RE: pack frame
I've packed elk quarters on an Alaska II frame from cabelas. It'll do the trick, though there are without a doubt better for more money. I boned and packed a bull out two years ago with a friend using a internal frame pack. After doing so, I will say for boned meat, it is the way to go. The weight carries much better than on an external frame, but if your going bone in--you'll probably want the frame. That being said, if you can do it and keep the meat clean, BONE IT OUT! Makes no sense packing the bones out.