I am ready too Mac. I got a new REI Flash 65 pack this year that is a heck of a lot lighter than my old Gregory. Will be trying it out a week from Friday on the LR trail
. I also built a lightweight rod tube out of one of those flourescent light bulb protectors you can get at Lowes. I am so happy with it pretty sturdy and weighs nothing! Can't wait to try it out attached to my pack. Man I can't wait to see GREEN again in the mountains geez...