tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29104857041767472082024-03-13T16:52:21.291+00:00Stayin' AliveMac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.comBlogger235125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-13094561547526600392015-07-12T14:38:00.000+01:002015-07-12T14:38:27.783+01:00Trekkertent Phreeranger EB Pt. 3 The WeightThis is just a quick update on the weights of the various component parts of the Trekkertent Phreeranger EB. I still need to trim about 2" off the main pole which will reduce the pole weight slightly, the pole is part of a new pole set I ordered a few years ago from Hampton Works (the makers of the poles and pegs for the original Phoenix Phreeranger) I'd never used the poles so they'd never been trimmed.<br />
<br />
I have only fitted 3 of the guyline tensioners that Trekkertent supplied, all fitted to the lower rear guyline points, I removed the upper rear tensioner as I don't intend using it, note that the regular Trekkertent Phreeranger flysheet has 2 upper guyline points, one front and one rear, the EB version only has the rear one.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jn96i2LGAPfugF2mCl8imErAj5k2t0mH62Iyq1srfgjmSAwsjOsnXWRS2wGcuRftLDRAxhFbQ20XHLkwsaTiMhTqCKtaFC2nDDjGJxc9WTaM20pR4l0tPf1Q-HCnBF0w2oZ1_d2YCc0/s1600/P1010532+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jn96i2LGAPfugF2mCl8imErAj5k2t0mH62Iyq1srfgjmSAwsjOsnXWRS2wGcuRftLDRAxhFbQ20XHLkwsaTiMhTqCKtaFC2nDDjGJxc9WTaM20pR4l0tPf1Q-HCnBF0w2oZ1_d2YCc0/s320/P1010532+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>One of the 3 rear guyline tensioners</b><br />
<br />
<br />
Regarding the guylines I've only fitted two on the main pole, That's how I've been using my original flysheets although as standard there were six in total, 3 each side on the main pole. I also use sacrificial loops on paracord on the webbing loops to attach my guylines as if there is going to be any wear caused by the dyneema guylines I'd rather it wasn't on an integral part of the flysheet.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH9u-Gcw9LXE-7PT3NdofFngpOLk5PZE0H7BVN3f53r4cfrHlMiw7Zl0tiEOrPFZ3rG1bjf3XG_srufIuQjM8kzBLBAyLOJCdz7P5_HnYuqHnZe02X0Jp_sBqSqu1DXKs8BK3bnWX3DxQ/s1600/P1010534+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH9u-Gcw9LXE-7PT3NdofFngpOLk5PZE0H7BVN3f53r4cfrHlMiw7Zl0tiEOrPFZ3rG1bjf3XG_srufIuQjM8kzBLBAyLOJCdz7P5_HnYuqHnZe02X0Jp_sBqSqu1DXKs8BK3bnWX3DxQ/s320/P1010534+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Main Pole Guyline Attachment</b><br />
<br />
The inner tent is exactly the same as the original with no added features such internal access to the rear of the tent which is or was an option.<br />
<br />
Like the inner the flysheet is the same as the original with no additional features, There are options although I can't remember what exactly they are.<br />
<br />
As it stands the weights are as follows,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1VKSIGGsOFVoov8Vgn4sIzAN5aSLzdDpQhO2LC2QiNsrUgOIDyYC7uUekSag35bOij8RepM0VfPXCx1D_ADSrNkvhyc0TUFf7xAWak88AMNwzCFNBt27cjKRBGNENMm3nOIFS5n92heM/s1600/P1010531+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1VKSIGGsOFVoov8Vgn4sIzAN5aSLzdDpQhO2LC2QiNsrUgOIDyYC7uUekSag35bOij8RepM0VfPXCx1D_ADSrNkvhyc0TUFf7xAWak88AMNwzCFNBt27cjKRBGNENMm3nOIFS5n92heM/s320/P1010531+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Pole Set</b> (still needs trimmed to fit) = <b>283g</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPXAl_jImQIj_9Kqy43Egdv3S90kKq0cbva_sTIytO_35kjN0FvL8tMNRIArR4p0UKglJ9o1WIl0qfenGd0F5OH2z1rSmaV4mX0ws3-v2FnEW5sGZOUp4pNiDdJTaeKu4Fbhcigg1jfY/s1600/P1010529+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPXAl_jImQIj_9Kqy43Egdv3S90kKq0cbva_sTIytO_35kjN0FvL8tMNRIArR4p0UKglJ9o1WIl0qfenGd0F5OH2z1rSmaV4mX0ws3-v2FnEW5sGZOUp4pNiDdJTaeKu4Fbhcigg1jfY/s320/P1010529+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<b>Inner tent</b> (supplied with full mesh and full plain doors) = <b>541g</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTkxeWL6SpGGxLDgIOSKcRLl7wWF_uHWCocslU3O3yewUhQcoAif830oCZMKS31OVMwV3iioHzusQzgI3K5K_lN6i4BWQW1MVNU1v7qj4m7USnu1Qbu02Qy1KOS-xxOE6AfLdvdkbJrk/s1600/P1010530+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTkxeWL6SpGGxLDgIOSKcRLl7wWF_uHWCocslU3O3yewUhQcoAif830oCZMKS31OVMwV3iioHzusQzgI3K5K_lN6i4BWQW1MVNU1v7qj4m7USnu1Qbu02Qy1KOS-xxOE6AfLdvdkbJrk/s320/P1010530+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Flysheet</b> (c/w 3 x tensioners, 3 rear guylines and 2 x main pole guylines) = <b>666g</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTcE45nMUMP6m27Hok4dnp-DE_Kx47sF613dZVo6l4ffQEQ7hJx-RIvNh7odbycK2oFs9js4eka3X2l8wh9k6Y9djoybyWPe_Qgl1VEtIuUeoh77CDcxkrZzAOTN0gpJiEg35RHl0oOuk/s1600/P1010535+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTcE45nMUMP6m27Hok4dnp-DE_Kx47sF613dZVo6l4ffQEQ7hJx-RIvNh7odbycK2oFs9js4eka3X2l8wh9k6Y9djoybyWPe_Qgl1VEtIuUeoh77CDcxkrZzAOTN0gpJiEg35RHl0oOuk/s320/P1010535+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<b>Flysheet</b> with all guylines/tensioners etc removed = <b>613g</b><br />
<br />
The total weight not including footprint or pegs as I intend using it is 1490g, say 1.5kg to be on the safe side.Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-76698683515817929042015-06-14T21:59:00.000+01:002015-07-12T13:03:49.905+01:00Trekkertent, Phreeranger EB Pt. 2 I mentioned that I was going to do a full write up about my new Phreeranger EB but in the end I had too much other stuff to do, mainly working so didn't get a chance. No photos yet but I'll try to add them asap.<br />
<br />
First though a bit more information about the tent in general, the workmanship on the tent is faultless, I've seen worse from the well known premium brands. There isn't a loose stitch to be see anywhere on either the inner tent or the fly, the seams are nice and even with no raw edges anywhere. The inner tents on some of my original Phreerangers are worse in that respect. I don't expect anything to fail on this tent as a result of the materials used or standard of construction. If anyone is considering buying a shelter from Trekkertent you can be assured that there's nothing to worry about in that respect.<br />
<br />
As I was having the tent 'custom built'to a degree I had a fair amount of input regarding the specification, after a few e-mails to and from Marc the spec I decided on was.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Flysheet</u></strong><br />
<strong>Design As Original</strong><br />
<strong>Green 40D Fabric</strong><br />
<strong>Full Main Pole Sleeve</strong><br />
<strong>Webbing With Sewn Pockets for Main Pole Location</strong><br />
<strong>Rear Vent Modification</strong><br />
<strong>Extra Guyline Points At Crossing Pole</strong><br />
<strong>Plain or Waterproof Zippers on Porch, No Stormflaps</strong><br />
<strong>Short Webbing/Alloy Ring Loops at Pegging Points </strong><br />
<strong>Webbing Loops on Inside of Ridgeline to take Shockcord/Glove Hooks (Inner Attachment) </strong><br />
<strong>Plastic Cable Tie Stiffener for Porch Hood</strong><br />
<strong>Velcro Hook Part on Door/Loop on Flysheet</strong><br />
<br />
<strong><u>Inner</u></strong><br />
<strong>White Fabric</strong><br />
<strong>Half Mesh Drop Down Door with Cover Fabric</strong><br />
<strong>Nice Deep Mesh Pockets Each End (Like on the Mythos)</strong><br />
<strong>Webbing Loops Front/Back at Apex For hanging a Torch</strong><br />
<strong>Webbing Loops on Ridgeline to attach Shockcord for Inner/Fly attachment </strong><br />
<strong>Bathtub made from the heavier fabric, heavy duty PU coated ripstop nylon with a minimum HH rating of 5000mm. </strong><br />
<strong>5 x Webbing loops on bathtub to attach shockcord which I can simply loop over the flysheet pegs</strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
That all probably needs some explaination as some of the things on the list had alternatives.<br />
<br />
<b><u>The Flysheet</u></b>.<br />
<br />
First the design of the Flysheet, on the standard Phreeranger that Marc had made there was the option of being able to vent the flysheet by unhooking the rear center pegging point and hooking the fly up to a plastic ring, this mod really need the extra zip at the rear of the inner which I didn't think I wanted so initially I said I'd go without the vent option. In the end I went for the vent on the fly only although I doubt I'll ever use it. I would say though that if you want the venting option then definitely have the extra corresponding zip on the inner, all or nothing on this one.<br />
<br />
The second modified (compared to the original) feature was to replace the long webbing loops/alloy ring at the base of the flysheet with cordlocks that work with cord like ladderlocks do with webbing, I think Marc had adopted that approach on one of the regular Phreeranger flysheets. My Robens Mythos has them but in my experience they tend to slip so I really didn't want them. I could have opted for ladderlocks and webbing but in the end decided to keep it simple. I did compromise a bit by having the webbing/rings shorter than the original so that I could add cordlocks/ladderlocks later if I felt I needed them.<br />
<br />
Marc asked what I thought of having the main pole located in eyelets on webbing rather than the sewn pockets that the originals used, again I decided to go for webbing with sewn pockets like the original, it's simple and field repairable, if an eyelet pulls out of the webbing there's no easy way to repair it, if the webbing pocket stitches fail they can be sewn up again or the webbing tied of with a piece of paracord. I've had eyelets rip out but never had a sewn pocket fail. Another main pole related suggestion was to have the pole sleeve closed at one end with adjustment by means of a ladderlock and webbing at the other. Again I decided against that as if I'm having adjustment I like it at both end so that the flysheet is an equal distance from the ground at both ends of the pole. My old family camping Equinox 350 had adjustable tapes at both ends of the poles but my new 4 person version only has adjustment at one end, it means you can't pull the fly down low at one side, I don't like that. Again I stuck with the original design.<br />
<br />
The original Phreerangers didn't have a stormflap over the door zip but Marc had added one to the new regular Phreeranger flysheets, it was suggested as an option on the EB which I would have gone for but in the end Marc decided against it insted suggesting waterproof zips. I find waterproof zips a bit stiff so decided on plain zips with no stormflap, to be honest I'm not bothered either way considering on my last trip with an original fly even 12+ hours of heavy rain didn't cause any problems with regard to not having a stormflap.<br />
<br />
