Feedback for Underblankets. Please. [Archive] - BushcraftUK: Community Forum

lardbloke

27-09-2006, 07:51

I have only managed to get out once to have a play with the underblankey and I am waiting for the temperature to take a nose dive before any real comments can be made on the blankets insulation properties.

My initial thoughts upon examining the blanket indoors was that it was a good size (large blankey) i.e length and width and should cover the average (as well as the larger user) person easily. The material is sturdy (ripstop would have been nice, but cost would affect this) and appears water resistant if it should come into contact with a wet surface i.e dew on the ground, spillages, or if rain blows in under the main tarp (if this is the case, then the hammock would get wet anyway).
A good set of attachment points, either using the elastics on the ends to attach to the hammocks main guy rope or use the attachment rings using your own brand of ingenuity i.e bungy cords etc. Also comes supplied with a nice stuff sack so can be packed down to a reasonable size.

My first light upon testing the blankey without any prior knowledge of setting it up was interesting. I set up my Hennessy as normal i.e the tarp first then the main hammock. These were set up close to each other as the weather was wet and windy at the time. I would suggest trying to attach the blanket for experiment purposes either without the main tarp or having it higher than normal so that you can make adjustments easier. If you have a normal hammock rather than one with an integral mossie net sewn in then you could test the set up by laying the blankey ontop of the hammock and attaching it to see the best methods of attachment for you.

after a little messing about I managed to tie the main elastics to the main ridge line using a prussick type knot (for sliding adjustments). At first I had tied the end two to the main line and the other two to nearby trees, big mistake.I think it would be easier to use a toggle over the ends of the elastics first (for extra adjustment) and then attach to the main ridge using a prussick knot. You can either tie all four altogether onto the main ridge or tie the end two onto the main ridge (straight out horizontal) with the outer two onto the ridge line also (vertically). Both set ups make it much easier when trying to set up the other side of the blankey, as fine tunning can be critical to a good nights sleep here. The middle of the hammock has a couple of toggles that can be drawn in to wrap the blankey around the you when in the hammock in order to create a better fit. This can be further adjusted by threading either the side adjusters of a Hennessy through the sides of the blankey or simply tying a further attachment through the side of the underblankey to the top of the main ridge line to draw the blankey further up around the user for added warmth. The whole set up must have taken me around ten minutes of head scratching, so when setting up after further refinements I think it would only take a couple of minutes at the max.

Getting into the hammock with the under blankey attached was no real problem as you can simply pull it to one side when trying to get into the entry point on a hennessy and a a normal open hammock you can just clamber in.

I had a good rest in the hammock after all my hard work and drifted off into Bushcraft slumber land. I was totally toasty and could not feel any cold spots in spite of the wind, but as said above I will have to wait for the weather to really turn before making any valid judgements on this.

All in all my first impressions are very favourable. I am impressed by the underblankey and my thanks goes out to Wanderinstar and all those involved in this project.

outdoorgirl

27-09-2006, 08:09

As I'm in the middle of moving house (completion Friday Oct 6 :eek: ), I also haven't had the opportunity to use mine in anger yet. I'm hoping to get permission to use a Forestry Commission woodland close to where I'll be staying next month so that I can give it a good trial over several weeks, and will of course keep you all posted.

It's been too warm for the blankey lately anyway! :)

ODG

moduser

27-09-2006, 09:21

I tested out my underblanket for two nights of the Forrest Knights Wilderness First Aid Course.

Knowing that the night time temperatures would be mild I only took a single season sleeping bag with the hope that the underblanket would perform well enough.

First up hanging the underblanket. I'm using the group buy sleep system and this is packed in some homemade (snake) skins ready to go straight out of it's dry bag. The hammock went up and I tied one end's shock cords to the hammock ring and then tied the other end, pulling the shock cords tight.

This had the effect of stopping the mossie net from hanging properly so a quick rethink and I loosened the mossie net ties and fed the shock cord through these and retied them nice and tight.

So now the underblanket is fully under the mossie, which is great.

First night I was so hot I had to open my bag up fully to get some air. Because I'd strung the shock cords tight, without any provision to use the side adjusters the underblanket was cacooning me and it was like sleeping in a four season bag, now I sleep hot anyway so you can imagine this was not great. However it prooved without a doubt that the underblanket was doing it's job and doing it very well.

Next night I loosened the shock cords so that it was looser but still forgot about the side adjusters :(. Another very warm night but more comfortable than the first :)

Ian reminded me about the side adjusters in an earlier post when I mentioned that as a sauna the underblanket worked like a dream.

Since then I have put the rig up in the garden and set it up properly so I can tighten and loosen the underblanket without having to leave my sleeping bag, wonderful.

A couple of general observations. Build quality is good, the two logo's machined onto the underblanket is a real nice touch. I purchased the large underblanket not because I'm a lofty 6 foot 6 inches tall but because I fidget about sometimes and I didn't want any cold spots. Now I noticed that the underblanket is actually big enough to wrap completely around me, like a POD, so I'm thinking about how to secure it without compromising the underblanket and I can also undo it quickly (propably try velcro). This should mean that for coldish nights I can sleep sans sleeping bag and cut down on the stuff needed to carry - which would be nice.

Overall I'm very happy with mine. I need a real cold snap to test it properly but it's looking very promising.

Thanks Ian for a nice addition to my ever growing pile of kit :D

David

gregorach

27-09-2006, 10:16

Much the same experience as everyone else here - it takes a little experimentation to get it set up just right, but when you do it's extremely effective (or seems to be, given the warm temps so far). I can definitely confirm that it's adequately windproof though... ;)

PhilParry

27-09-2006, 13:07

Please see My post (http://www.bushcraftuk.com/community/showpost.php?p=206084&postcount=341)

In short, it's great!

:You_Rock_

Phil

nigelp

27-09-2006, 13:48

Initial first impressions of the underblanket are positive and all fixtures etc seemed sound, and the general construction seemed to be of a good quality.

WHY

When using my DD hammock and newer Mosquito hammock with a Thermorest it has tendency to slid around and there are cold spots around the knees, back and A**E!
http://www.nigelsfiles.v21hosting.co. uk/images/underblanket/withoutblanket.jpg This occurs even on a mild night as the air flow around the hammock drawing heat away. The answer a nice ‘underblanket’ courtesy of Ian!!

The Blanket

The blanket is of sufficient size to completely enclose the hammock lengthways and across the width.

http://www.nigelsfiles.v21hosting.co. uk/images/underblanket/withblanket.jpg

The blanket hangs below the hammock and has sufficient size that when lying in the hammock it will enclose the sleeper eliminating cold spots completely.

The hammock itself has several strong loops sewn in each corner

http://www.nigelsfiles.v21hosting.co. uk/images/underblanket/detail04.jpg

and the middle and on opposing sides down the length (presumably to use with a asymmetrical hammock).

http://www.nigelsfiles.v21hosting.co. uk/images/underblanket/detail01.jpg
http://www.nigelsfiles.v21hosting.co. uk/images/underblanket/detail02.jpg

The ends of the blanket are tied off to close them in and this seemed fine when in use with no cold spots and enough slack to allow give at each end of the hammock.

http://www.nigelsfiles.v21hosting.co. uk/images/underblanket/detail04.jpg

To mount the blanket (oh err misses) I fixed some elasticised bungee’s to the main hammock support line and hooked each one on to the end lops at each end of the blanket.
http://www.nigelsfiles.v21hosting.co. uk/images/underblanket/fixtures01.jpg
http://www.nigelsfiles.v21hosting.co. uk/images/underblanket/fixtures02.jpg

This help keep the blanket in place when setting up and by pulling the bungee’s up the hammock line the blanket sides rise up slightly on each side.

