Newbi Suspension Questions

**recondoc** · 08-08-2013, 19:16

OK Gang,
Another FNG here with a few questions about potential suspension systems. From what I've been reading, I've narrowed it down to either Whoopie Slings or Cinch Buckles. Both have parts that appeal to me. I'm not really that weight conscious due to my prior life with Uncle Sam. (I always hauled my combat load out pluse 35-40 pounds of medical gear....and sometimes a mortar base plate to boot)
The Whoopies seem to be a really nice way to go. I do wish I could find Amsteel by the foot so that I could fab my own. (I really prefer to build my own gear when I can and the tutorial videos make it appear pretty straight forward.)

As to the Cinch Buckle systems. The conversion videos on that didn't look too complicated either and it seems that there are less parts to lose while out and about. My primary concern there is finding the right webbing that won't stretch on me. Is there a particular one that tends to do better than others?

I just ordered my hammock last night (HH Safari Deluxe Zip) so I've got a few days before I'll even have it in hand to look over.
With either system, my goal is to be able to get set up with minimum fumbling about should I arrive in my camp area at or after dusk. I also don't want to get to a location only to find I forgot some piece of my gear at my last camp sight or at the house.
I'm sure I'm not the first to ask these so thanks for looking after the newbies.
Doc

**SwinginIt** · 08-08-2013, 19:21

For total simplicity, if weight is not a concern, go with cinch buckles.

**Craigthor** · 08-08-2013, 19:24

Several cottage vendors such as AHE, Dutch, etc sell Amsteel by the foot. Also AHE is having there Anniversary Sale and you can score some nice prices on there Whoopie setup for a couple more days.

**SilvrSurfr** · 08-08-2013, 19:38

Originally Posted by recondoc

I do wish I could find Amsteel by the foot so that I could fab my own. (I really prefer to build my own gear when I can and the tutorial videos make it appear pretty straight forward.)

Can't find Amsteel by the foot? I didn't know they sold it any other way till I checked (I guess you could buy it by the spool).

Here's a link:

http://www.reddenmarine.com/samson-r...blue-foot.html

Use HF discount here:

https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...ad.php?t=46241

My first order was 200 ft., but I burned through that in a month. I was surprised how much I needed Amsteel soft shackles, continuous loops, dogbones and whoopie slings. Who knew?

Watch for the annual Redden Marine remnants sale - I picked up a bunch of different lengths and colors of Amsteel last year - some 7/64" and some 1/8" - it was a good deal.

**SilvrSurfr** · 08-08-2013, 19:40

You'll find that 7/64" Amsteel soft shackles make great key rings - I gave everybody one for Christmas.

Straps and buckles just won't be as much fun as splicing Amsteel Blue.

**recondoc** · 08-08-2013, 19:41

Thanks for the info

**Mountnman** · 08-08-2013, 20:04

Also I would suggest checking out the Dutch whoopie hooks, going with standard whoopies can cause a bit of an issue if they get wet because they are attached in some fashion to your hammock, so it is something to worry about how to keep you're wet whoopies from touching your hammock. The whoopie hooks solves this problem and creates a great water break in the rig. Welcome to the hammock family, hope you enjoy

**VictoriaGuy** · 08-08-2013, 20:33

Originally Posted by recondoc

OK Gang,
I do wish I could find Amsteel by the foot so that I could fab my own. (I really prefer to build my own gear when I can and the tutorial videos make it appear pretty straight forward.)

Westmarine sells Amsteel - online order or pick it up at the store (in SanAntonio?)
Probably some of the DIY supply folks sell it as well...

I agree it's more fun to make gear from scratch.

**VictoriaGuy** · 08-08-2013, 20:37

Originally Posted by recondoc

OK Gang,
Another FNG here with a few questions about potential suspension systems. From what I've been reading, I've narrowed it down to either Whoopie Slings or Cinch Buckles.

I know you have it narrowed to those two, but one of the simplest systems I've seen is the Exped: tree straps with eyelet lines, clip hammock carabiner into the eyelet. So perhaps worth a look (though not DIY).
(I'm a complete newbie hammocker, but I could/did set up the Exped system in the dark in a very short time, with no practice...unlike some of the more complex systems - and the eyelet line allows use of trees that are very close together.)