Hello all,

I'm new here and making a return to backpacking after a 8 or so year absence. This is a great site with a lot of solid contributors. Like any newbie to a discussion board, I apologize if this has been discussed before, but I couldn't find the topic through searching.

I have a couple of short backpacking trips planned this spring to Yosemite and Sequoia, which now both require the use of bear canisters (I always used to do the conventional bagging with success). The Bear Vaults look good, but it sure seems like the bears would be more attracted to the food since they can see it inside. I know they can't get to it, but will they try harder when they see those goodies right in front of them, subsequently batting your canister who knows where? The Counter Assault and Garcia Machine models look good too, so I'm wondering if anyone can share any experiences or suggestions before I sink $70 into a plastic container!

Thanks for any help!
Mike