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Hammocks?

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Hammocks?

Postby wunder6 » 04 20, 2016 •  [Post 1]

Anybody use a hammock on a backcountry hunt? Been thinking that route. Curious if other hunters are and if what brand and options. Thanks for any input
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Re: Hammocks?

Postby Ilikefire » 04 26, 2016 •  [Post 2]

I just ordered a Bear Butt hammock and tree straps, I did a lot of research in finding the perfect hammock for back country hunts as well as a long backpacking trip. They are a really small company that started up in 2015 but they make a good product that seems pretty darn tough according to their testimonials. Along with the lightweight aspect it packs pretty small which is good for tossing in a pack or lashing to the outside of your pack.

Another selling point for me was the name of the company, as well as the easygoing ways of the owners, it's not everyday you run into a company that offers a direct link to text them about their products and they were very quick and happy to respond.

My hunting partner has an Eno doublenest that is very comfortable and he has a webbing style tree strap for those also.

Seems like nylon webbing tree straps make for an easy setup and take down as well as a more sturdy and stable fit around the tree so you don't come crashing down in the middle of the night.


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Re: Hammocks?

Postby Lefty » 04 26, 2016 •  [Post 3]

I get sore quickly in a hammock/
The neighbors sleep in hammocks during the hunt except wet weather.
Seems like you either love them, hate them, or haven't used them Met a fellow in his late 60s at Cabela on Saturday he and his wife both sleep in covered hammocks
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Re: Hammocks?

Postby Clawsar » 05 29, 2016 •  [Post 4]

My buddy and I switched to hammocks a couple years ago and it's been mostly great with a few learning points along the way. One of the biggest benefits is site selection. Before, we'd have to find two sites flat enough and clear enough for the two single person tents we'd bring. These were tiny, single person tents where the packs are in a vestibule and there isn't enough room to do more than sit in the tent. Switching to hammocks slowed us to be in the steep stiff still with much less concern about the underbrush. Some people make it seem like a big deal finding trees the right spacing; it's much easier than finding good tent sights in the mountains. And compared to our ultralight tents, the eno jungle eat is about the same weight (with straps to hang) and a large tarp. I use the Eno housefly to provide great coverage in the rain. With this setup, I have easier site selection, much more room (can stand up fully) and have just as much protection from the elements.

A lesson learned though: if it's a real strong storm that comes in and two people were 'sharing' the one tarp, one or both people will get wet. My buddy is now looking for a tarp of his own. Another lesson is bottom insulation. A sleeping pad and sleeping bag work, especially since most people have them if they camp already, but if you shift just wrong, you'll get a cold spot, wake up, and have to adjust. I've had to shift around a few times a night and I've slept like a baby for 12 hours. We both are looking at top and under quilts for the same weight but more comfort. If you try ham mocking a few times and like it, you'll probably start down that road. We found decent Apex Climashield under quilt kits (sew yourself) for under $100 compared to some very high end but high quality units.

Good luck
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