[pct-l] Bearikade

[Hiker97 at aol.com (Hiker97@aol.com)]

Two questions:

1.  Has anyone used the Bearikade in the 8" length?  The normal lengths are 
10 and 12 inches, but I want something smaller and lighter.  The 8 inch is one 
option they offer.

I would have no problem keeping most of a week-long food supply in this size. 
 I might not be able to keep medicines, toilet articles, etc., in it too, but 
the food supply is no problem.  I just reduce packaging material and carry 
bulk MaryJane organic dehydrated foods (a lot cheaper than the individual 
packages) in larger bags.  Also, my stove weighs 1.25 ounces (with one fuel tablet 
for one meal the cooking system weighs under 2 ounces), since I only need it to 
boil water for supper.

Basically, I use 2 reusable aluminum foil cooking pouches from Mountain House 
or other manufacturer for all the meals.  That way I have two different meal 
types for each supper.  These aluminum pouches easily last for extended 
periods on the trail, since you are just adding hot water and dehydrated bulk food 
to the pouches to let the food heat up in about 7 minutes.  No problem.  Eat 
right out of the pouches each time.

My thinking is that if a bear hits me, then I want most of my food safe in 
the canister.  I might loose a little up in the tree hanging from a limb, but I 
doubt it.  Everything up there is in odor resistent/proof bags.  I have never 
had a bear get my grub up in a tree, but I guess there is a first time.  So, I 
have to go on 75% rations if I loose some food.  Big deal.  I am not going to 
starve and I can continue to the next resupply point.  At least I am not 
reduced to eating my horses and dogs like the mountainmen of the 1820s-1840s.

2.  Second question.  Has anyone have an opinion on the new Sierra Designs 
Mach 1 tent?  I like the extra gear space in it compared to the other new 2005 
solo tents.

Thanks, Switchback