How do you hang?

[MikeWilkinson]

I just love hanging out in my hammock, and being an avid hammock fan, know of at least a dozen modifications/methods of sleeping in one. So I'd thought I'd ask the question, whats your favourite set-up and how do you like to hang it.

To start everyone off.

I have a simple double layer hammock with a home made bugnet and I like to sling it off of a single line suspension.

2627282930

[Shewie]

I use a Warbonnet Blackbird hammock suspended on whoopie slings, a Warbonnet Superfly tarp with doors and a Snugfit underblanket.

I'll get some piccies up later :)

[MikeWilkinson]

My Daughter prefers her DIY whipped end double layer Fifi Hammock, so much so that during the winter we have to rig it under her bunkbed, Next project the matching Tarp!

3233

[resnikov]

Just started to use a hammock, well I used to sleep in one when I was kid for a while but that was indoors.
I got a DD Frontline and DD 3x3 tarp. I have taken the webbing out of the hammock and replaced it with a climbing strap i had laying around, then use a carabinner to attach the strap to the webbbing tied to the tree. Seems to work ok.

[Ashley Cawley]

My Daughter prefers her DIY whipped end double layer Fifi Hammock, so much so that during the winter we have to rig it under her bunkbed, Next project the matching Tarp!..
God they look cute in that! lol.

I hang like this:
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_dzoenG8Svds/S_o49mUbLuI/AAAAAAAAzuQ/AIrsLa6oZXE/s800/IMG_8978.JPG
I set my hammock lower than some and probably the Tarp a little higher. My webbing is well used & tight so I can afford to set it low for ease of getting in and out in the mornings. I set my Tarp ridgeline about head-height, it's a little higher than normal in the picture above.

My Hammock is a DD Travel Hammock 2010, around it is a cocoon made by SnuPak. I love the cocoon as it acts as my sleeping bag and insulation beneath, so I carry the cocoon and don't need to carry a sleeping-bag or roll mat :)

I use the karabiner MOD (2 each end) to stop rain coming down the webbing, the krabs are hollow/light.

The tarp is a Tatonka 3x3m Polycotton Tarp which I love :o I use a ridge-line and tension out my tarp using prussik knots at either end.

[leon-1]

I have a couple of setups, one setup is a DD travel Hammock (old model with one zip), the sashes have been replaced by a 3 quarter inch tubular milspec tape with 1.25 inch steel rings in place to stop capillary effect. The tarp is a 3 x 3 Tatonka with a 7mm purlon ridgeline and paracord with high vis / reflective strips woven in for the guy ropes. The tarp is tensioned using prussicks on mini carabiners and the Ridgeline is tensioned using a pulley set up with carabiners. Insulation is provided by a 3/4 length thermarest and deer skin and dependent on time of year I don't need a sleeping bag.

The latest setup for travelling with is a new DD Camping hammock with the sashes replaced with 1 inch milspec tape (it weighs the same as the other tape as it' not quite as dense), once again it has 1.25 inch steel rings in place and each sash is 10 feet in length. The tarp is a DD 3 x 3 tentioned on prussiks with mini carabiners. The ridge line is 7mm marlow and tensioned in the same way as the other setup and it also has the reflective / high vis paracord guy lines. I will be trialling an Alpkit Numo as insulation.

On both the ridgeline is set up around chin height and the hammock is setup taught at the height of my buttock.

I always also carry a bivi bag in the event that I cannot have a hammock setup, hence also sticking with a sleeping bag and thermal mat.

I should be out teaching in a couple of days time, if I get a chance I'll try to get some pictures.

[Ashley Cawley]

I should be out teaching in a couple of days time, if I get a chance I'll try to get some pictures.
Thanks for sharing Leon.

Any particular reason that you use mini-crabs with the prussiks to tention? I'm just wondering if I've missed out on a tip ;) I tie my prussiks straight to the tarp?

[Matt]

I also use mini crabs, which are attatched to the tarp, and prussiks that stay on the ridgeline, for me it's so that I can set up the ridgeline first and then attatch the tarp. I personally find this a simpler way to set up and take down, but don't forget your ridgeline as I have nearly done a couple of times :confused:

Matt.

[leon-1]

I also use mini crabs, which are attatched to the tarp, and prussiks that stay on the ridgeline, for me it's so that I can set up the ridgeline first and then attatch the tarp. I personally find this a simpler way to set up and take down, but don't forget your ridgeline as I have nearly done a couple of times :confused:

Matt.

My ridgeline and tarp are set up at the same time, the tarp can be setup centrally pretty much every time using this method.


Thanks for sharing Leon.

Any particular reason that you use mini-crabs with the prussiks to tention? I'm just wondering if I've missed out on a tip ;) I tie my prussiks straight to the tarp?

By having the prussiks removable, attached to mini carabiners, it allows me to set the tarp up as a diagonal or in any other configuration should I require to. Basically it allows me the freedom to set the tarp up in any configuration that I may require. With the new DD tarp that allows me a lot of adaptability due to the amount of suspension points.

So should I need to I can setup on the diagonal giving me an overall roof length of 4.5 meters, the centre of your body sits at the lowest point, the 2 diagonal points at the sides provide a greater windbreak effect to the lower level of your body reducing windchill. It has its benefits.

[MikeWilkinson]

I'm with Leon and matt with this, It just makes the whole system more versitile having the prussiks removable. You can set the ridgeline up on the diagonal, across the centre, across a third of the tarp, on the end of the tarp, remove the ridgeline for making mini Teepees, Solo shelters and Brew wedges. If you're using a debris shelter you can rig your ridgeline for a hanging line.

I found as soon as you tie straight to the tarp, you sub-conciously limit your options as for some bizarre reasons you only look for spots where you can rig the ridgeline, where as with it seperate you begin to open up a whole world of shelter options.

In fact to remind me how versitile a tarp is I've printed and laminated a copy of the tarpology images at A5 and keep it stashed with my tarp.

To me it has always made sense to keep it seperate.

It is also the same reason that I use a single line suspension for my hammock, I basically whip out the suspension, get it nice and tight, centre my krabs where I want the hammock, then attach the hammock to the suspension with a fairly fixed amount of Sag, means I can hang from trees upto about 30' or more apart and can have the hammock anywhere along that line, can then do the same with the Tarp. But as Matt says just remember to take the lines down with you!! :p

[Shewie]

I use a Warbonnet Blackbird hammock suspended on whoopie slings, a Warbonnet Superfly tarp with doors and a Snugfit underblanket.

I'll get some piccies up later :)

Forgot to pick up my batteries on Friday so no pics from this weekend on Loch Lomond :(

http://www.bushcraftuk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=786413#post786413

[Matt]

Mike, having looked closer at your pics, I would very interested in learning more about your single line suspension method, rope type, rings and knots etc.

Many thanks, Matt.

[MikeWilkinson]

No problems Matt, I'd first suggest watching these :-


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1f2Xts3Spsc


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPpndtQKWH4&feature=related


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGRAnzEoXZI&feature=related

I would suggest the last one iif your already quite familiar with the basics, although the other two do have some great little bits of info.

[MikeWilkinson]

O.k. So after watching all that I then had a little chat with the guys at hammock forums and came up with this :-

Hardware

2 x Hand Sewn DIY tree huggers, 3m x 25mm Polypro webbing.
1x 30' of 2.5mm D12 pure Dyneema cord
4x Karabiners
1x Welded Steel ring, Sailing qualitly or an SMC ring

1. Sling Tree huggers and tie one end of Dyneema to Karabiner with an Evenk Hitch

157

2. keeping cord fairly loose tie other end off with assisted truckers hitch using the ring.

