Sportman Guide 12 x 12 tarp (white)

**spidennis** · 07-17-2009, 18:17

I'm trying out the Sportman Guide 12 x 12 tarp (in white) to see how it will work out for me as a spare . (can't go wrong with the price huh? 30ish bucks?) It's a diamond configuration and the ridgeline length seems to be a bit on the long side. the sides also seem to be a bit too long as well. I prefer the rectangle type tarps with door ends, like my speer swt, it just has better protection and I wish this sportsman's tarp was a rectangle, oh well. pics will follow as I try out different camping spots this summer. It might just end up being a spare tarp to cook under or just hang out under when the conditions apply, like this summer in upstate NY where it seems to be raining every day!

**gargoyle** · 07-17-2009, 18:28

With all those extra tie out points you could make rectangular very easily. I like the value and the versatility. The weight I'm not so sure. But you can't wrong with the price. what did shipping cost you?

**Knotty** · 07-17-2009, 18:29

I've got one and have only used it in the yard. It's BIG.

My complaint is that there are no tie-out points along the center line on the square, so you have to use it on the diagonal.

Can't testify to how water proof it is or isn't.

**Dameon** · 07-17-2009, 18:34

I have the old camo version, I have never gotten wet with it, and it is big enough I believe that you can set it up in a square off center, I think I have heard it called a bakers hut?? and still have enough coverage!

**spidennis** · 07-17-2009, 18:35

Originally Posted by gargoyle

With all those extra tie out points you could make rectangular very easily. I like the value and the versatility. The weight I'm not so sure. But you can't wrong with the price. what did shipping cost you?

I got a few things when I got the tarp and don't remember what the shipping was, sorry.

**Knotty** · 07-17-2009, 18:49

Originally Posted by Dameon

I have the old camo version, I have never gotten wet with it, and it is big enough I believe that you can set it up in a square off center, I think I have heard it called a bakers hut?? and still have enough coverage!

"bakers hut"...that brings back memories. When I was a scout my troop had these old canvas tents called bakers. No floors and they had the shape you're talking about with the tarp but of course had sides. Spent many a cold night using a cotton bag in those things. We slept like sardines for warmth.

**Ramblinrev** · 07-17-2009, 19:18

Originally Posted by Knotty

My complaint is that there are no tie-out points along the center line on the square, so you have to use it on the diagonal.

Allow me to introduce you to some devices called grip clips and the gear driven thread injector. With these miracle wonders of modern technology you can test the placement of additional tie outs where you would like them to be. Move them around to make sure you have them where you want them. Then through the wonders of the macho power tool you can permanently place tie outs and reinforcement patches where ever you will find most handy. No longer need you suffer the indignities of having some faceless corporation dictate to you how you hang your shelter. Stick it to "the man" and do your own thing. Operators are standing by.

**pedro** · 07-17-2009, 19:23

I have this tarp, and I sewed two tabs onto it so that it can be hung on the square. If you stake down vie the tabs that are closer to each other than the corners, you can close the ends in for excellent coverage. It's a great tarp for two people hanging side by side. Totally waterproof. Two big thumbs up!

**Coldspring** · 07-17-2009, 19:53

Just remember, it's 16-17 feet on the diagonal!

**exdiver** · 07-18-2009, 11:04

Yes it is 17 feet on the diagonal ridge-line, and yes it is waterproof. Used mine in the boundary waters as my kitchen tarp this year. I VERY thankful for the size, and it's ability to turn water and wind. Set up in the flying diamond pitch most days as it was both cold and windy. As a hammock cover you can party under this thing!