quote newguy: "Do deals like this show up each year? I was up last year and rented with an outfitter, will be up again this year renting one more time before buying. Wanted to wait until fall/winter to prep for a 2017 trip and beyond."
Yes the deals come up every year. You have your 20% one item @ REI a couple times a year. Most of the other places have their sales as well not only when REI has their sales, but through out the year.
Sierra Trading Post always gets different things in and if you watch, you will figure out when to buy. If you get something from them and signup for their emails you can get some really good deals.
Kondos does sales on a rotating bases on their products.
Midwest Mountaineering has specials during their spring and fall symposiums.
Deals at Canoecopia as well.
Many of the cottage vendors have Black Friday sales.