Hey! I am really itching to get a backcountry or slackcountry setup for next year. I just used my buddy's yesterday and I would really like to get into more of the backcountry scene.
Little bit about me, I am originally from the east coast so all I did was park. But recently I moved to Montana (Bozeman) to be exact, and I really like the whole all mountain stuff. I have about $1250 to spend on a setup. I scored a nice internship this summer and I can't exactly go much higher than 1250 because of rent and living stuff. I am 5'6" 170 lbs. and I would consider myself an expert skier. I love hitting cliffs and doing more chute kind of stuff. I would use this setup to go out a few weekends a year to do a day in the real backcountry but mainly just to get through the gates and not have to worry about getting stuck anywhere.
The gear I need is where I need help. I have little experience with this stuff (don't tell me to take an avy class as I am taking one next semester). I was looking at getting the Duke's for bindings, they seem to fit my needs well enough, but correct me if there is something better. For skis, I was looking at the Sir Francis Bacons. I am a big Line guy so I would like to stick with Line but I would also like to see whats out there. I do like a ski on the softer side. I know all mountain skis aren't like the Traveling Circus ski, I'm not asking for that kind of soft, but I really don't like when it feels like I have 2x4's strapped to my feet. I really do not prefer Armada's so please do not recommend them.
I already have a shovel and a decent backpack (Heli Pro). I was looking at getting the Tracker DTS but recommend something else if you think I need better. Probe, I have no idea about sizes but the 240 looked to be pretty normal. For skins, it looked like Black Diamond Ascentions would do, but I also know little about skins.
If I am missing anything I need, please let me know. I know this was long and I probably forgot something. Thanks a lot for any help, it is greatly appreciated.