The 'webbing loops on the ridgeline' As a means of attaching the inner I simply wanted to use shockcord loops/glovehooks, the Mythos uses mini fastex buckles but you need to use both hands to clip them together, sounds simple enough but not so simple when you're kneeling under the flysheet trying to reach over the inner tent with limited space. On my old Phreerangers the hook is attached to the flysheet with simple shockcord loops attached to the inner, it's easy to reach up with one hand and by spreading the loop using two fingers loop it over the hook as it hangs down from the ridgeline. Easy as it is it does introduce another issue, hooks on the fly which can get caught up on each other or on the tension band when you're trying to pitch the flysheet. The alternative is to put the glovehooks on the inner but then it's less easy to get the glovehook onto the shockcord loop using one hand. I couldn't decide so asked Marc to sew grossgrain loops into the seams on both inner and flysheet so I can decide later which way to go about attaching everything. Marc supplied the shockcord and the glove hooks, I'll add shockcord loops to both inner and fly before deciding which one the glovehook goes on. Again I'd mentioned to Marc not to worry too much about the hooks/loops, as long as the grossgrain loops were fitted the rest I can do myself.<br />
<br />
About the extra high level guyline points, Marc had added one at each end of the crossing pole on the regular Phreerangers, again we were going to go with that on the EB but again Marc decided that it wouldn't work so well on the front of the EB due to the porch design, again I wasn't too concerned anyway. I still have the upper rear tie out but probably won't use it. One thing that I did notice about the high level tie out is that it tends to twist the seam through 90 degrees, I've discussed this with Marc and personally feel that they would be better attached the same as the rear mid level tie-outs, the same method could be used at the front. I think if I had the option of front and rear tie-outs attached like the mid level ones I'd go for it but otherwise I wouldn't really worry if they were fitted or not.<br />
<br />
In the end then the flysheet came out as expected and matched the spec I wanted apart from two very minor details. The first is the method of keeping the crossing pole in place, in at least one of my originals the open end of the sleeve is sewn closed halfway down, when the pole is fitted it almost sits in a pocket with the velcro really only securing it, also on at least one of the originals it's actually webbing with velcro sewn on rather than velcro on it's own that forms the tape keeping the pole in place. I think the webbing is actually better as it almost forms itself around the end of the pole and can't slip off, the velcro on the other hand is just that bit stiffer and looks like it could slip off the end of the crossing pole with the result that the crossing pole can at least partly slip out of the sleeve. <br />
<br />
The second detail is relates to the door, at first glance the EB looks like it has a central section that zips open to create the door but really you have 3 sections, any of which can be unzipped as a door. On the original EB there were four webbing tape/alloy ring pegging points, one at each side of each zip. This means that the fly can be tightly pegged down even if you want to open one of the end panels. On the new EB there are only two webbing/ring points, one adjacent to the zip on each of the end panels, the center door section simply has a shockcord adjacent to each zip. I've spoken to Marc about this, if he's happy to do it I'll return the flysheet so that he can fit the extra webbing/rings on the door. My view is this, if you have four webbing tape/rings you can easily add a shockcord loop to each so you have the option of either pegging through the ring on the section not being used as a door and using the shockcord on the section used as the door looped over the same peg to relieve strain on the zip. <br />
<br />
I have to point out that I could easily sort both of the above myself but would prefer to have Marc do it if only so that he can evaluate the alterations for himself.<br />
<br />
As weight wasn't really an issue, I choose the heaviest fabric Marc uses, the same as used on the Edge, 40D high tenacity Ripstop Nylon 6.6 which is triple silicone coated both sides and has an HH rating of 3500mm. I think the pole sleeves are made from the same fabric as the groundsheets which is heavy duty PU coated ripstop nylon with a minimum HH rating of 5000mm but I'd need to confirm that.<br />
<br />
The tent came seam sealed and very neat it is to, Marc also supplied his own shock absorber guyline tensioners, there are 3 fitted to each of the rear mid level guyline points and one to the high level point which I've removed. Marc suggested them as silnylon has a tendency to stretch when wet.<br />
<br />
Finally the top of the center door section is attached to the tent using velcro, it has to be detachable otherwise the door wouldn't roll down from the top. Doors that roll down are great when there's snow as it keeps it from falling into the porch when the door is opened. I asked to have the soft 'loop' part sewn to the tent and the plastic 'hook' part sewn to the door, why? well I've found in the past that if the 'hook' part is on the tent and the door is open, every time you lean out or leave the tent the hook part catches on hats/clothing etc which is annoying (to me anyway)<br />
<br />
One final thing and it's something that I've noticed on almost every modern tent I've owned, why are un-anodised poles so hard to slip into the pole sleeves? On the original Phreerangers if you laid everything out you could almost get the pole to slip right into the sleeve and out the other side. With more modern tents the pole tends to want to continually stick, I'll assume it's something to do with the fabric/coating although I have a feeling that on the original Phreerangers the fabric used for the pole sleeves was only coated on one side and the coated side was facing out rather than in. This isn't a criticism of Marc or Trekkertent, simply an observation, the new EB is no worse in this respect than most of the other tents I've owned recently.<br />
<br />
<b><u>The Inner Tent</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
I'm not quite sure if Marc had made an inner tent prior to me sending him my original EB, I checked all my inner tents from standard and EB Phreerangers and they're all the same size allowing for manufacturing tolerances. The inner tent was a must have for me as in spite of having 4 different inner tents I didn't have one that didn't have a leaking groundsheet.<br />
<br />
I can't remember just what options were available, I think perhaps just the extra zip at the rear to correspond with the 'vent mod' on the flysheet. We did discuss whether to have a side opening door or a drop down door but if I remember correctly both agreed on the drop down as regardless of which end your head is at you can always access the porch. Again pros and cons whichever you choose, I could live with either option. I did ask for a plain door with mesh panel and a plain cover but in the end it came with full double doors, solid/mesh just like the original which is fine. You could save the weight of a zip and a bit of fabric by going for the single plain with mesh panel option but I guess it wouldn't amount to much. I did have a choice of colours for the inner, green, yellow or white, I felt green would be too dark, yellow attracts insects so white it was. The inner is made from lightweigh ripstop with a DWR. I also had a choice of fabrics and colours for the groundsheet/floor but choose the toughest available, again the same as the Edge which is mentioned above, heavy duty PU coated ripstop nylon with a minimum HH rating of 5000mm. The only colour option was black which was fine by me. I suppose given the choice I would have gone for light grey rather than black as it would reflect light better but in the end durability is vastly more important and I don't think grey was an option anyway unless I wanted a groundsheet made from the same fabric as the flysheet on the 3 season Trekkertent models which is silicone coated 30 Denier high tenacity Ripstop Nylon 6.6 (silnylon) with a hydrostatic head rating of 2000mm. With enough leaking inner tents I didn't even consider this as an option.<br />
<br />
For internal storage I asked Marc to add pockets at each end which is the same as the Mythos, I could have asked for pockets all along the rear of the inner but as I only need somewhere for wallet, watch keys (maybe) and headtorch I decided less is more. With too many storage pockets I'd forget where things are.<br />
<br />
Marc fitted 3 webbing loops at the apex, in line with the crossing pole so there's enough option for hanging a tent light. The inner hangs quite loosely which I think surprised Marc, he seemed to feel that it should be tighter but honestly it's just like an original Phreeranger, if he hadn't mentioned it I wouldn't have noticed at all, in fact even hearing his concerns I still don't see anything wrong, it's 100% fine to me and vastly better than the Power Lizard I had briefly.<br />
<br />
The space inside is amazing, I can just squeeze two Highlander full size rectangular sleeping mats in side by side, it is tight but it wouldn't have been remotely possible in my TN Laser which was classed as a 2 person tent (the Phreeranger EB was classed as 1+ person) The headroom is fantastic, I should have checked the actual height but I can sit bolt upright without touching the apex of the inner (I'm 5' 10" and no I don't have a disproportionally short body) The amount of separation between inner and fly is excellent, the inner tent could easily be enlarged to hold 2 full size sleeping mats with space to spare and still not be close to touching the flysheet.<br />
<br />
So overall opinion? obviously given that it's almost an exact replica of my all time favourite tent I'm delighted with it, design aside the workmanship is faultless and the materials used as tough as I'm ever likely to need. I won't say I'd never buy another tent but if I did it'd be another Phreeranger from Marc, as long as he wants to make them he has a potential customer in me.<br />
<br />
I'll add the weights of the various components as soon as I finish my shift.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh88XmSekHBjlruT1_2VTqpVSrRq6eXqMxvgb6HsKOitESpEnY0gt1U4YlnoGAUhI2lsFiyYY5ZQfDBMlXJD5JjgzeT747sKitwi_nMjUHJyBgd3egeO73F98bzMkiRUyTCh5tbzVA7_tU/s1600/P2068164+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh88XmSekHBjlruT1_2VTqpVSrRq6eXqMxvgb6HsKOitESpEnY0gt1U4YlnoGAUhI2lsFiyYY5ZQfDBMlXJD5JjgzeT747sKitwi_nMjUHJyBgd3egeO73F98bzMkiRUyTCh5tbzVA7_tU/s320/P2068164+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The rear tie outs with tensioners added, I've removed the top one since I won't be using it.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBchipLwnl5jUQdP4Dajy6stJLHHlh38SX5WgGYLy_3xTSRrBG2j4TPvtexUCxPoZiBmlpydzXHjjNUPoJZORJt0u9-7A6z8Gz_sDFzCHJ2pnxrX4KXcQgYaHjezpAKf2I9D9nXlk2oHs/s1600/P2068165+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBchipLwnl5jUQdP4Dajy6stJLHHlh38SX5WgGYLy_3xTSRrBG2j4TPvtexUCxPoZiBmlpydzXHjjNUPoJZORJt0u9-7A6z8Gz_sDFzCHJ2pnxrX4KXcQgYaHjezpAKf2I9D9nXlk2oHs/s320/P2068165+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 Full size sleeping mats, just about fit.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkH6eAg5GSG5MU15XSBCw0qAX9oQoal8T36hdXJFkO7v8vScU9uH1HRcYr-y7akP5n1_6MGKA0bDNt4ijIU1gCmHAAX5upnwfbwOgb9bjflTCWExvPNWNYwUykE5RmcQq6kstYybBP2bQ/s1600/P2068166+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkH6eAg5GSG5MU15XSBCw0qAX9oQoal8T36hdXJFkO7v8vScU9uH1HRcYr-y7akP5n1_6MGKA0bDNt4ijIU1gCmHAAX5upnwfbwOgb9bjflTCWExvPNWNYwUykE5RmcQq6kstYybBP2bQ/s320/P2068166+copy.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Loads of inner/fly separation </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVLOujvTNnQn47wsgmzCf45Nf0IT2mxVx7y1k8cbSiuRKlvAOgABtSpPv2cRo2xj2QSK0yITql5-CXnva35pL9seteMRM0qhsJmNwh2df4_jgvX81dnoyvk5KvGr5aIqqw05XAzkM8dtY/s1600/P2068167+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVLOujvTNnQn47wsgmzCf45Nf0IT2mxVx7y1k8cbSiuRKlvAOgABtSpPv2cRo2xj2QSK0yITql5-CXnva35pL9seteMRM0qhsJmNwh2df4_jgvX81dnoyvk5KvGr5aIqqw05XAzkM8dtY/s320/P2068167+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5zhi4lAQr1D_06XjwAEEtQ3su2GeonCrewx1OlWO16USxCEruac0sxsS9vADkikT2_jEVlqc8aX-xn3UaOjSO40ACn1obK3DgxV_jxI2pWFQVTTP94LNxCuJPjTe4Lsn-3KqNqYWQj04/s1600/P2068168+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5zhi4lAQr1D_06XjwAEEtQ3su2GeonCrewx1OlWO16USxCEruac0sxsS9vADkikT2_jEVlqc8aX-xn3UaOjSO40ACn1obK3DgxV_jxI2pWFQVTTP94LNxCuJPjTe4Lsn-3KqNqYWQj04/s320/P2068168+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
