maybe a stupid question

[Cannibal]

"Lacking" might be a better word than "simplistic". I agree with him on his points, but it does boil down to the individual. The Hennessys are perfectly good hammocks, not great, but good. There have been at least two polls asking what hammock folks started with and what are they using now; HHs get high marks for the "first hammock" so that backs-up the starter-beginner-newbie claim.

It's a solid hammock system that will work and is responsible for an awfully lot of us getting into the whole 'hanging' thing. It does lack it a lot of areas when compared to some other hammocks; most notably the lack of a zipper. But, they are even moving towards addressing that issue with their Deep Jungle and Deep Winter rigs. In a few more years, Hennessy Hammocks may get back a glimmer of their former fame if they keep on keeping up with what else is going on in this wonderful world of hammocks.

Still, much more often than not, this Cannibal can be found in his Warbonnets while his friends are sleeping in his Hennessy Hammocks.

[DougTheElder]

You have a way with words, Doug!

That's nice to hear from a man that says much, but talks little.

[Ramblinrev]

I meant no antagonism and it prompted me thinking... what do we mean when we talk about a newbie hammock. Obviously for me... the HH is no such thing being the hammock that best suits my needs over the long haul. Nor do I disparage the Blackbird, but for me... it is not likely to be a realistic option. Hence the thread I started just a little while ago. What constitutes an entry level or newbie hammock.

[Cannibal]

I meant no antagonism and it prompted me thinking... what do we mean when we talk about a newbie hammock. Obviously for me... the HH is no such thing being the hammock that best suits my needs over the long haul. Nor do I disparage the Blackbird, but for me... it is not likely to be a realistic option. Hence the thread I started just a little while ago. What constitutes an entry level or newbie hammock.

Good idea on the new thread, should be some interesting posts.

Sorry if I sounded antagonistic in my reply, it wasn't intended. There are a whole bunch of folks that agree with you and use it as their primary, and favorite, hammock. I just don't happen to be one of them...anymore.

However, like you, I'll usually defend them against negative posts that attack needlessly. They do deserve to be given a fair shake, but I also believe that most people will eventually decide to "upgrade" based on their needs. I think that's all IhangnBankhead was trying to say; just didn't do it in the best way.

[Shortbus]

the reason i was/am looking at the HH line is because im on a budget. right now i have an eno double nest but it will cost me more to outfit it with a bugnet and a tarp than to just get a HH I may add some form of under insulation at a later date but for now i am just camping with a hammock during the summer so staying warm shouldn't be too big of a problem. so is is worth it to pay more and get a BB plus a tarp or am i better off just getting a HH by the way in case you couldnt tell i am a complete hanging noob. so be gentle

[Ramblinrev]

Before you chuck out what you have check the Build a Hammock Setup thread. You may find combinations of items that will allow you to keep your Eno and still come in at less than pulling the trigger on a whole new set up.

[Cannibal]

the reason i was/am looking at the HH line is because im on a budget. right now i have an eno double nest but it will cost me more to outfit it with a bugnet and a tarp than to just get a HH I may add some form of under insulation at a later date but for now i am just camping with a hammock during the summer so staying warm shouldn't be too big of a problem. so is is worth it to pay more and get a BB plus a tarp or am i better off just getting a HH by the way in case you couldnt tell i am a complete hanging noob. so be gentle

In my opinion, yes. It is worth it to get the BB and a tarp.
But I am biased, I really like the Blackbirds. Others will tell you the opposite; although not many. If you're already going to be spending hard earned money, you might as well spend a little more and get the best (IMO) out there right now. I have yet to hear of any buyer's remorse after the purchase and use of a Blackbird.

Tell me again why you aren't happy with the ENO? I actually really like my hammocks of that style. Bet you can trick it out to be great!

[Bankheadboy]

taz137, I'm sorry about my bitterness on the HH, But like I said! Ive been reading about hammock's on this forum. Back to your question? I think bigger is better! so get the Explorer. My wife has convince me that if I buy what I want the first time that I would save money! She's Right! Choose wisely and don't end up with a closet full of hammocks!You can buy a used one on this forum!

[titanium_hiker]

I agree with Cannibal upthread- what are your issues with the eno, maybe you can work it out so you're happy with it instead of spending more and more (because hammocking can be spendy.)

There are 3 big items that you can go cheap on or spend more on. You can have a DIY hammock (mine cost about 30AUD (that's about 15-20USD depending on the currency markets) a DIY tarp (mine's ugly and a tad heavy, but it works, cost about 20AUD all up) and use your pad and sleeping bag for insulation. (Free, if you've already got them.) (I chose to spend money on some really nice quilts from JRB. )

Of course you can go the whole hog and pay upwards of 600$ (USD) for a dream set up, but that's unrealistic for some people. Or you can go "el cheapo" and get away with not spending much at all. It's nice to have some luxuries though.

TH

[canoebie]

This relates to the thread title. My Dad always told me there were no stupid questions. Only stupid mistakes. Way to ask the question. Could prevent a lot of error.