We're only talking about getting out of a jam until you can find a bike shop. I don't think pointy objects, a 2 to 3-week patch, or the difference between gaffers and gorilla tape will make much difference. But your point is taken.

The question on the table is whether a piece of sidewall is worth carrying. When the LBS mechanic suggested it, his tone was like "Where have YOU been? Don't you know that EVERYBODY uses sidewall strips as boots?" So far, it seems NOBODY here has ever done that!