Hammock Capacity

[rob317]

What are the primary determining factors for the weight capacity of hammocks? I assume the material and stitching used are a factor, but what about the suspension system?

I ask, because I just ordered a hammock that is rated for 250lbs. I'm a bit heavier than that (but working on it!), and I'm curious if upgrading the suspension will increase that capacity a bit, or if I'm just destined to rip out the stitching at some point.

How much more strength would I gain (or lose) by going with amsteel whoopie slings, or is this really just reducing the weight of my pack more than anything else? I do like the adjustable nature of the whoopie slings and was thinking about making a few.

[gmcttr]

Hard to make a comparison without knowing the hammock you ordered or it's suspension specs. Got a link?

[Ratdog]

Suspension matters but the limit of the fabric is the limit of the fabric.

What suspension is bundled with your hammock?

7/64ths or 1/8th amsteel will be plenty to handle your weight. So will most every strap suspension offered by a cottage vendor here on HF.

If you are worried about the stitching on the sewn end channel, check to see that it has 3 rows, a general rule of thumb and if you are very concerned, you can always convert to another gathering method such as a ball whip.

[rob317]

Suspension matters but the limit of the fabric is the limit of the fabric.

What suspension is bundled with your hammock?

7/64ths or 1/8th amsteel will be plenty to handle your weight. So will most every strap suspension offered by a cottage vendor here on HF.

If you are worried about the stitching on the sewn end channel, check to see that it has 3 rows, a general rule of thumb and if you are very concerned, you can always convert to another gathering method such as a ball whip.

Just looking at the warbonnet blackbird, the single layer appears to have a 250# capacity. I realize for a few dollars more, I can increase the capacity. I was just wondering if that capacity rating was a limit of the material in use, or suspension or a combination. Sounds like the biggest factor will be the material in use, and the stitching.

[Ratdog]

Not the suspension, primarily the fabric.

Stitching though a factor, is generally consistent when comparing a 1.1 to a 1.9oz fabric.
Double layer adds a row of stitching in all likelihood.

It's not just capacity, comfort also plays a role with the lighter fabrics stretching more.

If you are considering a double layer, the second layer adds strength, adjusts comfort and adds versatility through the potential use of a pad on cool/cold nights.

[TallPaul]

If you are considering a double layer, the second layer adds strength, adjusts comfort and adds versatility through the potential use of a pad on cool/cold nights.

This is what I was going to say as well. I got a DL, and I'm well below the weight threshold. Main reason at the time was the ability to use pads (which didn't last long, but I had to try it).
And I'd also heard many find the DL more comfortable than the SL, though YMMV (etc).

You can also email WB and ask for their advice on deciding between the SL & DL.

[FLRider]

Frequently, the weight capacity put forth by our cottage vendors is closer to, "At this weight, you'll start being less comfortable due to excessive fabric stretch," rather than, "You're gonna fall through the fabric and die."

As a good rule of thumb, Papasmurf has a wonderful little chart on his website, located here. His ratings have been spot-on for me when doing DIY.

That being said, hang from an hammock at heavier than its stated rating at your own risk. There are definite risks in exceeding what the stated rating is; it's just that I've found most manufacturers' ratings to be conservative (which is definitely a good thing, in my opinion; you'll eventually wind up with a less-than-optimal hang, placing more stress on the hammock than the usual, making the excess capacity a wonderful backup).

As always, YMMV. Hope it helps!

[Trail Runner]

It may be a sin to use a Dream Hammock Comfort Calculator for a Warbonnet Hammock but the info is handy and may help you out. Click here to see the Comfort Calculator.

[Phantom Grappler]

I think amsteel larks head around hammock just below gathered ball is stronger than running amsteel through end channel even triple stitched. You could double the larks head or triple larks head (prusik?) for added grip. I'm thinking the fabric is stronger than stitching and the knots grip would be more than enough. YMMV

[Phantom Grappler]

Larks head or double or triple larks head (prusik?). Or wrap like a klemheist, klemheist said to have greater hold than larks head and prusik. But be careful the klemheist is directional and resists pull much better in one direction than the opposite direction. Good luck!