Pitons have been "out" for about 20 years! You ought to get into it again. You would not believe all the really nice super light-weight gear that is used nowadays. Cams and stoppers - lighter than pitons, easier to place. No more hauling a 16-oz hammer on a climb. I am doing my hard core backpacking now while I can. Then, when I get really old, I am going to be a sport climber and just clip those bolts and hang out with the young'ns in my sporty spandex!