I've got some amsteel and have been thinking about using it to make soft shackles to connect my tree straps. In theory it would work the same as a Dutch clip right? Anyone have any experience with this?
I've got some amsteel and have been thinking about using it to make soft shackles to connect my tree straps. In theory it would work the same as a Dutch clip right? Anyone have any experience with this?
They work just fine and you can't beat the weight. However, they do take two hands to close and cinch them, whereas a Dutch clip simply hooks over the strap.
Mike
"Life is a Project!"
I agree with MAD777. They do work great. I have never had Dutch clips but there is the drawback of having to use two hands if that is a drawback to you. I actually like the hybrid of soft shackle/loop shackle for this purpose because you don't have to milk the bury.
Check out this tutorial: http://l-36.com/soft_shackle_9.php
I agree with the others... it would work, wouldn't it just be easier to feed the strap through the eye on the webbing though?
Some folks set up their suspension to be one continuous system that does not detach from the hammock , so you need a way to attach the part that goes around the tree. It's impossible to forget the straps that way. I used to do that and am considering doing it again with my UCR's.
I use both for different hammocks.The dutch clips work really well for me,but I also carry a soft shackle to hang my pack from the suspension.
Its nice to have a back up if needed,soft shackles are fun to learn and use.
One other thing to think about is using the soft shackles in the cold are a pain when you have gloves on, or have cold/freezing fingers especially after they have been sitting all night. While a Dutch Clip is much easier to use in that type of situation.
"yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift---thats why its called a present" - Master Oogway
It's always best if your an early riser!
I use soft shackles in that way. I like having spares on my suspension and it saves wear and tear on the loops in my straps.
I use soft shackles as well. They conform to the shape of the tree, with a metal clip you have to line the suspension up properly so the clip is not stressed, and the tree is not damaged.
Bookmarks