I'll second that. I've used it for BC skiing and as a general cragging pack and it's fantastic. It's light for the capacity and load-bearing capability, while still being made of a relatively burly material. I haven't had the occasion to carry pickets, although I too wish the little pocket at the bottom of the side panel was on the other side as well. Inset material (hypalon?) crampon patch is sweet. Solid pack for sure.