by Ty Hinds

Game bags are one of the most underrated yet essential pieces of hunting gear. With so many options on the market today, choosing the right game bag can make a significant difference in how well you take care of your hard-earned meat. Over the past six years, I’ve tested nearly every game bag imaginable across the western U.S., Canada, Mexico, and even Russia. On my most recent caribou hunt, my group put the BlackOvis Game Bags to the ultimate test—and they exceeded expectations.

game bags by blackovis

Lessons Learned: My First Experience with Game Bags

The first mule deer I ever harvested was in 2018. Like many first-time hunters, I turned to YouTube to learn how to quarter an animal and quickly realized I needed game bags. However, as a college student on a tight budget, my priorities leaned toward new camo rather than premium gear. Borrowing a rifle, binoculars, spotting scope, and tripod from my father-in-law, I had to get creative when it came to game bags and a backpack. My solution? Extra pillowcases from the closet—hoping my wife wouldn’t notice.

After a successful hunt, I found myself dragging my deer much farther than anticipated before getting my truck close enough for loading. When it came time to process the meat, I discovered just how much hair had accumulated during the drag-out. That experience solidified my commitment to doing things differently the following year. I was determined to quarter my game properly and use real game bags to protect the meat.

ovis sacks game bags by blackovis

Game Bags: A Critical Tool for Field Processing

By 2019, I had drawn multiple tags across the West, and my first solo antelope hunt in Wyoming put my research to the test. After successfully harvesting an antelope, I faced a mile-long pack-out. This time, I had quality game bags with me. Quartering the animal was a rewarding challenge, and I took great care to keep the meat clean. The game bags did their job perfectly, ensuring a seamless pack-out and keeping the meat free from dirt and debris.

That fall, I put game bags to work in Idaho for mule deer, then in Montana for a whitetail and another antelope. By the end of October, I had honed my quartering skills and understood the value of high-quality, breathable game bags for proper meat care.

Performance in Extreme Conditions: Testing Game Bags in Russia

On a recent hunt in Russia, we put the BlackOvis XL Game Bags to the ultimate test while processing multiple caribou. Each bag easily held two quarters, with additional space for neck meat, backstraps, tenderloins, and even the gall bladders and organs, as per Russian tradition. These bags efficiently carried every usable ounce of meat while keeping it clean and protected.

The blaze orange exterior was a game-changer for safety, ensuring visibility while packing out with antlers attached to our packs. Additionally, the white interior provided a perfect tool for signaling hunting partners while stalking game—a feature that proved invaluable in the field.

ovis sack game bags

Why Every Hunter Should Carry Game Bags

Game bags may not be the most high-tech piece of gear, but they are one of the most important. Every time I have the privilege of using them, I’m reminded to slow down and appreciate the moment—taking the time to care for my meat properly. After all, harvesting an animal is no small feat, and proper meat care is a responsibility every ethical hunter should take seriously.

The BlackOvis Reusable Game Bags are now a staple in my pack. If you want durability, breathability, and reliability, these game bags should be in yours too.

Key Features of BlackOvis Game Bags:

  • Durable & Reusable – Built to withstand multiple seasons of use.
  • Breathable Fabric – Helps cool meat quickly while preventing spoilage.
  • Blaze Orange & White Design – Enhances safety and visibility.
  • Lightweight & Packable – Easy to carry without adding bulk.

For anyone serious about meat care in the backcountry, investing in quality game bags like these is a no-brainer. Don’t learn the hard way like I did—be prepared and ensure your hard-earned meat makes it to the table in the best condition possible.