I would strongly recommend against relying solely on a hex tarp for two people - when the wind gets blowing, you will NOT be able to batten it down as well as you could over a single hammock. You will want the protection of the extra coverage.
Suck up the extra weight and either carry two tarps or a larger tarp than the MJ. I'm sure you can get someone to make you a proper two-person tarp out of spinn.
Mustardman, what does the 12x10 tarp OES made for you weigh and how much was it? Would you say it is sufficient coverage in nasty weather I would encounter on an AT thru hike? And what material was used? I do like the design and all the pull outs.
My OES 12x10 is 26.5 ounces, and made from SilNylon. I'm sure you could reduce that weight significantly if it were made from Spinn.
For me it has been sufficient coverage in some pretty nasty storms. One trick you can use is to pull the hammocks closer together under the tarp if weather gets really nasty, and use the doors to block wind-blown rain.
The way I have it pitched in the picture above isn't the best pitch for heavy rain, but it is very spacious and roomy. We did end up getting a severe storm that weekend, but there wasn't a lot of wind, so the heavy rain didn't get to us. If the wind had picked up, I would have changed the pitch and moved the hammocks closer together.
The one thing I would add if I purchased it again would be panel pullouts on each side - that way I could do a low-to-the-ground, partially-closed-doors pitch, but still have some space underneath the tarp for both hammocks.
although others have mentioned it working with two, judging by my experience with the BMJ I could not see two hammocks comfortably hung under it. YMMV
...in it for pics.
So after a little research on the site, I decided that a 10x12 would do. Definately going with spinn, most likely from OES. I also considered a custom 12x12 but not sure if that is overkill. I would like some input whether the extra 2ft. would be worth it or if the 10x12 is enough. I was also pondering on hanging the tarp on the 10ft. ridgeline for bad weather and going bunk bed style. Im all ears.
We use a OES McCat Delux in Spin all the time for 2 on the AT.
We use a hiking pole at each end as a spreader between the suspension lines. It is set to about 24 inches.
I made a cup strap for the handle of the pole and a simple loop for the tip, which are larks headed on the whoopie slings.
The only drawback is when one person moves the other can feel it but it is not to bad.
Sometimes if the wind is from the end I will use our rain coats for added coverage
TZ
Another +1 on the Kelty 12x12. And you can't beat the price. When I go out hanging with the wife it's my go to tarp.
Im sure the Kelty's a great tarp but im looking for something as light as possible while still providing good coverage. Thats why i chose the spinn material.
TZ sent you a pm on some tarp talk. email me, I would love to call u by phone.
We used a WB superfly for two hammocks, which I believe has essentially the same dimensions as the BMJ.
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