I basicly did the same things that you did to lighten the load. First, I offed the heavy cheap tent and built a hammock, bugnet and large copy of the Clark optional fly. I DIY, silcoated the fly. I built several alcy stoves but decided to carry the heavier brass Trangia, homemade windscreen and heine pot for everything except a small aluminum frypan.
I replaced my heavy sleeping bag with a 40degree NF.
Funny thing is that I decided on a pack first. I know, get a pack to fit all your things. Not the other way around. So I bought the REI UL60 I think it's in the 3300 cu in. range and very comfey. I also tend to carry to much food but thats the one comfort and necessary luxury I carry. BTW I also use a staff or hiking stick. I'm happy with my setup and only do minor fiddling. Oh! I also replaced my multi-tool with a small buck knife. That's really all I need where I go.