153

3. Centre Hammock Krabs where I want the hammock, attach to line with Clove hitch or Marlin spike hitch.

158

4. Tighten Suspension at Truckers Hitch until the ridgeline is just taught and then pull a little tighter.

159

Taa daa.

I am switching the 2.5mm back to the 3mm you see in these pics as I have found that the small diameter cord pinches the Evenk hitch to tight so that it is difficult to un-tie.

You can do away with all the hardware by using trail debris and tying off to that.

160

And by using a standard truckers hitch instead of the assited. I just find the assisted so much better for quick tensioning.

[MikeWilkinson]

Final note,

Cordage - I'm using high quality racing grade Dyneema cord. This stuff is pretty slippery and only holds a few knots - Anyone who has used Whoopie slings will be familiar as it is the same stuff.

when using cord this small you need to be sure of the breaking strain. However as a rule try and use stuff rated for at least 500kg or better still 700kg if you a re a big person and are gonna sling all your kit off of it too. Unless like me you are a bit of a numbers geek and like to calculate exactly what strain you are sticking through the cord (http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showpost.php?p=701405&postcount=10

Good sources of stuff rated for high loads are sailing shops and brands to look out for are Marlow, English Braids and Liros. Occasional there is some stuff on Ebay. It is the rope/cordage used for control lines.

If you find the pure D12 too slippy you can get braid over braid which has a dyneema core and and outer sheath that grips knots far better. the stuff in my photos is braid over braid and has a breaking strain of about 700kg and weighs about 0.5kg for 100m of the stuff.

You can also find thick versions of this for 4x4 winch ropes as the 8mm+ stuff can hold 4 tonnes+ and weight for weight is 12x stronger than steel.

I love it.

[MikeWilkinson]

Ohh and for anyone in the states/canada this stuff is Amsteel Blue

[Matt]

Wow, just popped in briefly, will have more time this evening to digest fully. Many thanks again.

Matt.

[MikeWilkinson]

No problems, look forward to your views on the matter.

[Shewie]

I am switching the 2.5mm back to the 3mm you see in these pics as I have found that the small diameter cord pinches the Evenk hitch to tight so that it is difficult to un-tie.



Is that with a slippery evenk hitch Mike ? I'm using 2mm dyneema for my tarp ridge and haven't had any problems with the knots getting jammed.

I have noticed how much harder it is to tie the knots when it's cold and wet compared to when I used to use 4mm climbing cord.

[MikeWilkinson]

Wouldn't be a problem with a tarp line. I'm sticking 5x my body weight on it though, so it pulls very tight!! And yes it is a slipped hitch, the problem is probably magnified in that I am tying to a small cross section of karabiner and so the knot pulls incredibly tight about the standing end. The easiest solution is just to have a fixed loop at the end and clip that into the krab and take up all the slack at the truckers end.

I prefer Dyneema over climbing cord, it is lighter, stronger and has no stretch. Climbing cord was never designed for dynamic loading and so i am always a little concerned about shuffling about in my hammock when tied to it.

[Shewie]

Wouldn't be a problem with a tarp line. I'm sticking 5x my body weight on it though, so it pulls very tight!! And yes it is a slipped hitch, the problem is probably magnified in that I am tying to a small cross section of karabiner and so the knot pulls incredibly tight about the standing end. The easiest solution is just to have a fixed loop at the end and clip that into the krab and take up all the slack at the truckers end.

Sorry my bad, I thought you were referring to tarp lines for some reason. I'll get me coat :)

I think you're right in that a fixed loop would be the way to go with your setup. I'm using the 7/64 whoopies these days which are larksheaded onto the ends of my Blackbird with a marlin spike at the other end on my tree straps.

I'm loving the new hangoing technologies now, compared to the 18mm climbing tape I used to use, the bulk of my setup is tiny now.

[MikeWilkinson]

Yeah, i love the whole hammock science. I played with Whoopies for a while and UCR's and even Loopies. Nacrabiners or loop shackles are good fun too, love dyneema for splicing and constriction.

There is a fourth video to the ones I posted all about constriction, its worth a look if you want to go down the Loopie/Whoopie route. :)

[Shewie]

Yeah, i love the whole hammock science. I played with Whoopies for a while and UCR's and even Loopies. Nacrabiners or loop shackles are good fun too, love dyneema for splicing and constriction.

There is a fourth video to the ones I posted all about constriction, its worth a look if you want to go down the Loopie/Whoopie route. :)

Yup, seen Grizz's work before, all clever stuff

[MikeWilkinson]

Ahh, a fellow hammock forum member, I've not been on there for a while.

[Matt]

Well Mike, that's certainly got me interested in experimenting with new hanging methods. Now I've got to do some shopping or put together a somewhat alternative Christmas wish list.
Great videos, all three were very informative, had a chuckle at the outake on the first.
I appreciate your time and explanations.

Regards Matt.

[MikeWilkinson]

Watch out, it gets addictive.

[Shewie]

Watch out, it gets addictive.

... and expensive :)

[MikeWilkinson]

Matt, found a link for you

http://www.s3i.co.uk/round-ring.php

[Matt]

Thanks Mike, added them to my list of three suppliers to call today, rang Jimmy Greens' first and after a chat with a very helpful fella I managed to get everything I needed from them. He also suggested I get polyester as opposed to polypropolene webbing due to the fact it would be less likely to stretch when wet, went with that as it also had a good breaking strain too.

I know what I'll be doing this weekend ;)

Regards, Matt.

[MikeWilkinson]

Excellent, you gonna have a go at the tree huggers as well?
Jimmys have always been good for me. What size Dyneema did you go for?

look forward to seeing it.

[Matt]

I took receipt today of 10m of polyester webbing, 12m of 3mm D12 dyneema and 6 s/s 40mm rings. I've re-laced(using some of the dyneema) a lightweight silk hammock of mine, as shown in the first of the videos on page 2 of this thread, prussiking in two rings at each end. I've cut the webbing into two lengths of 3m, tying a loop at one end of each to use as a webbing suspension. For greater spans I'm planning to try the single line suspension method as Mike has explained, using the webbing and dyneema to suspend from.

Looking forward to tomorrows experimentation :)

Matt.

[Matt]

Today I've concluded that I'll definately be using the webbing and two ring method of hanging from now on, with the option of the single line suspension only for wider spans, and not for every set-up.
The simplicity of the webbing suspension does it for me and with 3m of webbing each end, will suffice for many, if not most of my usual set-up scenarios. It's great to have the flexability of being able to span wider too, but I did struggle somewhat with some of the single line suspension techniques, one being the clove hitches on the crabs pinched and were difficult to loosen, the other being the assisted truckers hitch, no matter how many (I tried up to seven) turns I put through the ring it kept slipping. I'll need to experiment a bit more with this.
I love the marlin spike hitch and will be finding many applications for this in the future.

Thanks again for the help and advice.

Regards, Matt.

[MikeWilkinson]

Any photos Matt, Glad you got something out of it, I've never really had a problem with the clove hitches, but then I use them quite a bit. As an Alternative you can Marlin spike the Krabs in place and just pull them out when you want to shift them. Pretty versitle for hammocking the old marlin spike hitch.

[BlackMartlet]

God they look cute in that! lol.

I hang like this:
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_dzoenG8Svds/S_o49mUbLuI/AAAAAAAAzuQ/AIrsLa6oZXE/s800/IMG_8978.JPG
I set my hammock lower than some and probably the Tarp a little higher. My webbing is well used & tight so I can afford to set it low for ease of getting in and out in the mornings. I set my Tarp ridgeline about head-height, it's a little higher than normal in the picture above.

