[ft-l] Some Gear Questions/feedback

[ft-l@mailman.backcountry.net (Cricket)]

Just my opinion, but ...

Just because you are 6'1" and can handle a big pack doesn't necessarily mean
you HAVE to buy a big pack.  Unless you are planning on some winter mountain
expeditions or will be packing extra gear for the kids I personally can't
see buying that large and heavy a pack. Most people can do just fine with a
pack about 3500 ci and many people go with even smaller ones.  And you can
do a lot better than 5.5 lbs for a pack.  Rule of thumb is 1 lb per 1000 ci.
My current pack is by Equinox.  It's 34 oz with the deluxe padded hipbelt
and shoulder straps, is rated at about 4000 ci and at $99 is one of the
cheapest packs I've bought in a long time.  My pack weight never runs over
30 lbs for a week-long hike.  Remember, the larger the pack the greater the
temptation to take more stuff that you probably don't need.  BTW, hydration
pockets rule, but if you find a pack you like otherwise, it's very easy to
hand-sew one into any pack.

If you sleep warm you may find a 20-degree bag too warm for all but the
worst Florida winter weather.  A 30- to 40-degree bag might be better,
particularly if you usually sleep in a tent. You can always add a liner or
wear long johns for the occasional cold night.  If you sleep cold, then a
20-degree bag might be a good choice if the vast majority of your camping is
December - March in Florida or you do a lot of your hiking in the mountains.
OTOH, North Face ratings tend to be a little low.  Their 20-degree bags
would probably keep me warm only above freezing. Also, at 6'1" you may not
need a long (extra length = extra weight and more dead-air for your body to
heat up = colder bag).  If you can get to an outfitter you can try the bags
on for size.

You say your access to good stores is a long trip but boots, pack and
sleeping bag are expensive and important items.  Perhaps you can combine a
trip to an outfitter with a vacation or business trip and make sure you have
a good selection to choose from.  A list of Florida outfitters was published
here on the list recently. Or order from Sierra Trading Post, EMS, REI or
Campmor (all available online).  All have excellant return policies.

Cricket

----- Original Message -----
From: "Keysbill" <billmh@bellsouth.net>
Newsgroups: local.ft-l
To: <ft-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Sent: Sunday, December 30, 2001 4:49 PM
Subject: [ft-l] Some Gear Questions/feedback


> I am new to the FTA and just getting started. I have camped/hike when
> my boys were in the scouts, so I am not to much the novis. But
> feedback is good. I am planning a few weekenders and long weekend
> hikes to get started.
>
> As with most folks, I have to operate within a budget, so here is what I
> plan to buy. Note I am 6'1" so can handle the larger packs.
>
> Back Pack: Kelty Trekker External, 5lbs 10 oz, 4300 ci, has hydration
> bottle pocket. H- frame I know this is the most important item and I
> should be trying them all on, but I am in the Florida Keys and access to
> a store with a selection of packs does not exist or is a long trip.
>
> Sleeping Bag: Northface Thunder 36 Long, 20 deg, 3lbs, 2oz stuff is
> 9x17. Picked this for the extra footspace and weight. Too Warm?
>
> Mattress: Therm-A-Rest Backpacker 3/4 length, 1lbs, 8oz Good buy $30
>
> Stove: MSR Whisperlite Shaker, 14oz w/o fuel
>
> Water Filter: Sweetwater Walkabout Microfilter, 9oz
>
> Walking Staff- I am into photography and getting this will substitute
> for a monopod. I has a camera attachment under the staff knob. Tacks
> Sherlock Walking Staff
>
>
> Any feedback or suggested changes would be appreciated.
>
> Bill
>
>
>
> --
>
>  - Posted via http://forums.backcountry.net
>
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