An elastic cord does runs the length of the top edge of each side of the blanket and this could be used to fix to the lines (I found it to be of insufficient ‘elasticity’ to do so). I tied the cords off at each end instead and used the middle adjuster to gather the blanket in and further bring it up.
http://www.nigelsfiles.v21hosting.co. uk/images/underblanket/detail01.jpg
A bit more length in the elastic (the length is there but I tied it off shorter) and this loop of cord could be passed over a central hanging point to really raise the hammock sides up if very cold or windy?

When packing the blanket away I left the underblanket and hammock attached together and to the main hammock lines, I then bound the hammock up with 3 small bungee cords.
http://www.nigelsfiles.v21hosting.co. uk/images/underblanket/bound01.jpg
One end of the hammock and hence blanket is released and that end stuffed into the stuff sack provided , the rest goes in and the whole thing is ready to go next time all attached and ready to go.

http://www.nigelsfiles.v21hosting.co. uk/images/underblanket/bagged.jpg

In Use

I was fortunate to be able to stay at Pauls ‘Yellowwood’ last Thursday (first customer I think, cheers Paul and review to follow!) and had a fantastically warm night despite a strong wind during the night that would have caused cold spots without the blanket. . The whole thing stayed put all night and did not sag despite the bungee slackening off slightly (a prussack knot and cord will sort this). The next night the blanket and hammock was ready to go and was set up in minutes and despite having the tarp hung high and all sides open it was again warm all night and so far so good. Off to Dartmoor in a couple of weeks so hopefully with lower temps and a bit of wind can really test the thing out. For winter comfort I think it will be a winner, so see you at 'Yellowwood' in November!!

Nigel

PJMCBear

27-09-2006, 14:38

Used my standard sized for the first time last weekend, with a Hennessy Exped. Temp dropped to about 11C.

One quick tip - do not use with a 58 arctic baggie I woke up wet through, even though I was just laying on top of it. :o Even a single season may have been too much at that temp.

At 5' 9", I'm not the tallest, but the standard underblanket was more than enough for me.

It did take me some time to set up, although I had seen how it was done. I eventually tied the outer cords over the ridgeline and the inner to the hammock rope.

Very pleased with my purchase. :D

KevB

27-09-2006, 17:02

Edited - 02/10/2006 - Have put some pics in Members Gallery to help with explanation. Not very good I'm afraid but best I can do !

Like others I haven't tried it out overnight yet although it's been up and down alot in the garden while I finalised the attachment system.
For those of you that may be interested - this is how I've attached it to a Hennessy Expedition. I'm for simplicity and ease of use so I tried a few variations before I settled on the following. Sorry for the lack of pics but I've not got a digital camera so bear with me while I try to explain.

First prep the underblanket and Hammock...
Take the four elastics at the end of the blanket and thread them through one of those plastic rope ends used on sailing boats. (Like a plastic ball with a hole drilled through). This should be just big enough to take all four (about 20mm diam with a 6 mm hole).
Now take both the outer and inner pair of elastics separately and thread a small 4mm cord lock onto each pair. I've colour coded mine (blue inner, black outer). Run the plastic rope end and both cord locks about halfway up the elastics.
Now attach 1.5m of 3mm elastic shock cord to each of the two side loops of the blanket on the opposite side to your entry side.
Take two short lengths of paracord and tie them into loops using a single fishermans knot. Take a loop and twist it into a figure 8 then fold so you have a double loop. Slide one of these over each end of the hammock rope and move it down to the material knot. On a Hennessy this is covered by a black nylon boot - you will feel two lumps in here - situate the paracord between them so that it can't slide when under tension. This is the underblanket attachment loop. You're now ready to setup.

Attachment.
Assuming the hammock is setup - take one of the doubled paracord loops and pull down on just one of its loops - this tightens it around the hammock line so that it cannot slip. Now pass one set of end elastics with both cord locks and plastic rope end through this loop. The plastic rope end performs a toggle function and holds up the blanket while the cord locks allow for adjustment. Repeat for other end.
Now thread the HH side elastics through their matching blanket loops and peg out (optional).
Now take each set of outer end elastics and tighten them using the cord locks until the blanket hugs the hammock. Do the same with the inner elastics to bring the blanket up to the bottom of the hammock. Adjust fit as required. This bit only needs to be done once as the cord locks can stay in their final positions for next use.
At each end of the blanket take the end of the outer elastics back through their respective end loops on the blanket and up and over the hammock ridgeline and tie together. This aids the centre elastics in keeping the ends of the blanket out toward the hammock ends and also keeps it up tight around the sides of the hammock.
Finally take the 1.5m elastics over the hammock ridgeline and attach to their opposing loops.

On stripdown you only need to undo the ridgeline knots for the end and mid elastics and release the end toggles. Everything else stays adjusted for the next setup.

Sorry if this sounds a bit complicated in text form, but really its not.

I've laid in the hammock and moved around a fair bit and the blanket seems to remain close to me. I can feel the warmth building quickly even when I move into another position so the elastics appear to be doing a good job of keeping the blanket tight to the hammock. Hopefully as the nights get chillier any cold spots will be easier to detect.

Regarding mods - I believe someone has already mentioned that having a tape loop for attaching each of the four centre elastics would make for easier replacement if required. Not sure about this one - but I think I would prefer stronger elastics since they seem overly stretched when the blanket is properly adjusted.
Possibly a material channel with an elastic thread/cord lock combo at the ends to allow a better fit and retain warmed air.
These aren't complaints - just thoughts.

Hope this helps.

swyn

27-09-2006, 17:57

With regard to setting up, it really depends what your sleep system is but at this end with MagiKelly hammock etc, no problems and quick. As Moduser has said it was really too hot at the first aid couse but with alterations to the hang, if you can call it that, enough air can get around the bottom to allow a cooler nights sleep. My biggest regret was forgetting my netting, showing my wife the mozzie bites and seeing her laugh!
I have slept out in the rain in my garden and like the water resistancy. This will stop any driven rain getting in sideways. It is really nice not to have other things , apart from your bag, in the hammock. I'm sure that if there were no trees it would work quite well as a mattress for a short time.
I am looking forward to the tempreature dropping to freezing, then minor adjustments will really tell.
I also like the idea of not taking a sleeping bag, I'm sure that this is an easy thing to consider but as we all sleep at different temperatures the decision will be a personal one.
I'm impressed with the quality and the 'little touches'. Actually I'm very impressed all round and so is one of my friends. Consequently between us we will have five. Two here and three on order. Wanderinstar is worried that they will be sold on ebay for a fortune like RM knives! There is no chance of that happening as my children would never speak to me again if I did that! Also why part with a very good bit of kit, money does not keep you warm.
Thanks Wanderinstar for all your hard work.

:You_Rock_

Swyn.

