Re: [Philmont]: Pack Weight

Prior to 2002, we worked towards an average pack weight of 35 pounds per
man, across the board. The range was usually 30 (smallest trekkers) to
just over 40 (largest trekkers). That was everything, leaving Basecamp,
usually with 3 or 4 days worth of food, fuel, and other consumables.
And usually 2 liters of water.

In 2002, the Ranch greatly increased the amount of food. They have
backed off somewhat since then, but now it is a struggle to get down to
about 38 - 39 pounds per man average. I think we left Basecamp at 39
pounds per man this past summer. Of course, that did include my guitar
and sheet music too (so even I can be frivolous!)

There is no "optimal" weight for a "Superstrenuous" trek versus any
other trek. The lighter you can travel, the faster and easier you will
hike, and the more energy you will have upon arrival at the next site.
That is just as true for a "Typical" trek as for a "Superstrenuous"
trek. A lot of folks don't seem to understand that they are turning
their "Typical" trek into a "Superstrenuous" trek by carrying packs that
are 20 - 30 pounds average more than what my Crews carry. When you see
guys flexing their muscles and laughing at the Welcome Center as they
come in at 55, 65, 75 pounds or more (on the scale there), all you can
do is wince and repeat my standard mantra: "Macho backpacking comes
with its own built-in revenge". They won't be laughing on Day III.

Sometime over the past year or two, I published a long treatise on how
we keep our pack weights low. I'll see if I can't dredge it up again.

- Dr. Bob

David Wheeler wrote:
> I know there have been many discussions regarding pack weight on this list
> before, but Dr. Bob's comment regarding SS treks peaked my interest.
>
> Dr. Bob wrote:
> "That is admittedly pretty fast, but is a result of relatively low pack
> weights, fairly aggressive training, and proper use of the caterpillar
> technique."
>
> When you say "relatively low pack weights," what specific weight are you
> targeting? What is an optimum pack weight for a Super Strenuous trek? Does
> this weight include water? Food? Crew Gear?
>
> Also, what do you do to keep your weight as low as possible?
>
> Thank you for your comments.
>
> David Wheeler
> Bonham, TX
> 2004 713-L2
> 2006 713-N
>
>

-------------------------------------------------------
Scouting E-mail Discussion Lists @ usscouts.org
Subscribe/Unsubscribe at http://usscouts.org/lists/
Listserv Commands at http://usscouts.org/lists/lc.asp
-------------------------------------------------------
Send listserv commands to: listserv@troop47.com
Send postings to: philmont@troop47.com
List FAQ found at: http://usscouts.org/lists/faq.asp
List Administrator: philmont_owner@troop47.com
-------------------------------------------------------
As you gather around this virtual campfire with fellow
Scouts and Scouters, do your best to be trustworthy,
loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient,
cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.
-------------------------------------------------------

 
Received on Wed Jan 18 20:16:07 2006