Bad Idea? adjustable hitches on mainline?

**chees** · 10-04-2010, 22:42

Just wanted your input on whether it is a bad idea to use an adjustable hitch to create loops at the end of the main line. These are loops that would go around a toggle that also connects to the tree straps.

I camped out with an adjustable grip hitch on one end of my main line and looped around a toggle a few days ago and it didnt slip, but now that I think about it, it was probably a very dangerous thing to do.

So are these adjustable hitches, such as the adjustable hitch grip or various tautline hitch strong enough to hold my weight, including the jolting that happens when moving around or getting in and out?

I think I'll avoid using that method until I get some input from you guys. Let me know if you need any pictures for explanation of what I'm asking about.

**dejoha** · 10-04-2010, 22:53

I wouldn't do it. As you pointed out, there is some dynamic loading going on in a hammock and those knots are designed to, well, slip.

**dejoha** · 10-04-2010, 22:58

My first hammock was the hennessy, and I dutifully mastered the "figure-8 lashing" and used it on subsequent hammocks. My issue with the fig-8 was how time-consuming it was and a bore to untie when I needed to readjust. With the right rope, I found success with a slippery larks head and that worked for a year of hammocking. It was easy to tie and untie and I could adjust everything much faster. Then I discovered whoopie slings and I've never looked back.

Not only are whoopies extremely adjustable, they are so light and simple.

**chees** · 10-05-2010, 00:02

hahah yeah i think i'll simply use a round turn + two half hitches or something next time for the loop - it may prevent a nasty accident.

at the moment i love playing around with knots so i'll probably not bother getting whoopies yet but who knows what may happen in the future.

**JBRanger** · 10-05-2010, 10:09

I've been using the adjustable grip hitch on my HH since I received it. So far, 5 + overnighters and numberous backyard hanging has been done on this setup. I've not fallen... YET. I've not even had it slowly slip and lower me to the ground either. I did find that I needed to do 4 turns total on the knot to give it the right amount of grip. For me, this will suffice til I can get my whoopie slings.

**coolkayaker1** · 10-05-2010, 12:14

http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/s...ad.php?t=21407

Tried, succeeded.

**chees** · 10-05-2010, 20:34

i didnt see them using an adjustable slide and grip hitch anywhere in that thread though... did i miss something?

**JBRanger** · 10-06-2010, 09:12

He was showing an alternative. If you are worried about the adj. grip hitch, there are many possibilities of other setups. I have tried the MSH setup that he posted and it does work. However, I like the adj. grip hitch, atleast for now.

**chees** · 10-06-2010, 22:19

ah cool, sounds good, i think i will experiment further.

it's just that i'm also interested from an academic point of view whether the adjustable grip hitch would be reliable enough for taking the main load on the suspension.