PS. You could try rolling hitches instead of prussic knots, they are quicker and more suited to this application.

dommyracer

27-09-2006, 18:06

Has anyone weighed the undeblanket?

nigelp

27-09-2006, 18:16

Yes, Large is 1300g. My set up with underblanket, hammock, tarp and lines weighs about 3000g. Not mega-lightweight but respectable for general use and for something that comfortable. My winter backpacking tent and thermorest weighs about that so good as an all year round comfortable set up.

Nigel

Calypso

27-09-2006, 22:00

I've not got a digital camera so bear with me while I try to explain.

Sorry if this sounds a bit complicated in text form, but really its not.

Ahhhhhhhhhh, my brain's turned to fudge :confused: :o It sounds like you've developed a great system but is there any chance you could borrow a camera :You_Rock_

KevB

28-09-2006, 10:32

Ahhhhhhhhhh, my brain's turned to fudge :confused: :o It sounds like you've developed a great system but is there any chance you could borrow a camera :You_Rock_

OK so it DOES sound complicated ! I'll see if I can blagg a camera for the weekend and try to put up some pics. Dont hold your breath though - me and technology dont mix very well !

KevB

02-10-2006, 18:15

Ahhhhhhhhhh, my brain's turned to fudge :confused: :o It sounds like you've developed a great system but is there any chance you could borrow a camera :You_Rock_

Have put some pics in my members gallery cos I couldn't get them to insert into the post. Hope these make it a bit clearer.

moduser

03-10-2006, 09:27

KevB,

All makes sense now. Thanks for the pics as I really like the idea of using that ball thingy, I'll pick some up as it will aid my rig as well.

Top man :You_Rock_

David

Calypso

03-10-2006, 15:50

KevB,
Thanks for the piccies - all becomes clear. I'll try your recommendations.
Cheers. :You_Rock_

JonnyP

08-10-2006, 14:32

Just come back from using the underblanket for the first time. What a great idea it is.........
I forgot to have a look at any photo's or discriptions of how to set it up, but it is so easy. All my sleep system is the group buys on here. The elastic at the ends of the underblanket was passed though the hole in the mozzie netting and tied onto the D ring at the end of the hex fly with a simple bow, as in tying your shoe laces. Worked a treat, (Bams idea, cheers mate). Love the adjustment in the middle, tighten it to raise the underblanket for more warmth, loosen it, to drop the underblanket. Simple yet effective idea, and can be done under the affluence of incohol fairly well. I had a great nights sleep, was warm and cozy and all snuggled up. Excellent bit of kit, would recommend to all...........

wanderinstar

27-10-2006, 06:38

Well i am very happy that everyone seems to appreciate the blanket. Tried mine out for the first time at Loch Achray. So it was my turn to play. A while ago I suggested taking outer chords through loop on the side in question and taking it over hammock, then through loop on that side and finally tie off on hammock ring. Forget that idea, it was too tight across feet.
Graham S has the best set up I have seen. He passes centre chords through hammock ring and then fastens a shockchord adjuster on each end. once adjusted, just right, it can then be left alone. The outer 2 are then attached to a small (plastic) crab. This can then be either clipped to hammock ring or fastened to mozzie ridge rope.
Think I will tie a loop in ridge rope between end of blanket and hammock ring, this will stop crab sliding along ridge rope.

Lets be hearing more suggestions for slinging.

wanderinstar

05-11-2006, 13:44

Well there are another 44 blankets out there. How are you all finding them?

Too Much Kit To Carry

05-11-2006, 13:48

Well there are another 44 blankets out there. How are you all finding them?

I've not had a chance to give it a go yet :(

Been far too busy to even set up let alone use my hammock.

I'm also trying to sweet talk a local land owner into allow my family and I to camo in his woodlands - or even sell me a few acres. I've been down the woods all moring with my son and they are glorious at this time of year. Just gonna walk up to our local for a spot of Sunday lunch and a few pints of Guinness :D

Phil.

bikething

05-11-2006, 13:55

...I'm also trying to sweet talk a local land owner into allow my family and I to camo in his woodlands...
Paintball ????

as to the underblanket, I'll be trying it out next week ;) (might need to try them both at the same time !! :D

Mr_Rimps

05-11-2006, 14:06

Hi Ian
Thought I'd let you know I camped out last night and used the underblanket. The temperature dipped to minus 1 and the underblanket did its job a treat. I did think of putting a foam pad in the hammock (as I've done before) and then sling the underblanket too but I didn't. Just used the underblanket and it was perfect.

If I didn't have it I wouldn't have slept in a hammock.
Thanks a million Ian. Great piece of kit.

I think one of these is in order... :You_Rock_

Andy

Glen

06-11-2006, 01:08

Well there are another 44 blankets out there. How are you all finding them?

Not had a chance to get away yet but decided to rig it up in my flat and open the windows.

Rigged it up in the daytime and had a lie down, within a few seconds I realised it's very warm, could feel my own bodyheat withing a few 10s of seconds.

Waited for night and temperature to drop ( around 12C ) then got out my lightest weight sleeping bag, not sure what make says Voyager 200, mummy style, seems a typical cheap 2 season one, stripped off and climbed in. Got far too warm to sleep comfortably in the bag, ditched the bag and got a little chilly ontop, predictable really but not as much as I expected, so found it more comfortable to climb between the hammock's 2 layers without the bag.

I guess if I'd have been outside, with a breeze, the 2 season bag with the underblanket might have felt just about right, or maybe a single thin layer of night clothing without bag, which would be sensible outside anyway incase of sudden needs to leave the nest for a short while.

For a comparison I then tried the sleeping bag on it's own, laying ontop of my bed, got slightly cold after a while.

Conclusion : Underblanket does it's job very well, no cold spots that I noticed. I suspect by this time next year you'll have an awfull lot of people begging you to run Xth Underblanket Group Buy ;)

Further thoughts : I didn't like feeling quite so constricted in hammock and mummy bag while being so warm, might have felt better in a traditional shaped one. Think I might opt for a Snugpak Jungle or stretchy Chrysalis one for my next bag. I'd be interested in hearing what bags are other using with their underblankets.

Phil562

27-11-2006, 10:33

Used mine for the first time this weekend.

Used it in conjunction with my Hennessey, am gonna have to have a fiddle with it too perfect the set up, however I still had two nights of well toasty sleep.

Normally at this time of year I would pack a reindeer skin, this was warmer and took nowhere near as much space in my bergan.

Apart from me perfecting the setup, I am more then happy.

The only thing now is to test the robustness of it, will post a report at the end of the winter ;)

xairbourne

27-11-2006, 12:08

Hmmm not to sure about mine with the Hennessey deluxe asym it could have been a bit longer for the hennessy given it was supposed to be the large version.

I found the elastic to be to thin and will look at replacing mine with thicker better quality stuff. It did not stay in place and moved around too easily with the elastic and toggles.

I did find it ok with my snugpak softie elite 5 no problem there with warmth and the wind was up.

A little disappointed with the quality could have been finished a little better(elastic and toggles). It’s going to need a little modification I will try taking some photos next time we are out but all I have is this one at the moment.
Thanks Ian for all your work
http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/6879/hammockik3.jpg

xairbourne

27-11-2006, 22:06

Ok hands up i got it a little wrong with the set up, I have been online tonight with Ian. (who has been a fantastic help)
My doris (Mrs) is shouting at me because the living room has been taken over with the hammock and under blanket on her new curtain rails...lol
This is what i had
http://img281.imageshack.us/img281/9285/1stgo1.jpg

this is the correct way
http://img154.imageshack.us/img154/1474/2ndbe7.jpg

Hope this helps and Thanks to Ian once again

wanderinstar

27-11-2006, 22:24

Glad to be of help Mark.

buffalobill

28-11-2006, 14:28

That second setup looks much better - I'll be giving that a go the next time I'm out.

