Inuit Frame

[sean30ber]

Met a lady at a Rondy and she had a pack frame she got in an Inuit village in Alaska. Its not PC but she is pretty cool. She wouldnt sell it to save her life, she did how ever let me take pictures and measurements so I could build my own. I chose Oak 1/2 inch and shapped it with rasp and file. Noched all the joints by hand. I did use a little glue to hold it together while I laced and tightened. Sturdy as hell!! Got to get to tandy and get some leather to finish it. Like I said its not PC but ought to serve me well on Treks. First 4 Pics are of hers second 4 are mine.

 

[hoochiepapa]

Very cool! THe only thing I can see is keeping it adjusted so that it doesn't dig into your back. But I like it. Should be fun!

 

[Robert Wolfe]

Very nice - I like it alot. You did a great job.

A couple of observations if I may. The original has about twice as many rawhide "wraps" around the frame as yours does. Having more probably helps keep the wooden frame off your back and makes it more comfortable. Also note that on the side of the frame towards your back, the original keeps the wraps horizontal by notching the frame and angles them on the side away from your back. I think this is because angled wraps will not be as comfortable on your back. Hope that made sense.....

 

[Black Hand]

I started with a pack-frame made from mountain maple and lashed all my stuff to it. After a few trips, it has lived in the garage.....and I switched to a small knapsack.

The reality for me was - If I had the space, I would fill it. Led to carrying too much unnecessary stuff.

Great for big/heavy/bulky loads (such as a butchered animal).

Nice craftsmanship!

 

[BrownBear]

I've seen several old ones up here, dated by the owners to family in the 1920's and 30's. In their accounts the style dates at least back to the gold rush up here.

Talking to the owners, they pointed out the features Rwolfe discusses and said they were important for use and comfort, just as he suspects. All looked like they had been made by someone who also made snowshoes with almost as many wraps. According to the users, that keeps the frame off your back while giving a slightly springy surface for more comfort.

And heavy loads is right. These folks call them "moose" packs for obvious reasons.

 

[sean30ber]

Thanks for the replies. I was thinking of doing another set of wraps. Now ill do it. Im going to try it in 2 weeks on an overnight trek. Just a few miles but should give me an idea about improvements.

 

[BrownBear]

Sounds good! I bet you like it, and while you're at it, have a little fun for all of us! :thumbsup:

 

[sean30ber]

Finished it up. I went with rawhide pads. Across the shoulders and small of back. I curled the edges back as it dried so they wouldnt dig in any where. Light, super strong and lots of room up top over the shoulders for my hudson bay. Trying it out on an overnight Trek this weekend. Very comfortable, well see how it is loaded

 

[dyemaker]

I had seen other such items illustrated in an old book on travel and transportation. It may be of interest if not I appologize. It took a while to find it again.


Link to the whole book

 

[Sabotdart]

I know this an old post but, what are the measurments of your packboard, is it still in use.
I would like to make one for hauling out elk and deer.

 

[BillinOregon]

Sabot, Sean was last online in October. Might send him a PM!