Another noob - startin' from scratch...

[Jimmy The Jet]

Thought I'd stop in and say hello. When I say "noob", I mean it. Not only do I not have my first hammock yet, I've never actually even seen a camping hammock in person!
I came across this forum while checking out a few hammock related threads and links on Bushcraft UK. I had always wanted to try out a HH, just from seeing them on the bushcraft, and other forums I frequent. Then I followed a few links over the past few weeks and discovered there was a LOT more out there than just Hennessy.

Like every noob should, I checked out all of the videos I could find online (thanks to Shug!!) and I am hooked.

Who am I? I'm Jimmy the Jet on most of the other places I hang out on the web. Been a Mountie for a decade, and live in Canada's Northwest Territories these days, although that's fixin' to change this year. The RCMP keeps a guy moving, that's for sure!

Never been much of a "ultralight" hiker, really. Nice in theory, but I have not quite embraced it yet... My pack is usually too heavy for most folks' liking at 40-55 lbs, but I'm not 25 anymore, and the prospect of lightening the load is starting to appeal. Thing is, I don't mind some weight if it means I'll have a more comfortable trip. Smoothing it over roughing it.
Plus I am a gear fanatic, and that gets heavy..

So I'm dying to try a hammock set up, mostly for the professed comfort they offer, but the light weight will be a nice value-added bonus.

I'll try and avoid the annoying questions like, "which is better...?", but will have a lot of others to ask. Please be gentle!!

[Joz]

A man after my own heart. I too refuse to do without the necessities of life. After all, seven (minimum) different types of spices is essential to cooking, especially when you go bush.

But you'll be making whoopies and whatnot in no time, don't you worry.

Welcome, and enjoy!

[KerMegan]

Welcome to the comfort zone!
it has been repeated that hammocking is not lighter than ultralight- but depending on your set up, it does tend to be much lighter than most standard setups; tent, fly, pad/air mattress, sleeping bag etc.
REI has hammocks available,, and a superior (bigbox) return policy. Many of the gear makers here are also more than equitable, or you can resell most models with only a slight loss.
welcome to the learning curve! KM

PS. if your skill-set is good, consider also the 'we make gear' series of videos...very informational!

[Jimmy The Jet]

Thanks!!

I will be checking out the DIY stuff as well, but have a lot on the plate already... Or at least that's what my darling wife says.

I have a bad habit of buying stuff before I do a bunch of research, and then end up buying more as I gain knowledge. Not too worried about returns - I love collecting kit!

[Poppabear]

Welcome to HF once you get your first hammock hang under you belt you will be totally hooked. From that point on there will be no looking back.

[Pro Vagabond]

Becareful!! Once you buy/build your first item, there is no stopping! Welcome to HF from another noob. Lots of info here, including the answers to almost any question you have.

[Shug]

Carrying to many Coffee Crisps is never a crime!!!!!!!!
Whooooo Buddy.
Shug

[Jimmy The Jet]

Shug, until I saw your videos, I had no idea Coffee Crisp was a Canada only thing. We're wadin' through 'em up here, so lemme know if need a fix....

[bigbamaguy]

Welcome to HF..........be careful, the amount of information can be overwhelming. Good luck in your search and fell free to ask any questions that you may have, it will be answered.