I'm looking into a new pack and pair of boots. I'm leaning towards a Mystery ranch metcalf and crispi boots. What are your experiences with either of these or your recommendations for other routes. Also what are the different qualities or features that you look for in these pieces of gear?

Boots are highly individual. Went through a lot of money on boots before I found what MY feet likes the best. Crispis didn't work for me. Pack-wise there's a ton of good options on the market. I've had an EXO since they first came out. Mystery Ranch, Kifaru, Stone Glacier all make solid packs. You can get away with more on an ill- fitting pack than you can on boots. If you're feet hurt, everything hurts.

My son bought an eberly stock pack a couple years ago, he thinks its the best one he's ever owned and he's went through a bunch of them

I like crispi boots have both insulted and uninsulated. I use a badlands pack but we're not packing in and staying.

Don't buy boots unless you try them on.

For some brands and information about them check out GoHunt on the web and look at the boots section. There is a video review there somewhere on several makes. Also, information on how to measure your feet to match up with the most likely boot. You can call them too. They have boot people there to talk with.