NOOB saying hi.

wesgentry · 09-10-2012, 07:35

So I was in need of a shelter that was quick to set up and tear down, dry, off the ground, bug free and preferably comfortable... after a little research my obvious choice was to make a hammock. This is my first try at making a hammock and I think it turned out ok but I am open to any criticism. Excuse my terminology as I am very new to this. Its basically a cinch style hammock made from 1.9 oz. no rip nylon with carabiners at each end. Figure 9 hooks to the carabiners and a ridge-line between the figure 9's. The original size of the nylon was 10 foot long by about 60 or so inches wide (whatever the width was on the rool it was cut from) before the hemming and end pockets. I made a bug net from some material I had laying around and I'm using a poncho as a rain fly...( in my opinion its a little small but its all I've got for now.). I am 5'7" about 140 lbs. and I can lay in about any position possible while in it. Any input would be great!

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/700090/hamm...-30-19_676.jpg

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/700090/hamm...-31-33_561.jpg

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/700090/hamm...-32-18_533.jpg

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/700090/hamm...-35-24_880.jpg

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/700090/hamm...-35-58_412.jpg

**Rooster** · 09-10-2012, 07:47

Welcome from Chester, SC.

**dragon360** · 09-10-2012, 07:57

Hello and Welcome to HF from Canada!

**raiffnuke** · 09-10-2012, 08:12

Welcome to HF from Mass.

**SilvrSurfr** · 09-10-2012, 11:15

Welcome from the Jersey Shore.

I did not realize they made Figure 9s that would bear your weight. That certainly looks like a point of failure.

**2ply** · 09-10-2012, 12:07

Welcome to HF from Athens, Georgia! Looks like you've made yourself a nice looking set up.

wesgentry · 09-10-2012, 12:50

I believe the figure 9's are the weakest point in the setup. I have since changed them to act as a line tensioners. I think that would reduce any sheering forces that might have been happening when I had them hooked to the carabiners. As a safety test I got my wife to get in (lol) and bounce around a bit so I could look for any flex and there was none in either configuration. Is there anyone in the hanging community from the Savannah area?

**STinGa** · 09-10-2012, 13:05

Welcome to the forum from the Atlanta area.

Looks like you are headed in the right direction. As mentioned, the figure 9 is your weak spot, and you could probably save some more weight by swapping your rope with some Amsteel.

Take some time to explore the site and soak up the info. The members around here are awesome and will gladly share their experiences.

Again, welcome.

STinGa