First shot at a new tarp setup

TheMadIndian

TheMadIndian

Joined
Jan 5, 2014
Messages
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I saw this youtube video a while back where they used a 10x10 tarp and a 5x7 tarp together to make a "cabin" So I gave it a shot, I used my two BCUSA tarps, I couldn't get the sides to line up right but I'm definitely going to give this setup a go.

Identifying how it lays is pretty easy with the BCUSA 10x10 as your first tie out is the second tie out from the attached storage bag and then the other side of the ridgeline you just keep a good triangle "porch roof", you can tie the roof off at different pitches depending on weather
IMG_20161214_164031083_zpsdmdkvmye.jpg


Now the idea with the 5x7 is to make a door to really close things down, in the video he had it sealed but I couldn't get it there on two tries but its more than promising to give it a run.
IMG_20161214_164643002_zpsevnwvwjl.jpg


With the tie outs running diagonally down the back of the 10x10 you can pull the center tab to get a little more room inside, the floor space is 5x7 and roomy without the rear tie out but its much nicer with it.

The two tarps pack small and they're light, only 29oz combined
IMG_20161214_170212457_zpsuylt8avr.jpg


If I take it out for a test run this weekend I'll post an update, anyone else try this setup before?
 
That's an interesting pitch but it would cause problems for me on most trips here in New England.

That pitch is requiring a lot of material (heavy) while providing a comparatively small footprint (could be a plus or minus) and having a lot of unusably tight head room.

Small foot prints are useful in tight woods where I struggle to find a flat spot big enough for a sleeping bag, but they pose a problem in wet conditions of making it difficult to keep gear dry as condensation collects on the very close inner walls. I generally prefer a larger footprint that gives more room for gear under the lower outer parts and less chance of brushing up against the wet inner walls.

The high, flat-sided peak would cause problems for me due to wind. And it doesn't look like it gives real standing room. Perhaps too much fabric up high?

The easiest to pitch and most protective tarp I've found is something like the Black Diamond Megamid. This is a cheap knock off. Big foot print. Great in wind. Sheds rain and snow well.
Untitled by Pinnah, on Flickr


For settings demanding less weight and a smaller footprint, I've been using the Kelty Range Tarp this year. It's a bit fiddly but it can be used as a traditional 9x9 square tarp (as shown here) or it can be set up as A-frame with closing doors or as a Logan shelter with one side down and the other up.

Untitled by Pinnah, on Flickr

In general, my experience with square tarps leaves me a bit underwhelmed, especially when bad weather hits. When I do use a square tarp, this is my common pitch.

Butt end to the wind...
Snowy morning at Ethan Pond by Pinnah, on Flickr

Room to spread out underneath...
IMG_1618 by Pinnah, on Flickr
 
ground setup i assume? i'm surprised you're testing it...after going hammock i don't think i'll ever go to ground unless i have to. hanging has been a blessing on my bad back.

this weather sucks by the way. snow tonight but it'll all melt by lunch tomorrow...otherwise i'd join you for an overnighter.
 
JV3 said:
ground setup i assume? i'm surprised you're testing it...after going hammock i don't think i'll ever go to ground unless i have to. hanging has been a blessing on my bad back.

this weather sucks by the way. snow tonight but it'll all melt by lunch tomorrow...otherwise i'd join you for an overnighter.
Click to expand...
Just testing options, first choice will always be hammock I've been doing it too long but you know sometimes they aren't allowed. You missed a fun trip :D I actually just posted :D
 
Search YouTube for DD 3x3 Tarp setups
They show a really good closed tent like set up

I use it all the time
It is as good as a tent
 
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