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Just looking for some feedback... I am looking for some lightweight durable rope to hang a bear bag with on our 09 thru-hike. Most of the light ropes like the Kelty Triptease lightline, specifically mention that the material is too rough for trees and that it shouldnt be used for bear bagging. Anyone have any ideas for both light weight and tree friendly?
buckwheat
01-13-2009, 16:26
You can also get Mason's line at just about any hardware store. I get a weight heavy enough to me and my pack (you never know). About 250 pound test. I put a length of that about 75' tied to a small silnylon stuff sack (maybe 3" square) and stuff the sack with the rope. Use the sack to put a rock in for tossing over branches. Works like a charm. I use a small caribeaner (sp?) for hooking my foodbag onto the rope.
Cheers,
Buckwheat
i do the same type of setup buckwheat! i use the sheath of 550 cord as well, but keep it tied to a small mesh stuffsack, packed in it for transport, and a rock in it for tossing. exactly the same! hehehe nice!
bigcranky
01-13-2009, 16:48
The ideal bear bag line is thick and slippery enough that it won't "saw" it's way into the branch and get hung up. It helps a lot if the line doesn't stretch, too. (I remember trying to hang a pack in Georgia, and I pulled and I pulled, and the pack just sat there while the line stretched.) Finally, it needs to be fairly light.
The high end really expensive stuff is from Backpackinglight:
http://tinyurl.com/yg9krv
Jolly Green Giant
01-13-2009, 17:02
Just use Spectra or Aircord and cut down on some weight. The 550 line is plenty fine, but its overkill, too thick, too heavy, etc.
Feral Bill
01-13-2009, 18:30
I don't pull the heavy bag over the branch. Hoist a carabiner, tiny pully or such up unloaded, with another line through it. Use the second line to lift the sack, then tie off. Very little friction on the main line this way, and no tree damage.
take-a-knee
01-13-2009, 19:20
sheath from 550 cord
No way Jose, it don't work, not even paracord with the guts works worth a hoot. Get some spectra of at least 500#, preferably the 725# like Gossamer Gear and Anti Gravity gear sells. What most folks call 550 cord (the OD green stuff)...ain't. It is actually 375#, before it is left out in the sun alot. It stretches like a rubber band too.
sticks&stones
01-13-2009, 20:06
spectra, is that how it's spelled?
http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product.asp?pfid=1834&src=froogle&refer=1834
g8trh8tr
01-13-2009, 21:08
No way Jose, it don't work, not even paracord with the guts works worth a hoot. Get some spectra of at least 500#, preferably the 725# like Gossamer Gear and Anti Gravity gear sells. What most folks call 550 cord (the OD green stuff)...ain't. It is actually 375#, before it is left out in the sun alot. It stretches like a rubber band too.
I sure have used 550 Cord ALOT with 100% success for it not to work:)
spectra, is that how it's spelled?
http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product.asp?pfid=1834&src=froogle&refer=1834
Yep. Spectra...
but the 1/4" 2500# test spectra rope on that link may be a bit overkill.
Is it called bear line because you want to hang a whole bear?
Try THIS (http://www.antigravitygear.com/proddetail.php?prod=TRLINE&cat=74) (40' 725# test Spectra line with throw bag)
or THIS (http://www.antigravitygear.com/proddetail.php?prod=SPL725) (Spectra 725 by the foot)
or THIS (http://www.gossamergear.com/cgi-bin/gossamergear/spectra_line.html) (50' lengths Spectra 725)
or maybe even-- THIS (http://www.gossamergear.com/cgi-bin/gossamergear/ezc_2_line.html), THIS (http://www.bontool.com/product1.asp?P=EZCLINE), or THIS (http://www.bontool.com/product1.asp?P=BRAIDEDLINE) (160# test high quality Double-Braided Mason's Line)
and of course, tried and true-- Paracord (http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Category___9533660__)
Life is all about choices...
take-a-knee
01-13-2009, 21:29
I sure have used 550 Cord ALOT with 100% success for it not to work:)
Well, that means you are much more talented than I am.
joshua5878
01-13-2009, 21:30
Just looking for some feedback... I am looking for some lightweight durable rope to hang a bear bag with on our 09 thru-hike. Most of the light ropes like the Kelty Triptease lightline, specifically mention that the material is too rough for trees and that it shouldnt be used for bear bagging. Anyone have any ideas for both light weight and tree friendly?
