BOB weight — mine is way too heavy

Been there dude. My first BOB was like 50 lbs lol. Biggest weight savings for me was switching to a lightweight tarp instead of tent (saved 4 lbs), ditching the camp stove for just fire starting gear (2 lbs), and going with a smaller first aid kit. Also check your clothes - wool is warm but heavy. Synthetic layers pack smaller and lighter. Every ounce counts when you're humping it.

Rule of thumb I learned in Boy Scouts years ago - pack shouldn't be more than 20% of your body weight for extended carry. So if you're 200 lbs, that's 40 lbs max, and that's for fit folks. I'd aim for 30 lbs or less. Look at your shelter and sleep system first - that's usually where the weight is. A good tarp can replace a heavy tent.

Agree 100%. Had the exact same experience with my setup.

Facts. I switched to the same thing about 3 months ago and it was a game changer.

Yeah 41 is rough. I learned this the hard way packing into PA backcountry spots. Start by laying everything out and asking "do I really need this?" Cut your food down to essentials - energy bars, jerky, stuff that packs light but fills you up. And honestly... get in better shape too. I started hiking with a weighted pack once a week, makes a huge difference.

Dude same. I spent way too long researching before I just pulled the trigger and bought one.

That's a steal at that price honestly. I paid way more for mine.

41 lbs is way too much man. When I'm tracking coyotes through rough country I keep my pack under 25 lbs max. Start with ditching duplicate gear - you don't need 3 knives and 2 fire starters. Also look at your water situation... you carrying too much? Know your route and water sources. And honestly if you're not in shape, start walking with that pack. I hump fence line with 30+ lbs of tools daily, it's all about conditioning.

Not sure I agree but I respect the opinion. For me the Ruger MAX-9 has been rock solid for 3 months now.