[Ways to cut pack weight?]

don't bring a fork - use a quck release buckle off your pack.

[alpine ultra-light packs]

oh, and for those of you interested in tnf jetstream pack, barrabes has them on closeout:

http://www.barrabes.com/barrabes/product.asp?pf_id=783

[alpine ultra-light packs]

i have to reccomend the granite gear alpine light. nicely sized at 3200 cu in. it has all the necessities and still weighs in at less than three pounds. great alpine pack: hypalon tool tubes and crampon patch, built-in file pocket, front and rear haul loops, waist belt with gear loops, removable z-rest backpad, large floating lid (unlike wild things packs), and an extended storm collar for those forced bivies. great pack!