From a relatively uninformed point-of-view, I offer the following: It sounds like in your quest to "cover all the bases" you have built a mighty fine 72-96 hour BOB. Which is great! Now, you should feel no shame in this. You were only doing what is natural. As a self-proclaimed gear junkie you have taken the first step towards recovery (readjustment). You realized and admitted what most others are probably afraid to personally admit. I am glad you posted this entry because it will allow me to re-examine my approach.

As a side note: I did read on ultralightbacking.com (or something like that) that a guy worked his pack to under 12 pounds for long hikes. Not sure how effective it is in the survival arena.

Group therapy is fun....
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"Its not a matter of being ready as it is being prepared" -- B. E. J. Taylor