One thing I'd change, the crossing pole sleeve opening needs sewn closed half way down so the pole is held in place. Also the velcro would be better sewn to a piece of webbing, as it is it's really to stiff and the pole can (and will) slip under it. I'd go for a webbing strap with a velcro tab like the originals.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9w6lFQFmyps0ASwmgvimMVwHLq8fKPg38dcUg5IGywA9XdxeBuDkUOUgZSjGBtyEDpjz-_FdLG5oRy9nr_ZHOenheGbQwM7SgajmW1qfOQcppGuzZ3aGh4WVKnHt7QOFGQJi4f8UmTvU/s1600/P2068170+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9w6lFQFmyps0ASwmgvimMVwHLq8fKPg38dcUg5IGywA9XdxeBuDkUOUgZSjGBtyEDpjz-_FdLG5oRy9nr_ZHOenheGbQwM7SgajmW1qfOQcppGuzZ3aGh4WVKnHt7QOFGQJi4f8UmTvU/s320/P2068170+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Various door configurations</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNgqG0bQ5QAddlAwkyHdNmMIzOe43vA8qCUDHJcBkqsS7RnlgIPVPUNYnlw9RJhy2hax3d8KmEeYXbdr0ZQOlCWe2JNZUzyqe1thTMcCKSXcB7O83eIeN0X9-3uF-umniUZY7xpFIKzfw/s1600/P2068171+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNgqG0bQ5QAddlAwkyHdNmMIzOe43vA8qCUDHJcBkqsS7RnlgIPVPUNYnlw9RJhy2hax3d8KmEeYXbdr0ZQOlCWe2JNZUzyqe1thTMcCKSXcB7O83eIeN0X9-3uF-umniUZY7xpFIKzfw/s320/P2068171+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-HmOvlcbmqX7m5cm8_0etAyjk4nrqwqEVFwRoIgzq4NUou60UQEqFBruxhLyLT9OEvTrNwKY5rdLBWGHCr3T2mh-9GHQ6spdyAaKQt8t8jnSZ3VQHWlMZIqZXplSSEyJqWuRSp0ck2Nc/s1600/P2068172+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-HmOvlcbmqX7m5cm8_0etAyjk4nrqwqEVFwRoIgzq4NUou60UQEqFBruxhLyLT9OEvTrNwKY5rdLBWGHCr3T2mh-9GHQ6spdyAaKQt8t8jnSZ3VQHWlMZIqZXplSSEyJqWuRSp0ck2Nc/s320/P2068172+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEREy_nI6RTbG6DirmBjC3zU-v-dXQcotlfIzX9H2gpYkTN2UB7pU8Odo59ffsZbBbfHiFGRczDmHnUh5YCcJPHhsDbfA8E8Hi1Dw0UcqPQRxllNFKSi0aSh6Z9WeJ6nlJ8RJJzNZmUoE/s1600/P2068173+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEREy_nI6RTbG6DirmBjC3zU-v-dXQcotlfIzX9H2gpYkTN2UB7pU8Odo59ffsZbBbfHiFGRczDmHnUh5YCcJPHhsDbfA8E8Hi1Dw0UcqPQRxllNFKSi0aSh6Z9WeJ6nlJ8RJJzNZmUoE/s320/P2068173+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-58409058036043039042015-02-03T19:00:00.000+00:002015-02-03T19:00:23.221+00:00Trekkertent, Phreeranger EBThis post is just to show a few pic's of my new, complete Phreeranger EB made for me by Marc at Trekkertent. I sent him an old one that I'd bought but couldn't use due to the coating and seam tape having come off the flysheet. The Phreeranger tents have been discussed at length here over the past few years and the question was always asked, what if you could get a new Phreeranger made from modern fabrics. It always seemed like a pipe dream but here it is.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Grx6Xp7mUwJ5G39j6IE-J61kZthwFUm1XLnWSPAfVJGlFPHVKlTkqfwGKgQ7UoCGEMX4-MiuTZHJVWFMEES1NcV-aUTklbvqVkEFp6aSCuTc7WusgRtBU0JZLPYVhOurxNQsLF322UI/s1600/P2038157+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Grx6Xp7mUwJ5G39j6IE-J61kZthwFUm1XLnWSPAfVJGlFPHVKlTkqfwGKgQ7UoCGEMX4-MiuTZHJVWFMEES1NcV-aUTklbvqVkEFp6aSCuTc7WusgRtBU0JZLPYVhOurxNQsLF322UI/s1600/P2038157+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgovqsm-Jh-kKoWakYcHAPR_NCDy9m2-S6NNzNVrNOeb5KZXQ-_Eh5N0WbBOHVrWEjgsjV5-lefasQJQOAxpzZXh2_Ln0-xuYk7TkTn01aNjFfyQb0ZtPBecVZicFJ8PAl7o-LDT7eMh60/s1600/P2038146+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgovqsm-Jh-kKoWakYcHAPR_NCDy9m2-S6NNzNVrNOeb5KZXQ-_Eh5N0WbBOHVrWEjgsjV5-lefasQJQOAxpzZXh2_Ln0-xuYk7TkTn01aNjFfyQb0ZtPBecVZicFJ8PAl7o-LDT7eMh60/s1600/P2038146+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj304cZB8-aUWPJTw-09iQ30Tj7aSQXbKJCD1ZcwWUTVbSQCra3U0R-6w3xXSvRWEEjDX_p_zaLnwouNKPXTlLzkrhErrjelbSJpr-PY5Kgn8coWtLlieW7nD2yrB2GB9p7kMqbEAxuosY/s1600/P2038151+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj304cZB8-aUWPJTw-09iQ30Tj7aSQXbKJCD1ZcwWUTVbSQCra3U0R-6w3xXSvRWEEjDX_p_zaLnwouNKPXTlLzkrhErrjelbSJpr-PY5Kgn8coWtLlieW7nD2yrB2GB9p7kMqbEAxuosY/s1600/P2038151+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I got the tent last Thursday but due to work this morning was the 1st chance I got to pitch it, I choose not to have guylines fitted as I'll add them myself but so far haven't had time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Obviously a full write up to follow.</div>
<br />Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-64262899714201839772014-09-28T19:35:00.000+01:002014-09-28T19:52:00.324+01:00Robens Mythos Solo, Almost 'The One'<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1M2xt6yyTCqO4XOQQYnZMtW3hosT99D-xuRHclE2_gThzG4U_5k3w88ca9BS4IMiGH9VIiOvKm_zeMfJ_AI8vXnMcIabtEOW_Q6fHxOC5tCcwZ-0xWsgA3Xn2q-65WDfuILA-2DyY44w/s1600/P3216713+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1M2xt6yyTCqO4XOQQYnZMtW3hosT99D-xuRHclE2_gThzG4U_5k3w88ca9BS4IMiGH9VIiOvKm_zeMfJ_AI8vXnMcIabtEOW_Q6fHxOC5tCcwZ-0xWsgA3Xn2q-65WDfuILA-2DyY44w/s1600/P3216713+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Robens Mythos Solo</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In my quest to find a new tent that suited me as well as the Phoenix Phreeranger I'd looked at a variety of single pole tents that had the pole run end to end rather than side to side as in the Terra Nova Laser and the multitude of clones that various 'Designers'?? have come up with.<br />
<br />
I looked at the MSR Hubba HP but ruled it out as it was basically inner 1st pitching (unless you use the footprint work around) and was narrower than I wanted, the Vango Apex?? was dismissed for a variety of reason not least the sail like porch hood, the Macpac Microlight and Blacks Octane were ruled out for being too small. Then I saw the Robens Mythos Solo.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2j-tOmP97EGvOjGOA0A6fuRhrMTHDuIea76SVYn-mMElouvvPyIg2j2BwrxhI8n6dgcJjWRvV_DRrxqQh1I7QTYJkwxboF6aMhK4vxfk5-uDrfhhcHM44zUHnU-p8gL5qxm_kE3moMAs/s1600/P3216695+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2j-tOmP97EGvOjGOA0A6fuRhrMTHDuIea76SVYn-mMElouvvPyIg2j2BwrxhI8n6dgcJjWRvV_DRrxqQh1I7QTYJkwxboF6aMhK4vxfk5-uDrfhhcHM44zUHnU-p8gL5qxm_kE3moMAs/s1600/P3216695+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This was interesting and although there were a few things I didn't like the look of I finally bought one. I felt that a new tent made from fabrics that were 20+ years advanced from the Phreeranger would offer a multitude of benefits.<br />
<br />
When the Mythos Solo arrived I was impressed with how small it packed and how light the fabrics felt, the flysheet is virtually see-through. There were quite a few little features that I felt were eye candy rather than of any real benefit such as the overly complicated vents on the flysheet and the method of attaching the poles but I went ahead and pitched it.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkw0rwkF9mlfsi3O1KxBIffYUNN0X8gssUWQsJ9v4SvZBRQzTWGyuu1_7fTkgn4LDYxVTDz668I_LC1UVnr-Qg82LYU8jnSka_Bn_UkaeuuO_kh14dXA1GTH553oWd9VGsjsZ02jScdPo/s1600/P3216684+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkw0rwkF9mlfsi3O1KxBIffYUNN0X8gssUWQsJ9v4SvZBRQzTWGyuu1_7fTkgn4LDYxVTDz668I_LC1UVnr-Qg82LYU8jnSka_Bn_UkaeuuO_kh14dXA1GTH553oWd9VGsjsZ02jScdPo/s1600/P3216684+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Tent As Supplied</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The 1st thing I noticed when I started to pitch it was that the method of attaching the poles wasn't any easier or quicker than on the Phreeranger which has pole sleeves, the Mythos uses plastic hooks. IMO it's possibly faster to insert a pole into a sleeve and then place the pole ends in the webbing pockets at each end than it is to insert the pole into eyelets at each end and then attach to hooks, with the pole sleeve on the Phreeranger, especially the later continious pole sleeve it's a 3 step job, slide the pole through and place each end in the webbing pocket. In addition I feel that a pole sleeve adds strength to the pole and spreads the stress along the length of the seam, the hooks on the other hand don't support the pole and create stress points at intervals along the main seam, on top of that if a hook breaks how do you replace/repair it? you'd need to open up the seam with all that entails and stitch a new hook on. Additionally the use of webbing pockets rather than eyelets is stronger, I've seen eyelets pull through the webbing they're attached to which makes it almost impossible to pitch the tent, with the webbing pocket if it tears you repair it in the field by stitching it up.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJM8C3bfKjnvaHMUrlqjLFMwgqZMI0JiygShIjUTmSAOZwSBDxVHTgZKwAKit2SWWsXu7LW4-7xyzGcXIL0eX6PFa7MOFU__N0KDKsdac2eJW1KP3fJ_dgRw1A6IqmEapGJ6em7KNHB9g/s1600/P3216694+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJM8C3bfKjnvaHMUrlqjLFMwgqZMI0JiygShIjUTmSAOZwSBDxVHTgZKwAKit2SWWsXu7LW4-7xyzGcXIL0eX6PFa7MOFU__N0KDKsdac2eJW1KP3fJ_dgRw1A6IqmEapGJ6em7KNHB9g/s1600/P3216694+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Porch Door Opened Up</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4XEV4oabSTAiYAXiYdZqelmgTgma4bWfs2zM7XjUbkJo7FFboyyRJy7uPU4JivO_aQyW3R6BPbOcVFIK_yckH3GdWlYcoaEb1_Tyl41oBfGUsyDfuqU6u_bFcTsAzjJwkq33VGBFE2RQ/s1600/P3216699+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4XEV4oabSTAiYAXiYdZqelmgTgma4bWfs2zM7XjUbkJo7FFboyyRJy7uPU4JivO_aQyW3R6BPbOcVFIK_yckH3GdWlYcoaEb1_Tyl41oBfGUsyDfuqU6u_bFcTsAzjJwkq33VGBFE2RQ/s1600/P3216699+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Pole Locates in Eyelets on Webbing, Choice of 2 Positions</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The corner pegging points are more hi-tech on the Mythos, the Phreeranger simply has webbing loops with an alloy ring, there's no adjustment at all, the Mythos uses lengths of dyneema running through a cordlock. The ability to re-tension the flysheet is probably necessary on modern silnylon type fabrics as they tend to stretch when wet although I find that the type of cordlock used on the Mythos is prone to slipping. The porch door opens right up to the crossing pole with a double ended zip which had luminous plastic caps on the dyneema pullers (all the zip pullers are dyneema which is a nice touch). The Phreeranger has a shorter zip that stops well below the crossing pole so it's easier to get in and out of the Mythos even though it's a slightly lower tent. Both sides of the porch can be rolled back to completely open the porch much like the Phreeranger. I found the webbing loops that you put the toggle through to secure the door to be too small for ease of use so added a short piece of shockcord. Looked at from above the Mythos is less symetrical than the Phreeranger, the rear of the Mythos doesn't extend as far out from the ridgeline as the front, this makes it narrower than the Phreeranger and obviously reduces internal space.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2tnVrP-xarHAyLBEmKALPhNXeYl-FNvJHz7jOANNniNrhN2kQaKDb8vSST0PBPIpDaiDBnyJTJ9X3OipHTupvaN42QMOUBIxAHUaVSqfzouqzZl42KVihVcC-Dfy9WgIx9Q8DhR5yVI/s1600/P3216703+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2tnVrP-xarHAyLBEmKALPhNXeYl-FNvJHz7jOANNniNrhN2kQaKDb8vSST0PBPIpDaiDBnyJTJ9X3OipHTupvaN42QMOUBIxAHUaVSqfzouqzZl42KVihVcC-Dfy9WgIx9Q8DhR5yVI/s1600/P3216703+copy.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Adjustable Pegging Points</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYOxgIe6ig-V8CjKJlvrPpf-ojAHPUaDtTKPomTR5aRFjuEzCpO9vVMzDsdQn6IoH7pKq1t_5ibdL8pwufLXcQLvImRt0NzEvFIESBSpDS1xHHPNArbgLI0iGWHgbrWexYKZrkBIFFxfU/s1600/P3216700+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYOxgIe6ig-V8CjKJlvrPpf-ojAHPUaDtTKPomTR5aRFjuEzCpO9vVMzDsdQn6IoH7pKq1t_5ibdL8pwufLXcQLvImRt0NzEvFIESBSpDS1xHHPNArbgLI0iGWHgbrWexYKZrkBIFFxfU/s1600/P3216700+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
