Glenn my "new" Kelty Super Tioga external frame (I have 2 of them) has a long wire down each side that catches the pins. I actually bought an "Accessory" padded waist band when they became available in 72. I did carry a spare clevis pin for it, and I taped down the wire "key rings" that held the clevis pins in so they would'nt rattle.

I suppose spare felt liners for pak boots are unheard of too?

Jim

PS I have carried what you call a pack basket, to me its a trappers pack. It was great for carrying heavy iron traps or game. My cousin had one he took hunting. I think in the scouts we had a couple for the troop cook kit.