30-70 on my 95 Swaro ... I'd go insane if I couldn't use 60-70x to figure out if a 16-hour hike is worth it for a sheep. I would agree if you took top-tier spotters out, most are useless for the last 20%.
For me it came down to fit and function with heavy loads. The K2 and K3 I had were a dream to use under 40lbs. Fast, light, 3 day weekends were my jam for a number of years. I do a lot more 10-14 day trips now out of the pack. I could honestly never get the Exo frames to work. I tried last year...
You should put a large external sleeve in addition to the Nalgene holder on the other side for tent poles, trekking poles, tripod and other things to stuff
I saw there was talk of a larger version, any info? I don't think I can personally make 12 days work this one. I could be wrong with the snow collar extended, guide lid, and a medium pouch though.
I find the physical challenge of solo sheep hunting to be my favorite part, you can really push your limits.
The mental game is where it'll crush you. It definitely exposes a lot of your personal weaknesses being alone with your thoughts.