I'm getting brave. I want to try a bridge hammock out and want to make it myself. I've read and re-read Grizz' and TeeDee's posts on making a bridge. So much math....brain...melting...
Anyway, I'm 6'7" and 215lbs. I'm thinking of doing a double layer 1.1 ripstop so that I can use a pad. Two reasons for wanting a pad: 1) I've already got one and 2) I hear it can help with any possible shoulder squeeze. I will likely order from BackWoodsDayDreamer.com since their price seems quite reasonable, but the woodland camo stuff is 68" wide. So by my figuring I'd want a 90" bridge with a 12" maximum cut. Does that sound right?
90" sounds right but I would stay around 6-7" on the cutouts
And factoring the length needed x2 for double layer, I'll need at least 5 yds of material. (I can use some black 1.9 leftovers I have for endcaps if I run out)
You can make the end caps from the same piece of material as the main bridge. You will need about 16" added on each end of the hammock. You would only need to do this on the outside layer so add another yard to your order
Link to thread showing easy way to make end caps.
What is the recommended maximum width for someone of my size?
I would use the 55" width that is listed in Grizz's guide. You are taller but probably close to same shoulder width.
What length of spreader bars? (if it helps, I'm fairly narrow and typically sleep on my side)
36" should work fine. Two sections of .625 easton tent poles are 36"
The other part I'm vastly confused at is how to figure out length of suspension triangle. I'd rather use webbing since I've got plenty of it already.
Somewhere between 75% and 100% of your spreader bar length will work. The longer the suspension sides the less compression on the spreader bar. With the extra length of your hammock I would go about 30" on suspension sides. This will help keep everything under the tarp.
You might consider using amsteel for the suspension sides. It is easier to get the spreader bar "inline" which reduces the stress on the bar. If you use the .625 easton tent poles get the end tip inserts. The inserts lock in and you can drill a hole thru tent pole and insert. After drilling hole you can easily cut the metal to form a slot for your cord.
I'm hoping someone will swoop in and fact check me before I buy the material. I've got a relatively solid understanding of the concept of bridge hammocks. Grizz and TeeDee did an amazing job on the tutorials. I'm just getting caught up in scaling theirs up to fit me. Any help would be appreciated.
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