Hallo from the other Down Under

**Washburn** · 07-24-2015, 07:24

Hi, guys and girls!

My name is Willem and I'm from South Africa.

I've been lurking and reading and learning a hell of a lot from the forum and I'd just like to say thank you to everyone who made a contribution to this fountain of knowledge!

I recently spent my first night in a hammock and don't mind admitting I froze my #rse off. Guess the sleeping pad thing doesn't work for me. Luckily, I've managed to get hold of a thread injector and - after I've taught myself how to use it - I'm planning to make good use of it. A UQ and tarp are first on my to-do list!

I've been lucky enough to source an Amsteel equivalent in South Africa and have already constructed a set of whoopie slings and a ridgeline. Next project is a pair of continuous loops - I've found that having the whoopies attached to the hammock permanently, make packing a mission.

Lastly, I've built a 3-hammock stand as per Derek Hansen's (sorry I'm not familiar with everyone's handles yet) instructions. I've still to erect the stand, but I'm looking forward to it!

That's pretty much the gist of it. I'm looking forward to learning a lot more and thank you all for having me!

**FJRpilot** · 07-24-2015, 08:14

Welcome from far West Texas Willem, it sounds like you have been bitten hard by the bug. Let us know how your adventures go and don't be afraid to share your experiences both with thread injecting and hammock hanging.

**Thom** · 07-24-2015, 08:35

Welcome to the forum. Curious as to what you are using for whoopie slings.

**Washburn** · 07-24-2015, 09:04

Thanks for the welcome, guys.

Thom, I found a place that manufactures something called Super12.
Spec-wise, it's pretty much the same as the Amsteel you guys get in the US.
UHMWPE (Dyneema) fibres, heatset, 12-strand weave, 3mm thick (between 7/64" and 1/8") and has some sort of coating.
1300kg (approx 2600lb) breaking strain too.
It's pretty stiff cordage when new, but quickly softens when you work it a little.

**Karen97** · 07-26-2015, 07:12

G'Day from down under

**MAD777** · 07-26-2015, 07:16

Welcome from Florida!

**V_Allen** · 07-26-2015, 10:06

Welcome from Wyoming Willem!

**Thom** · 07-27-2015, 20:33

I looked up that rope. It looks like it is a 12 strand version of Amsteel. I wish I could get my hands on some of that.

**Washburn** · 07-28-2015, 06:56

Thom,

I'm pretty sure that the folks at Southern Ropes (www.southernropes.co.za) might be persuaded to send you a couple of feet. With the US$/Rand exchange rate as it is now, it shouldn't be too hard on your pocket!