Yes, it's my 1st thru hike,leaving late Feb, but I ordered one of these, ( www.quickrope.com (http://www.quickrope.com) ) had it on my doorstep in a few days. Weighs in @ 3.8 ozs on my digital postal scale.. I like it, my brother and I are splitting weight and I think this will work fine. See what you think! No rope, knots or rocks..
buckwheat
01-13-2009, 22:33
That Quickrope site is where I got the ideas for my setup.
I just could see a lot of drawbacks to that method of hanging. If you spend some time thinking about all the ways that product might hinder your hang ... you'll see what I mean.
The method of hanging demonstrated in their tutorial assumes that you have a tree branch of the proper diameter at a specific height that will hold the weight of your food without breaking (or so it seems to me).
I'd have alternative ways of hanging in mind if I was relying on that product.
OldStormcrow
01-14-2009, 09:29
I've been using the same old parachute cord for years and never had any problems with it hanging up. You can pick up 100 feet of it at any army/navy store for about $2.95 and it is fairly rot resistant. I just tie a rock on the end to throw it, but the mesh bag that some folks use is handy. The idea is to hang your food bag far enough out on a branch that there won't be any chance of a bear or raccoon swinging on it to test your line's breaking point.
theinfamousj
01-14-2009, 10:02
What most folks call 550 cord (the OD green stuff)...ain't. It is actually 375#, before it is left out in the sun alot. It stretches like a rubber band too.
My 550 cord is black with white guts. Am I doing it wrong?
By the way, the boyfriend said that 550 is not supposed to be a useful number (as in 550#) but a catalog number to help distinguish it from other cords. He also calls it para cord. But your explanation of the name seems to differ. Anyone know the etymology of the name "550 cord"?
buckwheat
01-14-2009, 10:25
Anyone know the etymology of the name "550 cord"?
US Military (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_of_the_United_States) issue paracord is specified (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Defense_Standard) by MIL-C-5040H in six types: I, IA, II, IIA, III, IV.[2] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parachute_cord#cite_note-MIL-C-5040H-1) Types IA and IIA are composed solely of a sheath without a core. Type III, a type commonly found in use, is nominally rated with a minimum breaking strength (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tensile_strength) of 550 pounds (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pound_%28mass%29), thus the sobriquet (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sobriquet) "550 cord".
buckwheat
01-14-2009, 10:27
The above was from Wikipedia (hit enter by mistake).
But yeah, it's the rated breaking weight of the cord (550 pounds). I think it's used a lot because you can strip the outer rope, and get to the inner lighter rope strands for various uses. You probably don't need a 550-pound test line for hanging food, but the rope is dual-used a lot.
So as is typical with most boyfriends ... WRONGO!
skinewmexico
01-14-2009, 10:57
I'd use spectra.............on my America's Cup sailboat, if I could afford it. You're hanging something that weighs what? 30 pounds? I guess I shouldn't say that, I'd probably buy this - http://www.antigravitygear.com/proddetail.php?prod=TRLINE&cat=74
Does any one know how much para cord weighs for 50 ft or so?
Does any one know how much para cord weighs for 50 ft or so?
50 ft = 3-1/8 oz. (brand new, dry).
Nylon paracord soaks up much more water than Spectra, making it heavier when wet (but Spectra is so much lighter for the same strength).
Paracord frays much easier than Spectra and, when frayed, tends to hang up on tree limb bark and other irregularities.
Paracord takes slip knots much better than Spectra.
Spectra is slippery.
Btw: I use the Spectra from Backpacking light to hang my bags.
take-a-knee
01-14-2009, 16:39
My 550 cord is black with white guts. Am I doing it wrong?