My Hammock is a DD Travel Hammock 2010, around it is a cocoon made by SnuPak. I love the cocoon as it acts as my sleeping bag and insulation beneath, so I carry the cocoon and don't need to carry a sleeping-bag or roll mat :)

I use the karabiner MOD (2 each end) to stop rain coming down the webbing, the krabs are hollow/light.

The tarp is a Tatonka 3x3m Polycotton Tarp which I love :o I use a ridge-line and tension out my tarp using prussik knots at either end.

Hey Ashley, where did you get your cocoon? I've been looking for something like this to save myself some carrying the weight of a sleeping bag and whatnot.

Thanks!

[resnikov]

Think the cocoon is from DD Hammocks clicky (http://www.ddhammocks.com/products/underblankets/underblanket)
http://www.hammockforums.net/ also have a lot of cocoons or underblankets advice and sellers.

[Shewie]

Hey Ashley, where did you get your cocoon? I've been looking for something like this to save myself some carrying the weight of a sleeping bag and whatnot.

Thanks!

Ed Speers makes a down version called the Peapod which is a very nice product ...

http://www.speerhammocks.com/Products/PeaPod.htm

It only weighs 38oz which is probably a third of what the Snugpak comes in at. I've got their Snugfit underblanket which I can't rate highly enough.

[Skywalker]

I have a DD Travel Hammock, and to be quite honest, have never used the mozzie net. I always hang mine upside down (so the net's underneath). I will get round to trying it out in 'full' configuration sometime. There aren't any dreaded midges round this way, so I suppose I've had no need for the net.
I'vetried rigging it at chest height, and was frankly too scared to move, in case I fell out. I now rig at about waist height, and with stretch, it sits at a nice height.
The pics below are when i rigged at chest height.
Apologies for the quality, was taken with my phone.

http://i1238.photobucket.com/albums/ff499/woodlandadventures/Set-ups/BushcraftStuffWG2010014.jpg

http://i1238.photobucket.com/albums/ff499/woodlandadventures/Set-ups/BushcraftStuffWG2010017.jpg

Luke

[resnikov]

I have a DD frontline and found it warmer when using the mossie net. Now I don't know if it just seems warm or it is. Just what I have noticed.

[Martin]

I don't think I've ever slung my DD Travel Hammock without the bug net. I like the slightly enclosed feeling you get as well as being able to pretend you're asleep in the morning. :)

Martin

[Skate]

Have used my frontline hammock with and without the bug net. If there are no midges around it is much nicer without the net. I also now use a large DD tarp (4.5 x 3m). It isn't much heavier and gives you so much more cover when it is raining or snowing. The 3x3 tarp leaves your head and feet too close to the ends of the tarp and unless there is no wind rain can hit the hammock. Also use climbing straps and carrabiners.

[Matt]

Hey all,

just thought I'd update this thread with my most recent hammock experience, spent last night hanging using the single line suspension (thanks Mike, I've sussed it now and thanks for the hammock forum link also, done much reading and watching there and now joined:)) The span was 9m+ and I used 100" for the stuctural ridgeline element.

I can honestly say it was the best nights sleep I've ever had " under canvas" and I'm looking forward to fine tuning it further.

Matt.

[Ashley Cawley]

Hey all,

just thought I'd update this thread with my most recent hammock experience, spent last night hanging using the single line suspension (thanks Mike, I've sussed it now and thanks for the hammock forum link also, done much reading and watching there and now joined:)) The span was 9m+ and I used 100" for the stuctural ridgeline element.

I can honestly say it was the best nights sleep I've ever had " under canvas" and I'm looking forward to fine tuning it further.

Matt.
That's great Matt - thanks for keeping us updated.

I've yet to try a single-line suspension and I've been meaning to come back to this thread and read it from the start, shall do this soon.

[MikeWilkinson]

Hi Matt,

Not been on for awhile, so getting your message in my e-mail was a good reminder that I need to catch up on things (work and family been taking up my time). Glad you got the single line working, It is even better when someone else wanders by and sees you hanging 30' between trees on line no thicker than a washing line.
Can you post some pics of your rig?

[Matt]

Hi Matt,

Not been on for awhile, so getting your message in my e-mail was a good reminder that I need to catch up on things (work and family been taking up my time). Glad you got the single line working, It is even better when someone else wanders by and sees you hanging 30' between trees on line no thicker than a washing line.
Can you post some pics of your rig?

Hey Mike,

great to here from you, sls rocks, so too does the hammock forums, quite infectious.

With regard to putting photographs on to a computer, that's just witchcraft ;)

Matt.

[MikeWilkinson]

Hammock forums is a great place, very much compliments this one but more specialised. Shug on there is legendary, some of things he tries and videos are out of this world. Once again glad you like SLS and very glad to have helped.

[resnikov]

Matt, found a link for you

http://www.s3i.co.uk/round-ring.php

What size ring do you go for?

[Matt]

What size ring do you go for?

I first bought some s/s welded rings which were fine for the double ring and webbing suspension method, also stitched one into one end of each of my tree huggers which I found to work really well with the SLS and assisted truckers hitch. I then got some rap rings from Needle Sports which are much thicker and better for using in conjunction with a clove hitch.

Regards, Matt.

[Matt]

Just made my first pair of whoopie slings, lovin' Dyneema and looking forward to trying them out :)

Matt.

[MikeWilkinson]

Looks like you have properly caught the bug! :)

[Matt]

Think you could be right there Mike, good though aint it?

[MikeWilkinson]

:happy-clapping::happy-clapping::happy-clapping::happy-clapping:

[GaryBeaner]

Just found this on ebay.
Can't justify a need for a tarp this big, but for the money I thought I should mention it!
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Ex-Army-Canvas-Tarpaulin-Sheet-Cover-30-x-12-/330536500670?pt=UK_SportsLeisure_HikingCamping_Ten ts_JN&hash=item4cf582bdbe#ht_1475wt_905
Only prob I can see is its weight, but perfect for long term setups.

[Ben Casey]

Just found this on ebay.
Can't justify a need for a tarp this big, but for the money I thought I should mention it!
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Ex-Army-Canvas-Tarpaulin-Sheet-Cover-30-x-12-/330536500670?pt=UK_SportsLeisure_HikingCamping_Ten ts_JN&hash=item4cf582bdbe#ht_1475wt_905
Only prob I can see is its weight, but perfect for long term setups.

Hi It looks like one of the tents we had when I was in if it is it isnt a tarp but a tent and should have a frame.

[GwersyllaCnau]

You guys have probably already seen or know this but I just found it and thought I would share it on here just in case you haven't seen it.

Hammock Quick Pitch

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1iJTjful66M

[MikeWilkinson]

Looks like a play on the garda hitch method, the only problem with this is the two rings pinch the cordage, with certain cord this will actually reduce the breaking strain of the cord causing it to fail after prolonged weight has been applied. Certainly avoid with any hollow braid cord like pure dyneema, Braid over braid should be o.k. (thats what is used in the video) but I'd still be cautious.

The science and engineering of hammock hanging gets real addictive and when you realise the potential forces involved you tend to get a little paranoid about how you hang. Although saying that I still hang of 2.5mm Dyneema stretched to around 5 degrees from the horizontal!!! :) Good job it has a breaking strain of 900kg.

[GwersyllaCnau]

looks back at my simple tent lovingly.