Calypso

07-01-2007, 13:06

Just got back from a weeks canoe trip on the Dee in Scotland. We used the underblankets all week and they were brilliant! I slept with a sleeping bag 'quilt style' on top and was really warm at all times. The week was fairly mild (snow on the first night but no frost all week), but there was a lot of wind. Losing heat by convection wasn't a problem and I had the best nights sleep of any trip away.

I'd recommend them to anyone. I used KevB's set up - worked really well.

Wayland

07-01-2007, 13:48

Mine worked very well.

I usually have a mini hammock under my tarp as storage space and I attached the top bungie cords to that to draw the sides up well and fastened the others to the end of the hammock.

I doubled the bungies back to the underblanket to spread the loading on the cords too.

Simon1

07-01-2007, 18:44

Hi everyone, :D
I am thinking about buying my wife and I two Hennessy Hammocks and I saw the under blankets on this thread!
How do I get hold of a couple of these superb blankets???? :lmao:
Cheer's :red:

:You_Rock_

wanderinstar

23-02-2007, 22:17

Simon, You can now go to Third Group Buy in Group Buy section.

soa_uk

03-04-2007, 10:46

Just a brief note to say that I've finally used my first group buy underblanket. First trip out since I was ill in August last year.

Just a brief trip out to the forest at the top of the Black Isle last night. Cool and grey when I went out. Manage to get the flysheet up OK (you can tell it's a while since I've been out, one of the guylines must have been 30 feet long...)

Hammock up OK (still had the mossy net on, since I'd just decided to go out on a whim...)

I'd glance at the instructions for fitting the underblanket, so managed to get it more or less in place.

Settling down to read after a brew, I notice immediately how much warmer it was. I was also sleeping in a new Nanok 0°C rather than the normal -10°C. Temperature dropped to about 1°C or maybe a little below.

I had a good, warm nights sleep (despite waking up about 3 times for a pee - which might have been due to the rain!)

Lovely night out; including very bright moon and clear view of stars at 3am.

Back home for breakfast.

Thanks, mate. Good piece of kit. Looking forward to the next one.

wanderinstar

26-04-2007, 19:31

Cheers Steve, It is always nice to hear what people think, especially when it's good comments :D There were a few people used them at Delamere. What do you think?

gunnix

27-04-2007, 22:29

Hi,

I've used the underblanket several times and must say it's fantastic. Definately since last time my friend used the underblanket and I was sleepig on an alumium mat in the hammock, which was way worse to say the least :p.

I sleep better when I'm camping then when I'm at home ;)

I'm still wondering what some loops are for on the underblanket. Like those that are between the middle and the end.

wanderinstar

27-04-2007, 22:43

If I tell you that, I would have to shoot you. :D Seriously, they are for the side guys on Hennessey's.

gunnix

28-04-2007, 12:01

yea sometimes in forests I'm wondering if I'm not just hanging on the right heigth to have some hunters bullets accidentally hit me, guess I'll sleep on the ground between some tree roots from now on.

MagiKelly

28-04-2007, 21:42

I posted this on SotP a little while ago and it is worth posting here. Basically how I set up my underblanket

Here we go. First you need to add a couple of things to your underblanket and also to your hammock.

Preparation
Get all four bungee cords from the end of the underblanket through a cord lock. Do this at but ends. It is footery but you can manage. Next add a piece of cord about 1m long to one of the tabs at each end of the underblanket. Lastly add a small loop of string to the carabiner, ring or hook at end of your hammock.

Setting up
Set up your hammock as normal. Put the underblanket IN the hammock and spread it out. Take one of the cord locks with the bungees through it and pass this through the loop of string on the hammock ring.

http://www.songofthepaddle.co.uk/pics/ub01.jpg

Do this at both ends. You can now tip the underblanket out of the hammock and it will hang under the hammock.

Take the string you attached to the underblanket and pass it over your ridge line (either the hammock ridge line or your tarp ridge line) and tie it to the opposite loop

http://www.songofthepaddle.co.uk/pics/ub02.jpg

Do this at both ends.

That is you set. To adjust the tension of the underblanket simply press the cord lock and either pull the bungees tighter or loosen them as required. Remember you want the underblanket resting gently against the underside of the hammock but not squeezed against it.

The string over the ridge line helps to take the weight of the underblanket and also spreads it. Like the bungees these may need adjusted but are easy to set.

Now you can lie back and enjoy the warmth.

http://www.songofthepaddle.co.uk/pics/ub03.jpg

Used mine this weekend as did Warthog 1981 and Stuart_Blink and we were all toasty warm. Just used our sleeping bags as blankets as the underblanket keeps you warm enough underneath on its own.

wanderinstar

29-04-2007, 10:09

John,
So you sling your hammock from tarp ridgeline? I presume they are prussics at the top. What do you use for ridgeline?
Another question. How do you fit mozzie net with those cords going over ridgeline?

gunnix

29-04-2007, 11:12

Very nice and practical MagiKelly ! I'll be copying that setup :)

Guess you let the cords go over the line under the mosquito net when there are mosquito's around.

MagiKelly

29-04-2007, 21:42

I discussed the new set up here

http://www.bushcraftuk.com/community/showthread.php?t=17893

I have not used it with the netting yet but I would just attach the insect netting ridge line to the ends of the carabibers as usual. Dead easy too as I just unhook the carabiners from the ridge then hook them back on.

EDIT And yes when the insect netting is installed the underblanket cords would go over that ridge line instead of the hammock one.

wanderinstar

05-05-2007, 11:40

MagiKelly

05-05-2007, 20:29

Yes John looks like a good setup. Was wondering if I knot the 2 pieces of climbing tape together, that I presently use to sling hammock ( who said Yorkshiremen were tight) would the prussic knot grip enough for hammock or do you think it may slide towards middle?

I thought about that too :rolleyes: I think the prussic for the hammock would be okay but I am not convinced that the prussic for the tarp would get a good grip. Of course the only way to find out is to try it.

wanderinstar

06-05-2007, 12:52

Yes I thought that the tape seems a bit slippery. What rope do you use, it looks like climbing rope.

MagiKelly

06-05-2007, 23:00

Yes I thought that the tape seems a bit slippery. What rope do you use, it looks like climbing rope.

It is a 8mm floating boat rope, like you would use in a canoe ;)

wanderinstar

31-05-2007, 16:07

John,
Does putting tarp OVER ridge rope not do it any harm. Such as chafing of the tarp. I presume you have used this set up quite a few times now.

chas brookes

31-05-2007, 19:07

Hi Ian:)
I used my underblanket for the first time at the Spring Moot it was a good test as the weather was not good. It kept me lovely and warm, once I had adjusted it correctly, thanks Magikelly for tuturial. I only wished I had purchased one in one of the earlier group buys as I would have had lots more warm comfortable nights in my hammock.
Thanks for organising group buy
Chas

MagiKelly

31-05-2007, 19:21

John,
Does putting tarp OVER ridge rope not do it any harm. Such as chafing of the tarp. I presume you have used this set up quite a few times now.

