I just finished another video an illustration showing yet another method to rig your tarp. This new one using one (1) DutchWare Dutch Hook and one (1) DutchWare Tarp Flyz (or a Stingerz) and doesn't rely on sliding prusik knots to tension or center the tarp.
I like this method (and the method I show in the blog that uses two carabiners) because it allows the tarp to slid back and forth easily so you can center the tarp between anchor points and your hammock.
That's an ingenious method of using the Dutchware bling.
Cheers
Brian
11-24-2012, 11:46
Home Run
I like it...guess I'll be ordering some more Dutch doo-dads. Nice work on the video and illustrations. I appreciate the simplicity.
BTW Derek, I want to say thank you for my signed copy of your book. I was fortunate enough to receive it at last year's Mt. Rogers Winter Hang. It was perfect as it guided me towards hammock wisdom.
Home Run
11-24-2012, 11:54
dejoha
Quote:
Originally Posted by Home Run
I like it...guess I'll be ordering some more Dutch doo-dads. Nice work on the video and illustrations. I appreciate the simplicity.
BTW Derek, I want to say thank you for my signed copy of your book. I was fortunate enough to receive it at last year's Mt. Rogers Winter Hang. It was perfect as it guided me towards hammock wisdom.
Home Run
Thanks Home Run!
11-24-2012, 12:38
Redoleary
I've been using that style of continuous RL since I got your book. I'm a big fan, of the book and the RL. I've recently replaced the adjustable side (prusiks/flyz etc.) with a small UCR for the adjustment, works really well.
Thanks for the video and the illustration.
11-24-2012, 18:05
JaxHiker
I'm intrigued by the 2-biner method. Right now I use a dutch hook on one end like you show in the other method but it connects to a klemheist. The other end has the tarp flyz and I can get very good tension on the line. The tarp is connected to the CRL by two nanobiners attached to two more klemheists. This lets me easily slide the tarp to position.
The 2-biner method seems to be even faster when it comes to positioning but I'll have to work on getting the ridgeline as tight as I like. I do like that it gives you very pronounced vees.
11-24-2012, 19:20
dejoha
Quote:
Originally Posted by JaxHiker
I do like that it gives you very pronounced vees.
Exactly!
The typical set-up with a tarp and a hammock puts the hammock suspension above the tarp suspension line. The peaks of longer tarps tend creep ever closer to the hammock suspension, and in many cases, overlap them. So, to get a "V" that doesn't entangle the hammock line, you need a nice deep-cut, plunging "V" that extends from the tree all the way to tip of the tarp ridgeline. In order to get this deep "V", you've got to find a method that allows you to make the point of the "V" right at the tarp.
Other methods look more like a "Y", further extending the ridgeline and creating interference with the hammock so the "V" isn't really useful at all.
I also like the Dutch Stingerz or Tarp Flyz that allow for quick tensioning right at the tarp.
Using only knots, you can use either a taut-line hitch or a truckers hitch or McCarthy hitch to get adjustability and tension, but it requires extra length along the side of the line, sliding the hitch opposite the tarp (if that makes sense). In a few cases where my tarp was close to the tree, it made it hard to tension the knot/hitch as it was running around the tree.
11-24-2012, 19:27
JaxHiker
I'll have to try putting the flyz at the tarp. I'm trying to figure out how easily adjustable it is that way.
11-27-2012, 14:33
mbnow
Thanks for posting that. Very informative.
11-29-2012, 18:56
BlackHand
pretty nice method simple and easy to use may look into switching to something similar to this thanks
11-29-2012, 19:37
dedominick
dig it. thank you!
11-30-2012, 23:34
laser
I like it. I like it!
11-30-2012, 23:45
breyman
Yet another great illustration. Thanks for creating and sharing!
12-01-2012, 00:06
Kyle
DANGIT, MAN.
Right when I think I've got my tarp suspension figured out. What I really like about this is that it's still super easy to set up and adjust, but there're no prussics to slip and/or bind up. And it gives me a nice line over the tarp to hang my "holy crap, I lost my hammock in the night" light, AKA a Dutch Light. LOL.
