Good Poncho

[william O]

Any recommendations for a good poncho, and where to pick it up? I'm looking for something that's pretty easily packable, and strong enough to double as a small tarp. Also, how do you guys usually carry one? Thanks! William

 

[baldtaco-II]

If you want occasional poncho use and ease of portability I'd get something civilian in Silnylon. It is a fantastic fabric although used as a poncho you will get wind flap. I make shelters from it.

I think the US issue poncho is great kit. Mine lost its lamination eventually but I was abusing it. For toughness the British issue poncho takes some beating. It's like something from the back of a lorry but it is way down the list for portability compared to the US one.

 

[SIXFOOTER]

I agree on the Silnylon, great stuff. Check out campmor.com Get the Ultralight extension poncho/tarp.
http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___20275
I studied every poncho on the web and for the $ this one wins, its the best combo for weight/cost/usefulness

 

[hikeeba]

I carry a $16 'GI Style' ripstop poncho that I picked up at a local camping/surplus store. It is a little smaller (I think) than an actual GI poncho at 56" x 90", but it is durable and has covered my hammock on numerous occasions.

Lately, I have been considering an extended_length silicone-impregnated nylon poncho. This would offer me a little more coverage, and weigh as much, if not maybe less, than my current poncho.

 

[hdglock]

I just purchased a used GI poncho at a gunshow for 4 dollars that is in good condition

 

[kgd]

Yep Silnylon is a great pic - here is one that is designed like the mil spec ones but in light weight.

http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302702975&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442620871

On the other hand, a genuine milspec U.S. GI poncho is a great poncho/tarp. It is heavier and less packable, but more versatile in its heavy duty construction. You can use the Army ones as a groundsheet, whearas the silnylons cannot be used like that - you will shred through them very quickly.

 

[DWK2]

I also have the Campmor and like it.

DancesWithKnives

 

[longbow50]

USGI all the way. You can get them on ebay, or several mil surplus sites like Majors surplus. I suggest carrying a pair of packable rain pants as well. They weigh next to nothing and will save your butt in heavy, wind blown rain.:thumbup:

 

[seamus]

I used ponchos for years but finally got a non-Gortex jacket and pants rainsuit. Smartest thing I ever did. The whole point is to stay dry. Ponchos don't do that very well.