Great post, Earl. 12 years is a very long time to go with one piece of equipment; I can’t actually think of anything I own that I’ve had for that long, aside from maybe a videogame system or two. I suppose all the experiences you have together with your gear does create a sort of a bond, doesn’t it? Like a warrior and his blade, ma?1;yIRb7em glad you gave the new Kelty Redwing such good reviews – I’ve been looking at getting a backpack myself, and 84$ is a fantastic price.