Shock cord diameter question

[Yellow Lab]

I have seen different sizes in hammock setups. Is there a standard diameter such as 3/32 or 1/8 to use? I want to make some shock cord tarp tensioners like this suggestion - https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...ead.php?t=3731

I also would like to add some additional cords on a poncho liner UQ that I plan on making.

Suggestions appreciated. Thanks.

[the_lorax]

I think the 1/8" is usually recommended for UQ suspensions as it'll hold the weight up a bit better (and a PLUQ is a bit heavy).

As far as the tarp tensioners you mentioned - the instructions mentions both sizes; kinda doubt it makes a whole lotta difference.

Note: The following instructions for making shock cord tarp tensioners were originally posted on the Yahoo Hammock Camping Group by Youngblood. I am posting them in a thread for the benefit of the members of the forum, with Youngblood's permission.

Self Tensioning Guylines Made by Attaching Shock Cord to Tarp Guylines

Using small diameter shock cord tied in parallel with guyline for a tarp is easy to do and helps keep silnylon tarps taut when they stretch. I prefer to attach either 3/32 inch or 1/8 inch diameter shock cord that stretches slightly more than 100%.


...

(Both the 1/16 inch diameter guyline and 3/32 inch diameter shockcord used in these instructions can be purchased from Speer Hammocks at www.speerhammock.com . )

[gmcttr]

I would use 1/8" for both.

[Yellow Lab]

Thanks for the replies. I think 1/8" is the way to go.

[pizza]

I use 1/8 for most everything I use shock cord on. Keep in mind the quality and tension of the cord varies though. I've been very happy with the stuff REI sells as it's got a tight weave on the jacket and good tension. I bought some orange 1/8 shock cord from Ebay that was total garbage. It was very weak on tension and had a loose sloppy jacket that frayed very easily.

[Mountnman]

I use 1/8 for most everything I use shock cord on. Keep in mind the quality and tension of the cord varies though. I've been very happy with the stuff REI sells as it's got a tight weave on the jacket and good tension. I bought some orange 1/8 shock cord from Ebay that was total garbage. It was very weak on tension and had a loose sloppy jacket that frayed very easily.

I second that, the range on quality is crazy

[mattyg]

ive had good success getting shock cord from sgtknots.com. if you can get marine grade that stands up to the outdoors a little better

[Yellow Lab]

Thanks for the info on where to get it. I have seen some really inexpensive stuff on ebay but I guess the quality is iffy. I'll look at sgtknots.com. Thanks

[gmcttr]

ive had good success getting shock cord from sgtknots.com....

Wow! at that price it better be good.

I linked to Supply Captain in post #3. Many of us have found them to have good quality, good prices and the outdoor colors not available elsewhere.

[Yellow Lab]

Wow! at that price it better be good.

I linked to Supply Captain in post #3. Many of us have found them to have good quality, good prices and the outdoor colors not available elsewhere.

Much better pricing. Thanks.