First, I never intended to convey the forum favors PLBs as a problem solver over personal responsibility. I don't think I stated it as such either. You're the first to conclude that. But those less experienced readers of the forum could prematurely draw such conclusions. That was the reason for posting this thread.

Second, if your conclusion of your personal behavior is such that your preparations have not made you more confident in the back country, that's fine. For many, and I would claim most, it does make them more confident. And with that confidence, most accept more risk in their decisions. There are always exceptions. Your level of self diciplin is to be commended.