It does it no harm I can see. It has been discussed a few times before as well with a veriety of views

http://www.bushcraftuk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=14234

http://www.bushcraftuk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=14666

http://www.bushcraftuk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=13128

PhilParry

31-05-2007, 20:50

My only feedback thus far (used it on a number of occasions since last September, but nothing REALLY sub-zero cold) is that it's lovely and warm and cosy, cuts noise down a little too.

For me 2 points of improvement could be

1) have it a little longer - I'm 6'2'' and find that the underblanket only just fits me, with careful positioning (first couple of times I just wacked it up and didn't think about the consequences....needless to say at around 4am I was :D )

2) A clear set of instructions in terms of how best to set it up included - even a little printed card or sommat?

I put 2 of the cords (outer two I think) through the end of the mosi netting and tie them to the stainless steel ring I've put in place (either end) and then put two (also either end!) over the mini-ridge line within the mosi netting (I've got mine set up as RM eco-hammock).

Hope all that makes sense!:o

Otherwise, superb bit of kit - would happily sleep out in MUCH colder temperatures!!

Ta!

Phil

redcollective

31-05-2007, 20:58

Sorry if this method had been posted before but thought I share my feedback on the underblanket...

Another option for the underblanket, it to take the bungee cords from each of the corners and pass them through the fabric loop opposite - then just bunch the bungees, make a loop in the end and hook them over your attachment point to your hammock tapes (or whatever you use - I have the magikelly hammock and have used a screw gate karabina on each end, so I put the loop of bungess through that). It keeps the underblanket snug and folded over itself at the ends, which cuts the draft, like a peapod!. I actually took the underblanket instead of my nanok to Waynes first aid course a few weeks back (accidentally - they look the same compressed) and was plenty warm enough in this setup. I think it performed well - it was quite mild weather in my estimate, but if I'd had a sleeping bag as well I could see it being very snug in cold weather.

palmnut

31-05-2007, 21:27

My twopenneth ... I used mine with my Hennessey for the very wet and rather cold week of my Woodlander course a couple of weeks ago. All was well and I was warm enough with my sleeping bag over me quilt style, with temps down to about 5deg C. The blanket also seemed to resist soaking up the few drops of rain that made it past the hammock tarp.

The only slight 'feature' I found was that if I passed the tie-out elastics from the hammock through the loops on the blanket obviously designed for this, the hammock shape was slightly distorted, causing the mossie netting to droop down onto my face. Has anybody else with a Hennessey found this? Got a good work-around?

wanderinstar

31-05-2007, 22:16

I think that everybody has there own way of setting up the underblanket.
Personally I tied all 4 shockcords to the hammock ring. then the hammock and blanket cords could be passed through the sleeve in top of mozzie net. The main thing is not to have the cords too tight, they are only meant to support the blanket which only weighs 1.5 kgs. Thats 187gms per cord.
The next time I have mine out though, I will be trying Magikelly's idea and put a cord from end loops over ridge line. I am not convinced that it will be better, but I will try it and see.

w00dsmoke

30-06-2007, 10:58

:You_Rock_

Well once again thankyou Wanderingstar for the underblanket buy. You should go into business selling these!

I've used it a few times since getting it and find that the quality is excellent. The few times I've had a chance to be out in it so far have been remarkable. the difference with it on compared to say a thermarest slid in is amazing. Much more comfortable, moulded warmth and no cold spots. Fantastic bit of kit. It's multi functional as well, it's now going to be used as a summer sleeping quilt and a winter liner when using the tents.

I'm 5ft 11 and think that it would be better if it was slightly longer although i wear bivi boots so I don't notice any cold spots if I slide to far.

To set up in future, I'm going to sew toggles (on elastic) onto my hammock to mate with the loops sewn into the underblanket, I think this will make the underblanket more snug against the hammock. And again I think I'll use two end ropes over the tarp line like others have suggested.

For winter camping I'm making a fibre pile skin to go between the underblanket and hammock to increase it's winter rating. Wanderingstar said that Snugpack rate it -10, I think for comfort in Scotland it may need more insulation although I'm going to have to wait a wee while to try it and see. I'm sure for 95% of the time it will be more than adequate as we have less frosty nights up here now!

All in all a fantastic hammock underblanket and it works just fine with paradise and the group buy hammocks.

Cheers bud

Woodsmoke

wanderinstar

30-06-2007, 11:57

Redcollective,
I tried that method of passing outer cords through opposite loops and then out to hammock ring. But I found it bunched blanket up too much around my feet, rather uncomfortable. Now I just bunch all 4 cords together and tie to hammock ring, then adjust side tensioners to suit conditions.

Richie O

01-07-2007, 08:01

I shall be using mine this weekend as i am going to spend a few days at Scafell Pike and the surrounding area. I can't wait!!!

:D

JonnyP

01-07-2007, 09:40

Still well pleased with mine but one of the inner elastic cords has snapped where it joins the blanket......Hmmmm maybe too much stew.....
Not too sure how to mend it either. Anyone got any suggestions.....

wanderinstar

01-07-2007, 19:56

No not too much stew, possibly having cords too tight. As I said in an earlier post each cord should only be supporting 1/8 of total weight of blanket, ie. 187gms or for us Imperial people, about 6oz.
Possibly you could sew a loop on the edge of blanket and tie cord to that. Will have to make enqiuries with Snugpak to do that on next batch.

windward

14-10-2007, 22:07

Yesterday morning I was planning to head out for the night, once finished work in the shop at 5.30pm, down by the beech at Tyningham, East Lothian...a usual spot to chill out...I've 3 different areas to pitch up camp all within a 15 min walk from the car which is great especially seeing it's getting darker at nights and not wanting a major hike before setting up camp.

I had already mailed "Wanderinstar" on the Friday evening saying I'd seen the latest posts re the underblankets and that some had already received theirs and was wondering if he had posted mine. I was a bit concerned, as I wasn't sure how he was posting them, that it would get caught up in the next postal strike the coming Monday so mentioned that if it hadn't been posted I'd get it collected by courier as I wanted it NOW :) and not for it to be lost in the backlog of parcels.

When I walked into the shop yesterday morning I got a pleasant surprise to see a parcel there for me...my underblanket. Now I was definitely heading out for the night...and the weather was perfect too.

I was hoping to get away sharp to get down and start to set up before dark but that didn't go to plan. Got to my usual spot at 7.30pm, went to collect enough wood to last the night & some for the morning and got the hammock up...next came the underblanket. I didn't spend too much time putting it up but did the best I could for the first time and in the dark. I attached the 2 shock cords at either end to the main hammock lines then, as I've got a Hennessey, threaded the guy lines through the webbing eyelets that were sewn into the sides...I presumed that's what they were for. It looked better once I'd put some tension into the shock cord lined running down the length of the blanket to draw it into the sides though it still didn't look quite right. There were the tail ends of the shock cord, from the sides, hanging loose so I tied these up to the main hammock lines too...this seemed to pull the ends in a bit more and shape it better. I was satisfied with what I'd done so far...it was covering the bottom of the hammock ok and should do the job though not quite right yet.

After a chicken curry, couple of beers and a wonder about I climbed into the hammock...it was great not having a scramble about with a thermalite which is what I usually use for insulation over the winter months. I had a great nights sleep...very warm and much more comfortable than the thermalite...you can really feel the difference of the warmth up the sides.