By the way, the boyfriend said that 550 is not supposed to be a useful number (as in 550#) but a catalog number to help distinguish it from other cords. He also calls it para cord. But your explanation of the name seems to differ. Anyone know the etymology of the name "550 cord"?
It is called 550 cord because the white suspension lines on a reserve parachute are 550# test, it is a generic term. The green stuff comes off of (or is used in the construction of) a main parachute, those lines test out at 375# because there are many more lines on a main parachute. I've never seen black paracord in the military system, ever, I wouldn't trust it's strength 'cause it likely ain't milspec. I was an Army jumpmaster for 16yr.
you wouldn't trust its strength for what??? it's to hold up a bag of food, not rappell with
Runsalone
01-14-2009, 19:11
you wouldn't trust its strength for what??? it's to hold up a bag of food, not rappell with
Well were not army jumpmasters so what do we know:rolleyes:;)
I mean no disrespect to anyone--I am just legitimately curious. Do most people take the hanging of a bear bag so seriously? (i.e. SERIOUS debate over which is the best brand of rope, intense scrutiny of various rope brands' wet weight vs. dry weight, real concern over which rope snags/frays easiest, which one damages overhead branches the least, and debate regarding the best techniques for throwing and hanging a bear rope/bag.).
I started hanging bear bags over 30 years ago--and I have never had an animal get to my bear bag. I have also NEVER given much thought to any of the issues that many people are raising in this thread. Am I missing something important here? Should I REALLY be concerned about what type of rope I use to hang a bear bag?
To me, it seems like a simple enough task--hang a small 10-25 lb. bag of food and "smellables" high enough up (and far enough out) to hopefully keep the critters from getting at it. (And, in the process, obviously try to keep your packing weight down and practice "leave no trace" camping).
I am not suprised that people on this site are debating. We debate everything. What I AM surprised about is the seriousness and passion that people seem to have for this subject. Am I in the minority for having never given the subject bear bags and bear bag ropes very much thought?
take-a-knee
01-14-2009, 19:36
Well were not army jumpmasters so what do we know:rolleyes:;)
In that case, see your local recruiter, I heard they were hiring.:sun
take-a-knee
01-14-2009, 19:43
I mean no disrespect to anyone--I am just legitimately curious. Do most people take the hanging of a bear bag so seriously? (i.e. SERIOUS debate over which is the best brand of rope, intense scrutiny of various rope brands' wet weight vs. dry weight, real concern over which rope snags/frays easiest, which one damages overhead branches the least, and debate regarding the best techniques for throwing and hanging a bear rope/bag.).
I started hanging bear bags over 30 years ago--and I have never had an animal get to my bear bag. I have also NEVER given much thought to any of the issues that many people are raising in this thread. Am I missing something important here? Should I REALLY be concerned about what type of rope I use to hang a bear bag?
To me, it seems like a simple enough task--hang a small 10-25 lb. bag of food and "smellables" high enough up (and far enough out) to hopefully keep the critters from getting at it. (And, in the process, obviously try to keep your packing weight down and practice "leave no trace" camping).
I am not suprised that people on this site are debating. We debate everything. What I AM surprised about is the seriousness and passion that people seem to have for this subject. Am I in the minority for having never given the subject bear bags and bear bag ropes very much thought?
There may be 547 different ways to do something, there is usually always ONE that is most efficient. When someone posts and asks for instruction, if I actually have any experience/expertise on that subject matter, I attempt to give the best advice/techniques I'm aware of. I've seen boy scouts use the lid loop on a nalgene bottle and piece of cotton rope to hang food. If you think this is as efficient as 725# spectra/PCT method then more power to ya. I wonder if you would find such a non-chalant attitude acceptable from the engineers who design your car or the highways and bridges you drive upon. Maybe a model T is okay for you?
buckwheat
01-14-2009, 19:44
I have also NEVER given much thought to any of the issues that many people are raising in this thread. Am I missing something important here? Should I REALLY be concerned about what type of rope I use to hang a bear bag?
