I like to keep my core items - sleeping bag, shelter, survival items as light as possible. I use either a 2 pound tent or a lighter tarp, along with a 2 pound sleeping bag. Realistically, the biggest determinant of weight is water. I can go much lighter in the mountains compared to the desert.

Then there is the question of "mission critical" items. If I am doing archaeology, there is an almost guaranteed ten extra pounds; the same weight penalty is present if technical climbing is involved. If both are involved, the pack starts to get fairly heavy.

I am always looking for lighter weight equivalents for my gear, bearing in mind that performance is always a concern. I avoid redundancy with the exception of fire starting equipment. Fire is critical.