Going back 20 years... I used to carry a Ruger GP100 in an uncle mike's Rig strapped to my backpack frame. It was not lightweight at all, and my ancient pack frame is a Coleman full sized polymner unit. I was able to mount the holster so that I could draw it pretty easily in a hurry. If I were to do the same today, I might use a blade tech somehow attached to a strap or pack frame with the holster. I'd be carrying either a 4" 686 or a 4" 610, depending on how much weight I felt like carrying. The 686 is a bit lighter, but the 610 offers a bit more power. It's been a long time since I went on an overnighter anywhere.. for any kind of distance..

I consider myself more knowledgeable firearm wise these days compared to my backpacking knowledge. I tend to favor revolvers but I favor them competitively also.