I'm hooked!

**jjthedog** · 01-16-2011, 20:37

I got a ENO DN for x-mas from the in-laws, and I'm hooked! I've always loved hammocks but never considered them for camping until recently. Now that I've tried it, I don't think I'll ever sleep on the ground again. I have been watching Shug's videos on you tube for awhile & dare say he's what got me curious. Anyway, his videos led me here and what a great resource and community! I immediately swapped out the included cord & biners, got some tree straps and I've been swayin' in bliss ever since! I'm doing things on the cheap for now, I might upgrade to some better/different/lighter products in time. I can see how this could become a very expensive hobby. I'm currently using the $4 straps from Harbor Freight, Metolius FS Mini biners, SMC Rings, and Amsteel continuous loops to the hammock. I'm pretty happy with the ease I can set up, adjust, and take down the hammock. The blue walmart pad seems to work well, but I do see the need for a wider pad or the SPE. As for the tarp, the green 9'x7' tarp from Harbor Freight is heavier but the price is right! I really don't mind an extra pound or two as I don't get the chance to do long hikes very often and I do save weight in other ways. I'm thinking that some kind of bugnet is necessary and I think I'm going to go DIY. Other than the obvious things like buying better/lighter gear, does anyone have any words of wisdom? Are there little tips or any kind of inside info I should know about the gear I have? Like are the Harbor Freight straps going to burst into flames, drop me on my rear end, and burn down the woods? Thanks!

**salamander42** · 01-16-2011, 21:30

Welcome! Sounds like you're on the right track. If you're like most of us, you'll go through some evolution on your gear 'till you find what works best for you. There's no one size fits all solution. I'm sure you'll be fine with the set up you have 'till something else catches your eye that you just have to try. That's how it's been for me at least.

**cataraftgirl** · 01-16-2011, 21:51

I started hammock hanging this past summer with a Trek Light double, which is very similar to your ENO double. The first few things I changed/added were ...... non-nylon webbing suspension with rings or cinch buckles, a ridge line, a nice tarp, and an underquilt. Try a few things out to see what you like. Also see if there are some group hangs in your area so you can see some different set-ups. Then start saving up some money to buy the new items you'll be lusting after.
Have Fun.
KJ

**Shug** · 01-16-2011, 22:42

Welcome to the Comfort Club.
Just have patience and keep refining your hang a step at a time!
Shug

**creativeKayt** · 01-17-2011, 00:39

Yay!! Welcome to the addiction.

I'm still relatively new to the hammock, too, and I've been fine-tuning my rig non-stop since I began. I think that's half the fun. The other half is the crazed stares and open-mouth reactions I get from family and friends. Then they try the hammock and realize that we hammock folk know where its at!

I can't wait to hear about your hammock evolution.

**bigbamaguy** · 01-17-2011, 10:27

JJ:
About the only thing I could recommend to you to do with the ENO DN is to make an adjustable ridgline out of amsteel. It really helped me get comfortable in my DN. Good luck, have patience and keep tweeking the gear!!!!!!!

**-FiveFiveSix-** · 01-18-2011, 19:43

I started out just like you my freind, U think straps and rings are easy, by your self 50 feet of amesteel, cost less then 15 bucks shipped, and make some whoopie slings.. they really are the best way to go. with 50feet you can make 2 nice 12 foot slings, and have enough left to make a ridge line. Amesteel is incredibly easy to work with, and fun for that matter. Next step is to set up an indoor hang, so you can work all the kinks out indoors, sleep in a few nights, and youll soon be putting your mattress and boxspring on craigslist and use that money to fund more gear

**grich9860** · 01-18-2011, 20:31

welcome to the club!!! being a noob myself i have found that staying away from nylon ropes, straps, ext. is the way to go. yes it is cheaper but it streches like crazy.

**gunner76** · 01-18-2011, 21:13

welcome to the madness.

Like are the Harbor Freight straps going to burst into flames, drop me on my rear end, and burn down the woods?

Only happens on nights with a full moon !

**JayS** · 01-18-2011, 21:24

Welcome! You're doing things right. My first hammock was an ENO DN (well, technically I got it for my son...) and I still use it at times. It's just so simple.