[MikeWilkinson]

Hahahaha,

Yeah, I carry kit to Bivvy out as well. :p

[Diesyl]

I have just got sorted with the truckers hitch system mentioned in the video using two rap rings. It works will and will get properly testing over the weekend when we go camping in Donegal.

Also thinking of a wooden tripod to hang one end of the hammock from and attach the other to the roll cage on my land rover, so if trees are scarce we can still hang the hammocks.
Will try and test this tomorrow and see if it works.

Diesyl

[MikeWilkinson]

Hi Diesyl, are you sure your not refering to the garda hitch with two rap rings? If it is then I would advise against it with cord, Grizz the guy who makes the videos is now set dead against it after a the pinching action weakend the cord and it tore clean through, it is fine with tape, just keep an eye on wear and tear in the area of most use.

[Diesyl]

Hi Mike,

Just read my post and can see it was not too clear. It is not the garda hitch, which uses 4 rings in total. I use one ring on each side of the hammock (2 in total), with 3 wraps of cord around the ring and tying it off. When under tension it holds in place.

See Grizz's video on Hammock Suspension Part 2 (continued) at 1.10mins.

Once setup there is no retying and it is easy to adjust the hammock hang. I would love to try whoopie slings but getting the cord here is far too expensive, around £2 a meter compared to 65cents in the U.S., so I was just using what I had at home.

Going to test the tripod and landrover today to see if it works, so I do an update later. Lets hope the handbrake holds!

Diesyl

[Roadkillphil]

Never thought it would happen but I'm getting addicted to hammocks! :D my new tarp and hammock turned up yesterday so I'm off to try it out tonight and I've just ordered 12m of dyneema and some rings. I wanna go as lightweight as possible and I like the idea of SLS. For tonight I'm using ridgeline and double ring into webbing, which Matt kindly put together to help me into hammocking.
Thanks to Matt and Mike for your advice and encouragement :D

[MikeWilkinson]

Hahaha (Evil Genius Laugh) Welcome Phil, to the wonderful world of hammocking!! I love SLS if I can be of any help let me know.

[Adam Savage]

DD 3x3 tarp, Tenth wonder compact camo hammock, pair of DD/DMM crabs each end of the hammy going to 50mm webbing slings, micro crabs along ridge points, mini crabs at corners for guys, spreader bar at toe end, coffin cut roll mat between layers of hammy. Comfy if you get the toe end a little higher than the head end (stops you sliding down hill) and packs down to 1.75 Kg

http://i1024.photobucket.com/albums/y304/crazysaint22/Dartmoor%202%20the%20revenge%20preperation%20weeke nd/IMGP2060.jpg

[Roadkillphil]

DD 3x3 tarp, Tenth wonder compact camo hammock, pair of DD/DMM crabs each end of the hammy going to 50mm webbing slings, micro crabs along ridge points, mini crabs at corners for guys, spreader bar at toe end, coffin cut roll mat between layers of hammy. Comfy if you get the toe end a little higher than the head end (stops you sliding down hill) and packs down to 1.75 Kg

http://i1024.photobucket.com/albums/y304/crazysaint22/Dartmoor%202%20the%20revenge%20preperation%20weeke nd/IMGP2060.jpg

Sweet pic Adam :D

[Roadkillphil]

Hahaha (Evil Genius Laugh) Welcome Phil, to the wonderful world of hammocking!! I love SLS if I can be of any help let me know.

Got 12m of 3mm dyneema and a 4 SS rings turn up yesterday, just gotta decide how I'm gonna use it.

[Matt]

Let me know if you want to knock up some whoopies mate, i've got a splicing needle and fid.

OAG,

Matt.

[Roadkillphil]

Let me know if you want to knock up some whoopies mate, i've got a splicing needle and fid.

OAG,

Matt.

Sweet! :D PM sent

[Adam Savage]

Sweet pic Adam :D

Thanks Phil. Got some photos of the new spreader bars, will post as soon as I have recovered from the long drive LOL.

[Ben Casey]

Thanks Phil. Got some photos of the new spreader bars, will post as soon as I have recovered from the long drive LOL.

Hope you had fun mate :)

[Adam Savage]

Hope you had fun mate :)

It was all fun, except the rain, oh and a slight design error in the hammy suspension, more on that later haha.

[Roadkillphil]

I had a go at setting up SLS yesterday. It was a 7m span, had webbing treehuggers with marlin spike hitches at each end. One end of the dyneema on a bowline and the other on an assisted truckers hitch, at this end I had an SS ring with a small prussik on the marlinspike. The hammock was slung with prussik and SS ring threaded through the hammock ends. The rings were threaded straight onto the dyneema with the 3 turns through the ring as in Grizzs' vids, I like the adjustability of this, and the rings didnt slip under load. I'm thinking of leaving the rings on the dyneema and maybe getting a coupla karabiners to clip the hammock onto the rings for easy deployment of the suspension line.

In summary, it was an easy, quick setup and take down, and I'm looking forward to trying over bigger spans.

Cheers

Phil

[MikeWilkinson]

SLS rocks!!!

As you get onto bigger spans you may need to add a couple more turns on the rings and a little more tension on the suspension, this is purely because the increased distance results in a larger deflection from the horizontal and therefore your backside hitting the ground - the other choice is to place your suspension higher up the tree, but at certain distances that would need to be well out of your reach.

[Adam Savage]

Just a little update for the DD Tarp MC. Several have been returned (including mine), due to a weakness in the fabric above the attachments, parrallel to the ridge line. DD have replaced these with no issues and have removed these attachments (still leaving the end attachments), reducing the number of attachment points from 19 to 13.

Like so...

http://bl160w.blu160.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=0&messageId=9fc25f4e-8b9c-11e0-b169-00237de3f546&Aux=50|0|8CDEDC08836BB60||0|0|0|0||&maxwidth=220&maxheight=160&size=Att

[Ben Casey]

Just a little update for the DD Tarp MC. Several have been returned (including mine), due to a weakness in the fabric above the attachments, parrallel to the ridge line. DD have replaced these with no issues and have removed these attachments (still leaving the end attachments), reducing the number of attachment points from 19 to 13.

Like so...

http://bl160w.blu160.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=0&messageId=9fc25f4e-8b9c-11e0-b169-00237de3f546&Aux=50|0|8CDEDC08836BB60||0|0|0|0||&maxwidth=220&maxheight=160&size=Att

Mine seems ok I will have a check in the morning :) your link doesnt seem to work mate

[Adam Savage]

Mine seems ok I will have a check in the morning :) your link doesnt seem to work mate

Link? What link? lol It's only the MC models that are being redesigned. The multicam ones.

[Ben Casey]

Link? What link? lol It's only the MC models that are being redesigned. The multicam ones.

Ok Im lost now LOL

[Adam Savage]

Ok Im lost now LOL

It should have a little picture of the tarp. I'll see if I can sort that tomorrow

[Ben Casey]

It is ok mate we sorted it I thought you meant the DD Tarps where duff was all :D

[Adam Savage]

It's the MC made by DD, the standard ones (single colour) are all tougher material. Think it's the way they colour the MC, it has a negative effect on the tear resistance.

[MikeWilkinson]

Seeing as there has been a lot of interest in hammocks and hammocking this season, thought I'd revive this thread a bit and ask the question again,.

How do you hang? Pictures as well please.

2599
Assisted Truckers Hitch

2600
View of Single line Suspension - note the carabiner wrapped onto the SLS

2601
SLS line Truckers Hitched to 'Biner on Tree Hugger.

2602
Hammock slung on SLS with DIY Midge net over SLS ridgeline, Also Kit Hammock Slung underneath, also off of SLS.

2603
Hammock Slung 20' between trees over river bank.

[Adam Savage]

I notice you mention a truckers hitch, do you find you need that much tension on your hammock? I find it more comfortable to have a little slack in the hammock.

