Constant Zipper Snags

**Roadtorque** · 08-22-2010, 23:36

Enjoying my new blackbird but I'm getting annoyed with how often the zipper snags the hammock fabric while operating it. Is this a common problem or are there tips to avoid this. Thanks.

**Cannibal** · 08-22-2010, 23:39

Only time mine snag is when I'm kind of far away from the zipper. If my shoulder is close to the zipper, it stays taut and never snags. Don't know if that helps or not, but it's all I got.

**Just Jeff** · 08-23-2010, 08:05

I think I only did it once or twice so this hasn't been an issue for me. No help here...sorry!

Maybe it'll help if you put your leg over to the side, underneath the zipper, to keep it taut while you unzip.

**Bubba** · 08-23-2010, 08:16

So far I have not had any snags on my BB but over the years I have gotten into the habit of pulling zippers using my fingers to spread any material out of the way. I just hold the zipper pull close to the base and my index finger or thumb tends to keep material away. It is easier to do if there is a piece of cord attached to the zipper pull. I know this probably doesn't help but its what I do.

**Pitch** · 08-24-2010, 12:58

Originally Posted by odds

...I have gotten into the habit of pulling zippers using my fingers to spread any material out of the way...

I do something similar and haven't found this to be a problem.

I actually have a long piece of line attached to the foot-end zipper which leads up to a prussic that is tied to the ridge line. This allows me to pull the line to close the zip while laying down (no need to sit up and struggle to get to the zipper).

I find that using my left foot to hold the hammock fabric taught is all that is needed to prevent a snag. When one does occur, don't try to force it at all - just back off in the other direction and try again.

Once the zip is closed I use my hand to push the prussic down the ridge line away from me. In the morning I can use my foot against the line to unzip the hammock, and then use my foot or hand to pull the prussic back up close to me (ready for next use).

My BB is a 1.7 DL by the way.

**Lonely Raven** · 08-23-2010, 08:34

I get snags on mine occasionally, but only where the double layers meet. I think it's just lots of lose material and the fact that I zip up too quickly to keep the bugs out. It's never jammed on me, but simply snagged a little.

**Niloc** · 08-23-2010, 09:50

Originally Posted by Lonely Raven

I get snags on mine occasionally, but only where the double layers meet. I think it's just lots of lose material and the fact that I zip up too quickly to keep the bugs out. It's never jammed on me, but simply snagged a little.

+1

I have the same issues from time to time. I have not found a 'solution' to prevent it. When it snags I just unzip it some and then rezip it up a little slower around the double layer. It's one minor annoyance I'll put up with for my BB.

**Mountain Gout** · 08-23-2010, 09:57

Yep, mine does catch once in awhile... dbl is the culprit.. Just have to keep an eye and slow down a little.. I agree, no big deal really..

**beep** · 08-23-2010, 10:12

I've never had a problem with zipper snags on my WBBB. Now with sleeping bags, that's a different story!

**HappyCamper** · 08-23-2010, 08:42

Mine seemed to snag more when I first got it. Not so much anymore. I must have learned the technique without trying, because I sure didn't study the problem.