I took some pictures in the morning...as you'll see it could have been centred more but apart from that not a bad job for first time up. My only comment is, because the guy line runs through the eyelet, if they're meant too, it holds part of the blanket down so it can't come further up the side of the hammock...this was noticeable on my left side, when inside, as the eyelet was further up on that side towards my shoulders, with the Hennessey being asymmetric. I wasn't cold but could feel a slight difference in temperature if lying on that side compared to my right where you could see the blanket coming right up to the edge of the hammock....does that make any sense?? Next time I'll set up in daylight and spend a bit more time adjusting it so it's centred properly and the sides adjustments altered. I've already found a thread on here explaining more about the setup.

Have to say I'm absolutely delighted with the blanket!!! Thanks again Ian for all the hard work you've put into this. I go out throughout the winter months so this will ensure I'll always get a great nights sleep.

A few pics...

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff211/windward48/Underblanket1.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff211/windward48/Underblanket4.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff211/windward48/Underblanket3.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff211/windward48/Underblanket2.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff211/windward48/Underblanket5.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff211/windward48/Hammocksetup1.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff211/windward48/Hammocksetup2.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff211/windward48/Morningcamp1.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff211/windward48/Morningcamp2.jpg

View a few yards from the trees
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff211/windward48/Viewfromcamp.jpg

Breakfast on the go
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff211/windward48/Breakfast1.jpg

Espresso

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff211/windward48/Breakfast2.jpg

Looking forward to getting away next weekend...theres about 6 of us heading back to the same place...hopefully with the same weather too...it was like a summers day here :D

Vince

Nat

14-10-2007, 22:37

windward

14-10-2007, 22:46

I simply tied the lines straight onto the hammock rope just beyond where it joins onto the hammock itself.

bikething

14-10-2007, 22:47

Lo folks. Been browsing this thread and watching the group buys and i'm thinking of either buying a ready made one or making my own.

But from the pictures it seems hard to make out whether you've tied hte underblanket seperately to the trees or to your hammock.
Is it put up seperately?

Cheers
Generally, it hangs from the hammock fixings (rings at the ends of the MK hammocks for example), though some (like me) use a ridge line and tie the outer cords to that to raise the sides, and sometimes use the tensioning loops in the middle to tie the underblanket together in the middle so it encloses the hammock, or up to the ridgeline so the 'walls' sit higher around the hammock like a bath-tub.

HTH
Steve

wanderinstar

15-10-2007, 05:58

Hi Vince,
It looks like you may find Magikellys method better. He ties a cord from the corner loops and passes it over ridgeline. Personally I would prefer to use a piece of thin bungee rather than paracord. Next time you are out try that method. It should raise the ends up the sides of hammock. But remember the Golden Rule. KEEP ALL CORDS SLACK they only have to support the blanket NOT YOU..

MAGIKELLY DID SOME PHOTOS SOMEWHERE BUT i CANT FIND IT AT THE MOMENT

Matt Weir

15-10-2007, 08:24

Lo folks. Been browsing this thread and watching the group buys and i'm thinking of either buying a ready made one or making my own.

Hi Nat,

If you fancy a go at making your own then check out my thread on the subject :) (http://www.bushcraftuk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=25207)

Nat

15-10-2007, 08:27

Cheers folks, much appreciated.
Matt i've shamelessly stolen your ideas and made my own already :D

Matt Weir

15-10-2007, 08:30

That's fine Nat, that's the idea. Post a pic :)

Nat

15-10-2007, 08:39

Will do once i get my camera working, and the kids stop stealing it!

w00dsmoke

15-10-2007, 08:56

Windward, you are going to have to learn how to make minimum impact fires mate! :rolleyes:

weekender

15-10-2007, 09:20

Ive used the underblanket a few times now and on my hennessy i found it was best not use the side tie outs on the hammock and cinch up the shock cord along the length of the underblanket this bought the sides of the underblanket up the hammock more, first night i done it i pulled to tight and the u/blanket was too tight to the hammock which caused a cold spot as it was compressed have learnt by that and now have a great nights kip.
thanks wanderinstar great bit of kit.:You_Rock_

windward

15-10-2007, 11:41

wOOdsmoke - point noted.

I usually make a fire just large enough for my needs...the fire you see there was in the morning which was set on the remnants of the fire from the evening before which was lager for cooking purposes.

strollon

15-10-2007, 21:56

collected mine today,Friday at 9.30 set of for somerset, slept in hammock fri/ sat night with sleeping bag setup. came home sunday evening and found calling card from postman he had tried delivering at 10.15 but got no answer.How unlucky. But its looking like a well made bit of kit and i can't wait to try it out sometime. Thankyou wanderinstar for all your hard work.

Regards Strollon

Karl5

16-10-2007, 12:37

Haven't received mine yet. :(
I guess the Swiss customs officers want to have a good look at it before they pass it on to me.

/ Karl

wanderinstar

17-10-2007, 13:22

Karl,
It went off on Saturday with all the rest of them. Mind you I did have to fill in a customs form. Didn't for Germany or Netherlands. So whats that all about?

Angus Og

17-10-2007, 13:38

Karl,
It went off on Saturday with all the rest of them. Mind you I did have to fill in a customs form. Didn't for Germany or Netherlands. So whats that all about?
Switzerland not in the EU. That all I can think of.

Karl5

17-10-2007, 13:44

Ian,

Thanks for the heads up!!
I believe Iain is right: With Switzerland not being in the EU, there's still the matter of the customs forms to be filled out.
Thanks a lot for putting up with all of the troubles with the group buy in general, and my customs burocracy in particular!!

/ Karl

Tiley

20-10-2007, 21:23

I like sleeping in my hammock. But, until now, that perrenial problem of having to organise your mat under the sleeping bag has been something of a nightmare. Turn over in your sleep and - lo and behold - the mat escapes and, before long, your shoulders, back and kidneys begin to chill. The resulting miserable night makes you wonder whether you'd have been better off sleeping on that tree root after all.

Now, I can abandon those worries: my underblanket has saved the day! I tried it the other evening, rigged up with my Woody/Bushcraft Expeditions hammock, and was amazed at the difference. For the first time, I was actually comfortably warm. When I got home, I sorted out my kit and then thought I'd try it again. It took no time to set up and I spent a very cosy time watching the squirrels scuttling around in the upper branches of an ash tree and listening to the bird song.

Criticisms? Well, if I'm being really picky, I'd grumble about the bulk of it: it does occupy rather more of my pack than I'd like ideally but that is about it when it comes to gripes. I have tied a couple of short lengths of accessory cord to the mid-way tabs so I can truly cocoon myself if it gets nippy but, apart from that, it's a really well thought-out piece of kit.

For any hammock dwellers, this really is a superb piece of kit and worth every penny. I think that Wanderinstar needs to have unreasonable praise heaped upon him for coming up with the design and arranging the group buys. It is one of the few things that will always find a space in my pack.:D :D :D and one for luck :D .

