I know it isn't a competition for me. Neither is it bragging rights. In fact I don't even tell anyone what my weight is that I carry on any particular trip. The only reason I use a FSO as a metric is because it IS only for me. If I have to choose between one gear list and another, and I want the weight of them, then I need a complete list of everything including consumables. I am honest with myself of what I am carrying. I do not need to worry about geography or terrain since that is a constant for me on that trip. The only variable is the weight I will be carrying, and that must include everything. One reason is the weight mike make a difference in the number of miles I will be able to do. My body does not care if it in my pack or in my pocket.

I now see what others are saying in this thread because I suppose some others do compare with each other. That idea is foreign to me, which is why I initially answered as I did.