Seeking Tips on This Tarp Setup

[SingleTrackMind]

Thanks Bubba. I didn't realize the number of different ways you can work with ridge lines. I'll be experimenting with these a bit this weekend.

When you say a pole mode would be good for my hammock, do you mean the pole that can be inserted in the middle of the tarp? Or the spreader bar poles I plan to make for the actually hammock?

[Bubba]

Thanks Bubba. I didn't realize the number of different ways you can work with ridge lines. I'll be experimenting with these a bit this weekend.

When you say a pole mode would be good for my hammock, do you mean the pole that can be inserted in the middle of the tarp? Or the spreader bar poles I plan to make for the actually hammock?

Middle of the tarp. Heres the pole mod

[nacra533]

your ridgeline will "sag" and form a something similar to natural catenary curve when you pull down and stake the sides.

You fabric will sag as it picks up moisture and self tensioning guylines are simple to make with a little hardware store bungee. They make a huge difference and help with the noise if the wind picks up.

I think a tight pitch looks good and is more quiet and arguably stronger in a breeze, for rain coverage, it is not necessary. you could effectively just drape a tarp over you and keep dry. I don't worry much about having the perfect pitch.

[gargoyle]

STM, What you use as a ridgeline matters as well. Paracord or any nylon cord will stretch and give your tarp sag issues.
I upgraded to some of the lash it and it makes a world of difference. Once it is set, it stays tight. Really improved the whole set up.
Maybe a little pricey, but worth it in the long run, probably last a lifetime.

Lash it line

Or several of the cottage shops here carry it.

[SingleTrackMind]

Thanks Bubba. I checked out the site and the pole idea looks pretty good. I'll probably be looking into this. Because Clarks take up a lot of space it can help here as well.

Narca, thanks for the info on tarp behavior, and for suggesting the tensioners with bungee. I found a thread on this topic, where he uses black bungee and orange line, and I might be putting something like this together.

Gargoyle, thanks for heads up on the lash it line. I visited the site.

Because its used in the commercial fishing industry it makes me wonder too what I would find if I went to our local fishing supply store. I live in a commercial fishing port and we have a store that carries lots of rope and stuff.

I truly appreciate your help, guys. This is great.



p.s. Gargoyle, it was pretty funny when I read "STM" in your post. I actually Googled it because I wasn't catching on. STM = SingleTrackMind