I use go on all my extended backcountry hunts stove-less to save the weight but just in the last 1.5 years I've gotten "soft" and now bring a jetboil. I think the comfort of a warm cup of coffee in the morning and a hot dinner at night is worth the 1-1.5lb weight penalty.
When going stove-less...
I'm so intrigued by this. They seem easy to fly and no special licensing/requirements to own and operate one. Really hope the OP resurrects to tell us how it went.
My legs always run hot when I'm hiking so I wear Tiburons year round. If it's going to be cold hunt, I'll pack puffy pants to throw over when I'm not moving. They are whisper quiet which is key for me and dry super fast. Only complain is the durability--here in the SW they shred apart quickly.
I made a DIY all taped seams dyneema shelter back in 2018. I'm shocked how well it's held up. Not a single issue and well over 100+ nights sleeping in it.
I own a lot of Montbell but only purchase when I'm in Japan so sizing could be slightly different. I'm a Medium for everything but have noticed a few of my pieces (rain gear specifically comes to mind) I own in size Large. Other jackets have all been true to size for me.
I used it religiously when they first launched, that corresponded with when I first started hunting out-of-state. I'm still a subscriber and use it very sparingly now but I still think it's a nice resource to have access too.
I would say you and your buddies are crushing it! I haven't built up enough courage to go over there and humiliate myself yet but it's definitely a hunt that seems like regardless the result would be a fun adventure.
I've seen them in the Pike NF in Park county but never in any sort of concentration that would make me think it would be worth the effort to hike around exclusively hunting them. Would rather go chase grouse.
'17 for archery. Haven't been back since but it was fun hunt. Killed a little 5 point that had just stripped his velvet and met another solo hunter who to this day is a good friend.