There are 6 guylines fitted to the flysheet, all using dyneema and linelocks, in addition there is a webbing loop at each end of the crossing pole to allow the fitment of more guylines if required. The main pole guylines are attached to the fly at 2 points, the other 4 are attached to loops sewn into the front and rear of the tent.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmaEaA5Sj-JrTUFqS02Pd1Cxc5P2GvTRO24qimIm-Io_C8VSKNTFB43DFbaMqgeiKxXYzGc42_0Q7hIojEuvvA50nnsHiCDcFl0HEo8DsMWzzB7Q3B7jF4MsqMM5mOXzbsoURJ_J7MvO8/s1600/P3216701+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmaEaA5Sj-JrTUFqS02Pd1Cxc5P2GvTRO24qimIm-Io_C8VSKNTFB43DFbaMqgeiKxXYzGc42_0Q7hIojEuvvA50nnsHiCDcFl0HEo8DsMWzzB7Q3B7jF4MsqMM5mOXzbsoURJ_J7MvO8/s1600/P3216701+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1M2xt6yyTCqO4XOQQYnZMtW3hosT99D-xuRHclE2_gThzG4U_5k3w88ca9BS4IMiGH9VIiOvKm_zeMfJ_AI8vXnMcIabtEOW_Q6fHxOC5tCcwZ-0xWsgA3Xn2q-65WDfuILA-2DyY44w/s1600/P3216713+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1M2xt6yyTCqO4XOQQYnZMtW3hosT99D-xuRHclE2_gThzG4U_5k3w88ca9BS4IMiGH9VIiOvKm_zeMfJ_AI8vXnMcIabtEOW_Q6fHxOC5tCcwZ-0xWsgA3Xn2q-65WDfuILA-2DyY44w/s1600/P3216713+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZOdmrESL2zZ5DStZkfxkwPNJSKGAWFK96RWz0y3dSI5v-8xwBXNfKY-at7hhN9A_2QEkmBI8Mod8H2VV7g_f71GtCOT7pbE1isch-HP1Vc9fRqFXvDb8b4FEKokS6tBHMB0GErN_dGgc/s1600/P3216714+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZOdmrESL2zZ5DStZkfxkwPNJSKGAWFK96RWz0y3dSI5v-8xwBXNfKY-at7hhN9A_2QEkmBI8Mod8H2VV7g_f71GtCOT7pbE1isch-HP1Vc9fRqFXvDb8b4FEKokS6tBHMB0GErN_dGgc/s1600/P3216714+copy.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3QtuRMcSsGz_ZZbBqAzOXltDhC0cIrngXX4ELtdVfn_8pcUAwiIjgK1bygKZSHIvuULU61-NPb3dW0JDJxucqh0q9_Yt6zZlkmpsnCAJE82iVyx7JR0tl0NCvXn5s6DgYzroXKKkz17A/s1600/P3216702+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3QtuRMcSsGz_ZZbBqAzOXltDhC0cIrngXX4ELtdVfn_8pcUAwiIjgK1bygKZSHIvuULU61-NPb3dW0JDJxucqh0q9_Yt6zZlkmpsnCAJE82iVyx7JR0tl0NCvXn5s6DgYzroXKKkz17A/s1600/P3216702+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I mentioned the vents at the beginning, there are 2, one at the front and one at the rear, these are opened/closed by a zip and have what feels like a fiberglass rod in a velcro webbing pocket which can hold the vent open, the inner has matching mesh vents which can also be zipped open. IMO the vents are a bit over designed, too many zips and stuff which adds weight and complication.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNY3CY7Ni1f5qGPo_yt4qWyteXjGH1j3QrV91Dze33fIvqiG-V-93iwV2Qz3U_J-YHjcVItUdcmq3GBHk1O9aTLkeJPZOnqGHyILngYo46LT90YJOj90hCw22RmLM_uuYcnHtfXypm0Y/s1600/P3216706+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNY3CY7Ni1f5qGPo_yt4qWyteXjGH1j3QrV91Dze33fIvqiG-V-93iwV2Qz3U_J-YHjcVItUdcmq3GBHk1O9aTLkeJPZOnqGHyILngYo46LT90YJOj90hCw22RmLM_uuYcnHtfXypm0Y/s1600/P3216706+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Flysheet Vent</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1uSoP2ppwKeUJ92skk1A1xBT1araTfx-bgOr-c-6Px9F81ZSz4Nzbr6TPAuqVB8OeSDVPQEC6z9Gh6066OAhTrR4B-olxADHWUMtkVjm5qaSSriq_EQm0eOb8Qla6oYMEN4ilRL3gqPE/s1600/P3216707+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1uSoP2ppwKeUJ92skk1A1xBT1araTfx-bgOr-c-6Px9F81ZSz4Nzbr6TPAuqVB8OeSDVPQEC6z9Gh6066OAhTrR4B-olxADHWUMtkVjm5qaSSriq_EQm0eOb8Qla6oYMEN4ilRL3gqPE/s1600/P3216707+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flysheet Vent from Inside</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcf90IX0Z3dz066pO6dM8EKQSDIXezrm4zIK2mDxwE7KT_ILLfKcS1NcSWnsYD2weDr85nyPGuOmYiKg-L6sOfKVv4kfE0pO0Si0_MaNIZaI5E-kE_xKohNPih4rub-dwS2R9J65CBBac/s1600/P3216709+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcf90IX0Z3dz066pO6dM8EKQSDIXezrm4zIK2mDxwE7KT_ILLfKcS1NcSWnsYD2weDr85nyPGuOmYiKg-L6sOfKVv4kfE0pO0Si0_MaNIZaI5E-kE_xKohNPih4rub-dwS2R9J65CBBac/s1600/P3216709+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
One final thing I noticed on the fly was the length of webbing running end to end to hold the pole in place, this has a fastex buckle at one end but isn't adjustable, I've no idea what purpose the buckle serves.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb64-qaVXola4VuOhJVrfdx21bbwbJSNItsz0Cd9LTYmJsnT5lv254amG8A0F9ErMrvwRB-WRJynn0g3vbOck7ieXcAWlEzGbGG6zTqM4jDv-72wyn4YygKsLaaYthzXLjnHqqlWAq5Zw/s1600/P3266734+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb64-qaVXola4VuOhJVrfdx21bbwbJSNItsz0Cd9LTYmJsnT5lv254amG8A0F9ErMrvwRB-WRJynn0g3vbOck7ieXcAWlEzGbGG6zTqM4jDv-72wyn4YygKsLaaYthzXLjnHqqlWAq5Zw/s1600/P3266734+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The Mythos did come with very nice alloy DAC V pegs rather than cheap skewers and the pole set was also DAC.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-jj4y1b-0kA_XUGGVP1fCcaCpfkOsCsjzYhfk8eQ5vdm2njUhrD8n1yEaIMa6TK2ZPWHxgJzQ3qSJJbYulhXi05jZI0fkxRbaZ3DROMUOaElfaZOdVXCDFr9Ytn7T2-3wKfQCyWBiyMI/s1600/P3216685+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-jj4y1b-0kA_XUGGVP1fCcaCpfkOsCsjzYhfk8eQ5vdm2njUhrD8n1yEaIMa6TK2ZPWHxgJzQ3qSJJbYulhXi05jZI0fkxRbaZ3DROMUOaElfaZOdVXCDFr9Ytn7T2-3wKfQCyWBiyMI/s1600/P3216685+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The inner tent attaches to the fly using small fastex type buckles, the female end attached to the fly, the male end attached to the inner on webbing which allows the tension to be adjusted. Not only are these used at the corners but also along the ridgeline. There is a good sized mesh pocket at one end and the door opens to the side and stows away in a pocket, like many modern tents there is a half mesh panel on the door with a plain section that can be used to cover the mesh. The inner tent has an adjustable cord running across the apex of the inner tent below the crossing pole that can be used to hang a torch etc. In addition the inner tent has 2 mesh vents which can be zipped open, these match the vents on the flysheet. I think these are overkill to be honest, I can't see that opening the zip will increase ventilation much.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbDy24rrHr58QyhUyxyQv6bYjFqKGdkvZWpE5wytgAOFZw50y30LF_DX2D_CXWj0PFXFkCG4ccVAv47xOLDUz7Ow0GVApmj25ObgkA5rFQbPAhv61uqWC6-nGnQs_g49e3s616O1iaFk/s1600/P3266737+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbDy24rrHr58QyhUyxyQv6bYjFqKGdkvZWpE5wytgAOFZw50y30LF_DX2D_CXWj0PFXFkCG4ccVAv47xOLDUz7Ow0GVApmj25ObgkA5rFQbPAhv61uqWC6-nGnQs_g49e3s616O1iaFk/s1600/P3266737+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzg5IGxYbLBbKyBt2hRaBr2rrCx1Khly8Iz8viBdRtLx-etjiCdxmPOluERuog4JCt-1ohfZcgzB9AFmWDA1c8Nh2HlxjiF0VuVSQg6RzszV3guAoaY8KpOB2rXqHGbzgLyh-YI9l88s/s1600/P3216708+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzg5IGxYbLBbKyBt2hRaBr2rrCx1Khly8Iz8viBdRtLx-etjiCdxmPOluERuog4JCt-1ohfZcgzB9AFmWDA1c8Nh2HlxjiF0VuVSQg6RzszV3guAoaY8KpOB2rXqHGbzgLyh-YI9l88s/s1600/P3216708+copy.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBNuHvL0DyoFueC6IUImkfvd9WU8z-2jYJqUyW2lRZRTZ6XmY4mHKkdg1K0aklyXUAyU2sdz4FtteRFVACcQVzrZ_FcuJ-1m_YuSVs7MVtoracHwmgnVWIqMJgSUtUyKROZKm_Yu8VxOA/s1600/P3216710+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBNuHvL0DyoFueC6IUImkfvd9WU8z-2jYJqUyW2lRZRTZ6XmY4mHKkdg1K0aklyXUAyU2sdz4FtteRFVACcQVzrZ_FcuJ-1m_YuSVs7MVtoracHwmgnVWIqMJgSUtUyKROZKm_Yu8VxOA/s1600/P3216710+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSlsuhqF_viQbvqDMCxG5AADg2XLiH3bc3IdevrPShwDTizWKwez3eXI-_c7dZ8L-RCTE6eIJcpA-JOl9LNH6xSB9q6cTF4g0Iyt2J-Ngv7sFfFY4B9rAE2PnBJ0uaaMp1GU_9SrBYirA/s1600/P3216711+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSlsuhqF_viQbvqDMCxG5AADg2XLiH3bc3IdevrPShwDTizWKwez3eXI-_c7dZ8L-RCTE6eIJcpA-JOl9LNH6xSB9q6cTF4g0Iyt2J-Ngv7sFfFY4B9rAE2PnBJ0uaaMp1GU_9SrBYirA/s1600/P3216711+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
With the tent pitched it was noticable that it was significantly smaller than the Phreeranger, although there's more width front to back at the apex, both on the fly and inner there's less headroom and the floor space is quite a bit narrower. I had intended to use the Mythos on a previous bike trip but with my motorbike kit including a pair of actual motorbike boots there simply wasn't enough room, after my last trip where I had problems with the Phreeranger groundsheet leaking I tried the Mythos again at home with the same kit I'd used and as I was wearing army boots which take up less space I could just about manage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifMS_094fkRrwDxKWtn0Pjsn8gbK1ZzmpUUfLdYDOPPhgg0uhY49TymEG1xUEythrunCD9hyphenhyphenRoyaWjLWZlBZXorl2ce2P8wA6qCA4Hv-3l0UtLdKlhzZGbDcoiGiD3DNPHVI_qvFHJ4wY/s1600/P3266723+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifMS_094fkRrwDxKWtn0Pjsn8gbK1ZzmpUUfLdYDOPPhgg0uhY49TymEG1xUEythrunCD9hyphenhyphenRoyaWjLWZlBZXorl2ce2P8wA6qCA4Hv-3l0UtLdKlhzZGbDcoiGiD3DNPHVI_qvFHJ4wY/s1600/P3266723+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmsNslX0WwqR4r-cWC3L60mX4JXzdiP7yc4g-dq-jNLF3lpCcpG5Eb29FLL2so_Pn4XFG2aiRObCRJ4Qju5ghvWNFuyqyAr2l8ON7uFLiNHJD4fG5ZM6_SxGYhHq_XNP8b1OIielE9Gwo/s1600/P3266725+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmsNslX0WwqR4r-cWC3L60mX4JXzdiP7yc4g-dq-jNLF3lpCcpG5Eb29FLL2so_Pn4XFG2aiRObCRJ4Qju5ghvWNFuyqyAr2l8ON7uFLiNHJD4fG5ZM6_SxGYhHq_XNP8b1OIielE9Gwo/s1600/P3266725+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisbD4HmDOBtjpK0-F6eMcI_0imWBT9q2_SSBMxbpVCjJSRbEvW3uELvL-x43ul0Dqbp9pL72fmJQc0uHYt0pWqEVTpd2cB_Q4U2S__2gD8EFsum_AN4vusCIk2VqJLg_984YAzuyS3XYo/s1600/P3266727+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisbD4HmDOBtjpK0-F6eMcI_0imWBT9q2_SSBMxbpVCjJSRbEvW3uELvL-x43ul0Dqbp9pL72fmJQc0uHYt0pWqEVTpd2cB_Q4U2S__2gD8EFsum_AN4vusCIk2VqJLg_984YAzuyS3XYo/s1600/P3266727+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZwBURPYT4umShnWTxwMg91CGr7fHFpwBigncAv_TVIVkPmh4iNVjAvgD8JcsYYiU8yU-upPAg-LFs0BhmsX7D6-_OwfeG6Mk99nmdrbepKNZ3-1Rrw_UCoF9SBSPEHyLIdV0xUl38-ig/s1600/P3266738+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZwBURPYT4umShnWTxwMg91CGr7fHFpwBigncAv_TVIVkPmh4iNVjAvgD8JcsYYiU8yU-upPAg-LFs0BhmsX7D6-_OwfeG6Mk99nmdrbepKNZ3-1Rrw_UCoF9SBSPEHyLIdV0xUl38-ig/s1600/P3266738+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJFtRVJ4R5t24YnSa0mmkGAJlFUWpggEsfyTPbHDIaGQYfHCgYYU4uEhGwMFf9Kg5JcW5OI3VteZVe2YxerGeKQG0hYW9WqHphqcomEAD1303CEyBW7Wf5gnklNsDpTHA_UtacHVc8kw/s1600/P3266740+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJFtRVJ4R5t24YnSa0mmkGAJlFUWpggEsfyTPbHDIaGQYfHCgYYU4uEhGwMFf9Kg5JcW5OI3VteZVe2YxerGeKQG0hYW9WqHphqcomEAD1303CEyBW7Wf5gnklNsDpTHA_UtacHVc8kw/s1600/P3266740+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Overall the tent is really well finished and has lots of 'nice to look at' features such as the fastex buckles used to attach the inner tent, the dyneema/cordlocks at the base of the flysheet, the clever vent system and method of attaching the poles etc but do they really offer an actual benefit? I don't think so. The tent also comes with a nice roll top stuffsack although it could probably hold 2 Mythos Solo tents.<br />
