[pct-l] Packs

[Montedodge@aol.com]

 My point is not for a thru-hiker today to pack 70 lbs, but don't be be a 
corn ball and take only 8 lbs of gear either. Ray had his wife to share the 
gear load with. Even with food and water, Jardines pack would be closer to 
twenty lbs. If your are by yourself and don't share gear, you will be 
carrying everything. Ray and his wife sleep together to save heat with a 
small sleeping quit. Most of you will be sleeping alone. I would say carrying 
20 lbs of food is about right per week. Add 4 lbs. for 2 liters of water. 
There's 32 pounds with only a 8 pound pack total. ( counting Jardine style 
gear.) Thirty two pounds with no hipbelt!! If you add a ice axe, add at least 
one more pound. I would say 50 lb. packs after being resupplied this not 
unreasonable. I have hiked as much or more than an anyone here myself. 
There's a reason Jardine didn't take his magic show to the CDT. ( You can't 
resupply every 4th day even if you can hike 40 miles per day ) Having a day 
or more extra food is hiking smart. So is some extra clothing. Three day Myth 
storms do happen, ask Nancy Gardner and her toes as well as anyone in the 
Sierra's late spring 77. If the weather stays good, everybody's a hero. It's 
when the weather get ugly, the go-lights suffer. Just fair warning. Of course 
basic gear is a third lighter now, but water still weighes the same as does 
food. This is where weight can add up in a hurry. Good luck PCT'er of 2000, 
don't be a sheep and think for yourself. Don't let Ray do all thinking for 
you. ( His job is to sell books to saps like you so he can hike for free on 
your money!!!!! Get the Picture
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