Making a hammock for the bigger among us.

[sfitsea]

So my dad is a big guy (6'3", 325+ lbs.). He camps from time to time with my old scout troop, since he's in charge of helping all the older boys get to Eagle (10 in the last two years!). And he's a fantastic camp cook (I learned to make chicken Parmesan, not in a kitchen, but at a campsite, thanks to him), so the troop makes sure he keeps coming back, haha.

Since he's so big, ground camping is tough on his body. What's more, he broke his leg last year, so it's a lot harder for him to get up from the ground.

If I were to make him a hammock, what type of fabric should I use to support his weight? Is it understood that bridge-style is more supportive of bigger guys? Anything else I need to take into account?

Thanks, G(h)ang! </terrible puns>

[grannypat]

Here is a link to a chart that Papa Smurf put together. https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...t=fabric+chart

[sfitsea]

Appreciate the link, but I don't have permission to view the chart

[Jimbo3b]

The chart can now be found at: PapaSmurf's Website The link was buried on the last page of the referenced thread.

[Detail Man]

A double 1.9 gathered end would fit the bill. Fabric is easy to come by, and it could be used with a pad. If using whoopies, 1/8" would take all doubt out suitability. I don't have much experience with bridge hammocks, so I'll let someone else chime in on that.

It's good you and the troop want to find ways to keep the experienced guy out there so he can keep sharing the knowledge.

[grannypat]

Sorry about the old link.

The chart can be found on Papa Smurf's website here.
http://www.dream-hammock.com/ComfortRating.html
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Dream-Hammock.com

[sfitsea]

Thanks for the links and the info, everyone! Excited to elevate his perspective