Edit, I just read the SLS part lol, ignore me, I'm half asleep lol.

[GwersyllaCnau]

Just a bit of fun... I found a Hammock app on the Android market. just search for hammock on the market, it'll be the top one

"Calculates how high to hang given a distance between trees. Hang well!
Hammock Tools calculates how high you should hang your hammock and how long the suspension should be if you can estimate the distance between trees. It also takes into account the angle of your hammock, the length of your ridgeline and how high you want to be off the ground. The best thing about it? You don't need an internet connection or cell signal to use it! Have fun hanging"

2626

[GwersyllaCnau]

I've been researching (killing time on you tube) different methods of hanging hammocks. I quite like the look of the whoopie sling because it looks fast and easy to use. I was wondering what you guys thought about it. I weigh 82kg btw as I'm sure that would make a difference as to the type of system I would need to use..... Also would my 8 year old son find it easy to adjust.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n06Hw_VfmfA

[Adam Savage]

I have seen them in use, but never used them. That look great and work fantastically, but my personal preference is tree huggers. easy to set up and adjust, plus I use 2.5" wide webbing for mine, so they will take up to 500Kg no trouble :).


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_BYV260duo

[GwersyllaCnau]

WOW a very detailed video. Thanks

[Silverback]

I've just replaced my hammock ropes with Dyneema climbing slings, and im using tree huggers and screwgated crabs. Anyone forsee any issues before i sling it up this weekend ?

[Adam Savage]

Sounds like you have a good load bearing system there. What width tree huggers are you using, and are they cotton or nylon?

[Silverback]

Sounds like you have a good load bearing system there. What width tree huggers are you using, and are they cotton or nylon?

25 mm mil spec nylon webbing, double length of course because its made into a loop

[Adam Savage]

The nylon stuff should be fine at that width (but I never listen to the "mil spec" part, it's only a sales pitch lol), the cotton stuff is weaker and after a while starts to rot down. Should hold you up nicely that little lot. Hope there's a nice report on the trip, when you get back :)

[Silverback]

The nylon stuff should be fine at that width (but I never listen to the "mil spec" part, it's only a sales pitch lol), the cotton stuff is weaker and after a while starts to rot down. Should hold you up nicely that little lot. Hope there's a nice report on the trip, when you get back :)

its the exact same stuff as fitted on the PLCE bergans and the like. Im hoping it will be a good night out. Only an overnighter unfortunately as time constraints prevent anymore - may have to be a bit shy with my report as its very much a 'stealth' camp. Getting out with Nat110732 from this very forum. Met him at an MRT charity walk 10 days ago.

[Adam Savage]

Sounds great mate. I didn't mean the mil spec stuff isn't actually mil spec, but a lot of the time, the military buy kit that performs to the minimum, at (as close as they can get to) the lowest bidder. Climbing webbing is of much higher standard for instance. After all, it's designed to support a person in a worst case scenario, whereas webbing is designed purely to carry your kit (hence PLCE, as you know stands for Personal Load Carrying Equipment) which doesn't matter if it does really fall off onto the floor, in the same way a body falling a couple hundred feet :).

[Silverback]

I know Adam, but slings are so damned expensive and thats with the discounts i get. This webbing im using is the same stuff as they use on MR stretchers so Im sure its up to the job. If not im taking the original flat nylon cord from the hammock and I'll jury rig replacements on scene - either that or im on the deck for the night:happy-clapping:

[Adam Savage]

Oh I completely agree that it's more than enough for the job in hand. I just meant "mil spec" goods generally, not your webbing :).
I'm sure everything will be fine mate. If any of your set up is a weak spot, it'll be either knot, or the stitching on the hammock itself (but if it's DD, you'll be very unlucky for the stitching to go, as it would be one of the first ever). Always best to make sure the ground underneath is clear of all debris, including kit ;).

[Silverback]

Im confident my knots wont be a weak spot, peoples lives rely on them sometimes...literally. Its not a DD so if there is any weakness as you say it will be the stitching. The slings are 22kn rated krabs are 22 kn lateral loading 7kn cross loading and 6kn open gate - i think i should be fine......T^

I hope ;)

Adam do you use a carry mat cut coffin shaped or have you plumped for an underblanket ?

[Adam Savage]

I use a coffin cut mate. Have an old olive sleeping bag (ex USAF) that I am toying with the idea of making an under blanket with though. I find a coffin cut works fine, as long as you make it plenty wide enough at the shoulders, so it curves up around them slightly. Otherwise you'll get the cold shoulder (pun intended) from Mr and Mrs wind. :)

[Silverback]

tomorrow evening I intend to mostly use a buffalo 4s outer

[Adam Savage]

Should go a long way to helping, but wind can seriously effect even 4/5 season bags. I use a 4 season rated to -12, still get cold shoulders in a hammock if you haven't got either, a closed cell foam next to your bag, or an underblanket. The pressure of hammock pressing against your shoulders, negates any insulative properties of your sleeping bag.

[Silverback]

Should go a long way to helping, but wind can seriously effect even 4/5 season bags.

Thanks for the advice Adam. I intend to get out much much more this winter, so I'll probably end up puttin a 2 season inner into that other bag

[Adam Savage]

You'll be nice and toasty mate. look forward to hearing any tales that may arise. :)

[MikeWilkinson]

Sorry guys been away on work just caught up on all this. Couple of things to add clarify on all this.

The hanging set up sounds fairly robust, but like Adam says the weak spot on the nylon webbing will be at the knots (not how good they are, but the fact that they will half the breaking load where the cordage enters the knot). I tend to use 50mm polypro webbing and sew into loops myself using the same stitch pattern as in the Dyneema slings. The Dyneema Slings are probably a little bit of an over kill, and you could probably go lighter once you are comfortable with it - Whoopie slings and SLS methods tend to favour 2.5mm D12 Dyneema cord which is wickely strong stuff with very little stretch.

As for the Sleeping bags and mats, the issue is generally with the compression of the material beneath you, so even adding an extra bag or wearing extra clothing, you are still likley to get a cold spot. The difference between using a sleeping bag on the ground and in the hammock is the hammock hugs more of your body and therefore most of the Sleeping bag is compressed beneath you against the hammock, where as on the ground compressive forces are in the main at certain points, i.e at your hips, shoulder blades and maybe your ankles. The mats get around this by compressing very little and still provides an adequate insulation layer, I find this to be more than adequate spring through till Mid Autumn, but I reckon a UQ is the only way to go come winter.

Another way to get around this if you use DIY Hammocks (may even work on commercial ones - not to sure) is to make the lower layer slightly longer than the top layer, so that you can stuff a 1-2 season bag in there and it will not get compressed as much due to the slack in the lower layer, providing you with the extra bit of insulation and wind protection needed to negate the cold spot. ( I've been known to stuff mine with dead leaves and spare clothing).

[Silverback]

I have made some new slings overnight and removed the knots. The thing with the dyneema is I know its almost bombproof and has myriad of uses so I can use it for other things other than my hammock if needed. Im taking spare stuff to re rig tonight if it doesnt work and I can always sleep on the floor if i have to.

Thanks for the advice

W

[MikeWilkinson]

T^

Us Northerners have got to look out for each other up here when ole winter sets in!!!

[Silverback]

T^

Us Northerners have got to look out for each other up here when ole winter sets in!!!

