Anyone out there with experience with sleeping bags for extereme cold? Northern Outfitters is no longer offering sleeping bags and I'm looking for something comparable.
Based on my personal experience after 40 years hunting here, look for a Woods' 5 Star (down), or a top of the line Anticosti (synthetic). Neither are cheap, but I've used both in a snowbank at -60. For a local supplier here, try Weaver & Devore ~Arctic~
i'll second the woods 5 star. I use a long gone eddie bauer large & long which isn't quite as good as the 5 star, but have used it at -40 and been quite comfortable
Sheepman, Kluane Outfitters in Edmonton will custom make down bags any way way you can dream.I saw a bag made for a sheephuner that hunted alone on horseback no tent.This bag included pad and all 5 layers. outer Gortex,down bag, flannel sheets and an absorbent layer of some sort to wick moisture away.I couldn't imagine sleeping on a mountain in Nov in Alberta,it worked for him.
Posts: 68 | Location: Camrose Alberta | Registered: 11 March 2005
I have a woods 3 star from working in northern sk and manitoba.It packs to a duffle bag size. It is warm and gives lots of leg room.I used summer bag inside it during extreme conditions.I would be packing it to hunt white bears. You can buy both 5 and 3 star woods at S.I.R.in Winnipeg, mail order.
I've only used the woods bags under warm conditions but damn they are comfortable and roomy!!! Much more than a mummy bag. If weight isn't such and issue they seem like the way to go. You could always bring a mummy bag along and slip it inside if necessary.
I slept out in -30 celsius often while winter camping in my teenage years and have learned something on this subject.If you don't have much experience in sleeping and camping outdoors you will be best with the thickest synthetic filled mummy bag you can get.The bag should be at least a foot thick when spread out on the floor.You are best with a synthetic bag because you have no experience staying dry.In very cold weather,staying dry is staying alive.If you can keep dry and want the warmest,then buy a quality 100% goose down bag preferably with a goretex shell.This is lighter and less bulky and much warmer for same weight.
Posts: 11651 | Location: Montreal | Registered: 07 November 2002
I have slept on a mountain top in Alberta in mid-winter, under an open trap, and no fire, in a Woods Arctic Five Star and was fairly warm. The most important thing was to sleep with the leather boots in the bag so they were not frozen solid in the morning. Its a big bag but I had a horse to carry it.
VBR,
Ted Gorsline
Posts: 1116 | Location: asted@freenet.de | Registered: 14 January 2006
Best sleeping bag made, IMO, and I own the Kodiak. VERY well made and worth every penny!!
"The atomic bomb made the prospect of future war unendurable. It has led us up those last few steps to the mountain pass; and beyond there is a different country." - J. Robert Oppenheimer
If the Anticostis aren't on the website, I suppose you'll have to call Weaver's at 867-873-2219 (or let me know and I'll give them a call for you). ~Arctic~
I use a norseman bag made in edmonton I think.Mine is rated for -50 some and is very nice.It is huge however and takes up alot of room.The one I use is a 3 piece with an outer shell and a thick inner bag with a removeable liner for easy cleaning.It is as comfy as it is warm as it is very thick.I think campers village sells the brand.
Posts: 227 | Location: Edmonton | Registered: 10 March 2003
Best sleeping bag made, IMO, and I own the Kodiak. VERY well made and worth every penny!!
They are the best without doubt. I bought a top of the line bag and when I unpacked it and geve it a shake it lofted 9 inchs It is the best bag I have ever seen and It has kept me worm in very cold weather.(Like the kind we get in FL)
"La vida no vale nada sin El Honor" Winggunner SCV, MOS&B
