View Full Version : Multi-purpose tarp
I am looking for a "good" multi-purpose tarp. (If such a thing exists).
I would love to find a tarp that would provide great rain protection when used with my Hennesey Hammock Ultralight Backpacker--but which could also be taken off of the hammock and used as a good separate form of shelter when hammock hanging wasn't permitted or advisable.
If the tarp could also be set up in several different styles or configurations--that would be an added benefit.
I would like to keep the weight down if possible.
Do you have any recommendations regarding a good tarp manufacturer? What size (and shape) of tarp would you recommend? What material would you recommend? (If you could tell me "why" you are recommending these things--that would also be helpful.)
Thanks!
bigcranky
06-17-2009, 07:18
I like my Maccat Deluxe tarp (http://www.outdoorequipmentsupplier.com/products-maccat-tarps.html). It's perfect on my hammock, and can be set up as a regular sleep-on-the-ground tarp. But, it's not very flexible in how it can be set up.
For maximum flexibility, a square tarp about 10x10 feet can be set up in a gazillion different configurations. Plus it's large enough to cover just about any hammock when pitched either on the diagonal or as an A-frame.
But I'll keep my Maccat. Great tarp.
BIG CRANKY: Does the MacCat Deluxe work pretty well as an "on the ground" tarp? I have heard many people sing its praises for use with hammocks--and I have seen pictures of it being used on hammocks. However, I don't know if I have ever heard folks talk very much about using it on the ground (or seen pictures of it being used on the ground).
I've got some pics around here of me setting up the equinox and ID siltarp 2 in the same configurations and why I thought the ID tarp was best. I'll have to find them when I get home. I measured both tarps, actually three tarps, and I couldn't find much difference in shape, cut, or anything really but I am a firm believer in the ID siltarp 2.
bigcranky
06-17-2009, 10:13
BIG CRANKY: Does the MacCat Deluxe work pretty well as an "on the ground" tarp?
Yes, if it's pitched pretty much the same way. I have pitched it with two trekking poles (in place of trees with the hammock hang.) It has good coverage. It can really only be pitched in an A-Frame style. I don't think I have a photo, but it shouldn't be too hard to visualize it. Just look at the photo on the Maccat web site and imagine sleeping on the ground under the tarp.
brooklynkayak
06-17-2009, 10:22
For maximum flexibility, a square tarp about 10x10 feet can be set up in a gazillion different configurations. Plus it's large enough to cover just about any hammock when pitched either on the diagonal or as an A-frame.
Yes, that is what I've noticed when I've browsed the web. The size is big enough that even horizontal wind/rain can't get in. You and your gear will stay dry on those stormy nights, on the ground or in the hammock.
There are hundreds of ways to pitch a square tarp and if it's made out of silnylon or the even lighter materials, weighs very little.
Other shapes of tarps have their advantages, but the square shape makes for a more versatile shelter.
Feral Bill
06-17-2009, 11:37
Yes, that is what I've noticed when I've browsed the web. The size is big enough that even horizontal wind/rain can't get in. You and your gear will stay dry on those stormy nights, on the ground or in the hammock.
There are hundreds of ways to pitch a square tarp and if it's made out of silnylon or the even lighter materials, weighs very little.
Other shapes of tarps have their advantages, but the square shape makes for a more versatile shelter.
8x10 is easier to find, and works well.
sparky2000
06-17-2009, 11:57
Do u'ze sllep on the ground without a ground cover or bivy? No tent tub seems to start bug trouble.
mister krabs
06-17-2009, 12:19
Do u'ze sllep on the ground without a ground cover or bivy? No tent tub seems to start bug trouble.
I use a groundcloth, was using a painter's dropcloth, just switched to tyvek. No bivy, I wear deet, watch for fire ants and try not to think about copperheads.
bigcranky
06-17-2009, 19:12
Groundsheet or homemade bug bivy. Depends on the season.
shelterbuilder
06-17-2009, 19:42
I've got a monster of a home made tarp - it's 7' x 13', and it's got lots of tie-out points, including a few extras on the center-seam (yes, they have to be sealed occasionally - just like the center-seam itself). This thing is big enough to shelter 2 people reasonably well, and is a palace for just one. :D
Bugs??? No problem - a bug bivy (also home made) that works with both the hammock or on the ground.
COPPERHEADS?!#!?:eek::eek: Isn't that one of the things that you use the hammock to avoid?;)