Trouble is we're that sorted for winter up here we have to bail out the southerners on a regular basis ;);)

[LandRoverMatt]

I use my dd travel or camping hammock with the webbing and hang it any way and a dd tarp 3x3m

[Silverback]

so just back from my little overnight foray into a new spot we have found, joined by Nat from NB and my mate Pete - I'll start a new thread later, but for now my hammock suspension system worked a treat.

The whoopies I made were a little short so i used the original flat polyprop from my hammock (its a tenth wonder by the way) to go round the tree then looped one whoopie through it. Slept flat, warm and comfy all night. Best nights kip I've EVER had camping i could even lay on my side.

[Adam Savage]

Excellent mate. Normally takes folk a while to get the hang of laying on their side. You must be a natural :)

[Silverback]

Excellent mate. Normally takes folk a while to get the hang of laying on their side. You must be a natural :)

That or it was the guiness ;-)

[SJT]

Hi just got a hammock and tried it for the first time on a beach camp using some old 'telegraph poles' that were for a beach shade. Was somewhat unsure of how it would go but it was a great nights sleep. One question, can anyone recommend a good mosquito net that I can use in conjunction with the hammock. I have a Life venture travel hammock. I'm living in the UAE and so far can only find Lifesystems mosquito nets and there a quite a number of different ones. I have emailed the manufacturer of the hammock but no response yet. Any advice would be very welcome.
I'm planning to take some Explorer Scouts to a desert island for a camp in mid-Feb all being well and am planning to use the hammock, but will definitely need some sort of net as the island is a mix of sand and mangroves.
Thanks
SJT

[Opal]

How do you sort the end of the hammock out with a c/karabiner? I can't find a link anywhere. :confused2:

[Adam Savage]

Here's NB's video, which includes the crab conversion. :)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78OhtWrIInE&feature=plcp&context=C38b3f2aUDOEgsToPDskLftDU8nLR1DYf943RfESrg

[Opal]

Thanks Adam, I've watched that quite a few times but I'd like to know.....do you just cut the webbing after you have gathered the hammock together, tie a knot and add a carabiner?

[Adam Savage]

That's exactly it. Leave about 8-10 inches of webbing/rope/whatever, at each side of the tunnel (sewn into the end of the hammock), then tie a square knot (reef knot). Sometimes people prefer to have a little more, sometimes a little less, so best start off with a foot or so coming out. Have a few test runs, and adjust accordingly. If you have too much webbing, the rain will fall on it, making the crabs useless, too little webbing, and the ends of the hammock can be too tight on your ankles.

[Opal]

I found Ash's review on the DD which shows it better, thanks again, there'll be more questions yer know. :)

[Adam Savage]

lol. no problem buddy

[markal17]

crazy when you come down u might have a look at my mod on my hammock for me mate plsssss lol

[Adam Savage]

Sure thing Mark. Looks like it'll be Friday when I'm passing yours.

[markal17]

cool ok mate il be here

[Roadkillphil]

Wellll, I'm currently laid in my new Ticket to The Moon king size silk hammock, strung up in my living room. I have two thunderbolts (eyelets) drilled and screwed into the wall and I'm using a fixed SLS, ie no truckers hitch. Got all the measurements sorted for sag etc and this is a permanent bed for me now, but it l packs away neatly during the day. TTTM were kind enough to include their rope tree huggers (usually 10$) so I've undone all the knots on one and used this as the SLS. I also ordered 4 krabs off them too... They sent 8!! Bargain :D So the single line has a krab at each end via a bowline to clip onto the eyes, and I've modded the ends of the hammock to have a krab instead of the hook. As I said this will be my permanent bed from now on, I've had one good nights kip in it, need to adjust the sag, but it'll be fine. I've rigged some fairy lights along the ridge line as well :D

For my camping rig I have been using SLS for a while now, but I've got some whoopees I wanna try out with a structural ridge line ASAP!!

Cheers

Phil

[jus_young]

This weekend for my first hammock trip. My DIY trial underquilt has just been finished so will try this out at the same time and get all the details posted next week.

Fairy lights Phil? Surely there has to be a more masculine name for them, something like 'structural ridge line illumination' ?

[Opal]

Does anyone use an inflatable lilo in their hammocks? I have a thermarest but just thought a lilo would be lighter when walking or am I being a nob? :)

[Martin]

Does anyone use an inflatable lilo in their hammocks? I have a thermarest but just thought a lilo would be lighter when walking or am I being a nob? :)

Yup. :D

Martin

[Roadkillphil]

Yup. :D

Martin

I've never seen your lilo Martin ;D

[Opal]

Yup. :D

Martin

Yup you use a lilo or Yup, I'm a nob? or both? :)

[Martin]

Yup you use a lilo or Yup, I'm a nob? or both? :)

Ha ha, I don't use a lilo. ;) Seriously, a lilo would be far heavier than a Thermrest and not as warm as it's filled with moist air that saps heat away.

Martin

[Adam Savage]

There are tube beds (I think they're called), that cyclists use. Kind of like a matrix of inner tubes, that you inflate with a bike pump. Very light, but they don't last long before needing repair, and you need to carry a working pump with you at all times.
Will try and find a link and/or pic of one. Be right back :)

[Martin]

Actually, I'm being a tad disingenuous here. My usual sleep mat these days is a Thermarest Neoair which is, in essence, a lilo albeit a hi-tech version. It would not be suited for use in a hammock though. It's too narrow and too thick once inflated. Like I said, a lilo would be far too cold to sleep on as it would radiate heat away from your body.

Martin

[Adam Savage]

Here's the link, for the bed below...http://lyramag.blogspot.com/2010/08/klymit-high-tech-insulation.html

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XaV27AoBMps/TH0Vs5dyDOI/AAAAAAAAZN0/CtQAuXB6POI/s640/17InertiaxFrame.jpg

[Opal]

Looks a bit like a raft, Adam. :)

[Adam Savage]

I know it doesn't look very comfortable lol.

[Opal]

Another thing :rolleye: carabiners, got to get some, recommendations welcome, two or four and reasonable price?

[Adam Savage]

DD hammocks sell crabs, £7 a pair I think they are. Genuine climbing grade, and they are green :)

[Adam Savage]

Scratch that, they are £12 a pair now

[jus_young]

Could also try GoOutddors as they do a lot of climbing gear and prices are reasonable.

[Opal]

Had a card with them, Jus, for a few years, went off them. Are quick draw biners good for hammocking as they appear cheaper?

[Adam Savage]

Don't see why not. As far as I know, they are still capable of supporting around a tonne of static load.

[Opal]

Thanks Adam, might get them then. ;) Blue and silver, blue for bottom eh? :)

[Bigmikejenkins]

Field and trek do a good deal on DMM Pro wire Carabiners for £4 each. We use them occasionaly in work and have a tensile strength of 24kN, or 2.44 Metric tonnes. I bought 4 a couple of months ago and they are a fantastic piece of lightweight gear, they weigh less than 40g. Heres a link:

http://www.fieldandtrek.com/dmm-pro-wire-carabiner-788092

Mike

[Adam Savage]

Strangely enough, I just pulled up some stats on the DMM phantom quickdraws. And sure enough, around 24kn with gate closed. and 8kn open, so just under a tonne when open. I wasn't too far off :)

Specification
Weights: 60g (18cm)
Strength (Gate Closed): 23kN
Strength (Gate Open): 8kN
Gate Opening: 20mm
3-Sigma Rated

[Opal]

Thanks Mike, I'm 11s7lb so should be okay :) Fieldandtrek have a small bit of gear in Sportsdirect but I didn't see any in the city centre today, would have to go to Chester :(

[Bigmikejenkins]

Strangely enough, I just pulled up some stats on the DMM phantom quickdraws. And sure enough, around 24kn with gate closed. and 8kn open, so just under a tonne when open. I wasn't too far off :)

Specification
Weights: 60g (18cm)
Strength (Gate Closed): 23kN
Strength (Gate Open): 8kN
Gate Opening: 20mm
3-Sigma Rated

The pro wire has the same gate closed rating, but comes in at 24g lighter and seems to be cheaper online than the phantom quickdraw. The only downside is the Pro wire is a little bit smaller, so a bit more fiddley.

