[pct-l] considering gear

[CMountainDave@aol.com (CMountainDave@aol.com)]

 Things I always ask myself when considering new gear: Is it necessary (in
the tradition of the ultra lights), is it a real improvement or just hype
from gear manufactures, and is it lighter than what I currently use while
retaining quality.
   I considered pack hydration systems and rejected them because of the above
questions. Yes, a hydration system makes it easier for me to get a drink
while hiking, but, for me, it remains no big deal to just take a break at
water sources.( I don't use a filter so many times I get a drink without
taking off my pack).  When water is scarce, having water not readily
available actually helps me conserve it. I drink on a schedule instead, and
the temptation isn't there. And I read somewhere (Army desert training
manual?) that in hot climes, it is better to drink a bunch of a limited water
source all at once instead a little at a time. The people who used them on
Rainier didn't use them because the tubes froze up.
  Net result: 0 extra ounces. Ditto for filtration systems
  I asked myself the same questions when considering a Feathered Friends
sleeping bag, and ended up buying one. Net result : 8 less ounces