

Guys buy a great pack, load it wrong, and their shoulders/back give out on day 2 of a hunt. It's not the gear's fault, it's how it's loaded.

Quick rule that actually works: heavy stuff (water, ammo, food) goes in the middle of the pack, close to your spine, roughly between your shoulder blades and hips. Light bulky stuff (sleeping bag, extra layers) goes at the bottom. Frequently-used items (rangefinder, calls, snacks) go in top/side pockets you can reach without taking the pack off.

If you're gearing up for elk or deer season and your pack still feels 'off' after adjusting straps, it's probably load order, not fit.

Building out a curated gear shop for backcountry hunters right now (Backcountry Supply Co.) — happy to answer packing/gear questions for anyone prepping for season.