Charlie KMQ

22-10-2007, 08:13

Just been up the Lake District with SOTP, couldn't get onto the camp site first night, so slung my hammock on a very large hill on a 45 degree slope at midnight, couldnt figure how to attatch the underblanket whilst holding a crappy torch and trying not to fall down the slope, so didn't bother, and froze all night. Next night, got onto campsite, set up properly, underblanket nicely attatched, went to sleep, woke up a couple of hours later, and had to undo sleeping bag as I was too hot! these underblankets are the mutts nuts!, cant wait to try it out when its well below zero - Thanks once again, Ian!
Charlie

Gwhtbushcraft

25-10-2007, 11:05

Fabulous bit of kit. It really does keep you snuggy and the manufacture is perfect. I think the bcuk logo on the side is a really nice touch. My only complaint is the pack size; I feel that the stuff sack could be slightly smaller as I managed with a little effort to get it into the stuff sack of a softie kestrel which is a fraction of the size. But all in all I feel it is a very well thought out bit of kit and thank you for organizing the group buys.
George
:You_Rock_

Karl5

26-10-2007, 17:01

Well, the underblanket took a while to get to me since the Swiss customs people just had to get their grubby fingers on my it. And then charge me for the pleasure, of course...

Anyway, it's here now and it looks very well made indeed. The fluffyness of it makes me want to run out into the woods and try it out immediately.
However, I now have to wait for the Magikelly Hammock from the ongoing group buy (since I have no hammock now :o ), and also wait for the quilt to arrive, then figure out the best way to put it all togehter, and then I'll be set for a proper autumn/winter trial. :D

I guess I won't be needing a mozzie net at the moment :) , but I wouldn't want to be without one when spring/summer comes, so I'm still hoping there'll be a group buy coming up for that too.

/ Karl

oetzi

29-10-2007, 12:46

First night with the new underblanket. 8°C and I was mostly warm.
But I must learn how tight to fit it, because I hald a cold zone, 7x50", along the center of the hammock almost the whole night.
One minus was the quality of the elasticated cords, thick, heavy and not very elstic. I will replace them with cord used to hold tent poles together.
Dito the toggles for fine adjusting, the springs on mine were too weak to hold a cord under load.
Coorection: the toggles work properly with any other kind of shockcord. It seems that not only the core but also the surface of the OEM stuff is to blame
Otherwise: great design, excellent value for money.
THANK YOU, IAN!!!!!!!

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a273/Supercorsa/Hammock/291107037.jpg
The poncho liner over an additional ridge line was used as a roof to add warmth.
I am already planning how to make a sealable headhole in the yet-to-be-deliverd quilt. So I can leave the liner at home and use the quilt as insulative garment.

wanderinstar

03-11-2007, 08:00

Oetzi,
Where are the photos taken. I seem to remember you took some others of the same place.
I am surprised on your comment re the shock cords. Thick, heavy and not very elastic:confused: As I said on an earlier post I had to repack ALL this last lot of blankets. Didn't see one with any thicker cord than the rest. What actual thickness is your cord?
The cord is the same, I would think, as that used by Snugpak on all there sleeping bags.

oetzi

06-11-2007, 12:35

Hello Ian.
The place is a Hut in the Odenwald, built around 1911, by the "Wandervoegel" a very early outdoor group from before the war.
http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a273/Supercorsa/Hammock/99.07019.jpg
As per my comments of the shockcords, I can now differentiate them.
The outer surface of theOEM cords doesnt let the center toggle get hold properly. Its possible, with very little force, to pull them through. Subsequently, they loosened a bit during the night.
I replaced them with (stronger=harder to pull) shockcords as used in tent poles and re-arranged the lashing to my needs:
http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a273/Supercorsa/Hammock/61107011.jpg

The orange ones are short and connect the two loops at the short ends with a carabiner in between. My main hold for the underblanket.
The original sewn-in black ones in the middle are only to regulate the pressure of the UB against the Hammock when I lay in, they have nearly no tension on them.
Along the long sides I put separate cords between the edge´s straps to regulate, if needed,
the tension along the sides.
These cords I use are 3-4mm thick and show a higher elasticity then the ones provided by Snugpak. Nothing really important, but I have access to all kinds of stuff at the shop and liked to tinker a bit with various items. And by direct comparison the Snugpak ones dont show as much elasticity as mine.
I never regretted the purchase in any way!
Still, I cant wait to get my quilt and then use both in the woods

oetzi

06-11-2007, 13:42

As f0or carrying the underblanket and later the quilt, I got myself two of these:
http://intranet.tatonka.com/infosys/infocgi/artinfoe.dll?3304&0
One is large enough to fit the underblanket with ease. With a bit of force a lightweight hammock, too.
I dont own big packs and not always go out for a night. So, the quilt and underblanket can be stuufed into these sidepockets and been added to my 35l pack in a whim

twisted firestarter

08-11-2007, 19:33

Ian
Having used my underblanket quite a few times now I would like to make a constructive comment. A couple of times when I have been adjusting the sides the elasticated cords have pulled through into the sleeve and I have had to fiddle around feeding them back through. Not a big problem when it's still quite mild but I wouldn't want to be doing that when my fingers are freezing cold. It might help if the sleeve narrowed at the end and the cord had a knot to stop this happening. Hope that makes sense.

The underblanket is my favourite bit of kit at the moment Ian- top job :D

Neanderthal

09-11-2007, 20:04

mjk123

09-11-2007, 20:47

Since it's a tad chilly here at the mo' I've gone a bit overkill with the underblanket under and a thick sleeping bag on top.

Warm as toast.

Pleasing to me is the small pack size. My sleeping bag is warm , but packs down to a volume about 6 times bigger than the underblanket. I can't find any other option that gives some much insulation for such a small carry size and weight.

Come the summer and small blanket or even a coat plus underblanket will suffice.

wanderinstar

09-11-2007, 23:18

Rich,
When you say, "the elasticated cords have pulled through into the sleeve " do you mean from the middle or from the ends?

twisted firestarter

10-11-2007, 01:31

From the ends, it seems to happen when I've adjusted the middle sections whilst in the hammock. Hope that helps.

Another thing I was thinking about earlier Ian- how's about a basic pocket at each end to keep the cords neat when it's not in use?

wanderinstar

10-11-2007, 14:30

Hi Rich,
I was out at the w/end with Ben and got a few photos which may be helpful. Some of these ideas I have seen before, Wayland and Magikelly to name 2.
So here goes. If you tie the middle cords back on themselves and then insert a carabiner in the 2 loops. This can then be clipped to the end of hammock.
http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t129/wanderinstar/UnderblanketSetup6.jpg

Next thread the outer cords through the loops at the corners and attatch carabiners to the end of the cords. For the purpose of clarity I have fixed a seperate ridgeline on it's own, but you could use tarp ridgeline or mozzie net line. I have fixed 2 prussic loops to ridgeline about 9" in from end of hammock. The end cord carabiners are now passed through the loops and fastened to the opposite loops on blanket,

http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t129/wanderinstar/UnderblanketSetup3.jpg[/IMG]

Prussic loop attatched to ridgeline.

http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t129/wanderinstar/UnderblanketSetup4.jpg[/IMG]

You should then have a nice seal round each end of blanket and a very snug bunny inside.:) http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t129/wanderinstar/UnderblanketSetup1.jpg[/IMG]

bikething

10-11-2007, 14:33

You should then have a nice seal round each end of blanket and a very snug bunny inside.:) http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t129/wanderinstar/UnderblanketSetup1.jpg[/IMG]

:eek: If i find one of them bunnies in my hammock i'm calling the ranger! :AR15firin

twisted firestarter

10-11-2007, 15:12

Hi Ian

Thanks for explaining the way you set-up the underblanket. I do use a ridgeline but with climbing tape instead of rope. I will try out a few configurations to see if I can get a prussic to hold on the tape.

