83% - 87% Ridgeline length

**FJRpilot** · 06-19-2014, 23:41

So a question for you experienced DIYers... I want to make an adjustable Ridgeline that I can use with future hammock builds. I expect to build a few for family members and the hammocks will range from 9 - 12 ft in length.

Once the optimum size is determined for a specific individual/ hammock, I expect to replace the adjustable ridge line with a static length ridge line to lock in the hammock.

In searching the forums, I see recommendations that range from 83 - 87% of the hammock body's length. So if I create a ridge line as a big whoppie sling with the min length of 83% of 9 feet and 97% of 12 feet, will that give me the correct range of adjustability that I would need?

Is my logic faulty? Should I be doing different percentages based on your experiences?

Thanks in advance...

**Insaniac99** · 06-20-2014, 01:05

Your logic is fine, but I would suggest using a ucr

**Nick79** · 06-20-2014, 01:22

I just made an adjustable ucr ridgeline to get my new diy hammock ridgeline dialed in. I considered a whoopie but you'll end up using a lot more cordage that way. When i made mine i laid it out in the hallway to get the measurements right. I also made it adjustable down to about 80% of an 8 foot hammock (for my kids) and up to 12 feet in total length so i can use it to replace/dial in any ridgeline.

Also a good idea to make a loop on the short tail end of the ucr to hang your shoes or other gear from to keep both ends of the bury tight.

**Bubba** · 06-20-2014, 06:19

If you decide to make a whoopie style RL, you don't make it with the same dimensions as a regular whoopie sling. For an adjustable SRL you make it with a longer distance from the fixed loop to the adjustable bury and you only need about a 4 foot adjustable loop. A UCR style does use less cordage as mentioned.

**nothermark** · 06-20-2014, 06:36

I do not see the fascination of using a constrictor splice when a simple hitch will do the job better. With a clove hitch it is easier to set the line to a dimension and easier to change the length. Use a slippery half hitch as a keeper with slippery line.

Either way don't forget to add some witness marks at 1 inch intervals. It makes changes and setups a lot easier to have a half dozen marks to move around instead of pulling out the tape measure every time you make a change. Remember you have to count them every time you make a change. ;-)

**oldpappy** · 06-20-2014, 08:00

UCR, Whoopie, Prussick/hitch knots all work. I use Prussick on 550 cord, but the knot has loosened and slipped at times - I think constrictor with Amsteel would be better (mine are about 5 years old and work so I'm just too lazy to change).
I make mine about 2 feet longer than 87% of my longest hammock (so the slip knot is 1 foot from the end at 87% - your 97% of 12 feet looks right), then I mark where the 80% and 87% points are. I like the idea of marking every inch to enable use on various hammock lengths.

**FJRpilot** · 06-21-2014, 10:27

So after listening to your advice, I decided to go with a UCR. I used the "Tech Line" from DIY gear and maxed it out at 120 inches. At about 500 lbs strength, it should be plenty for a Ridge line. It was a bit of a challenge to splice...

Thanks for everyone's feedback!