Dangerbird - No Tarp Needed?

[*HangMan*]

I am always looking for ways to cut down packweight. Has anyone used their Thunderbird or Dangerbird in the rain without a tarp? Is a tarp necessary? Of course after rain passes I would ventilate or I'd be wetter inside than the outside of the hammock lol. Just curious. Thanks for any input .

[Fish<><]

The tarp is definitely necessary. The overcover is not waterproof, it is only there to hold in heat in cold weather. Get a Cuben Fiber Asym Diamond tarp from zpacks if you are overly concerned about pack weight and hang on dryly...

[2ply]

+1 on Fish's reply. You will need a tarp to keep you and your gear dry.

[*HangMan*]

I actually have the HG winter cuben castle lol. Just was curious if it was unnecessary to set up. Thanks for reply Fish.

[PapaSmurf]

*HamgMan*
I replied to your email just now, but thought I'd repeat my response here for others who may have this same question.

The overcover comes in real handy for cooler temperatures for blocking wind and boosting the temperature inside the hammock (some claim 10-15 degrees depending on conditions). A small area is normally left open at the head end of the hammock to help prevent condensation inside. It's sometimes tricky to understand the exact amount of venting needed and closing it too much can make it real wet inside. It's normally made from 1.1oz pure finish (no water resistance) or dwr (slight water resistance) ripstop fabric. Using a dwr fabric will shed light mist, dew or fog, but it won't stand up to any kinda falling rain. Sometimes in the Winter, I'll use it instead of a tarp if I'm sure it's too cold to rain. Otherwise a tarp is definitely needed.

[russwestwood]

Even if the overcover was waterproof, the hammock body and and underquilt will get soaked, so yeah, tarp is definitely necessary..