Hi I am new to light backpacking and i was am planning to replace my bulky 8lb tent. I think i am going to build my own tent because i have alot of free time coming up soon and i don't want to spen alot of money. I was thinking of building http://www.backpacking.net/makegear/jones-tent/index.html
Is this http://www.rochfordsupply.com/product_listing.asp_Q_CatID_E_419_A_SubCatID_E_545 the same as Siliconized ripstop nylon. If you think I should build a diffrent tent/shelter.

The material is coated ripstop - not silcone-treated ripstop. It will work as well as silnylon,but is heavier.

will it make a big diffrence? if i am not concerned in shaving off a few onzes and just wants to stop using my 8lb behemoth

or should i get this: http://www.rochfordsupply.com/product_listing.asp_Q_CatID_E_419_A_SubCatID_E_574

Nylon comes in various weights. The website doesn't say what weight this material is so I can't tell you how much it would weight. However, I am sure it won't be anywhere near 8 lbs.

Most use ripstop for tents. Be sure the coating is waterproof - not (DWR) durable water resistant.

I made a ray way tarp. If you order his kit, you can be assured it will be the proper material. http://www.ray-way.com (http://www.ray-way.com/)

Military Poncho is ripstop. Remove the grouments, use ultera small bungies with metal removed for tensoners, use parachute cord for stringers. one with the weathercoating removed is even lighter use silicon water proof spray from Wal Mart. For set up: Hang one corner high oppesite corner low, spread the sides, string up the head opening, and sleep tight.:sun ninety five cans of beer on the wall:banana:banana:banana

Sorry Dave if I could I would take down my suggestion. I am sort of wild, you can get into a lot of hardship with my suggestion of a poncho tarp. You will get weathered, snowed on rained on, bugs will bite you, you will at times get flooded and you will turn out like me, listen to what mothers say "Don't let your children grow up to be grysmn's" trust me it is good advice ask people that know me.:(

okay?
Well i ordered the stuff to make the tarp tent so thanks for the help