Thank you, good sir, for giving me another afternoon to fiddle with the freaking setup. XD
12-02-2012, 00:02
KSC
This is a great idea! I think this will make setting up my tarp much simpler.
I also love your book. This thread reminded me to order another one for a friend that is just starting to get into hammock camping.
12-02-2012, 17:56
swankfly
I like it a lot. Would I be correct in assuming, the critical part here is to get your fixed end set at the right spot on your hammock before you get the adjustable side set? It looks like in your demo, you may have been a little short on yours, not criticizing, just making note. After you set the Dutch hook, it's really no longer adjustable like a tarp on prussicks. Is that correct or did I miss something?
swank
12-02-2012, 18:52
craige
Great idea dejoha... and as usual fantastic easy to understand illustrations.
Quote:
Originally Posted by swankfly
I like it a lot. Would I be correct in assuming, the critical part here is to get your fixed end set at the right spot on your hammock before you get the adjustable side set? It looks like in your demo, you may have been a little short on yours, not criticizing, just making note. After you set the Dutch hook, it's really no longer adjustable like a tarp on prussicks. Is that correct or did I miss something?
swank
I could be wrong here but it seems that it is adjustable because only the dutch hook is attached to the tarp, so when you pull the line or the tarp from the Flyz side you can easily adjust the position of the tarp.
I think the best thing about this is that you are guaranteed a tight pitch without fiddling because the tarp will always be as tight as the rl.
As far as I can see the only down side is that if the tarp stretches your rl will slacken also... luckily it seems extremely easy to adjust even from under the tarp in foul weather.
12-02-2012, 18:54
MAD777
I think it's still adjustable Swankfly. The first tree acts as a pulley wheel.
This is impressive Dejoha! I've been trying to get rid if my Klemheist/Prusic knots for a long time. I think this is my new tarp suspension system!
I would need 36' of line for a 20' tree spacing assuming 18" diameter trees.
12-02-2012, 19:57
swankfly
Quote:
Originally Posted by MAD777
I think it's still adjustable Swankfly. The first tree acts as a pulley wheel.
This is impressive Dejoha! I've been trying to get rid if my Klemheist/Prusic knots for a long time. I think this is my nee tarp suspension system!
I would need 36' of line for a 20' tree spacing assuming 18" diameter trees.
I see what you are saying now, but as soon as the flyz is looped there is no more adjustability right. In order to adjust, you would undo the flyz, and either pull the ridgeline or the tarp to get it centered, right? That would be a lot easier than adjusting both prussicks...
12-03-2012, 11:41
dejoha
Quote:
Originally Posted by swankfly
I see what you are saying now, but as soon as the flyz is looped there is no more adjustability right. In order to adjust, you would undo the flyz, and either pull the ridgeline or the tarp to get it centered, right? That would be a lot easier than adjusting both prussicks...
Correct! Mostly...
With the Dutch Hook clipped to the tarp tie-out and not the ridgeline, it does act as a sort of "pulley" allowing you to easily pull the tarp into position and center as necessary.
They key point: Don't tightly tension the Tarp Flyz until _after_ you've adjusted the position of the tarp. Once the Tarp Flyz is hooked taut, it is difficult to move.
If you loosely tag the Tarp Flyz, you should be able to slide the tarp back and forth to adjust.
What I love about the Tarp Flyz vs. Prusik-type knots is that it is so much easier to tighten and loosen the Tarp Flyz, especially with that small line. Small Prusik's on that small line tend to jam.
12-03-2012, 11:50
dejoha
Quote:
Originally Posted by craige
... luckily it seems extremely easy to adjust even from under the tarp in foul weather.
Thanks Craige.
If you are using a stretch-prone tarp, such as silnylon, having elastic, self-tensioningside-tie-outs will mitigate some of the RL tension issues. The stitches in the ridgeline (if present) help to minimize the stretching.
BUT, you are correct: making adjustments (if necessary) in a rough storm is made easier with the DutchWare Stingerz or Tarp Flyz. Much easier to handle than Prusiks or similar knotted techniques*.
*Not that I'm against knots, far from it! But I must admit that the hardware option here is preferred.
12-03-2012, 15:29
MAD777
Quote:
Originally Posted by dejoha
What I love about the Tarp Flyz vs. Prusik-type knots is that it is so much easier to tighten and loosen the Tarp Flyz, especially with that small line. Small Prusik's on that small line tend to jam.
EXACTLY!!! I loved the lightweight of the prusik solution but hated the fiddle factor. This is INGENIOUS!
Did I say this is ingenious?
Well, if not, let me say this is INGENIOUS! :)
12-05-2012, 12:06
markrvp
Tarp Ridgeline
In the last couple of weeks I've studied tarp ridgelines waaaay more than I care to admit. I keep coming back to this setup. It seems to me to be the best/easiest way to do it.
Currently I don't have a CRL, just two Stingerz each with their own length of Zing It that gets tensioned around the trees. At the time I ordered that setup, I didn't realize I needed a CRL. I quickly discovered that I have to tie each sides a couple of times to get the tarp centered over the hammock. Derek, I love your system here of being able to easily center the tarp between the anchors by only loosening one end.
So now I'm trying to decide if I should order two Dutch hooks and cut the Zing-It off the Stingerz I already have and use one on two different tarps, or if I should preserve Dutch's beautiful backsplice work and just order a new Stinger and hook?
And just so I'm clear... is the only argument against using this method because you can lose tarp tension due to the silnylon tarp stretching overnight? Is that why a lot of CRL systems use Prusik's to attach the tarp to the ridgeline, so that the ridgeline itself is always taut even if the tarp isn't?
I've seen some CRL's with 5 or 6 Prusik's going to the tarp ends, figure 9's, and using knot bones on one end of the ridgeline. I understand how these systems work, but they seem way overbuilt.
12-06-2012, 10:22
dejoha
I agree on the overbuilt part! I went to a scout training where the instructor had set up a CRL that had fail safe points built in so if the wind got too crazy the line would snap and let the tarp free. It was complex. And I'm not sure it was really useful. There are many ways to pitch a tarp and I like the simpler methods.
I've never experienced stretch on the ridge line to any extent that it made an issue. On the side pull outs yes, which is why the elastic tarp tensioners are used with silnylon.
12-07-2012, 22:09
Jtupnsmoke
I noticed your ridgeline is above the tarp, but it seems it could go below just as easy right? or is there something i'm missing that would keep it from going underneath?
12-08-2012, 00:18
dejoha
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jtupnsmoke
I noticed your ridgeline is above the tarp, but it seems it could go below just as easy right? or is there something i'm missing that would keep it from going underneath?
Yes, it can go over or under the tarp. Under the tarp is a nice option when the ridgeline can add support during a heavy snowfall, for example, or in some wind.
12-08-2012, 15:23
DudeDowne
Very cool! For those that use tarp skins, would this method work? Are the tarp line "V's" too wide to accommodate sliding the skins out of the way? I have never used skins but just received a WL Tadpole w/skins and am getting ready to rig it up.
For that matter...do skins really make setting up/tear down easier? Having the ability to easily center tarp from one end is pretty convenient. I use double ridge lines with prusiks and when adjusting them I can burn my fingers if not careful when sliding them.
12-09-2012, 10:26
dejoha
Quote:
Originally Posted by DudeDowne
Very cool! For those that use tarp skins, would this method work? Are the tarp line "V's" too wide to accommodate sliding the skins out of the way? I have never used skins but just received a WL Tadpole w/skins and am getting ready to rig it up.
For that matter...do skins really make setting up/tear down easier? Having the ability to easily center tarp from one end is pretty convenient. I use double ridge lines with prusiks and when adjusting them I can burn my fingers if not careful when sliding them.
In my video example I'm using a double sided stuff sack which works much in the same way as the skins with having the two sides of the ridge line sticking out. The skins just bunch up on the ends. They can get in the way sometimes. Personally, I'm not a huge skins fan because the long tube is unwieldy and I feel like I've got a disemboweled intestine that I then have to pack. But that's just me. :)
12-09-2012, 20:13
L84toff
Having watched the video a few times now, set up definitely seems simple. How about take down? Do you have put the tarp back into the stuff sack while still hanging off the ridge line? I'm trying to picture it but the older I get the more of a visual learner I become, so I'm having trouble here. I guess my concern is that I don't want to dump the tarp on the ground and also I would like to be able to put it away quickly but you need to have both ends left out when packed (so I'm wondering if you have to fold it up nice and neat).
12-10-2012, 10:40
dejoha
I'm a stickler for keeping my gear off the ground -- hammock and tarp -- so I prefer set-ups that allow me to pack up quickly and without ground interference.
It helps to have a double-sided stuff sack, Bishop bag, or even skins to make packing easier, although it is possible with a regular stuff sack.
With a double-sided sack or bishop bag your sack should still be attached to the end of the tarp where the Dutch hook is connected (or one mini carabiner, depending on which version you're referring to).
Unhook the side opposite the stuff sack -- this would be the DutchWare Stingerz/Tarp Flyz end -- and begin stuffing into the stuff sack.
By leaving this one side attached, you can pull against this "anchor" as you stuff, which keeps the anchored side off the ground (like having a second pair of hands).
I'll see about creating a follow-up video to show how this is done. Stay tuned.
12-10-2012, 10:47
L84toff
Quote:
Originally Posted by dejoha
I'll see about creating a follow-up video to show how this is done. Stay tuned.
I'll just keep hitting the refresh button:)
12-10-2012, 10:53
Moondoggy
Thanks for the nice video! Great detail!
12-12-2012, 11:39
CB200T
Thanks for the video and illustration. Loved your book too. I just made my continuous ridge line as described in the video. I went with 35'. I Also learned how to make loops, locked brummels and continuous loops! Looking forward to trying it out. Thanks again!
12-12-2012, 18:20
CB200T
So having tried this out today pitching my tarp for the first time, I noticed one thing I think I would change. I think it would be prudent to put a foot or so of paracord casing around the line as it tends to mar the tree when you re-position the tarp by sliding it along the rope and thus against the tree. I don't know if this has any long term detrimental affect on the tree itself, but it does leave a visible mark on the bark.
12-12-2012, 18:31
cloudedice
Quote:
Originally Posted by CB200T
So having tried this out today pitching my tarp for the first time, I noticed one thing I think I would change. I think it would be prudent to put a foot or so of paracord casing around the line as it tends to mar the tree when you re-position the tarp by sliding it along the rope and thus against the tree. I don't know if this has any long term detrimental affect on the tree itself, but it does leave a visible mark on the bark.
Thanks for trying this out! Some of the state parks that are just starting to allow hammocks are requiring tree huggers for the tarp too. Sounds like they'd help in this case.
12-12-2012, 20:26
MAD777
Thanks for posting your results CB200T.
I haven't had time to rig mine up yet but intend to soon.
Maybe the key is to keep the lines as loose as possible until the tarp is positioned where you want it. That could reduce the friction a bit.
12-12-2012, 20:34
CB200T
That's a good idea, but when I tried that I found I had to keep tension on the line in order to not have the tarp fall on the ground. I assume that since it's a thin sil-nylon that it would be best to keep it from coming in contact with the ground as much as possible. My wife brings up a great point, that if the tarp is in tarp skins, it can rest on the ground as you are loosely tensioning it. I dunno, I'll play around with it until I figure it out. It really is a cool way of hanging the tarp, just want to be tree friendly too. :shades:
12-13-2012, 00:39
dejoha
I like your idea of adding a "sleeve" around the line where it wraps around the tree. It's not quite a strap, but it can take the friction, kind of like wearing two pairs of socks. I'll have to give that a try too.
The DutchWare version that I illustrated and demo'd is a bit tricker to adjust than the two mini carabiner version. With the two carabiners, you can leave the line fairly slack yet the tarp won't fall or slide off to the ground. Sliding has minimal if any friction on the tree in my experience.
Another thing to try with the DutchWare version would be to leave a little slack in the line and do a quick wrap around the "antenna" of the Stingerz/Tarp Flyz (depending on what version you use). This would lock the line in place, just like in the carabiner example, but leave enough slack in the line so you can still easily slide the ridge line (if necessary) to center the tarp. Once centered/positioned as desired, unhook the antenna, cinch the Tarp Flyz and wrap to secure.
I'm going to have to give this a try, but I think this is the answer I was looking for. Thanks for letting me ramble off an idea.
I may have to incorporate that into the video...
01-06-2013, 11:21
jokerr
I hang my superfly as in Brandon's setup video. Dutch stingers hooked on
tarp. Zing-it from each tree to stinger. done
01-08-2013, 20:36
hangNyak
Just got my zing-it, dutch hook and tarp flyz yesterday. I spent last night splicing everything, including making tarp tensioners.My fingers are still sore from milking the burys. This is a sweet setup! Adjustability is a snap. My wife says to me "You paid $35 for some string and a couple of hooks"? :lol:
01-09-2013, 10:18
dejoha
Quote:
Originally Posted by hangNyak
My wife says to me "You paid $35 for some string and a couple of hooks"? :lol:
I love this. It brings what we do into perspective. But I'm only going to dwell on that for a second because I don't want to crush my little world. :)
01-09-2013, 11:04
JaxHiker
I often hear that when people see what they actually bought me as a gift. :-P
01-11-2013, 14:03
WillieCash
Brilliant, I just ordered some Dutchware.
03-19-2013, 02:14
alpineLounger
Quote:
Originally Posted by hangNyak
My wife says to me "You paid $35 for some string and a couple of hooks"? :lol:
I'm glad it's not just my wife... I try to explain the lure of Dutchware but she just rolls her eyes.:lol:
05-04-2013, 10:06
iRokk
I like this method; it is very quick and simplistic, but how well would it work with a tarp with cat cuts?
After trying multiple methods of suspending a tarp, this has become by far my favorite, so much so that I've quit looking for other methods!
05-04-2013, 12:09
Redoleary
Quote:
Originally Posted by MAD777
After trying multiple methods of suspending a tarp, this has become by far my favorite, so much so that I've quit looking for other methods!
I'm with you there. I've actually been using this method for over a year... that's the longest ever for me to stick with one style.
05-04-2013, 12:24
halfastronomical
Quote:
Originally Posted by Redoleary
I'm with you there. I've actually been using this method for over a year... that's the longest ever for me to stick with one style.
Yes! I hear ya! I have tried quite a few setups, and this is both easy and reliable. I like both the dutchware and 2 mini biner setup. I am using the dutch setup for my family's tarps, and I am using the mini biner setup for the equipment that I am getting together for a hammock backpacking class.
05-04-2013, 12:24
pgibson
Quote:
Originally Posted by iRokk
I like this method; it is very quick and simplistic, but how well would it work with a tarp with cat cuts?
It works great for tarps of all types and designs. These lines have by far taken over as the most popular ridge-line method we offer, outselling out other styles 10-1.
I just finished another video an illustration showing yet another method to rig your tarp. This new one using one (1) DutchWare Dutch Hook and one (1) DutchWare Tarp Flyz (or a Stingerz) and doesn't rely on sliding prusik knots to tension or center the tarp.
I like this method (and the method I show in the blog that uses two carabiners) because it allows the tarp to slid back and forth easily so you can center the tarp between anchor points and your hammock.
Thanks for the post. It got me off my duff and I changed up my crl to a fly and hook from a fly, hook and two prusiks. Better V on each end and way easier set up and take down, especially in the cold. Your illustrations are always incredibly helpful.