[pct-l] Looking for opinions

[Bob Bankhead]

A base weight of almost 21 pounds for just the items you listed is alarming. Each hiker makes their own choices of what to carry based on their desired level of personal comfort - both physical and emotional. After all, you're the one who has to carry it. 

That said, I'd suggest you take a serious look at your gear list. There are lighter options out there, if you can afford them. Try to get your big three - pack, sleep system, and shelter - under 8 pounds. My Sierra base weight, including the bear can, was 16 pounds for an early August hike (no winter gear needed), and that's heavy by through-hiker standards.

Assuming that 49 pounds is for you alone, where are you hiking that you feel it would require 12 days of food and 6 liters of water simultaneously? IMO, that's an ungodly heavy load.

One might elect to carry 12 days of food through the Sierra (from Kennedy Mdws to V V R perhaps) in an effort to avoid a trip out to Lone Pine or Independence, but you'd never need more than 2 liters of water at a time the whole way.

One might carry 6 liters or more of water in parts of the desert, but re-supply points are never 12 days apart.

Re-think your logistics. Your body will thank you. And start your cardio and strength training today; you're going to need it.

Wandering Bob
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Ray 
  To: pct-l at backcountry.net 
  Sent: Wednesday, March 03, 2010 10:22 AM
  Subject: [pct-l] Looking for opinions


  What are the thoughts on a base pack weight of 20.69 LBS ( cook set,
  matches, tent, sleeping bag & pad, rain gear, xtra socks, light jacket,
  first aid, water filter, small misc. items & repair kit) and 48.81 LBS (12
  days food in bear can & 6 liter of water)?  What averages does everyone else
  have?