Interesting discussion. There are lots of different things that can happen where you'd need to spend a cold night out. Maybe you're chasing a wounded bull cross-country on a moonless night, it turns dark, and your headlamp's not working.
I like to hunt solo. I've never had to spend a night away from camp but there's always a first time. The weight and volume of a puffy jacket is something I'm willing to carry.
I tend to hunt solo too ( even more so today 'cause like Rock Chuck my hunting partners have faded away). And like you I tend to pack my daypack for a unintended night outside....
Casey
