Game Bag Sizing: 17x20 vs Larger Options
By Backcountry Hunting Gear and Equipment | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Buying Guides
Compare the Argali 17x20 game bag with larger options for backcountry meat packing. Learn which size fits your hunt, from mule deer to elk quarters.
Quick answer
For most mule deer, sheep, or pronghorn, the Argali 17x20 game bag is the right fit. If you regularly pack elk or larger game, you'll want a bigger bag for the hind quarters.
Why size matters for game bags
A game bag that's too small forces you to overstuff or leave meat exposed. One that's too large adds unnecessary weight and can shift in your pack. Matching bag dimensions to the animal you're hunting keeps meat clean and your load balanced.
Trade-off: 17x20 vs larger bags
The Argali 17x20 bag is purpose-built for animals like mule deer, sheep, and pronghorn. It holds a full quarter or a boned-out shoulder without excess fabric. For elk, moose, or large bear, that same bag will struggle to fit a hind quarter, especially if you leave the bone in. Larger bags (e.g., 24x30) give you room for bigger cuts but can be overkill for smaller game.
17x20 vs larger: tradeoffs at a glance
- Argali 17x20 Game Bag: Best for mule deer, sheep, pronghorn, and boned-out elk shoulders. Also works as a skull bag. Compact and lightweight.
- Larger game bag (e.g., 24x30): Needed for bone-in elk hind quarters, moose, or large bear. Adds a few ounces and bulk but gives room for bigger cuts. If you hunt elk regularly, carry at least one larger bag for the hind quarters.
- Mixed-size approach: Carry two 17x20 bags for front shoulders and backstraps, plus one larger bag for the hind quarter. This balances weight and fit. A mixed set covers the widest range of game without oversizing every bag.
Product facts
- Game Bag-17"x20": The Argali 17x20 Game Bag will fit all the spare meat off of a mule deer, sheep, pronghorn or similar sized game, and it also works well as a skull bag to keep flies off of your boned out elk, deer, sheep or caribou skull. This means one bag handles a full quarter or a boned-out shoulder for typical western game, and doubles as a fly-proof skull bag for trophy care.
Game Bag-17"x20"
Which size fits your hunt?
Best for
- Hunters who pack mule deer, sheep, or pronghorn and want a trim, lightweight bag
- Hunters who need a multi-use bag that also covers a skull
Not ideal for
- Hunters who regularly pack bone-in elk hind quarters or moose
- Anyone who needs a single bag to fit the largest cut from a big bull elk