Many Thanks again, I'll post photos if I come up with alternative methods ;)

wanderinstar

10-11-2007, 15:29

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

fishaben

10-11-2007, 16:15

:eek: If i find one of them bunnies in my hammock i'm calling the ranger! :AR15firin

I don't even think the ranger could do anything, that looks like one hard bunny, with matrix, bullet dodging moves may I add :D . Plus, I have many underground contacts :bandit: :cool: .
Ben :)

Wayland

10-11-2007, 16:20

It's a bunny that's grown a lot in the last few years I might add...

bikething

10-11-2007, 17:07

...... Plus, I have many underground contacts :bandit: :cool: .
Ben :)
UNDERGROUND contacts won't help you when you're swinging in the air ! ;)

fishaben

10-11-2007, 17:25

ha ha, im not stopping anytime soon wayland, wait till the next meet, I may be bigger than you :D. :11doh: erm, there spider bunnies :lmao:.
Ben

bikething

10-11-2007, 17:27

ha ha, im not stopping anytime soon wayland, wait till the next meet, I may be bigger than you :D.

methinks you eat too much bannock sir!

oetzi

10-11-2007, 18:08

:eek: If i find one of them bunnies in my hammock i'm calling the ranger! :AR15firin

Wouldnt mind one of them prettier bunnies...;)
http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:rNCpcf_TfGmHGM:ht tp://images.channeladvisor.com/Sell/SSProfiles/30057306/Images/playboybunny.JPG
http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:107X7vmkwrk6vM:ht tp://www.bbc.co.uk/northernireland/autumn/halloween/images/2005/playboy-derry.jpg
http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:QzQOzNgdHPeIEM:ht tp://uglyoftheday.com/files/images/bunny.preview.jpg

wanderinstar

14-11-2007, 13:41

oetzi,
I am a bit baffled as to why you have cut the outer cords and replaced them with different cord?

Mind it is your blanket so you can do as you want with it. I was just curious.

Don Redondo

21-11-2007, 13:41

a fidly set up, but only to be expected as it needs to be tuned to the hammock and the user.

I set mine up on my hennesey, using the 'cord stop' technique.

It's warm, very warm. As I'm a warm sleeper anyway, I can see times when the underblanket will be too warm [but too cold without it!].

Since I use a takonta which is way too big, I've split the system - just the tarp goes into the snakeskins.

The underblanket and hammock stay together, with the main hammock line going out through the bottom of a spare compression sack, and to a Crab. Everything else goes in the sack. Putting it up is so simple. tie up the end, open sack pull out the other crab and set up. Plump up the blanket and make any adjustments [which you do anyway with a hammock].

works for me

oetzi

21-11-2007, 14:10

oetzi,
I am a bit baffled as to why you have cut the outer cords and replaced them with different cord?

Mind it is your blanket so you can do as you want with it. I was just curious.

Its just that I like to tinker with details and have access to loads of different shock cords. And being bedridden with rheumatic arthritis for a week made my hands itch and I simply had to do something.
Here I wanted to make them colour-coded, with differently shaped toggles, for ease of operation.

Karl5

29-11-2007, 15:47

Well, AT LAST the Swiss customs decided to let go of the underblanket so that I could get my hands on it.
And very pleased I am that they finally did!!
At least they'd taken good care of it and repacked it nicely and safely before passing it on.
And they didn't bother giving me a bill for VAT...
The underblanket looks like the fluffiness itself, making me want to go out in the freezing weather to try it out at once. :red:

Again thanks a lot for organising all this, Ian.:You_Rock_

/ Karl

wanderinstar

16-02-2008, 22:47

Well, the weather we have been having this weekend is ideal weather to put underblankets and quilts to the test. Anyone been out this weekend? Care to share your thoughts.

wanderinstar

25-10-2008, 12:04

Just doing a heads up to save people having to look for this.

Karl5

30-10-2008, 17:25

Well, AT LAST the Swiss customs decided to let go of the underblanket so that I could get my hands on it.
The underblanket looks like the fluffiness itself, making me want to go out in the freezing weather to try it out at once. :red:

Well, time for some feedback on the underblanket AND the overquilt methinks.
I was right in my first impression: Both of them are like fluffiness itself.
Having used them a few times now (although still not in really cold weather), I feel very happy indeed with them. In fact, they've kept me very toasty indeed, indeed a bit too warm at times.
The only thing that feels it could do with a bit of improvement is the underblanket. When using it together with mozzie net, the set-up is far from quick and easy. Maybe I'm doing something wrong, but it's certainly a lot of fiddling involved before the underblanket is set up properly underneath the mozzie net. I wish there was some clever person that could figure out a way to simplify the hanging-up design.

/ Karl

Wayland

30-10-2008, 17:33

Put a small caribina on the strap at each end of the hammock and tie the underblanket to the crabs.

When packing up just unclip the crabs from the hammock and then next time you just clip the whole lot back on.

My underblanket fits with just two of these (http://www.alpkit.com/shop/cart.php?target=product&product_id=16304&category_id=250).

PJMCBear

30-10-2008, 17:34

Carabinas Karl. One each end. Tie them to the shock chord, then clip on the hammock ring.

wanderinstar

30-10-2008, 19:07

Thank you Karl for the feedback. If you look at Post 92 on here you will see how I fit mine,

Karl5

31-10-2008, 10:37

Ok, guys, carabinas it is.
Thanks for the tip!! :)
I'll give it a go the next time I'm out. Although I have to admit to not being in a hammocking mood at the moment, with the weather being just above freezing point and a wet, wet, wet layer of snow on everything, everywhere... *shiver*

Shewie

22-11-2008, 15:47

Had a couple of nights out this week Ian in the Dales, I`m not sure how cold it got down to on Wednesday night but I was nice and snug all night long. I`m just using the underblanket and a tiny 1 season bag and I`m sleeping right through without waking because of cold spots.

I`ve now got a problem in that I`ve got about £400 in sleeping bags which I no longer need.

Great bit of kit Ian :You_Rock_

Gailainne

22-11-2008, 18:44

I got I guess one of the first generation underblankets ? Delamere Mar-Apr 2007, I did try it the second night there, but I did'nt see much difference, remember this was my first night in a hammock also, first generation DD.

So its stayed in the gear room :o since, however last outing to Morch's, I thought I'd try it again, first night, just my exped down mat, not fully inflated, and felt cold spots, usual, bum and heels, this was in a -5 deg C bag, I have a scrap piece of 6mm pad for sitting on, that ended up under my bum for added insulation.

NB The temp on one of my gadgets got down to 4.5 deg C however there was somewhere between 20-30 M/H winds blowing that night, even next day when it eased off it was still reading 17m/h

Second night, had a look at Tripitaka's set up during the day, and modified his approach to suit my set-up. I ran a second ridge line, under the tarp, and used this to tie up the underblanket, basically tied loops as close as possible to the u/blanket on the centre two, and slightly further away loops on the outer two, both ends, then used alpkit minicarbs to lock them to the ridge line, four sets of two bungee, four carbs. It worked a treat, no cold spots, and because the underblankets edges sit high on either side of you, so no wind felt either.

Regards

Stephen