<br />
So given that the Mythos is a modern tent with the benefit of 20+ years advances in fabric technology over the Phreeranger and taking into account that it's smaller how does it measure up as far as weight is concerned? Surprisingly not too well, as usual I only take into account the components that are unique to a tent, Fly, Inner & Pole set. Here's how the Mythos compares to the Phreeranger.<br />
<br />
Mythos - Fly - 569g, Inner - 603g, Pole Set - 259g = Total 1431g<br />
<br />
Phreeranger - Fly - 708g, Inner - 610g, Pole set - 233g = Total 1551g<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9H3HQqUW-1UfYSginBuwPP7ZB4QlchZ-qXITTWO_lIWvFaSpVFUuX59YBHjhyphenhyphen02mJcbhhGQylpFYZS_IFWuqywz99vP9suqTNAL8U6PER-_QqVi9NxFK-rGGPPaf5t3D-MRN5RLI4AU/s1600/P3266718+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9H3HQqUW-1UfYSginBuwPP7ZB4QlchZ-qXITTWO_lIWvFaSpVFUuX59YBHjhyphenhyphen02mJcbhhGQylpFYZS_IFWuqywz99vP9suqTNAL8U6PER-_QqVi9NxFK-rGGPPaf5t3D-MRN5RLI4AU/s1600/P3266718+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Mythos Flysheet</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOObg3yZLksazqowzlN0wpIUB1TqQ69j9w1UrlmMMXIlX3-7nEgBr5PV-URdh_aLdeactMOyeiTBWt3lMdZyeDnnpBY3Pj0upZMtnwZfiCY2mgeDFTwlg7PLEfIlqAaQQ3cC4gXjUJJs/s1600/P3266719+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOObg3yZLksazqowzlN0wpIUB1TqQ69j9w1UrlmMMXIlX3-7nEgBr5PV-URdh_aLdeactMOyeiTBWt3lMdZyeDnnpBY3Pj0upZMtnwZfiCY2mgeDFTwlg7PLEfIlqAaQQ3cC4gXjUJJs/s1600/P3266719+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Phreeranger Flysheet</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbUXp_gcxv5_KyJ49oo1a9F4fmnbZNGrhc2hY5kMRzogMz-xCSJetDO5S1Kw5mk2Fdazp0wKxm39z-pu8cKJUk2V1Q68V4HlpcbM5KZZQXvZTlIEd5zqxTMV-WK6uGBriydO9q6TeIOZg/s1600/P3266720+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbUXp_gcxv5_KyJ49oo1a9F4fmnbZNGrhc2hY5kMRzogMz-xCSJetDO5S1Kw5mk2Fdazp0wKxm39z-pu8cKJUk2V1Q68V4HlpcbM5KZZQXvZTlIEd5zqxTMV-WK6uGBriydO9q6TeIOZg/s1600/P3266720+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Mythos Inner</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXXwgsnu9URme80LwCjHWnS_5FO2Cs4iIjpjrxHcEJqrrQya8VK4mZY2VmjnuSu909Dfcn7BHGcQlk_ilDM5CbW49FmhQu8uHAwZmelbeZA95m6Idn1djIpt4CpEIBKP-l8VOZOBsMrQ4/s1600/P3266721+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXXwgsnu9URme80LwCjHWnS_5FO2Cs4iIjpjrxHcEJqrrQya8VK4mZY2VmjnuSu909Dfcn7BHGcQlk_ilDM5CbW49FmhQu8uHAwZmelbeZA95m6Idn1djIpt4CpEIBKP-l8VOZOBsMrQ4/s1600/P3266721+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Phreeranger Inner</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqusmj5_mbGLVMqPlrNRK28AFMOQsbrPwus1aFDdygsrN7mF_j7kXq-xWcbY50tgJd9DGf-gs6ELrs2lq4KV1bRwB4Y2LTC0Kk3reGwo0V_cXxk-4ilBpku_W4cscMgQDyu1BLJkUsx4Y/s1600/P3266715+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqusmj5_mbGLVMqPlrNRK28AFMOQsbrPwus1aFDdygsrN7mF_j7kXq-xWcbY50tgJd9DGf-gs6ELrs2lq4KV1bRwB4Y2LTC0Kk3reGwo0V_cXxk-4ilBpku_W4cscMgQDyu1BLJkUsx4Y/s1600/P3266715+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Mythos Pole Set</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQjNMcw2uQ0hd5pvCZRsVRstBrM_NwvDA8RXYKAHz0_hrDh0srM-NcQyGoewi8sPo3ek1t7s43GzuK5T3QGng7Y5QrjuG0D-CopaeBkJ3UGbHkqT7J6ZbOtBVRD6rBXUNuCTp8jjKrWI/s1600/P3266717+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQjNMcw2uQ0hd5pvCZRsVRstBrM_NwvDA8RXYKAHz0_hrDh0srM-NcQyGoewi8sPo3ek1t7s43GzuK5T3QGng7Y5QrjuG0D-CopaeBkJ3UGbHkqT7J6ZbOtBVRD6rBXUNuCTp8jjKrWI/s1600/P3266717+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Phreeranger Pole Set</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
So 120g difference which isn't a lot really. That said I do like the Mythos Solo although I should have probably gone for the 2 person Duo given that I need extra space for bike kit. Am I surprised that the Phreeranger compares so favourably with a tent 20+ years newer? well yes and no, I'm a fan of the Phreeranger and I've already seen from experience how well it compares with more up to date tents but shouldn't there be a bigger difference? how much lighter would the Mythos be if they simplified it by reducing the number of zips on the unnecessarily complicated vents and dispensed with fastex buckles that could easily be replaced by lighter, simpler alternatives? I've no doubt that Terra Nova could have made the same basic tent but reduced the weight by using simpler but equally functional means of attaching the pole and inner and coming up with a simple but effective vent set-up.<br />
<br />
In the end though it appears that Robens have dropped both the Mythos Solo and Duo from their range and replaced it with, you guessed it, yet another Laser clone!!!<br />
<br />
I certainly don't or a least didn't regret buying the Mythos, it's as close as perfect for me as I've found but if new replacement Phreeranger parts had been available when I bought the Mythos I wouldn't have bought it, ( nor would I have bought a TN Laser, Vaude Power Lizard, Wild Country Zephyros 1 or Laser Comp although I will confess that while I really disliked the Laser I do like both the Zephyros 1 and Laser Comp) now that I have it would I still take the option of a new flysheet/repaired ground sheet from Trekkertent? Absolutely Yes.<br />
<br />
The pics below are how I would have used it and show the kit I'd expect to need to store, this is all the kit I carried on my West Coast Trip.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPq4HnqlZ3pm1LVDHGpXpY_4SV2TNAy5YuHdJGKqgIxDqMxikR7UoDFzWEQNOxCtE2lyErHIsYbrT3vbDh3tvGvPSVb7pQaGfVMRJIYJyZBoy2aHMbRtf1pVfe5PGH25yLY-DT9ZmQw4/s1600/P8098093+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPq4HnqlZ3pm1LVDHGpXpY_4SV2TNAy5YuHdJGKqgIxDqMxikR7UoDFzWEQNOxCtE2lyErHIsYbrT3vbDh3tvGvPSVb7pQaGfVMRJIYJyZBoy2aHMbRtf1pVfe5PGH25yLY-DT9ZmQw4/s1600/P8098093+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn8aHc0lSnnR7Ar_H94IAJTur_tLdiV8KRVZHTHegswhOOj62GkBQ32ywKGb3OrH8VJ73ViEk-eEHFDUADpDQ1yBF_gJ7iXFwmInKFryAn1qJBws9r7QSLIU4DeQrDzykVU4PksufjTfs/s1600/P8098094+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn8aHc0lSnnR7Ar_H94IAJTur_tLdiV8KRVZHTHegswhOOj62GkBQ32ywKGb3OrH8VJ73ViEk-eEHFDUADpDQ1yBF_gJ7iXFwmInKFryAn1qJBws9r7QSLIU4DeQrDzykVU4PksufjTfs/s1600/P8098094+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinyls9Er28nYQ-HXxItnNHiKUTc-y8f0GlPMP44-HA_rSJVwV2pOuW2iQ72arJ8ARyYq4kbtwfdHBWAd1ItjE7KPUw4Fbd44i551BXHLNbW64pE5wxYsh87exwROV573KRw9lPPV-PQis/s1600/P8098096+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinyls9Er28nYQ-HXxItnNHiKUTc-y8f0GlPMP44-HA_rSJVwV2pOuW2iQ72arJ8ARyYq4kbtwfdHBWAd1ItjE7KPUw4Fbd44i551BXHLNbW64pE5wxYsh87exwROV573KRw9lPPV-PQis/s1600/P8098096+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-14620643519882436662014-09-28T11:41:00.000+01:002014-09-28T11:42:29.370+01:00Phoenix Phreeranger, Phreeranger EB & Phreerunner Re-Visited<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR4UtWLrmaJcROduI701MQA1JAboxOlYSQKvpZG9y_sMa9aFVfRT5_FhPQZzarR83-Z5tTdxGicgFRA-QI07ygqbnhvew_vvFAPVSmL-ZO6HFZr3NFa4TQ82y0FMtJpWZ0aWg-Jb9Lv00/s1600/P1010908+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR4UtWLrmaJcROduI701MQA1JAboxOlYSQKvpZG9y_sMa9aFVfRT5_FhPQZzarR83-Z5tTdxGicgFRA-QI07ygqbnhvew_vvFAPVSmL-ZO6HFZr3NFa4TQ82y0FMtJpWZ0aWg-Jb9Lv00/s1600/P1010908+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I thought I'd take another look at the Phreeranger series of tents again as they're a bit of a current topic for discussion now that <a href="http://www.trekkertent.com/home/22-accessories" target="_blank">Trekkertent</a> are offering new flysheets made from modern fabrics to replace old worn out original flysheets.<br />
<br />
There are basically 4 tents in the range if you count the broadly similar single skin Gore-Tex Phreerunner, each version came in either Regular Flysheet form or in what was known as an EB version, the EB simply means Extended Bell (Bell being Porch) and it was a Phreeranger EB that I bought originally back around 1990, a tent that I sold around 2008 and have being trying to find a replacement for ever since.<br />
<br />
The Phreerunner was pretty much identical but single skin Gore-Tex. It wasn't a lot lighter than a regular double skin Phreeranger but I think it may have been aimed at higher altitude mountaineering where the cold dry climate suits Gore-Tex tents and ease of pitching a single skin tent would be a bonus, IIRC Mountain Equipment made a single skin Gore-Tex tent aimed at this sector.<br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: center;">I ended up with a Phreerunner as I had a saved search on ebay for Phreerangers, the Phreerunner turned up and I bought it. When it arrived it was in nice condition given the age and came with various swing tags etc in addition to original pegs and pole splint. There were also some additional skewers that may or may not be as supplied originally.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxX8MRbQH23HB06_IlqW7uDO_vy_oQ5OJkriTnxJTFS4BNGgab7S4w0AEhoOwT727dbV0ZwJHuml-PUgsNSx_N-MWSU8PJOGdUhDNqquh0PpzU9Nrds0QJy1u-4Q-bAGsMFbaPcDuOKVA/s1600/P1010911+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxX8MRbQH23HB06_IlqW7uDO_vy_oQ5OJkriTnxJTFS4BNGgab7S4w0AEhoOwT727dbV0ZwJHuml-PUgsNSx_N-MWSU8PJOGdUhDNqquh0PpzU9Nrds0QJy1u-4Q-bAGsMFbaPcDuOKVA/s1600/P1010911+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfCxYYyUULAE3-zl8X-zOA3ay48Ke4n8CiltS0KPm2dUVIViu9nmGoNjd3VObBszyH30QKyPExhFS0ixFPUcGxW4APMwLZvWTpdncXZKRyJYY8DGorto8xzpJxN1zqeQsneHLvfxHewnU/s1600/P1010912+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfCxYYyUULAE3-zl8X-zOA3ay48Ke4n8CiltS0KPm2dUVIViu9nmGoNjd3VObBszyH30QKyPExhFS0ixFPUcGxW4APMwLZvWTpdncXZKRyJYY8DGorto8xzpJxN1zqeQsneHLvfxHewnU/s1600/P1010912+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPc_ZJkeCPYznzaFA54V_XUSIdyQcSWHYAzHds5H9EoqX4ontlDu5GB3LuVdJSNhdnnucUOCdJOMSI22lNPpYGRrDfy80LA9XzBW3y69fxIhGB8jFGq1c8f0L8KhqvjponqA2Zq_Yr8E/s1600/P1010914+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPc_ZJkeCPYznzaFA54V_XUSIdyQcSWHYAzHds5H9EoqX4ontlDu5GB3LuVdJSNhdnnucUOCdJOMSI22lNPpYGRrDfy80LA9XzBW3y69fxIhGB8jFGq1c8f0L8KhqvjponqA2Zq_Yr8E/s1600/P1010914+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The main body of the tent is Gore-Tex with the porch being made from Ripstop nylon. Although it's similar to the Phreeranger the porch extends a little further and the rear a little less. The other noticeable difference once inside the tent is the increase in space as there's no inner tent. The inner door is the same as all late model Phreerangers in that it had a double drop down door. There's little difference in weight but when packed I think the Phreerunner is a little bit more bulky thanks to the heavier/stiffer Gore-Tex fabric.