@Yelp: based on PM's I have always liked the way you think. Great advice.

@Tom: good to know about slippage. I am paranoid about losing gear and if its not secured I'd just as well dummy-cord it. After trying the Tour on, I was underwelmed at the placement of the water holders and my ability to reach it easily and put it back easily.

This is why I may go with an LBE now and then stitch up my own suspension system in the end. I'd just use the milispec gear along the belt. I do have some 'rigger' skills and my father is much better than I. If I wanted to Big Shot it, I have a custom build company I have worked with in the past that is out of this world on gear.

Any chance we can keep this thread going? Any experience with Mountainsmith lumbar packs?