Great ideas Paul. Getting the weight below 3 lbs. would be remarkable! Thanks for your reply and ideas.Originally I bought the frame bare, no bag, and made my own cavernous pack bag out of 8 oz. packcloth. Later I remodeled, switching to 4 oz. oxford and trimming a bit off the top of the pack frame.... As it stands the total weight is 3 lbs 10 oz with a pack bag that is full length on a slightly shortened frame...... and I expect the total weight would get down under 3 lbs while still maintaining a volume that exceeds anything I'd be likely to want to carry.... ...Simplify and you can lighten up without losing any essential function.
Besides causing foot injuries, my other small problem with the old Kelty is that the big bear can doesn't fit inside; did you redesign your pack bag hold a sideways bearcan? It's only a small problem because I like to have that weight up top, and it does balance nicely there, and also strapped below the packbag when necessary. I am not yet seeking ultra-light gear, though I am heading that way.
What I am most interested in learning is how to make the EF pack a bit more stable. It's been many years since I've used one, and though I am happily reminded of how well they carry heavy loads, I am also noticing the extra movement of the load. I know they are better for trails than class 3 passes, and look forward to the challenge, but I am thinking up ways to steady the load. This version of a Kelty has the sternum strap, but no stabilizing webbing between the top corners of the frame and the shoulder straps, and I may decide to add those.
Did you come up with any clever stabilizing modifications Paul- anyone? Thanks, Harlen.