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN70GMwyXC1ljshDWDn7go0-NCtWdgks4G9hkiNSnVOROmQCC-oZXGYkKG82qF_Qy6BNq9XCdtFJjtcLXUjtWIUyM0tXUjzW0fcrh98jqfp1aNuF58Wp8QBztXrNMmoaXb0cxMKWWEopk/s1600/P6226050+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN70GMwyXC1ljshDWDn7go0-NCtWdgks4G9hkiNSnVOROmQCC-oZXGYkKG82qF_Qy6BNq9XCdtFJjtcLXUjtWIUyM0tXUjzW0fcrh98jqfp1aNuF58Wp8QBztXrNMmoaXb0cxMKWWEopk/s1600/P6226050+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Porch extends further out than the Porch on the Phreeranger</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNH7SFQOTXYjw_UnvsJ2WPhLAHv6i84jexBB0BkvN9c4tW4ewv9HBGLabX7yLRaaghwa6p8chbxqRS5PR3PdHCiAg-bKqQi9XkX3nqmLOG6xa8tGdHtCUMb-X8NascDJd6Le6mm2XM1M/s1600/P6226051+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNH7SFQOTXYjw_UnvsJ2WPhLAHv6i84jexBB0BkvN9c4tW4ewv9HBGLabX7yLRaaghwa6p8chbxqRS5PR3PdHCiAg-bKqQi9XkX3nqmLOG6xa8tGdHtCUMb-X8NascDJd6Le6mm2XM1M/s1600/P6226051+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Rear extends out less</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNmC3HjcOSnQujwTORxorXbJbk7f2L4vbGK5yxmbPdvn7BLLCjrOUuAxY6mqQAM9iIZTHGLrjsaubiokFNxei5KHahVxhz9kc2DhQGxzuKvgl1p-FXRlJk39ikIOEzvfyT8gnhWYkj5Ec/s1600/P6226053+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNmC3HjcOSnQujwTORxorXbJbk7f2L4vbGK5yxmbPdvn7BLLCjrOUuAxY6mqQAM9iIZTHGLrjsaubiokFNxei5KHahVxhz9kc2DhQGxzuKvgl1p-FXRlJk39ikIOEzvfyT8gnhWYkj5Ec/s1600/P6226053+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Good Sized Porch</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KOT8n5BDW9Mf2PfAtW_615Ef-AJr-4hqslVrcaEyMRNiKQEkLaXKC5FYwfrrc7OvZxJ8wDYcfuTRHhFwOAtwm5Lt3N4KFZkLCMF5i9TN4bTLf-U94Su7LOfxCyt8JR5Wrij6XbFXc6c/s1600/P6226055+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KOT8n5BDW9Mf2PfAtW_615Ef-AJr-4hqslVrcaEyMRNiKQEkLaXKC5FYwfrrc7OvZxJ8wDYcfuTRHhFwOAtwm5Lt3N4KFZkLCMF5i9TN4bTLf-U94Su7LOfxCyt8JR5Wrij6XbFXc6c/s1600/P6226055+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Increased Inner space compared to the Double Skin Phreeranger</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggLnrmK7U9SL61P0D3CB0N-O2T7FbMuOWxnTMtGwlFJNs88eSFnfzDjNZjC6dsKjkatgZocI-zorZlXDzQY5tiewFVSyL4b1QPI4y89pUAd3zcuf0VRELUOp1fyIaswDpuPR4OAxwo8Fk/s1600/P6226058+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggLnrmK7U9SL61P0D3CB0N-O2T7FbMuOWxnTMtGwlFJNs88eSFnfzDjNZjC6dsKjkatgZocI-zorZlXDzQY5tiewFVSyL4b1QPI4y89pUAd3zcuf0VRELUOp1fyIaswDpuPR4OAxwo8Fk/s1600/P6226058+copy.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Where is she now?</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I haven't used the Phreerunner so don't know if it performs as well as it looks, I just kept on using the 2 un-taped good Phreeranger flysheets that I have.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDLOrFWDnlSBlUTf_WW_IU_pWMd9U-K1CmktBOuqB80JrpsnQxX6IBZzDULvwhHMqX23fE43qowfI3Wq1HhvSAgmuvlDHwmlfjsAlmgiQDf2rSRqj5ChLIxQRS2N9Mc5P4BwPb7G7DPc/s1600/P6226052+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDLOrFWDnlSBlUTf_WW_IU_pWMd9U-K1CmktBOuqB80JrpsnQxX6IBZzDULvwhHMqX23fE43qowfI3Wq1HhvSAgmuvlDHwmlfjsAlmgiQDf2rSRqj5ChLIxQRS2N9Mc5P4BwPb7G7DPc/s1600/P6226052+copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-44414431372315615902014-08-11T18:09:00.001+01:002014-08-11T22:05:44.345+01:00Exploring the West Coast (Scotland)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLGpQYlaly01CkRwl2ZBBB-Z7QBlzppNYtkidbgaL1UWpdZ5umOZlehw2Gvl0UJdRrJOoCKQv2zl_zoxFIA_9qX1Fhywz_M0z3bGD3AOzxrvVbCHCKNPFbJCueWfD_kSO580NoxzBzRk/s1600/DSC_0867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLGpQYlaly01CkRwl2ZBBB-Z7QBlzppNYtkidbgaL1UWpdZ5umOZlehw2Gvl0UJdRrJOoCKQv2zl_zoxFIA_9qX1Fhywz_M0z3bGD3AOzxrvVbCHCKNPFbJCueWfD_kSO580NoxzBzRk/s640/DSC_0867.JPG" height="300" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Just back from a 4 day short trip exploring the West Coast around Applecross/Ullapool. Went on my own on a 19992 DR650 which was ideal for the roads in the area.<br />
<br />
First day was from Troon to Applecross going across on the Dunoon ferry, through Inverary, Glen Orchy, Ft William, Lochcarron etc.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivHVBq8Tn3dWhGfB0v8xQXbyfP1RNkVo7j2RfHnm3ea8GRvkrUgtF05M8OosH5b-_2fZBkvmDi3IdjHcZWLboOJMzKIY5J8GQz0OYHPJpKX2LfnxtHLFtS9irrwYm_kRSPl7AANVoAUE0/s1600/P1010263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivHVBq8Tn3dWhGfB0v8xQXbyfP1RNkVo7j2RfHnm3ea8GRvkrUgtF05M8OosH5b-_2fZBkvmDi3IdjHcZWLboOJMzKIY5J8GQz0OYHPJpKX2LfnxtHLFtS9irrwYm_kRSPl7AANVoAUE0/s1600/P1010263.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On the Dunoon Ferry, Looks Like Rain!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJ5Up2Zjd_v5s2zB_dlZ7SY2V77iUGg8_VdeWfndVXJ4iVakgbbmVcBV0GZ3YQH4iQK_meFbzl-_8mIDJ75rdhSa3ajFSlyvkXryUGh3MxoSZLjFu6ae3XiX-sD8UyfIzqrgaIz4q6DM/s1600/P1010261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJ5Up2Zjd_v5s2zB_dlZ7SY2V77iUGg8_VdeWfndVXJ4iVakgbbmVcBV0GZ3YQH4iQK_meFbzl-_8mIDJ75rdhSa3ajFSlyvkXryUGh3MxoSZLjFu6ae3XiX-sD8UyfIzqrgaIz4q6DM/s1600/P1010261.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnNXfrD44wNGA7P-GRS6MvrtwDitR84WxaLMu3NhX__ZanB5kzS3mBUNTpEONGFALOXge6bRLTa2cQZJrOgvX9AEj5ReTzaOr3hE_egs2sNTsP2cshwl7MfDCsmWQU50l94aYJgmZuYPw/s1600/DSC_0859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnNXfrD44wNGA7P-GRS6MvrtwDitR84WxaLMu3NhX__ZanB5kzS3mBUNTpEONGFALOXge6bRLTa2cQZJrOgvX9AEj5ReTzaOr3hE_egs2sNTsP2cshwl7MfDCsmWQU50l94aYJgmZuYPw/s320/DSC_0859.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Glen Orchy</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUnVfK7uOY0XbLKY_NRSxtbvZNnHvCi-DE30CfjNCSteKQ91-LZC3Ut5i6Ux0RPgUCz5ybFq2_pnZ4CjWemWpd2y6kbW0kbeGHE8AiHa0VrDqndOvK4cX_Wp9g7Aq9FXxdv8bKeiir1Y8/s1600/P1010274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUnVfK7uOY0XbLKY_NRSxtbvZNnHvCi-DE30CfjNCSteKQ91-LZC3Ut5i6Ux0RPgUCz5ybFq2_pnZ4CjWemWpd2y6kbW0kbeGHE8AiHa0VrDqndOvK4cX_Wp9g7Aq9FXxdv8bKeiir1Y8/s1600/P1010274.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Clunie Dam, Raining Again but a Chance to get 'Off-Road'</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB_aNIgQ99PSOA8oFBsqQJyVeAphWIqoDGVEctCmENyZ6C1S2dVrv5IZR0_VGhq4E0wX3v-WziSfGXG_zsxx17UsJMhx591i3e39Mn85QZj_EfO7MgvcJDMTFahg3V7yz3OvQX1PWRZJ8/s1600/DSC_0863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB_aNIgQ99PSOA8oFBsqQJyVeAphWIqoDGVEctCmENyZ6C1S2dVrv5IZR0_VGhq4E0wX3v-WziSfGXG_zsxx17UsJMhx591i3e39Mn85QZj_EfO7MgvcJDMTFahg3V7yz3OvQX1PWRZJ8/s1600/DSC_0863.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Back In The Sunshine </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhupndy6kNs1hY-BBQekh3mro1V5YUDELQ6pG55xzmnWcC1YhseCOE135RW4OR8Y78WiQe_IUEEfIwpZ5Uw4_4LLqnpGQKzq4JXx0MzYMfYpQgRd47Mvs0Rc-yAjVVjtmOwRozOH_Nx05I/s1600/P1010286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhupndy6kNs1hY-BBQekh3mro1V5YUDELQ6pG55xzmnWcC1YhseCOE135RW4OR8Y78WiQe_IUEEfIwpZ5Uw4_4LLqnpGQKzq4JXx0MzYMfYpQgRd47Mvs0Rc-yAjVVjtmOwRozOH_Nx05I/s1600/P1010286.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rain Again? Surely Not.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9537RWgi1Yi-bHtdDTItw1N7zOdI3EnHG66yXsZ_UpNreZ1yLIipTy7-Dol7Bp92qOQLHIvdVH5OisH02kOZMwDWFsL-2EUPJQET9QLuAT0zKAAsm5hzTh6XaRHumvljI6TuI9a-ZnCk/s1600/P1010290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9537RWgi1Yi-bHtdDTItw1N7zOdI3EnHG66yXsZ_UpNreZ1yLIipTy7-Dol7Bp92qOQLHIvdVH5OisH02kOZMwDWFsL-2EUPJQET9QLuAT0zKAAsm5hzTh6XaRHumvljI6TuI9a-ZnCk/s1600/P1010290.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bealach na Ba</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3YQL3oNG8yIv-dHnzDsJms37AFZxZBAhzBdFXwQmW8IChNi1TyPoAiwnVMBcDyglB_FjapArIt7V4Fn3Aez-46RortETZ2sQkF7BVf3fDWK6mF8n-wQDeL4WEnZ5QYdv_7i067jaQHE/s1600/DSC_0867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3YQL3oNG8yIv-dHnzDsJms37AFZxZBAhzBdFXwQmW8IChNi1TyPoAiwnVMBcDyglB_FjapArIt7V4Fn3Aez-46RortETZ2sQkF7BVf3fDWK6mF8n-wQDeL4WEnZ5QYdv_7i067jaQHE/s320/DSC_0867.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Applecross Campsite</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9cNyFkRQbTLI0tLjQAMy_GkJx0bSEsBc9Qj7jmhScA4a-SFAW9V7GaWRp23hPeZLn3sETdUF03WUZkN7mg2UmdscoS9ZnjnoCqcQBSXLsmI5W5PRZ2uZRN4L4xwIS1VQ9O0wItBFrww/s1600/DSC_0866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9cNyFkRQbTLI0tLjQAMy_GkJx0bSEsBc9Qj7jmhScA4a-SFAW9V7GaWRp23hPeZLn3sETdUF03WUZkN7mg2UmdscoS9ZnjnoCqcQBSXLsmI5W5PRZ2uZRN4L4xwIS1VQ9O0wItBFrww/s320/DSC_0866.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Potatoes On the Boil</div>
<br />
<br />
Day 2 took me to Torridon , Lower Diabeg, Poolewe, down to a disused WW2 coastal battery at the mouth of Loch Ewe and from there to Ullapool.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivNhuD6yPnACBjYnJwUqIR5s6Je1HXwbvHaqAso87MakpicvDADW5EywBHBfsVJM5mbfrGJWbTY6iDPd9AhHf3VfW4xj7i9-AepR7b9CxsuYS17FxtYpEbVnKfojQ3PZ0pybeCPUkrQ2Q/s1600/P1010298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivNhuD6yPnACBjYnJwUqIR5s6Je1HXwbvHaqAso87MakpicvDADW5EywBHBfsVJM5mbfrGJWbTY6iDPd9AhHf3VfW4xj7i9-AepR7b9CxsuYS17FxtYpEbVnKfojQ3PZ0pybeCPUkrQ2Q/s1600/P1010298.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Turn Left Past The Applecross Inn and Keep Going</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLI7KqkW8SYE2NqaxmkQTS5ETayPuA7wuwCHOwx28roKpuPSzyZR5Cs2qI8HNrvY8yF5K3SZqjO-pr-kGfFGOgXQ2U1VYsnXoaF0_bFIIqYkkEHLxhxECUQRolUeS348oy3UMnLL7NnE/s1600/P1010299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLI7KqkW8SYE2NqaxmkQTS5ETayPuA7wuwCHOwx28roKpuPSzyZR5Cs2qI8HNrvY8yF5K3SZqjO-pr-kGfFGOgXQ2U1VYsnXoaF0_bFIIqYkkEHLxhxECUQRolUeS348oy3UMnLL7NnE/s1600/P1010299.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhysGmQrVTuJqeDe0_uwzgZdG6_jpx6fxDozMmofoYYxskZFcBt428OlDV1USnnQeg8b7ug_C5DAucqBTynYg8BpENiwdmhzUfkZtKbctL9wncofGOBzB3VRexcYNZLcIVHEx0I7WPx6ac/s1600/P1010311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhysGmQrVTuJqeDe0_uwzgZdG6_jpx6fxDozMmofoYYxskZFcBt428OlDV1USnnQeg8b7ug_C5DAucqBTynYg8BpENiwdmhzUfkZtKbctL9wncofGOBzB3VRexcYNZLcIVHEx0I7WPx6ac/s1600/P1010311.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Turn Left At Torridon, 9 Miles Down and 9 Back to Lower Diabeg</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjedAOuzYaYex9eHDFZHJT1aLK6XqyU6z_F4n896x_krZKFgZDLiHMe5KpsxXgj44BeAOWzehzWWWOMB-PpWjgwMelP67MS-K5pyJPKu-rhXEPTn5r3y3UYFNwbdenGrUuW6GNa49Wge3M/s1600/P1010316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjedAOuzYaYex9eHDFZHJT1aLK6XqyU6z_F4n896x_krZKFgZDLiHMe5KpsxXgj44BeAOWzehzWWWOMB-PpWjgwMelP67MS-K5pyJPKu-rhXEPTn5r3y3UYFNwbdenGrUuW6GNa49Wge3M/s1600/P1010316.