Grand Trunk Air Bivy for thru-hiking?

[fx67]

It looks like a different modification (my speculation) as it has:
- diamond pattern rip stop fabric
- dark blue in color
- loops sewn on bugnet are not from the same material but rather nylon of some sort
- has ultralight on the stuff sack
- rating inside the stuff sack (little white tab label) states 400 LB
- smaller then SBPro

Am I missing something? It almost look like a different category rather then combination of of a standard hammock with the tarp. Looks like it was created as a unique item (ABES)

[Alan]

It looks like a different modification (my speculation) as it has:
- diamond pattern rip stop fabric
- dark blue in color
- loops sewn on bugnet are not from the same material but rather nylon of some sort
- has ultralight on the stuff sack
- rating inside the stuff sack (little white tab label) states 400 LB
- smaller then SBPro

Am I missing something? It almost look like a different category rather then combination of of a standard hammock with the tarp. Looks like it was created as a unique item (ABES)

Interesting....
I will take a close look as soon as I get home and will post here.

[Alan]

Looks like it was created as a unique item (ABES)

Okay, checked everything out as soon as I stepped in the door. My findings are exactly as you've posted. The bag may say "Ultralight" but it does not look like an Ultralight. I suspect you are right: this was a special run for REI. Either way, I got a GREAT deal and my wife enjoys it. That's all that matters to me!

(I'd bet Chief Hammock Officer could clear up this mystery...)

[bigbamaguy]

Just received my new GT ABES that I ordered from REI. I am trying to figure out if it is going to fit me, I am the fireplug type. Will have to try it out tomorrow when I get home from the dreaded job!!!! I have confirmed that the material for the hammock is nylon and the tarp is polyester. I have some webbing and "D" rings to make a set of cinch straps coming in the mail and once they get here I will put everthing together and see if I can make this work for me. If I cannot I will let my daughter have it and I will either order the Claytor or the Clark JH........have to figure the money situation out. Anyways now I can atleast say I have to tools to start the job.

[SuprGeek]

Looks like I mighta bought the last two. REI Outlet's not showing any more of these. Guess it's kinda irrelevant on a couple of different levels now, huh?

Will advise once they're here. Glad it bought 'em when I did.

-j

[Chief Hammock Officer]

Hey All,

Just finished up with winter outdoor retailer and have not had much time for fun, ie. hanging out on the forum! I want to help clear the up the confusion on the ABES.

The ABES was a special make we did for REI Outlet, timing was a little late for the season last year and that is why there was a DEEP discount on the proudct. It's a great product.

The hammock itself is made from a diamond shaped Rhombic Rip-Stop nylon (Great material) and is 8' long X 4' wide, smaller than the standard SBH, but also lighter. It includes the sewn on mosquito netting as well.

It also comes with a fit to size Funky Forest Tarp that is 8'6" X 8'6" and is also lighter than the standard FFT.

Hammock weight is: 19oz

FFT weight is: 23oz

Total weight is 42oz or 2 lbs 10oz

Hope this helps! I'll have the ABES on my site soon, in the meantime if you're interested you can call my office and speak to Michelle 877-365-2965 and she can get it ordered for you. Hammock Forum Special price of $129.99 + shipping.

CHO

[Alan]

Thanks CHO! The ABES is a great product.

[SuprGeek]

Got mine in, and confirmed all of the above. I had nothing to be apprehensive about, this thing looks pretty tough. I'm supplementing with some webbing and putting some extra hardware on the netting support bungees and whatnot, but all in all looks like an awesome choice.

First time out will be in a couple weeks, wx permitting. I'll take some pics and report back!

-j