The Cowboy String Theory Lightweight Bridge Hammock w/ Integrated Net

[old4hats]

A nice read, piqued my interest, sounds really good. Pictures aren't there.

[kitsapcowboy]

I really like how you solved so many of the problems that come with typical bridges! It’s lightweight. It’s easier to setup with the symmetrical shape. It has a ridgeline. It can be used in chair mode. Less shoulder squeeze, more foot room. I love it.

Hey, thanks, Randy.

So do you like to lay with your head opposite the netted end when you don’t plan on using it?

No, actually. I keep my head at the "head end" with the net in case things change and I need to deploy it quickly, which can be done while you're still in the hammock. If you roll it well, the triangular panel at the very end of the bug net keeps the stowed-away mesh well ensconced, and you just fasten the mitten hook (that connects the net to the RL) to the retention loop at the bottom of the head end cap. Everything stays well in place, out of side and mind while you're lying down, even for a taller hanger like myself.

Suggestions:
Use internally spliced shock cord for the ridgeline so it’s more structural. Or do it like Jeff Myers demonstrated.
https://youtu.be/dVVpA_AJb5M
https://youtu.be/RQCqE4HiL40

LOL great idea. I had thought of that (or something similar) after seeing the video where Dutch makes tarp tensioners with spliced-in shock cord, so I might do that in the future. When I built the prototype (and previously when I used the SARL on the Rope Bridge) I wasn't sure of the correct legth of shock cord to use for the desired amount of adjustability, free versus spliced inside the Dyneema core. I do like the strength that two strands of 1/8" shock cord afford, so I don't know first hand if I can get two strands inside the skinny little Lash-It.

Make the hammock fabric double layer by the head end, so that the netting could be stored between the two layers. This should also provide you with a nice storage pocket for lots of other items when the net is deployed.

LOL I thought about that too, since the end cap storage pockets are one of the hallmark features on my Rope Bridge. (I love the functionality...) I had deleted them on the String Theory prototype in favor of lighter weight and simplicity, but I may add them back (at least at the head end for the bug net, as you suggest) on future ST builds. I had also considered just creating a congruent later of mesh on the bug net triangular end panel that just flips over the apex to form its own net pocket and secures to the retention loop on the body the same way it does right now.

Add extra padding in the middle of the arc on one side for a more comfortable for chair mode. Then add a saddle bag on the opposite side that can be flipped inward, which could serve as a pillow pocket to hold your pillow in the perfect spot. Since your arcs are centered, this should work out well. You’d have yourself a hammock that excels in chair mode!

These are both interesting ideas worth exploring. Thanks for the tips.

Use carbon fiber spreader poles to match the lightweight design of the body.

When I use my Ruta Locura carbon fiber poles ($96), this integrated-net bridge hammock drops about a quarter of a pound becomes a sub-one-pound system at just a hair under 16 ounces, about the same weight as a minimalist netted gathered-end hammock like the DH Darien, so that's pretty good. Those poles are expensive enough to make them a specialty item, though, so I presented the specs here with tried-and-true Dutchware spreaders that cost 75% less and still create an attractive package overall. Enterprising DIYers might also find a way to use hiking poles with this design.

Are you going to sell your older bridges?

The original Web Slinger went to a fellow HF member months ago, but I may be selling one of my older bridges here in the For Sale forum in the near future, to make room for a new build as I continue to experiment and refine.

[punkisdead]

Sounds like an awesome hammock. Wish I could see the pictures.

[kitsapcowboy]

A nice read, piqued my interest, sounds really good. Pictures aren't there.

Sounds like an awesome hammock. Wish I could see the pictures.

Thanks... I don't know why the photos don't work for some members, since they are uploaded and hosted here locally on the Hammock Forums server, but I've posted a question in the Site Questions forum asking for help. They are showing up fine for me and for some others, but maybe the staff will shed some light.

[punkisdead]

Thanks... I don't know why the photos don't work for some members, since they are uploaded and hosted here locally on the Hammock Forums server, but I've posted a question in the Site Questions forum asking for help. They are showing up fine for me and for some others, but maybe the staff will shed some light.

I wonder if only "donating members" can see them. Did they get uploaded somehow to a section of the site that would cause such a thing?

[punkisdead]

I wonder if only "donating members" can see them. Did they get uploaded somehow to a section of the site that would cause such a thing?

Just confirmed that was the case. After making my donation, I'm able to see the pictures.

[Dynamystic]

Thanks... I don't know why the photos don't work for some members, since they are uploaded and hosted here locally on the Hammock Forums server, but I've posted a question in the Site Questions forum asking for help. They are showing up fine for me and for some others, but maybe the staff will shed some light.

I also can't see the photos. Same thing with your to go to ground tarp thread. Could be a donating member thing.

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[kitsapcowboy]

I wonder if only "donating members" can see them. Did they get uploaded somehow to a section of the site that would cause such a thing?

...Could be a donating member thing.

Perhaps that is the key...

Photo links have been changed.

[punkisdead]

I love this. Any chance you'd be willing to share your pattern? I've been kicking around the idea of DIYing a bridge hammock this summer. First thought was an Ariel, but I like the looks of this one as well.

[Dynamystic]

Perhaps that is the key...

Photo links have been changed.

Yep, works now. I suppose its time I become a donating member anyway.

Nice work as usual! I always dig the creativity and ingenuity displayed in your posts. Not to mention the level of detail you include. You're killin' it!

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