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lower Diabeg</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSwwAv3cukg0a8P4jw4hteQGIlap86uXfzQ0PvyfIt_KEYuS0cFE8GUDsQeFzHC3EH_eORDauvYtGvRVpLLo4Anu5AYnsCo18Gm7-26KJvr6mJfKJYRthre_jc6tXu71FhbPzxrbTh_w/s1600/P1010319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSwwAv3cukg0a8P4jw4hteQGIlap86uXfzQ0PvyfIt_KEYuS0cFE8GUDsQeFzHC3EH_eORDauvYtGvRVpLLo4Anu5AYnsCo18Gm7-26KJvr6mJfKJYRthre_jc6tXu71FhbPzxrbTh_w/s1600/P1010319.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Looking Towards Torridon on the Road Back from Lower Diabeg</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7omt0Y_ED08O3dBNbQzv8Uz1K9dzhO76OkcJkjqQ6XLeJkIgzGtxwhIosD5pwD6HFDI6JvaCrg4maC-3Md55Qm6c0ByoFTXV7Vy5nEZjZ2pMeJ-1vzNOKH2a1vcgRyN1Qi7shMz6bcfQ/s1600/P1010321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7omt0Y_ED08O3dBNbQzv8Uz1K9dzhO76OkcJkjqQ6XLeJkIgzGtxwhIosD5pwD6HFDI6JvaCrg4maC-3Md55Qm6c0ByoFTXV7Vy5nEZjZ2pMeJ-1vzNOKH2a1vcgRyN1Qi7shMz6bcfQ/s1600/P1010321.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beinn Eighe</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9lsdUuBi91LatJx0lpv6Xi8HNksU7hKgHBmCqkN0MMF1qh54e4UmN4CbX4z7HMN0kW8PLVWkGkhFWaf4qew9ciXAAySmxorCxdouMgUHQuy7QDRA6NchDld1eFsXo2WQTPhcqeNfrkA/s1600/P1010325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9lsdUuBi91LatJx0lpv6Xi8HNksU7hKgHBmCqkN0MMF1qh54e4UmN4CbX4z7HMN0kW8PLVWkGkhFWaf4qew9ciXAAySmxorCxdouMgUHQuy7QDRA6NchDld1eFsXo2WQTPhcqeNfrkA/s1600/P1010325.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Gairloch</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00ok0GTQICdG__UKphKwuZg7yW_39MZTBFqQJqGBbD6ddU8VJWdeDfYN7isSV5tiHatb_wHouj8_R0s6dTdM6owR8C0KbRmtO2iVK2HsBcHUsd3j4URGOOzDoDwgwsv9us7HqxAgxQEw/s1600/P1010329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00ok0GTQICdG__UKphKwuZg7yW_39MZTBFqQJqGBbD6ddU8VJWdeDfYN7isSV5tiHatb_wHouj8_R0s6dTdM6owR8C0KbRmtO2iVK2HsBcHUsd3j4URGOOzDoDwgwsv9us7HqxAgxQEw/s1600/P1010329.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
WW2 Coastal Battery, Loch Ewe</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlJIokAy2IeOndz_23jWM_5UHmGCFC4mKSRFNcKqmVNsz5xjItS-NSEA89Av8_FT1t_73qzBb3dCRb2FmPTEvedADqhMoCnUtkvD7pfrGR5SF73n6Y39xxXS0LxTZ6z4tXteARB859OU/s1600/P1010333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlJIokAy2IeOndz_23jWM_5UHmGCFC4mKSRFNcKqmVNsz5xjItS-NSEA89Av8_FT1t_73qzBb3dCRb2FmPTEvedADqhMoCnUtkvD7pfrGR5SF73n6Y39xxXS0LxTZ6z4tXteARB859OU/s1600/P1010333.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Memorial to Those Who Lost Their Lives on the Arctic Convoys, One wreath was to those lost on the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Mahratta_(G23)" target="_blank">HMS Maharatta </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioApV1E6x6F1iQAXhhdSFnnTK3hj2PmmEqspCpNgqRJ_QUyuVxa8LlU2btTsPLQSQ_oVhBI47sZySiNpBlm41vIrlac-HKViFaqTmrMEiLgpLgcUW5xjCsbr8K14TJMiXqXrcFKexTT88/s1600/P1010328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioApV1E6x6F1iQAXhhdSFnnTK3hj2PmmEqspCpNgqRJ_QUyuVxa8LlU2btTsPLQSQ_oVhBI47sZySiNpBlm41vIrlac-HKViFaqTmrMEiLgpLgcUW5xjCsbr8K14TJMiXqXrcFKexTT88/s1600/P1010328.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnYBFhTy8Z4gp1unnSlYqIHwWHeF6geJkL69Avgg0J-qXN-qkqAuR_qhp6quYG6JoKK1x7-GkOjoEZfv19wuCp3010FtQABVUNOVxGqKmnU4Dd4JE2a7YhS37E7_VvYD7Lxq_Qkb8mhRs/s1600/DSC_0882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnYBFhTy8Z4gp1unnSlYqIHwWHeF6geJkL69Avgg0J-qXN-qkqAuR_qhp6quYG6JoKK1x7-GkOjoEZfv19wuCp3010FtQABVUNOVxGqKmnU4Dd4JE2a7YhS37E7_VvYD7Lxq_Qkb8mhRs/s1600/DSC_0882.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Broomfield Campsite</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrPME3L3YHzc0P9mWnFaN3NgD3U0Q_nnxgkW8UAyg_NY9kTljuP30UD7NCrz3rAAOr4gNvE7l2uvRJaaixpTgbnYhgnOGQoMMgZZjMt5fO3bDVrvgXLCOmXc1E8OO_N5Rec6wY-H4ueKY/s1600/DSC_0883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrPME3L3YHzc0P9mWnFaN3NgD3U0Q_nnxgkW8UAyg_NY9kTljuP30UD7NCrz3rAAOr4gNvE7l2uvRJaaixpTgbnYhgnOGQoMMgZZjMt5fO3bDVrvgXLCOmXc1E8OO_N5Rec6wY-H4ueKY/s1600/DSC_0883.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
MSR Whisperlite Intl, and Trangia 27 Kettle, 25+ Years Old and Still Going Strong</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-VbRZUQA91okcQGVZNFBcEqbZtJE2Qfr9nI9GL01UP0t48bMdJ5w1k4pSWG-FCRxyGa69itVsvnaMHR0CmZxGrETqu1XpLZ_xjy4sCE7GxHP84EXsmHN5jJsDdy_vT2X7CNRTawHNFM/s1600/P1010338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-VbRZUQA91okcQGVZNFBcEqbZtJE2Qfr9nI9GL01UP0t48bMdJ5w1k4pSWG-FCRxyGa69itVsvnaMHR0CmZxGrETqu1XpLZ_xjy4sCE7GxHP84EXsmHN5jJsDdy_vT2X7CNRTawHNFM/s1600/P1010338.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Loch Broom</div>
<br />
Day 3 was the start of the return route, I went from Ullapool across the country to Muir of Ord, Beauly, along Glen Affric to Cannich and from there to Drumnadrochit and on to Ft William.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5B4ZonAD0LFbcu_T3h0wJ5UV2rwOC4Gti57BOQLBB1u-PgAf-c7_6hNv_kYIvlvZ7CFaW0qPCH1xw9mOAOFNH7ZTXotumeKoN-TaDIQsyWD_H05AYSu3GVQWPujqGOTBjyq8H805f5gI/s1600/P1010350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5B4ZonAD0LFbcu_T3h0wJ5UV2rwOC4Gti57BOQLBB1u-PgAf-c7_6hNv_kYIvlvZ7CFaW0qPCH1xw9mOAOFNH7ZTXotumeKoN-TaDIQsyWD_H05AYSu3GVQWPujqGOTBjyq8H805f5gI/s1600/P1010350.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tim & Nick, Father and Son from North Dakota, talking Bikes in Drumnadrochit</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOli2vj-HAjl1Pz0HCXfEjF0K9dziLXCk5H4lkee-X4dz1qdG0Y3OOEyFUOwe3TuP9KibMgWx7HcLTwG0rDK7mWL9tGD1F9ysJ3Kd2k2jAY9LsDTNTGlgzzaX4QaGer71r5qMK-h8c49k/s1600/P1010356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOli2vj-HAjl1Pz0HCXfEjF0K9dziLXCk5H4lkee-X4dz1qdG0Y3OOEyFUOwe3TuP9KibMgWx7HcLTwG0rDK7mWL9tGD1F9ysJ3Kd2k2jAY9LsDTNTGlgzzaX4QaGer71r5qMK-h8c49k/s1600/P1010356.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cooking Under the Flysheet in Glen Nevis</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMODyqbqwD8YFEBvnUr72gXW_AS29WzXgY5QE4jBXMTGR7hMrep2-NKCxoOL98Rff4Eg4URUqkdK6SdDyVjOWTlUGQtgLDJL921iLfSk2aBFXqSnLsxZOboZKYdJbxVQUUqelQoiCciwo/s1600/DSC_0888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMODyqbqwD8YFEBvnUr72gXW_AS29WzXgY5QE4jBXMTGR7hMrep2-NKCxoOL98Rff4Eg4URUqkdK6SdDyVjOWTlUGQtgLDJL921iLfSk2aBFXqSnLsxZOboZKYdJbxVQUUqelQoiCciwo/s1600/DSC_0888.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Relaxing, lying on half of the 'Footprint' </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzXtTg_GmKxjix6XHksRpkQxEATQln-3bd0aFSkUae1lqEOQtLygDN6VsYQ5tx3i3H431DCLFU-roU6hUHAg6Bk68rChbGM1ZHxEOGcFr2W1nYVp-9g7MqKm5vhaFMn3rHKXT_bySD1t4/s1600/P1010365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzXtTg_GmKxjix6XHksRpkQxEATQln-3bd0aFSkUae1lqEOQtLygDN6VsYQ5tx3i3H431DCLFU-roU6hUHAg6Bk68rChbGM1ZHxEOGcFr2W1nYVp-9g7MqKm5vhaFMn3rHKXT_bySD1t4/s1600/P1010365.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Best Motorcycle Boots I've ever had, Haix Goretex Lined, German Army Issue. Waterproof & Breathable 10/10 </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIGgXaaQCu0qPrV_X1yajQqmhryJQxXZoEmC4_jHlhtDRIWB5bVQ9lZCxTDujqQ81DgEMIg-HN7Kz0n9wqMbdbMtxahBlj24yHu8YBFNNC634vKXfdWZJ-3kk_FVoqqRu8SaClq53tYiI/s1600/P1010369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIGgXaaQCu0qPrV_X1yajQqmhryJQxXZoEmC4_jHlhtDRIWB5bVQ9lZCxTDujqQ81DgEMIg-HN7Kz0n9wqMbdbMtxahBlj24yHu8YBFNNC634vKXfdWZJ-3kk_FVoqqRu8SaClq53tYiI/s1600/P1010369.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Still Raining</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhgR_6AAuALNYfYfpUHjE9BFH8I5NNb0aBe2aIpk1H5-64_h6nLF_KYiejbyNDLQnEcYN9BzXeUkvqrPO1f5YpM_OIFhTc3lav8XqX9MuoOzUwDO3rhFBWr8iDAXJ_T4BTtOTgHwH7JU/s1600/DSC_0889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhgR_6AAuALNYfYfpUHjE9BFH8I5NNb0aBe2aIpk1H5-64_h6nLF_KYiejbyNDLQnEcYN9BzXeUkvqrPO1f5YpM_OIFhTc3lav8XqX9MuoOzUwDO3rhFBWr8iDAXJ_T4BTtOTgHwH7JU/s1600/DSC_0889.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Standing Water in the porch at @5.00am After 12 hours of persistent rain followed by a Thunderstorm.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KUH1RF2NzQ1JB5u8y3FJsW6w9bihJmn9Y3wbUFCmsiV9G3kYzwphVg4jusQs3RIp-7M1hpDG6gzjZmbbcTamqVcNCbV9nbpgyI9FeCTXIbTlyzKPyG_j1HaHLhoRmc618-7ydEhgyCM/s1600/P1010370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KUH1RF2NzQ1JB5u8y3FJsW6w9bihJmn9Y3wbUFCmsiV9G3kYzwphVg4jusQs3RIp-7M1hpDG6gzjZmbbcTamqVcNCbV9nbpgyI9FeCTXIbTlyzKPyG_j1HaHLhoRmc618-7ydEhgyCM/s1600/P1010370.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Stopped Raining at Last.</div>
<br />
The last day saw me leave Ft William and go by Glencoe, a detour down to Loch Etive and back then continuing along Loch Lomond, over the Erskine bridge and down to Troon via Greenock, Inverkip etc.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0w_sjprPnRjBQERA1RMSFFQSrxbC_jLXrmGrioVYQIA0TSqChr7FIUCsd0HHNMi1qSg4vC0OJlyOw4rmfp_CRGFZS60LFlDjy64lHRe1uTLoa-UgJpIRGHk2WgTTQNs7QqJoqX-riuYo/s1600/P1010376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0w_sjprPnRjBQERA1RMSFFQSrxbC_jLXrmGrioVYQIA0TSqChr7FIUCsd0HHNMi1qSg4vC0OJlyOw4rmfp_CRGFZS60LFlDjy64lHRe1uTLoa-UgJpIRGHk2WgTTQNs7QqJoqX-riuYo/s1600/P1010376.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Stopped for Lunch at Glencoe </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGexkkiaAIFAIy4OSrVwxnwsg2ClQvo2c1LhjqYQN8hWnsoft3ku6M_qsJo60RJpubwPTqTq0Da3ya_kOAsAKzZ6CNOAZ9bj_kIZBcO8K06wKqf85bcBru01hVJg9j4OeIHAW5_BwkJdA/s1600/P1010377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGexkkiaAIFAIy4OSrVwxnwsg2ClQvo2c1LhjqYQN8hWnsoft3ku6M_qsJo60RJpubwPTqTq0Da3ya_kOAsAKzZ6CNOAZ9bj_kIZBcO8K06wKqf85bcBru01hVJg9j4OeIHAW5_BwkJdA/s1600/P1010377.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Glen Etive</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vYzOA2M1Tt8nGx1X8y03P7akP5BReqQytZiS5Tp1jT7IW7xM84FWRBi6OJfnf0JcgQFplqaU5Bg98OcSY6ZNYtVkKZUxhZVQs9J13OL6MSuZsvz_TSV5-Pac3maKTc1V4wma9en2MA4/s1600/P1010385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vYzOA2M1Tt8nGx1X8y03P7akP5BReqQytZiS5Tp1jT7IW7xM84FWRBi6OJfnf0JcgQFplqaU5Bg98OcSY6ZNYtVkKZUxhZVQs9J13OL6MSuZsvz_TSV5-Pac3maKTc1V4wma9en2MA4/s1600/P1010385.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Glen Etive</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXlXovU0Jn1mjMxE4r4YT3sJf_WI3kAValGmJ-tbSmw4EwUa6ZZdURX2SrICjF4ZmXy01Yd9Xgj-0SPpOL5vgp0zSszF01A8_QBfRQT3rP6bDq5i5xGwCeWAYaaX0uFq1NZDN5TKWQRM/s1600/P1010388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXlXovU0Jn1mjMxE4r4YT3sJf_WI3kAValGmJ-tbSmw4EwUa6ZZdURX2SrICjF4ZmXy01Yd9Xgj-0SPpOL5vgp0zSszF01A8_QBfRQT3rP6bDq5i5xGwCeWAYaaX0uFq1NZDN5TKWQRM/s1600/P1010388.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Glen Etive</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
The advantage of having going lightweight when backpacking was that my gear fitted in a 35L roll bag and small ammunition box which I'd bolted to my luggage rack. That might seem like a fairly large amount of kit but on a motorcycle I need to carry tools and spares that I wouldn't carry when walking. I also took real cooking kit including a Petrol Stove (I can use fuel from the bike) so that I could actually cook rather than use freeze dried meals.<br />
<br />
