PLUQ or KAQ?

[Briguy114]

Ive been waffling between buying the stuff to make a PLUQ, or just buying a Jarbridge. It seems like I can make a PLUQ for around $40-50 and the Jarbridge is about $115 with shipping. Im just not sure I want to spend the money to get the materials for a PLUQ that I can screw up or not be happy with when I'm finished with it. What do you all suggest?

[jason.williams.931]

I went PLUQ first, wasted 50 bucks and then ordered the Jarbidge.

I'll keep the PLUQ for a loaner, but wish I had just bought well the first time.

[Thumbs]

The PLUQ is good at best to 50º. Let that be your guide.
If you are sure hammocking is for you, the you might as well save up for sown and skip this step.
If you are just testing the waters, then let the temp rating decide.

[donig]

I went PLUQ first, wasted 50 bucks and then ordered the Jarbidge.

I'll keep the PLUQ for a loaner, but wish I had just bought well the first time.

I did the same thing. Then I bought a Jarbidge on the For Sale forum. Should have skipped the PLUQ and just bought the Jarbidge to begin with.

[Passinthru]

Skip the PLUQ. I tried 3 or 4 times with different hammocks and was never entirely satisfied with the results. I bought a Jarbidge and loved it. I've since moved on to down but I may still get another Jarbidge.
If you can wait until August, Paul may have another anniversary sale. The Jarbidges were priced at $75 last August.

[Briguy114]

Skip the PLUQ. I tried 3 or 4 times with different hammocks and was never entirely satisfied with the results. I bought a Jarbidge and loved it. I've since moved on to down but I may still get another Jarbidge.
If you can wait until August, Paul may have another anniversary sale. The Jarbidges were priced at $75 last August.

I remember seeing that sale, but that was when I was first getting into hammocking and I wasn't sure if I wanted to spend the money. I guess hindsight is 20/20 and I should have jumped on that sale. I'll most likely need to get one before August so I guess I'll just have to suck it up and spend the extra $25

[gunner76]

The Jarbrige is probably the best value for the money you can spend. If you are a multi day backpacker then consider getting a down UQ. I use a 1 , 3 and 4 Season Jarbriges

[Briguy114]

The Jarbrige is probably the best value for the money you can spend. If you are a multi day backpacker then consider getting a down UQ. I use a 1 , 3 and 4 Season Jarbriges

Should have included in my post that I'm not a backpacker. I camp either off of my boat or out of my Jeep so the bulk from synthetics is not an issue

[sargevining]

I'll disagree that a PLUQ is a waste. The DIY experience gained is beyond value, and it does serve a purpose between 50 and 70 degrees. Its also a nice thing to have as a loaner to someone who is thinking about getting into hammocks, or someone who's never been in the woods. God put us here to do good things for other people, and one of the best things you can do for another person is to help them get into the woods.

That being said, the Jarbridge is the superior piece of equipment. If your budget is limited to getting only one piece of gear, I'd say save the money up to get the Jarbridge.

[sidneyhornblower]

Nothing against the KAQ, but I'd vote for the PLUQ. Mine was $15 on eBay plus a few bucks for shock cord and cord locks. It's allowed me to play around cheaply and learn about suspension systems, gaps in underquilts and weight issues. I think the PLUQ is okay down to 40 or so and I've gone into the 30s more than once this past year (admittedly getting a bit cool underneath). Go cheap on the PLUQ and just realize that eventually you're going to own both and plan accordingly.

Synopsis: PLUQ first to learn and play, KAQ later to take advantage of what you've learned. Caveat: I'm still on stage one of this proposed two-stage path.