So no one likes the bottom entry models?

[Sappy]

I've been using my HH Explorer Ultralite for the past 2 years and enjoyed the bottom entry well enough. When I saw the Zipper Mods by 2QZQ I went with the Mod 2 option (Full zip one side, 1/2 zip on the other with tie-backs for the bug netting where it's still permanently attached). I chose not to sew the bottom shut simply because I like having the option there, just in case. I have not really tried the new mod in the field yet, just in my basement trials in and out, zipping it up from the inside, and setting things up seem easy. I do like the versatility of being able to just get in without having to crawl up and in through the slit, just plop right down once the bug nettting is zipped back. The thing I like best is that it gives that extra bit of versatility without having to have a separate bug net to set up, or not having a bug net at all when you need it.

And for all you gram weenies out there, after replacing the ropes with whoopies (my first hammock mod ever ) it's still lighter than it was stock

-Sap

[Beanie]

whilst I am fairly new to Hammocks, I have to admit that i love the bottom entry, I just find it easier.

[Alamosa]

It is the bottom entry that allows the standard tarp to work so well. In inclement weather, you can basically bring the tarp down right on top of the netting without affecting the entry/exit at all. Pulled down enough, no matter how bad the weather, even with the small size of the tarp, weather really can't get into the hammock.

Much harder (or impossible) to do this with side entry.

[Owl]

It is the bottom entry that allows the standard tarp to work so well. In inclement weather, you can basically bring the tarp down right on top of the netting without affecting the entry/exit at all. Pulled down enough, no matter how bad the weather, even with the small size of the tarp, weather really can't get into the hammock.

Much harder (or impossible) to do this with side entry.

Agreed. I use the hex tarp, but in lousy weather I pull the sides of the tarp down low...and love that I can get in and out without having to fuss or bump against them.

Still planning on the 2QZQ mod sometime soon, 'cause I'd like the idea of being able to reach out of the hammock at need as well, especially while in porch mode.

[quiet]

I agree with others about the bottom entry for bug season. That sold me on the HH; I find no skitters coming in with me, but when tenting, there's always a few. Also what Alamosa said about being able to bring the tarp down when weather gets stormy. I've had only the standard tarp in some nasty weather and stayed dry.

[kingbee]

You didn't. Us happy folks don't say much. It's the few folks who are not happy that do the most posting with all the things they change or want changed.

That strikes me as one of the best responses I've ever read on any forum.

Cheers,
Dave

[KAW]

If you use shock cord for tarp tie outs it is not impossible to get in with tarp down snug. While it is a bit inconvienient with a little care it is no big deal!

[JaxHiker]

I met with a lady in our Florida Trail chapter today to loan her my Explorer Ultralight. She had a double knee replacement last year and just made her first hike last month. She said she absolutely loved the bottom-entry because it was so much easier to get out of than her tent.

I don't mind bottom-entry during the summer but prefer side-entry for winter with things hanging underneath. I realized today with the Jarbridge underneath it's a little trickier getting around the shock cord for the UQ.

[pepsiaddict60]

I used lint from the dryer myself. so it can be easily undone.

[Lorax]

I loved my bottom entry. I sewed a loop so I could sit in the hammock and then suspend my hiking boots right underneath the hammock.
I found it easy. Walk in/turn/sit/lay back. even though I'm a pad user, I still never had a problem getting situated for the night.