A friend and I are planning a thru-hike of the John Muir Trail July 2013 and I'm looking into getting a [required] bear canister.
Being from the East, I've NEVER hiked in any remote location like the southern JMT, nor anywhere in GRIZZLY country.....
I've read information on the Ursack, BearVault BV450, and other's.
I think the Ursack is obviously amazingly light weight - but would be most concerned about the smell of food being transmitted through the fabric and into my pack - making my pack a smelly and tempting item for bears. I keep my pack in my tent with me.
The BV450 - clear blue base, black lid. I HAVE one. It seems crazy heavy (2lbs empty) but I've heard it's been banned in many bear locations because the bears can open it!
Please - if anyone has a better suggestion, I'm all ears!
Any updates on canisters that are banned along the JMT would be welcomed, too.
Best bang for your buck/weight is appreciated!
Thanks!