Originally Posted by
Hogn8r
So I've been in and out of here for a few years, but hanging all the while. In and out of the country for work, working like a dog while in country, neither which are conducive to hiking for long periods. So over the last year or so I have really begun to trim my 'stuff'; and it seems I am getting back to more of the basic set up. Since I live in three seasons (no real Winter to speak of) I am able to do this and still keep my whole kit intact.
Sportsma'n Guide Tarp: Even tho I have modified it and turned it into a Cat cut Hex, this thing is still WAAAAAAY too big. At first I liked all the extra room and protection, but now that time is so valuable, trying to find a suitable place to set up has pushed the size offset way over the edge. It's just too big. I thought about cutting it down, but then I would be right back at the same dimensions as my other tarps, and they are much lighter material to begin with. So I am back to the 11' X 10' Hex Cat cut tarp.
Hammock: Still with the Speer DIY, nothing fancy there. The HH clone is comfy, but the DIY Speer is also as well as the ENO Double. I usually pick which one I like based on the color, Desert Camo, Woodland Camo or Bright Yellow/Blue. I treat all of hammocks with Permethrine so I don't need bugnets, but the gear hammock/pack cover/water collecter goes on every trip. I also have adopted the ring buckles, very nice.
Insulation, CCF Pads: Probably my weakest area, they just take up SOOOO much room in the pack. But with the SPE they rock in the hammock, are light and cheap. I just can't bring myself to pull the trigger on those down JRB under/over quilts (even though I want some VERY badly).
Guide Gear Sleeping Bag: Synthetic on bottom good down on top, rated to 15 degrees, it's perfect.
Stove: Freezer bag cooking and alcohol stoves were Divinely inspired to go together. I am now using the Hybrid Side Burner Pressurized Version.
Mountain Hardwear Maestro Backpack: My biggest purchase recently, and while it is a bit heavy for the lightnics, I LOVE it! Many of my trips involve carrying more than my fair share of gear, and this pack carries the weight like an external frame but handles like an internal frame.
Cordage: I have tried many of the high-tec synthetics and I keep going back to 550 cord. I found for me that it has many more uses than other types of cord, has never failed me and is dirt cheap.
So, I will keep experimenting with the DIY projects as I have the time, and all my tinkering/building hasn't been wasted, I think I have come to the realization that less is more right now for me. It sure was nice to be able to do 21+- miles yesterday and not feel like it today!
Besides, it's not about the destination, it's about the journey! I love my hammocks.
I start a new job soon, so time may be more of a premium. I hope not, I need some time in the woods!
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