I have never really weighed my pack but I know it is not quite ultra light by any standards. I have noticed that I think about whether or not to take certain things and if I really need some of the redundant stuff. I know The quest for the perfect balance between weight and performance will not end. I do know that my pack is a lot lighter than it used to be. I try not to think about getting older but the bones know. My wife has some medical issues and just cannot carry much more than 20-25 lbs. But she is especially sensitive to cold and needs clothing and sleeping gear that does not skimp on warmth. Because as you men all know "if mama ain't happy,nobody's happy <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />". As we get older( I'm on the bubble between 50 and 60) we get smarter and learn that lighter is better and lighter means we can still go. Now if I can just get one of the grandkids to go and carry my some of my stuff, I can finally get Ultralight <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />.