Executive Summary
I've made a couple versions of DIY tarp beaks, posted here, and here. This generated enough interest for 2Q to suggest that he and the Zipper Queen ZQ might offer a version of this, based on the second of my designs.
2Q and ZQ did some sewing and sent me a prototype for evaluation.
The Diamond shape tarp was interesting. Because of the asymmetry one beak side covers the side of the tarp whose tie-out is nearest very nicely. The other beak side is not long enough to cover the far side exactly. It will cover almost all of it (not shown) but can be staked out wide to assist in breaking the wind (that is shown).
Other footage I shot but which didn't work out so well because of failing light is to fasten the beak sides inside the JRB tarp, using Grip Clips. This makes sense if for example the beak faces west but the wind comes from the east, and so might otherwise catch between the beak side and tarp, where the beak lies on the side of the tarp.
Grizz
12-17-2009, 08:24
Mrprez
Great video! Love the comic relief, thought I was going to spit coffee! Looks like a great piece of gear, the GrizzBeak! Very clever.
12-17-2009, 08:30
Perkolady
Great job sharing how to break wind! :D
Really great idea, and it's great how it can work with any tarp! Extremely simple to use.
2Q and especially ZQ- top notch sewing!
12-17-2009, 08:32
NCPatrick
Thanks Grizz. Great video and great idea. Now you should think of some dual use for them, such as some form of clothing or somesuch... like maybe a poncho? ;)
12-17-2009, 08:37
animalcontrol
thanks for sharing Grizz...
Nice video title and demonstration...looks like a great addition!
Your hammock model did an outstanding job!
One question though...where can I get a knit hat with such a dashing red ball tassel? :lol::D
12-17-2009, 08:39
gargoyle
Nice vid as usual.
Did you stick with your same dimensions as in your diy tutorial/original grizz beak post? Or did things get modified a little along the way?
ZQ, you are master of the thread injector, when do we see a video??
12-17-2009, 08:51
BillyBob58
A thing of beauty! This will be an another way to solve a lot of problems with the bridge hammocks when you want to close one end down, but then run into additional problems on that end due to spreader bars rubbing on the tarp. Or, just in general, a way to get by with smaller tarps without giving up wind/rain protection on trips when it looks likely you will need it. Maybe with little or no net increase in weight compared with a much larger tarp.
One thought: one or two? With one only, it could be pitched on the windward side as needed, and should not really be needed on the other end. But then, the wind does tend to shift during the night! ;)