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msar-riders - Re: [MSAR] 75 lb load - packing light

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  • From: <Jorene@CEOates.com>
  • To: "Mounted search and rescue" <msar-riders@lists.ibiblio.org>
  • Subject: Re: [MSAR] 75 lb load - packing light
  • Date: Tue, 9 Dec 2003 23:43:54 -0800

The reason our msar tries to limit the load to 75 lbs. is because it's static
weight. Like dead weight it doesn't move with the horse like a rider
would making the horse have to work harder to stay balanced. We are
usually deploying into the mountains with lots of narrow trails and ups
and downs.
Christy Matthews
Good info, Christy. A clarification for those not into packing ... generally the pack animal can carry more than 75 pounds. But since the distance likely to be traveled for MSAR has potential to be farther and possibly not on the easier trails, the weight of the packed load should be reduced to put less stress on the animal. Also, if you end up packing someone out, if the load is limited going in there is flexibility to distribute gear among various livestock to make room for the passenger coming out. (There are also advantages to having one of the pack animals set up with a saddle and saddle panniers with limited gear - distribute the gear and you have a saddled mount ready for a passenger.)
 
A related issue - the heavier "traditional" gear many people consider normal for trail riding or backcountry may not be suitable for MSAR / Wilderness MSAR. There are advantages to "packing light" in anticipation of longer distances and potentially more difficult terrain. In particular, beware excess weight behind the saddle for long distances - particularly in steeper terrain where that load may shift around.
 
Thinking more along the lines of "minimalist" packing helps, as long as nothing important is left behind. But switching to contemporary alternatives that weigh less can make a difference in what can be accomplished as a mission assignment ... and also considers the health and welfare of the mount. Then if you find the subject and try packing out both subject and gear, the extra weight distributed between team members and various mounts would only be on the return trip ... and the livestock is in better shape for that effort due to carrying a lighter load going in.
 
If additional gear is deemed necessary, consider using a pack animal / more pack animals. Obviously it is a huge advantage to have all equine trained to pack and ride so you can switch between mounts / pack animals from one day to the next.
 
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Jorene Downs
Tulare Co, CA
SAR, MSAR, Swiftwater Rescue, US&R,
Technical Rescue, Cave Rescue,
Hasty Team, ICP
www.CEOates.com/sar
Tulare-Kings CERT Program Coordinator
www.tk-cert.org
 
 



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