[Bigmikejenkins]

Thanks Mike, I'm 11s7lb so should be okay :) Fieldandtrek have a small bit of gear in Sportsdirect but I didn't see any in the city centre today, would have to go to Chester :(

Either Chester or jump online and do it. They usually have loads in stock.

[jus_young]

Know what you mean about GoOutdoors. Their 'discounted prices' are only really what most other retailers would sell at anyway. I don't know of many retailers that actually sell at the manufacturers recommended retail price as there is too much competition. Take my Paramo smock for example, GoOutdoors sale price with discount card was £165 whereas my local camping store had the same one at £160! Still doesn't stop me from getting the odd thing or too though :ashamed:

[Bigmikejenkins]

Know what you mean about GoOutdoors. Their 'discounted prices' are only really what most other retailers would sell at anyway. I don't know of many retailers that actually sell at the manufacturers recommended retail price as there is too much competition. Take my Paramo smock for example, GoOutdoors sale price with discount card was £165 whereas my local camping store had the same one at £160! Still doesn't stop me from getting the odd thing or too though :ashamed:

My mother seems intent on disregarding me pointing out that GoOutdoors discounted prices are usually higher than other retailers normal prices, because "It's never busy there and I can see the tents when they are up." They spend loads there when they can get it cheaper from elsewhere from a retailer who gives sound advice, rather than a sales drongo.

[jus_young]

Our local camp shop has a good display of tents set up for you to walk around and I have always appreciated their advice. They are honest about their pricing and politely remind people that they are a small family company rather than a major online retailer and can't therefore price match. Never bothered me and I would much rather buy locally from them than go anywhere else but the limited range means that sometimes I have no choice. They are also very good when it comes to buying stuff for the Scout group by giving a 10% discount. Can't ask for much more from a retailer really.

[Adam Savage]

The pro wire has the same gate closed rating, but comes in at 24g lighter and seems to be cheaper online than the phantom quickdraw. The only downside is the Pro wire is a little bit smaller, so a bit more fiddley.

The weight listed there, is for both crabs and the Dyneema dogbone, so a little under 30g for each crab, plus a tiny amount for the Dyneema. Not sure on the length of the crab though.

[Opal]

Just ordered some whoopie slings, seems the way to go, me pocket's emptying fast. :(

[Roadkillphil]

Just ordered some whoopie slings, seems the way to go, me pocket's emptying fast. :(

Whoopies rule, I use in conjunction with a dyneema ridgeline :D

Cheers

Phil

[Bigmikejenkins]

The weight listed there, is for both crabs and the Dyneema dogbone, so a little under 30g for each crab, plus a tiny amount for the Dyneema. Not sure on the length of the crab though.

My bad!

[Adam Savage]

My bad!

Not to worry mate, it wasn't very explanatory, as it was only the stats from the item.

[Opal]

My missus was throwing out some wind chimes, pipes are alloy, I kept hold of them as us hoarders do :) I cut two of them down earlier and inserted some garden string, should be okay for the whoopie slings attachment, what d'yers reckon?

http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd90/opaldan/whoopiechimes.jpg

[Adam Savage]

How thick are the sidewalls of the tubing? Ali is pretty weak stuff, but if it's thick enough, it'll be fine, as all the weight is close to the support wire (if you're using them as marlin spikes).

[Opal]

Not thick walls, Adam, went into the garden and tied it all up on the g/daughters swing, I swung, she swung, we all swung, :) appeared okay, I'll have to wait for decent weather to try it out proper.

[Adam Savage]

That's cool then :). If they ever do start to bend, you could always thread a bolt or nail through them, to give them even more strength.

[Opal]

Another question/s :) do all these whoopie slings leave black marks on yer hands? do I wash them (ws) or just leave them alone?

[jus_young]

Don't worry too much about it. After a bit of use it soon disappears.

[Opal]

I set the hammock up in the hallway yesterday, slung the webbing over the back door and put a knot in around the handle, then the same with the living room door, attached the whoopie slings then the hammock, can't believe how easy and quick it is putting up :) can't wait for some decent weather and time to try it out in the garden, think the tent will get the boot when I go wandering fishing.

edit: thinking of buying a sleeve for the hammock, do any of you guys use one? seems the way to go for tidyness and storing.

[Martin]

I've got the hammock sleeve. Like you said, for tidyness and storage it's a very neat idea. No other real benefits that I can see but what else could there be?

Martin

[jus_young]

I also have the sleeve that holds the hammock, tree huggers, 'biners etc and makes setting up clean and simple. The whole lot then slips into a dry bag which compresses it all down into a small package.

[Opal]

Ordered the sleeve yesterday afternoon, arrived this morning, always excellent service from DD Hammocks, brilliant sleeve, can't believe I've missed out on this hammock lark all these years. :)

[Roadkillphil]

Ordered the sleeve yesterday afternoon, arrived this morning, always excellent service from DD Hammocks, brilliant sleeve, can't believe I've missed out on this hammock lark all these years. :)

Me too, me too! Up until 18 months ago I was a tent man through and through. Then I got introduced to hammocking and I'm a proper hammock junky now :D

[Adam Savage]

Just got my nice new travel hammock :), definitely need to either buy, or make a sleeve for it, and maybe get a bigger stuff sack for it (Ash was right on his review, the bag is a little on the small side).

[Roadkillphil]

Hmmmm, when I got my travel hammock it came in the stuff sack that was a bit small, but DD sent a bigger stuff sack with it too....

[Adam Savage]

I got mine from their seconds section, for £24.50, so can't complain. The only thing is it has no zip pulls on one side, so can only get in and out from one side. Doesn't bother me, that's how the old ones were anyway lol.

[GwersyllaCnau]

Just got my nice new travel hammock :), definitely need to either buy, or make a sleeve for it, and maybe get a bigger stuff sack for it (Ash was right on his review, the bag is a little on the small side).

I bought the snake skins for my hammock and after using these only a few times I have now ditched them for Shugs idea with his 'black bishop bag'
basically I cut a small hole in the bottom of the supplied stuff sack passed one of the suspension ropes through it and my hammock now gets stuffed into it.
It's better to watch the vid than for me to explain. I just find it easier than struggling trying to get the hammock in the snake skins.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7NZVqpBUV0&feature=plcp&context=C337a376UDOEgsToPDskKVSvTnBqPtOSdl-K_ffood
2minutes 50 seconds in.

[Ben Casey]

I like the snake skins and I just stuff everything into a side pouch on my rucksack :) One pouch has my cooking stuff the other has my sleeping stuff (Well apart from the sleeping bag that is that goes in the main compartment :)

[Adam Savage]

I like the snake skins and I just stuff everything into a side pouch on my rucksack :) One pouch has my cooking stuff the other has my sleeping stuff (Well apart from the sleeping bag that is that goes in the main compartment :)

It must be a military thing, that's exactly the same as I pack mine lol.

