Landed DFW 20 minutes before total eclipse and made it outside. Brought the glass from my welding helmet, very cool to see it happen and take a few pics. wouldn't have made a special trip but was fun to watch
IMHO, any 2500 - 3200 pack with meat hauling capability covers 95% of hunting pack needs. We have an embarrassment of riches among the known brands, all of which make excellent packs.
The Pintler listed above has the guide light frame which means if you want to go multi overnights, just strap...
They're made with similar-to-Alpacka TPU coated nylon, not the urethane/vinyl fabric rafts that rip easily. Gimmicky? Have you handled one (honest question, not being a tool)?
They're designed for light weight/quick inflate to cross or fish from relatively calm water. They're not in the same...
Not arrogant at all and definitely inspiring. Jumping into carbon fiber often seems like a bridge too far but threads like this make it seem in the reach of more of us.
Really appreciate the time you took sharing the story, materials, process, etc..
Full disclosure: it's been many years since I was involved in conservation orgs. Similar to what was suggested above: network, volunteer and consider taking jobs that aren't exactly what you want for a while to position you for the future.
One guy volunteered for RMEF seemingly forever, raised...