I’ve been using lithium AAAs in my headlamps for 10+ years- they’re lighter, they operate much better in the cold and last a little longer. The only downside is cost, but I’m not using my lamps daily (I’d go rechargeable if I did).
Even back in 1995 the weight savings per $ spent made lithium AA batteries one of the most cost effective ways to save weight. That was a disappointment to learn at the time - I really wanted the latest lighter sleeping pad, and batteries aren’t as sexy. LolI’ve been using lithium AAAs in my headlamps for 10+ years- they’re lighter, they operate much better in the cold and last a little longer. The only downside is cost, but I’m not using my lamps daily (I’d go rechargeable if I did).
I’ve always felt the saying, “one is none and two is one.”
But when it comes to backcountry hunting, where weight is a premium you can get way too heavy quickly by packing your fears so to speak.
That said what items do you still carry multiples of in case of failure or misplacement?
For me the list is pretty short.
Headlamp. I’ve always got a spare. I thought about ditching my spare this year because it always lives around my neck anyway, but it’s just too critical of an item and too lightweight. I sort of view it any “spare”as being place to hold spare AAA batteries in case my main headlamp dies.
Bic lighter. Super lightweight and so critical it’s inexcusable not to have more than one.
Spare merino liner gloves. They are so lightweight it’s hard not to justify throwing them in. It really sucks to lose a glove when you are several miles from the truck and it’s cold.
Spare socks. This one goes without saying, but I have paired it down to just one spare pair as long as I’m not out for more than 3 days. I can usually dry out wet socks at night and keep them on rotation.
ETA forgot about knives! One fixed blade and one pocket knife. The pocket knife lives on me so I forgot to even mention it as a spare.