I think I have buyers remorse ( OES standard )

**TNhitman** · 11-15-2010, 19:43

Ok in my quest to lighten my pack and also save some pack space. I have bought a OES Maccat standard. This is a big difference from the 10x12 non cat cut tarp I have been using. I was wandering if anyone is using this tarp and if it a suitable foul weather tarp. I have scaled down my hammock also to a Grand Trunk Nano. So the tarp doesn't have a large hammock to cover. Any info would be great good or bad if it left you soaked I want to hear it.

Thanks in advance

**Cannibal** · 11-15-2010, 19:57

You will be fine under an OES Standard sized tarp. I admit it takes some getting used to when I make the switch from my Superflies to the Standard; sure feels like I'm gonna get wet. However, I've been through dozens of storms under my Standard MacCat. Only thing that has ever gotten wet is whatever I forgot to put under the tarp.

It will, however, make you pay more attention to the landscape and wind when setting-up. This is not a bad thing.

**angrysparrow** · 11-15-2010, 20:01

Cannibal nailed it. The Standard is plenty for even harsh storms, just learn to pitch it well.

**MedicineMan** · 11-15-2010, 20:05

Used the OES Standard for years..probably 150 nights under one...it is reliable in all conditions.

**TNhitman** · 11-15-2010, 20:08

That's really good to hear I didn't think I would get wet but I was hiking the other day for a short overnight where it rained real hard that night. There I am laying under my real big tarp thinking about my purchase of a much smaller tarp that hasn't arrived yet. And I started having 2nd thoughts.

Does anyone have any pics?

**Cannibal** · 11-15-2010, 20:15

Here are a few from my gallery. Kind of nice because it's setup next to a SuperFly. You can see that there is still lots of coverage, even when parked next to a SuperFly.

Standard is on the left, then the right, then the left again.

**TNhitman** · 11-15-2010, 20:21

Yep that's a small tarp alright. But it does look like it will give enough coverage.
Thats what ultralight/lightweight backing is all about anyway rite? Doing more with less.

**Doctari** · 11-15-2010, 20:51

My first homemade tarp (I cut down a SG camo tarp) was almost exactly the same size, I withstood quite a few big T-Storms with it, & stayed dry every time. At the first Mt Rogers I had an even smaller tarp & stayed warm & dry with that.

When in doubt, find a sheltered site to hang in! Just a few shrubs windward of your campsite can make all the difference. OH YEA, you want to hang ACROSS the wind: If the wind is from the West, hang North South. Life will be good then.

**Redwood Guy** · 11-15-2010, 20:53

I think almost all of us start with a large tarp and as we get accustomed to things we start buying smaller ones. So, think of this as saving yourself a lot of money that the rest of us spent getting to where you are!