Tjaden

So here's the gig... looking for a lightweight (sub 4lbs.) pack in the 4000 cu. in. area that isn't just a top loader. I've checked out options from Gregory, Granite Gear, Osprey, GoLite, and Arc'Teryx... if I've missed something, by all means let me know!

Ah, but alas... REI no longer stocks the Freney XT. It also looks like BD dropped their mountain boots... anyone have any idea on who'll be distributing them? I haven't had much luck with the LS and Raichle lasts, was hoping that Scarpa would have something... but for the life of me I can't find a place that has anything other than the Invernos. Help?

So, beyond cc.com and other boards, I'm just curious what other sites people frequent for mountain/rock/trail pron and whatnot? Any particular blogs out there that are worth mention?

The Tikka Plus is my standard lamp for pretty much everything, though I picked up an all-black Myo 5 for those night ninja missions that require blinding the guards before takin' em out.

Couple things about the Jetboil - The coffee press has presented problems when people have chosen to "press" when the water is still boiling. Not suprisingly, this can lead to a "massive boil-over" and likely burns. In other words, don't push the plunger down when the water is boiling. I believe Jetboil is working on printing instructions in bright orange on the press for future purchasers. - When storing a cansiter with the burner in the cup, put the burner on top of the canister. If you put the canister on top of the burner, it can push the "hook" of the Piezo down onto the burner, causing problems with ignition. - Troubleski's suggestion of water on the canister is a good one. MSR has also suggested creating a "bath" of water around canisters to help the fuel burn more efficiently at colder temps.

Well, it turns out that little ant-trail was a group of Mountaineers doing crevasse training: