Tim,
No doubt weird punctures happen. We all have stories. I've seen screwdrivers in a tire and all sorts of crazy ass road debris. A cut sidewall is pure bad luck but that happens too.
I've been lucky, had mostly nail or screw punctures ... plugs or sticky string plugs have worked a treat. Only had to re-do one in 25 years using them.
Technique is everything.
But riding any sort of longer, more serious trip I carry tubes. Just remember to carefully check inside tire once off is wheel (don't cut yourself). Install new tube, keep speeds low (50 mph) and keep close eye on pressure until tire can be replaced or repaired. A huge split or big hole is hard to repair, best replace tire. ($$$$)
Tube tires handle holes and splits better, and speed ratings are LOW on many dual sport tires (and bikes lighter weight) so less likely to split or come apart when hot.
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