Looking for a new bike

[Kelly]

I started bike packing last year on a 29 Surly Ogre.  I want to ride more technical trails and am looking to replace my 26 epic marathon full suspension.  I have tested some 29 hardtails.  I like the weight factor and one less thing to go wrong w/out the suspension but I'm 48 yrs old and have ridden full suspension for 12yrs.  Anyone have a suggestion for a 29 full suspension bike that would do well w/bike packing gear. 
Thanks,

[Bndst]

The salsa horsethief and spearfish are pretty good options IMO. Horse thief is a bit squishier than the Spearfish, but with the shock set up correctly it's a very pedal-able bike uphill. Salsa and Revelate have stock frame bags for both, which is a plus. Each bike comes in a number of build levels too.

I've played around a bit on both (though I own neither, planning on a horsethief as soon as $ allows) and found them both to be fun, capable bikes.

Happy hunting!