I'm not a member of the 501 yet so I can't know the weight of trooping all day in gear, but I'm more intimidated with the price of the armor than the toys that go with it.
Til I have enough saved up to buy the armor (or tax refund) I have been putting my BFG, pack, and E11 together. The E-11 is finished, the BFG is underway, and I have all the parts for the backpack. If price is the issue start cheap and upgrade.
Lastly when I troop for the most part it will be with all of the toys. Thats what looks the coolest.
Also I do know about walking around all day with the weight. I have been wearing full leather armor and carring a sword at Ren Fair for 5 yrs.
Bonded Hawk