Blackbird Single 1.7 vs XLC blackbird Single 1.7

Hi all,

I'm new to the forums and am overwhelmed by the amount of information contained here so I apologize if I am repeating someone elses questions. I have been a tent sleeper all of my life but have decided to try hammock sleeping. I do a fair amount of extended (5-7 day) backpacking trips and prefer to go as light as possible. I was looking at the Hennessy Explorer Ultralight, but when reading the forums, I get the impression that the Warbonnet Blackbird may be the way to go. I am 6'3 and about 200 lbs. so I think the WBBB would fit me just fine despite the cost difference between the two hammock manufacturers. Can someone tell me what the difference is between the WBBB Single 1.7 and the Warbonnet XLC Blackbird 1.7? Also any info on the pros and cons between the two would be greatly appreciated!

I believe XLC stands for eXtra Long with Cover. Normal length of BB is 10' whereas XLC is 11'. I personally don't understand why its so hard to update the webpage with a small blurb, but there is an introduction thread under this same Warbonnet heading.

The original 1.7 BB is a foot shorter than the xlc. The xlc has a removeable bugnet, and an overcover that can replace the bugnet for more warmth in cooler conditions. IMO, the xlc is the best of worlds. In the bugless seasons you can use it without the net to save weight or use the overcover for a little extra warmth.

I'm 6'1" 190lbs and I have the 1.1 double layer xlc. I love it. I've never owned the regular bb so hopefully someone with more experience in both can comment.

I'm new to this game too... I got the WBBB 1.7 double layer, & at 6'3", I find it pretty comfortable. I've never seen or tried an XLC, but I can see where the extra length might make it even more comfortable.

I imagine you'd be safe with either, if you have the extra $$$, spring for the XLC for the added comfort & accessories

Thank you all very much for the input! The xlc sounds great but at 10.5 oz heavier, I'm not sure if the added length and features would be worth it to carry on multiple 10+ mile days.

@Likeapuma
With your 6'3" frame do you find there is plenty of head and foot room in the original BB 1.7 or are you pushing the length limits?

I imagine I'm in within a few inches of their intended max's? Idk, but every time I feel like my feet are too far into the footbox, it's usually because I'm not far enough towards the head end.

I still haven't been able to make myself UNcomfortable yet lol.

What cover does that XLC weight go to? Bugscreen, winter cover, or open?

I was spoiled from the beginning - I couldn't decide what hammock to get, so I went to a group hang to try some out - one thing about this group, they usually are more than happy to show you their gear. Anyway, Gunner76 let me try a WBBB and man was it nice. Now, to be honest, I didn't sleep the longest that night but I didn't wake up with concrete shoulder I typically get in the tent, either. Things only got better after that.

So, my first recommendation is to go to a group hangs if you have any in your area.

Another option - order them both & return one :)

I wrote up my thoughts on comparing the XLC to my WBBB here if that helps any.

Good luck in your choice... it's a win either way. If you ever pick one & decide to try the other, both have seen good resale value on here.

Tallpaul, I am always happy to help convert someone to the dark side.

I am 6ft2 and 280lbs and find my BB plenty big ( I use a 1.7 dbl and a 1.1 dbl ). I usually don't even use the side pull outs.

My wife who is 5ft 3 managed to turn completely around in her BB one night. Went to wake her up in the AM and found her feet at the head end.

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Originally Posted by gunner76

Tallpaul, I am always happy to help convert someone to the dark side.

My wife who is 5ft 3 managed to turn completely around in her BB one night. Went to wake her up in the AM and found her feet at the head end.

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Wow - how you saw my reply that quickly - you must have some powers!

I'm also 6'2" as well and the WBBB fits my fine. Though I can't get my youngest daughter out of it anymore.

I can't imagine, though, completely swapping head/foot in the middle of the night without knowing it :)

I like to keep my base weight down as well. I went with the 1.7 single for that reason. I am 170 lbs and close to 6'2". And I find there is plenty of room. I tried a Henessy first that a friend had and fought with it all night. The next morning, I looked it up on the web and noticed it was for campers up to 6'. Their larger hammocks were too heavy in my opinion so I went looking elsewhere and decided in the WB. I couldn't be happier. If memory serves, the BB should be good up to 6'8". You can send them an email and give them your height, weight and that you are looking to keep your load light and i am sure they would be happy to let you know which would be your best option.

You guys are awesome! Thank you very much for all the great advise. I decided to go with the XLC 1.1 and ordered it this morning. Thanks again everyone!

Awesome! Enjoy it!

Now you just have to suffer through the wait :P

how long on average is the wait?

I think it is around 3 weeks until it ships.. There's a thread about current waiting times floating around (haven't figured out posting forum links using Tapatalk).

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Originally Posted by Likeapuma

I think it is around 3 weeks until it ships.. There's a thread about current waiting times floating around (haven't figured out posting forum links using Tapatalk).

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It's longer than three weeks. I ordered going on 5 weeks ago now and mine hasn't shipped yet.

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Originally Posted by Gumshoe

You guys are awesome! Thank you very much for all the great advise. I decided to go with the XLC 1.1 and ordered it this morning. Thanks again everyone!

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That's great. So did you settle on the 1.1 single or double?

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Originally Posted by Likeapuma

What cover does that XLC weight go to? Bugscreen, winter cover, or open?

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My over-cover weighs in at 189g. In comparison, the XLC I got with no suspension on it weighs 703g. I only take the cover for the cold if needed. Mostly leave it at home. I didn't weigh the bug screen.

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Originally Posted by Brady

That's great. So did you settle on the 1.1 single or double?

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I got the double so i can slip in a Thermarest NeoAir Trekker and keep my butt warm. I plan on springing for a decent underquilt when i can get the funds, but dropping $380 on the hammock and tarp stung the pocket book a little. You get what you pay for and with the reputation WB has, i'm certain it will be well worth the money. I wanted the 1.7 for the material strength, but figured if i dont abuse/mistreat the hammock the lighter weight 1.1 would be ideal.