[Adam Savage]

Just put two new zip pulls on the DD. Works perfectly now. Zips kindly donated by an umbro rucksack lol.

[markal17]

like it didnt think dd did seconds please sir can i have some more lol

[Ben Casey]

It must be a military thing, that's exactly the same as I pack mine lol.

brothers in Arms LOL :D

[jonksy]

Hi, I went to trago mills Newton Abbot today and they have 50mm stainless steel rings for £2.99 a pair and loads of 1 and a half inch webbing for tree huggers at £1.65 per mtr in their boating debt next to the paint dept. Oh and BTW I went into stover park and tapped a couple of birch it only took about half an hour to get 0.75 ltr..

[jus_young]

Hi, I went to trago mills Newton Abbot today and they have 50mm stainless steel rings for £2.99 a pair and loads of 1 and a half inch webbing for tree huggers at £1.65 per mtr in their boating debt next to the paint dept. Oh and BTW I went into stover park and tapped a couple of birch it only took about half an hour to get 0.75 ltr..

Thats where I got all my bits for the hammock. Their shockcord is good value as is the meths at about £3.80 ish for 2.5 litres.

[Adam Savage]

I'm off to Trago over the weekend for some supplies. Will have a good ol' nosey in the sailing section :)

[jus_young]

I'm off to Trago over the weekend for some supplies. Will have a good ol' nosey in the sailing section :)

I know they are cheap but thats one hell of a journey just for some supplies ;)

[Adam Savage]

LOL. I just happen to be in the area over the weekend. I know, it's unlike me to be in Devon :rolleyes:

[jonksy]

Thats where I got all my bits for the hammock. Their shockcord is good value as is the meths at about £3.80 ish for 2.5 litres.

Yes that is cheap for meths I didn't get a chance to have a really good look around as I was with the other half, you know what it's like you can spend all day looking at three piece suites and carpets but stop and look at computers, cameras or bush craft gear and you are lucky to get a nano second...LOL

[jus_young]

Thats a familiar story :D

[jus_young]

Well got a chance to pop into the woods today and set up the DIY hammock so that the ridge line could be adjusted. This is the current setup -

3 metre ripstop nylon hammock

4002

Tree hugger with 'biner to whoopie sling and stainless ring

4003

And ridge line at about 100 inch length

4004

Get a good diagonal lay on this but may add a foot box yet, just a little undecided.

Enjoyed being out for a few hours. It was a lovely spot and worth a visit or two again.

[Adam Savage]

Looks nice and compact. I've yet to try my nice new Dyneema SLS (many thanks to Paul Webster, for making it). Hoping to get under it at the weekend.
Still not 100% sure I'll like the curve/sag in the hammy, but will give it a go :)

Great work Jus T^

[Tigger004]

Thanks for sharing Leon.

Any particular reason that you use mini-crabs with the prussiks to tention? I'm just wondering if I've missed out on a tip ;) I tie my prussiks straight to the tarp?

Ash, You say you use prussics direct to the tarp, can to explain that please, (I'm having a senior moment) I use mini-crabs for convenience and hate them,

[Silverback]

Prussik length of accessory cord or even paracord wrapped around main line as a friction 'knot'. I use the term loosely as by grasping the prussik you can slide it up and down the main line. If suddenly shock loaded it will grasp the main and slow or even arrest a fall. Commonly found in technical rescue, work at height climbing and caving rope systems. Prussiks can be used to ascend a rope too.

[Tigger004]

thanks for the quick reply,
I use prussic loops on my ridgeline, but then attach the prussic loop to the basher loops with a mini-crab, Sorry if I was a bit vague, what I was asking is - how the prussic loops attach to the Basha loops?
I await you reply

Thanks Jeff

[jus_young]

If you are using lengths of cord to form your prussics, don't tie the ends together. Form the prussic around the ridgline using a slightly longer than normal length of cord and then tie the open ends around the basher loops.

I can picture the process in my head but explaining it is quite different!

[jus_young]

5490

This is how I am hanging this weekend. Looking forward to a relaxing couple of nights.

[TreeCamper]

5490

This is how I am hanging this weekend. Looking forward to a relaxing couple of nights.

Looks good mate. Have a good one.

TC

[jus_young]

Cheers TC, I am indeed having a good one. Presently sat in front of the fire with a very bright moon and an owl hooting away to himself (and me now). Going to be a chilly night I think as the clouds are gone and the stars are out

[Silverback]

Cheers TC, I am indeed having a good one. Presently sat in front of the fire with a very bright moon and an owl hooting away to himself (and me now).


Lucky git ;)

[f0rm4t]

Lucky git ;)

+1

Take some pics in the morning of your views Jus :)

[jus_young]

Here's the view right now

5491

[AL...]

Sigh!!!!!!!!


Cheers
AL

[f0rm4t]

Sigh!!!!!!!!

Same

[Silverback]

Git

[jus_young]

5492

Life's hard...

[Tigger004]

If you are using lengths of cord to form your prussics, don't tie the ends together. Form the prussic around the ridgline using a slightly longer than normal length of cord and then tie the open ends around the basher loops.

I can picture the process in my head but explaining it is quite different!

Yes, i was using continuous loops, obvious that I shouldn't be now......doh :ashamed:

[Ehecatl]

I often get my "string out" and experiment in the kitchen or practice knots (drives the Mrs mad). Anyway, as an alternative to a prussic I came up with the following:

6729

This must have been used before and if so, does anyone know what it's called?

I've basically started out with a 72cm (28" in old money) loop (using a figure of 8). The figure of 8 ins't required if you need un-joined ends for the tarp loops.

Point the figure of 8 towards the tarp end and then wind around the ridge line. After about 5 winds, take the end (furthest from the tarp) back and then between the loop formed by the two strands going into the figure of 8.

This is my "inner tube" mod mentioned in another post. The inner tube would be around the tarp loop providing stress relief in windy conditions.

6733

[suggy]

I]does anyone know what it's called?6733

Looks like a klemheist, I use 'em on my ridge line

[Ehecatl]

A klemheist! Thanks Suggy!

Any ideas how to pacify the Mrs when I've tied two kitchen chairs together to form a ridge line? :happy-clapping:

[Silverback]

http://www.animatedknots.com/klemheist/index.php

http://www.animatedknots.com/prusik/index.php

side by side you can see how they differ although technically they are both prussik knots

[suggy]

I do have them tied the opposite way round on the same ridgeline depending on where the force is coming from.

For instance, how you have it on your pic, you could have it connected to the left side of your tarp.

But along the ridgeline to the left, I have one the other way round, for the tension of the ridge line around the tree.

Hopefully you understand what I mean, klemheists can be directional and the bias makes them better than prussics.

Works for me anyway, and a lot quicker to do.

:)
Just realised my knots are barely recognisable because of how many times they are wrapped around the ridge line.

673467356736

[suggy]

Any ideas how to pacify the Mrs when I've tied two kitchen chairs together to form a ridge line? :happy-clapping:

I'm sure we have all been in a similar situation, I've got brackets on the walls of my front room for my hammock LOL

[Adam Savage]

Any ideas how to pacify the Mrs when I've tied two kitchen chairs together to form a ridge line? :happy-clapping:

Have you tried tying the missus between two kitchen chairs? :p

[jus_young]

Have you tried tying the missus between two kitchen chairs? :p

She might end up getting the wrong idea there.

As for the brackets in the front room, I have but eye bolts in the back room to hang the hammock which got some funny looks but in the lounge when trying things out I hang it from the window latch and a nail in the wall. Gets right in the way of the telly and does not always go down too well.