First trip to Colorado, I was naive and ignorant about hunting and back packing in the mountains. Second year, (after finding 24HCF) I was in much better shape (15 to 20 lbs lighter, much training). I also had a backpack FULL of all sorts of stuff and an 11lb custom rifle. First day between 11K and 12K, I stashed half the stuff out of the backpack, and would have gladly traded the custom rifle for a factory rifle at 1/2 or 2/3rds the weight. That's why I now have a Rem KS. However, I only get to spend 2 weeks in Colorado above 8K ft each year (if I am fortunate enough to go). And, like others, I shoot a heavier rifle more accurately. Hence the build for the "everyday", 8lb, .270 for use at 800 ft ASL. A pound of rifle weight may not sound like a bunch. But, I am a believer. And yes, I can still stand to loose a bit more around the middle as well.