Having been to the rope department of my local hardware store and found about 200 different types of rope, my first thought was "How do I decide?"
A lot of thought goes into it because of weight mostly. Long distance hikers must be cognizant of the weight-to-usefullness ratio of every single piece of equipment in their pack. So, it makes sense that there would be pro's and con's to be discussed.
IAm I in the minority for having never given the subject bear bags and bear bag ropes very much thought?
Can't answer that, but you sound ok to me.
theinfamousj
01-18-2009, 01:58
So as is typical with most boyfriends ... WRONGO!
Somehow, I'm not surprised. :)
Thanks for the lesson in naming. I didn't think to check Wikipedia. I'll head there first next time.
boarstone
01-18-2009, 15:49
Kelty tiptease lightline....1 oz. per 50', breaking strength of 188lbs., reflective so makes it easy to find/see. at campmor.com for 14.99 plus shipping.
Just about anything strong enough will work. Lighter line is easier to tie around a rock and toss and takes up less space in your pack. Heavier (usually thicker line) is easier on the tree limbs (take a look at the obvious bear bagging trees when the leaves come out and see the dead outer limbs where the bark has been cut through by multiple bear baggings over the course of the season). That's one reason to care. Kelty Triptease is VERY rough (and stiff, which prevents it from being an easy toss). I, personally, like a medium Spectra line, because it's supple, light, doesn't absorb much moisture, and is smooth and relatively wide, so it doesn't saw into tree bark. I've been having trouble locating it lately, seems as though I'm not the only one looking for it. I've seen it called "725 Spectra", probably from its breaking strength.
Guilty! http://outdoors.webshots.com/photo/2985748300059664855qpNWGa
When it's what ya brung (I know, that's incorrect English). It's what ya use.
cravj1988
01-18-2009, 20:12
Yellow mason string from the hardware store was perfect for my 07 thru hike. Make sure it is light weight nylon. It will have enough tenacity for any bear bag, and if it gets stuck in the tree, you will be able to recover most of the line for another attempt. Wrap the mason string around your hand 45 times and that should be enough.
I mean no disrespect to anyone--I am just legitimately curious. Do most people take the hanging of a bear bag so seriously?
Nope, no, unh unh, I couldn't care less. Whatever works is my mantra. I've used clothesline, cheap poly, manila, electricians pull rope, Bluewater static and and even Mammut 10.5 mm climbing rope.
I've brought along small pulleys to give extra purchase when I had to hang group bags. Once people in my party see how quickly I get my bag up they often ask me for help with theirs.
I can see gram weenies worrying about an extra oz or two but "What, me worry?"
What ever works.
And we drive a CRV.
I mean no disrespect to anyone--I am just legitimately curious. Do most people take the hanging of a bear bag so seriously? (i.e. SERIOUS debate over which is the best brand of rope, intense scrutiny of various rope brands' wet weight vs. dry weight, real concern over which rope snags/frays easiest, which one damages overhead branches the least, and debate regarding the best techniques for throwing and hanging a bear rope/bag.).
I started hanging bear bags over 30 years ago--and I have never had an animal get to my bear bag. I have also NEVER given much thought to any of the issues that many people are raising in this thread. Am I missing something important here? Should I REALLY be concerned about what type of rope I use to hang a bear bag?
To me, it seems like a simple enough task--hang a small 10-25 lb. bag of food and "smellables" high enough up (and far enough out) to hopefully keep the critters from getting at it. (And, in the process, obviously try to keep your packing weight down and practice "leave no trace" camping).
I am not suprised that people on this site are debating. We debate everything. What I AM surprised about is the seriousness and passion that people seem to have for this subject. Am I in the minority for having never given the subject bear bags and bear bag ropes very much thought?
I understand where your coming from, but since I am planning a thru hike it is not only important to me to have the lightest-strongest combination, but also to make sure that I am not using a material that is harmful to the trees. Besides... who turns down the opportunity to partake in a healthy debate every now and then?
Any one looking for rope might try OnRope1 (on line). they carry rope of all diameters and strength, and you can buy by the foot.