Packing minimal

Gossman Knives

Gossman Knives

Edged Toolmaker
Knifemaker / Craftsman / Service Provider
Joined
Apr 9, 2004
Messages
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With the upcoming Hawk Mountain Pa. trip next month, I've worked out a way to carry everything I need without a main pack. All I have are too buttpacks. My response bag with the essentials and a fanny pack with fuel for my stove, tarp and food. My sleeping gear and mess kit are attached to the response bag. The only other thing I'll have is a web belt for my canteen and cup and my Nalgene bottle. I'll carry it with two shoulder straps with the web belt through the belt straps.
Scott

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Question: Do you have shoulder straps on that setup? I ask because I find that when I carry too much in my waist pack (I refuse to call it a fanny pack like my wife does) it pulls down my pants and bobs up and down as I walk. I had to resort to a single shoulder strap that I wear diagonally which helps a lot.

Otherwise, it looks really nice and compact. It's liberating to walk into the woods and know that you're pretty much set for whatever comes your way (within reason of course). Good going!
 
PB, try to find a X harness from the military shops. They are designed for buttbags and prevent that dreaded buttbag bob and sag. They wear like pack straps or suspenders but are crossed and fitted nicely.
 
That hawk mountain trip sounds great, I wish I could make it.

Thats a smart set up you got there Scott.
 
Scott and all,
I am planning to atend the Hawk Mountain weekend.
Would you be willing to share your gear list?
How much food does one bring?
Thanks
 
great pack - always seems like the more experienced outdoorsmen are the ones carrying less. :thumbup:
 
How many days will you be out? Any chance of a look at the contents?

I wish I could get out with less stuff, but it never seems to work out that way.
 
Sharp Eye, the hike in is on the AT and is rocky. It's about a mile hike in. Mostly downhill going in, a bitch hiking out. I've been there 3 times and have learned to pack light. This trip is suppose to be with as little gear as possible. Dutch, three days, two nights, my gear consists of
R.A.T. survival kit
first aid and meds
toiletries
food
pocket rocket stove/fuel
cordage
flashlight
sleeping pad, fleece sleeping bag
tarp, ground cover (contracter bags)
canteen/cup, stainless nalgene
East German mess kit
fixed blade
saw
axe (maybe)
sharpener
headlamp

Carrying too many knives is always my problem. This time, Tusker, SAK, PSK knife, saw and maybe an axe.

Scott
 
do you have a hiking stick?

I think that little norlund would be handy, but its weight.

very nice looking pack Scott.


Pat
 
Pat, yes I have a hiking stick, custom made by Marty Simon. You know how you always forget something....well it's usually that. :D
Scott
 
Love the set up Scott! That East-German mess kit is simply outstanding...works great over open fires/coals.

ROCK6
 
ROCK6 said:
Love the set up Scott! That East-German mess kit is simply outstanding...works great over open fires/coals.

ROCK6
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Yes it is. You can pack food in it also. Holds coffee bags and oatmeal. Or dry soups.
Scott
 
On recent hikes I have been able to get all my gear to 15 pounds without water. I think it is great that you are taking the next step Scott! A real simple and effective set up.....:thumbup:
 
mmmotorcycle said:
On recent hikes I have been able to get all my gear to 15 pounds without water. I think it is great that you are taking the next step Scott! A real simple and effective set up.....:thumbup:
Click to expand...

That is about what this set up weighs. :thumbup:
Scott
 
OK, I guess I don't get it. :confused:

I understand all about going light and reducing bulk. What I don't see is why using two buttpacks instead of a small pack is a plus. I would guess the two together (plus the web belt and shoulder straps) weigh about as much as a decent daypack. There's not as much storage space as a daypack so you have more stuff hanging on the outside where it can catch limbs, etc., get snagged and possibly be damaged. They also won't carry as well as a daypack since the weight will be lower on the body.

Buttpacks are nice at times and I've used them on dayhikes but I'd never consider using one for an overnighter. I just don't see any advantage in doing so and lots of downsides. But, if it works for you that's all that matters. Don't take this as disparaging your choice, I just don't see the benefit to it.

On the gear: I'm not sure what the weather in PA is like in Sept, but I know I could never get away with a fleece bag here. Here's wishing you warm nights. :thumbup:
 
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