Reactor UQ Complete

**jspate61** · 05-31-2011, 08:44

Hey gang,

I just finished constructing a two layer IX under-quilt. The finished dimenstions are 44W X 60L. This one is unique, I think, because I inserted a layer of reflective Mylar between the two differentially cut layers. This works very well for reflecting heat back to the bottom of the hammock. The shock cord adjustment works like a charm for preventing wind and cold drafts from coming through at the ends. It served me well last week during a violent thunder storm in Missouri where winds peaked at 65mph. I'm not sure what the temperature was when the cold front came through, but it was **** chilly outside. No worries at all.

**NCPatrick** · 05-31-2011, 08:58

Looks good! Great job.

I'd be more worried about falling trees and flying limbs at 65mph windspeed than the temperature, but glad you made it through the storm!

**krugd** · 05-31-2011, 09:01

Nice looking quilt. The mylar would form a vapor barrier - you don't have any problems with sweating or moisture build-up?

**jspate61** · 05-31-2011, 09:34

Originally Posted by krugd

Nice looking quilt. The mylar would form a vapor barrier - you don't have any problems with sweating or moisture build-up?

The Mylar does not extend the full length of the UQ. It is short by 5 inches at each end. There are two reasons for this: 1. I did not want to have to sew any pleats in the material (as I thought it was susceptible to tearing), and 2. I wanted to avoid the vapor barrier issue to the extent possible. In Missouri it was warm, but I had no issues what so ever with moisture build up. I found it to be extremely comfortable - and so did my son. Which is why I no longer have it. Time to make another one, I guess.

Cheers

**gmcttr** · 05-31-2011, 15:17

Very nice UQ.

How about some info on the bug net? It appears to be open on the bottom. Is there shock cord around it?

**jspate61** · 05-31-2011, 22:18

Originally Posted by gmcttr

Very nice UQ.

How about some info on the bug net? It appears to be open on the bottom. Is there shock cord around it?

The bug net was something i whipped up at the last minute. It has a draw cord and cord lock in the bottom. Shock cord would work just as well, but there was the issue of expense, material availability, and weight. I made it two inches longer than my ridge line and 36 inches from top to bottom. It is a soft seal net meaning that the hammock provides the seal when you get in. There is really no need to use the draw cord unless winds are really high, in which case bugs are hardly an issue. The design is very nice because you can take it off the hammock any time you like, and no zipper is necessary. While I was in the woods in Missouri last week I had absolutely no bugs in the hammock. It was a true joy.

Cheers