View Full Version : Hammock modification input
Hi everyone. I'm new here, and looking for some advice. I have a hammock that is made from parachute material. This is the model:
Hammock (http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=84552444254 3963&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302702959&bmUID=1175026441561)
It doesn't have any bug screen or a tarp, and where I camp bug protection is a must have. I've ordered Ed Speer's book, but while I waiting for it to arrive I was wondering whether I could just sew some hook and loop fastener around the edge of the hammock, attach some noseeum mesh with hook and loop once inside, and string a tarp overhead to create a quick and cheap hammock system.
Any thoughts on my suggestion or any ideas about how to modify the hammock I have would be appreciated.
slowhike
03-27-2007, 15:42
that's exactly how ed speer does bug net.
it's a pretty simple, light weight design... as long as you don't mind the sound of velcro when you get in & out<g>.
blackbishop351
03-27-2007, 15:44
You'll need bug protection underneath too if it's bug-thick where you are. I've been massacred through the bottom of my HH before. Check the archives and gallery for hammock engineer's bug bivy.
slowhike
03-27-2007, 15:55
i haven't tried it yet but some folks swear by soaking your hammock in permethrin (not sure if i spelled that right).
i'm a little weary of putting unnecessary chemicals in or on my body, but they say it's completely harmless to you after it's dried on the fabric (hammock, netting, clothing, etc).
and they also say it's extremely effective at deterring the most persistent mosquito's. ...tim
blackbishop351
03-27-2007, 16:10
I'm kind of the opposite on the chemicals...I don't mind putting them in my body at all, but I worry about the effects of long-term use on my hammock body material.
slowhike
03-27-2007, 16:17
I'm kind of the opposite on the chemicals...I don't mind putting them in my body at all, but I worry about the effects of long-term use on my hammock body material.
i've never herd anything about permethrin weakening a fabric & some of the folks from the hammockcamping yahoo group have been using it for a while now.
but that's a good point to consider. i'll ask that question on the other group & see how long some have used it on their hammocks & have they noticed any concerns w/ the hammock fabric.
PS... watch what you say about the chemicals you put in your bod... BD may read this thread ya know:p
i have used the permatin for 3 yrs with good results just follow the directions on the can..i live in a very bug rich enviroment...netting and chem treatment on the bottom is the way to go....a thin cc pad will keep you from being bitten by those that get thru the chem/ fabric underneith
Thanks for the replies so far. Glad to hear I am on the right track. Since I made the original post, I looked back through the homemade area and found some other posts. I also read some great info on ridge lines, so that will be another part of the mod.
If you use a sleeping pad underneath does that stop the nasty skeeters from their attack? I tend to sleep cold so will probably be using a pad most of the time.
Thanks again!
I'm kind of the opposite on the chemicals...I don't mind putting them in my body at all, but I worry about the effects of long-term use on my hammock body material.
I think thats really funny that you are worried about your hammock more than your body! A true tree dweller!:)
i spray on permethin on my hammock since i bought it. no problem with fabric.
I'm with you guys on the chemicals, I try to stay away from extra ones when I can help it. I am in the planning stages for another bivy. The last one was hard to get in and out of.
Bird Dog
04-01-2007, 07:15
PS... watch what you say about the chemicals you put in your bod... BD may read this thread ya know:p
Thats right Tim. Im always watching. :eek: At least, thats what my kids think. In fact, they think that there is a GPS transmitter in thier book bags! Or is there? BD