My gear was all stuff I've used in the past, still using the Phreeranger in spite of having bought a TN Laser Comp, Wild Country Zephyros 1 and Robens Mythos Solo since I last posted on the blog. I also used my PHD Ultra Minim, a Multimat Self inflate mat and MSR Whisperlite. The only problem I had was after the thunderstorm in Ft William, the sewn-in groundsheet on the Phreeranger isn't waterproof but I've always managed using a Silnylon footprint. Unfortunately during the 5.00am thunderstorm the ground couldn't take the amount of rain and with about half an inch of standing water it got between the footprint and sewn-in groundsheet and then soaked through to the inner. Thankfully my kit remained dry (the important stuff anyway) as I was on the sleeping mat, only my bike jacket and trousers were slightly wet. It's something that needs sorted properly though but in the meantime I'll have to use the Robens Mythos Solo even if it is a significantly smaller than the Phreeranger.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-11868175261681621192014-07-29T12:26:00.001+01:002014-07-29T22:39:54.029+01:00Test<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGPVULRjkuK80Z6PoXROVmqGMAYeM7z1iF4-6CZZb155VdwA0BBQMYpNjkkSM9s9VpvF_TQCAEcS1Q7qHgF7w3FwT66rYRVgSWt7FczXp9SmY-RUCdOuzf6ALNv5yVUrookbZqsRZN0Og/s1600/DSC_0851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGPVULRjkuK80Z6PoXROVmqGMAYeM7z1iF4-6CZZb155VdwA0BBQMYpNjkkSM9s9VpvF_TQCAEcS1Q7qHgF7w3FwT66rYRVgSWt7FczXp9SmY-RUCdOuzf6ALNv5yVUrookbZqsRZN0Og/s640/DSC_0851.JPG" height="300" width="400" /> </a> </div>
Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-5175369672416643422011-08-14T15:16:00.002+01:002011-08-14T15:16:56.026+01:00Cairgorm Day Walk, Northern Corries<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLqWJXULXDjzfdrsGSMvu0JfgF4NCjzvdiqd3WEqmaE4PDl4QGUWSjsx_hszMHCYVJksUY3yDuz-VOEaWWiBkC_QEqUmoWetz8F7fnWkUC3XMBf4N2ZacBN3632sku0B48_cPSiBpqvOs/s1600/P7106134+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLqWJXULXDjzfdrsGSMvu0JfgF4NCjzvdiqd3WEqmaE4PDl4QGUWSjsx_hszMHCYVJksUY3yDuz-VOEaWWiBkC_QEqUmoWetz8F7fnWkUC3XMBf4N2ZacBN3632sku0B48_cPSiBpqvOs/s400/P7106134+copy.jpg" width="400" height="300" /></a><br /><br />I was over in Scotland in July for a week car camping with the family but did manage a couple of day walks. The 1st was a walk around the northern corries starting from the ski center at Glenmore in the Cairngorms. We were camped at the campsite in Glenmore so with I set off leaving wife, daughter and niece who were intending visiting the Reindeer center and so on.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGdIiKgANxFOq-i_hWFnNGQUPSS2XLZT4VMpaHyiT-_J8HNsmbrEKd-5tgEVl451qX_fWjzjEBYI1Og5B6onHn5FP2kmK1PQFnqIlJ8P24do_I8NhNXk3PMC5phR_D5I3JUue3SR1ok3g/s1600/P7106082+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGdIiKgANxFOq-i_hWFnNGQUPSS2XLZT4VMpaHyiT-_J8HNsmbrEKd-5tgEVl451qX_fWjzjEBYI1Og5B6onHn5FP2kmK1PQFnqIlJ8P24do_I8NhNXk3PMC5phR_D5I3JUue3SR1ok3g/s400/P7106082+copy.jpg" width="400" height="300" /></a><br /><br />It had been showery the previous day since leaving Braemar and although it was fine when I left the car park at the ski center it didn't look like it would be a rain free day. I simply followed the path that crosses below the northern corries and by the time I'd reached Coire nan Lochain I was down to a t-shirt. The cloud kept rolling in though and by the time I was heading up between Coire nan lochain and Lurchers Crag the wind picked up a little and the 1st drops of rain appeared. At this point there was no indication of how long the rain would last so I pulled on my waterproofs, Marmot Essence jacket and TNF Resolve over-trousers (recieved from Webtogs for review)<br /><br />As I reached the plateau with Coire nan Lochain to my left visibility was poor although the cloud did tend to lighten/thicken continually. I hadn't gone far along the path when I saw in the distance what looked like a herd of reindeer. They were pretty far away and weren't in a direct line with where I was going so I continued on towards the point where I'd turn and head towards the high point on Coire nan Lochain. <br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Qm8vrAhpk1wK1ixuY6457ssuc6Gs5YpGdWxOMHjvpbhIQHTugHoxajXNdwcZC0qNtTSmTpp_Mdmk8DQaM8lRo9wuMwHuo96_vzDWEkXmPF5cnRbmprlr5V316ztt6J42RHN8dKjS1Gc/s1600/P7106095+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Qm8vrAhpk1wK1ixuY6457ssuc6Gs5YpGdWxOMHjvpbhIQHTugHoxajXNdwcZC0qNtTSmTpp_Mdmk8DQaM8lRo9wuMwHuo96_vzDWEkXmPF5cnRbmprlr5V316ztt6J42RHN8dKjS1Gc/s400/P7106095+copy.jpg" width="400" height="300" /></a><br /><br />The rain eventually stopped and the sun started to break through and as visibility improved I saw another herd of reindeer, I say another but it may well have been the same herd I'd seen earlier that had simply moved up the steeper western slopes of Coire nan Lochain whereas I'd taken the longer less steep approach. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDcPd4vu4UqvjASTHihqwsgRwpRBBsdSu5dRmnxfRavILLzv2TvF4NaZU36ZjyjBKS8EuXv_GsTpfkL4p4lsATlBN0dvxFmsLntREyGPO7Fmd4OqBRniN5fIDtVoKnIltLO30SUDcoue0/s1600/P7106098+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDcPd4vu4UqvjASTHihqwsgRwpRBBsdSu5dRmnxfRavILLzv2TvF4NaZU36ZjyjBKS8EuXv_GsTpfkL4p4lsATlBN0dvxFmsLntREyGPO7Fmd4OqBRniN5fIDtVoKnIltLO30SUDcoue0/s400/P7106098+copy.jpg" width="400" height="300" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCXmksYMnWYjGxmbIdLYxlY9BlBeb5NjdWIGAn-sZnc3YvALpScLJwwnr_jP_EkBxcOBtRgtM5og0VbEcIgEy0H7DFjnkF4Xeo7Rg3bfJvMFu41CYKDF47qEGuhDc_a5kJtNrNmPisx8Y/s1600/P7106109+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCXmksYMnWYjGxmbIdLYxlY9BlBeb5NjdWIGAn-sZnc3YvALpScLJwwnr_jP_EkBxcOBtRgtM5og0VbEcIgEy0H7DFjnkF4Xeo7Rg3bfJvMFu41CYKDF47qEGuhDc_a5kJtNrNmPisx8Y/s400/P7106109+copy.jpg" width="400" height="300" /></a><br /><br />Although they weren't directly between me and the cairn they started to walk in my direction. I was pretty sure that they weren't going to be a problem so I kept on going and they kept on coming until they were right beside me, within touching distance. I'm sure they're used to humans but even so it was a real buzz to be alone on the hill with a herd of reindeer. There were a few calves with them and although they were quite comfortable while I took some photographs something, perhaps I made a sudden movement, spooked them and they raced off although they didn't go far.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVFnowJxu6l5S3s-t_HDJWqok5U_JxoxBBctkrSSOSwL5GNdlZoehPNgmtqtVqrt6-H8WaGdn9RZo5D-d5pIxy3tu49KJOmVRyx8T2sbI-g0n4c2PadHHdGkpM2EIrjk-muXhkd2yn46Q/s1600/P7106112+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVFnowJxu6l5S3s-t_HDJWqok5U_JxoxBBctkrSSOSwL5GNdlZoehPNgmtqtVqrt6-H8WaGdn9RZo5D-d5pIxy3tu49KJOmVRyx8T2sbI-g0n4c2PadHHdGkpM2EIrjk-muXhkd2yn46Q/s400/P7106112+copy.jpg" width="400" height="300" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Once I'd reached the cairn on Coire nan Lochain I continued arourd the rim of the corrie towards Coire An'Sneachta. The weather was fine now although there was still a stiff breeze in places so i removed my fleece (Mountain Hardwear 100wt Full Zip) but wore the Marmot Essence as a wind shirt, I've found the Marmot Essence to be breathable enough that I don't carry an actual windshirt anymore. The views towards Ben MacDui and Loch Etchacan were fantastic especially as the cloud kept drifting around and as I reached the Fiacall a Coire Cas I stopped for lunch. Taking in the views it would have been nice to have stayed out overnight but it wasn't to be this time.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgm3lYtxYw02oW9P4AYbTA25tYEOuNiRNAFA9TVwVjX_SAc1OuP9JUgPc5MF4mzWd32M6X4cRmUuuX1C_sEis6FXuzuLO6HQfwagpu-358tyjWxoEe0F_BxYPFBiHJnasAxUg_raDl_Xs/s1600/P7106125+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgm3lYtxYw02oW9P4AYbTA25tYEOuNiRNAFA9TVwVjX_SAc1OuP9JUgPc5MF4mzWd32M6X4cRmUuuX1C_sEis6FXuzuLO6HQfwagpu-358tyjWxoEe0F_BxYPFBiHJnasAxUg_raDl_Xs/s400/P7106125+copy.jpg" width="400" height="300" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOhbotPkxpVBkIa_2Lkm7BHwIhUWWfLlZKMRKPdHwOfr3g4ENO5pmFEQv0fMyn79I9QwAIczFGMkxBO8UWe5lo6r13VIz4VypPRG29kk2CIOTraXDml3kDkRuAmVduTxqlxm_HO-_tR0A/s1600/P7106127+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOhbotPkxpVBkIa_2Lkm7BHwIhUWWfLlZKMRKPdHwOfr3g4ENO5pmFEQv0fMyn79I9QwAIczFGMkxBO8UWe5lo6r13VIz4VypPRG29kk2CIOTraXDml3kDkRuAmVduTxqlxm_HO-_tR0A/s400/P7106127+copy.jpg" width="400" height="300" /></a><br /><br />Having re-fuelled I continued on up to the top of Cairngorm before decending to the Ptarmigan resturant where I was able to go in for a mug of coffee. Although all the equipment that comes with Cairngorm being a ski center is a bit of an eyesore it doesn't bother me too much, the reality is that there's enough space for everyone, same for the mtb/downhill ski stuff at Aonach Mor. That said I'll be hypocritical and say I'm glad that they didn't manage to expand the ski center into the northern corries as was suggested a few years ago.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSrGiCBKaqi7IzhEoqxnL3cMI5HsT8YoL1nPX6ubhWC4joAyi5GCNrYiRiM96TwFSMFINJYjecGXbF38gzpSh4Tw83cSpe5XPFw50hneX47oaUBhO6U-ZjfY5Dfa-_aGre_XCblRUUSHc/s1600/P7106137+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSrGiCBKaqi7IzhEoqxnL3cMI5HsT8YoL1nPX6ubhWC4joAyi5GCNrYiRiM96TwFSMFINJYjecGXbF38gzpSh4Tw83cSpe5XPFw50hneX47oaUBhO6U-ZjfY5Dfa-_aGre_XCblRUUSHc/s400/P7106137+copy.jpg" width="400" height="300" /></a><br /><br />Having left the Ptarmigan I continued to the car park by way of the 'Windy Ridge' walk. Apart from the rain I'd had on the way up to the plateau at the start it'd been dry all day but as I was getting myself organised at the ski center the rain started and it was really heavy on the way back to the campsite. As it turned out the others had been stuck in the tent all day as it had started raining shortly after I'd left.<br /><br /><br />Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-68143906980474323962011-07-16T12:08:00.000+01:002011-07-16T12:08:05.114+01:00Home DIY, Computer Problems and Car Camping.I havdn't had a chance to get out recently as I was busy renovating/re decorating my daughters room, one of those jobs I hate as it always turns out to be more involved than expected. Thankfully the worst is over but at the same time my computer started crashing and I didn't have time to work on it. In the end I reluctantly bought a new tower, reluctantly as I was quite happy running Windows XP and didn't want to change to Windows 7. <br />
<br />
Although I use my computer quite a bit I'm not a computer junkie, I don't want to know how it works, why it works or need to have multimedia capability or a home network to keep in touch with the other 2 members of my family so I expected to be frustrated by the latest offering from Microsoft and it turns out I was right.<br />
<br />
In addition to the above we'd planned to go to Scotland for a week car camping and I've only just got home. I didn't expect to get much walking done although I did manage a walk around the Northern Corries in the Cairngorms and started out to do the Ring of Steall but turned back due to feeling a bit off on the day. <br />
<br />
We got back late Thursday night and yesterday was spent sorting out kit and trying to get the new computer sorted. In the end I pulled the hard drive from the old computer and installed it in the new one as it was easier to transfer my files that way. Of course some documents won't display properly and I still have all my programs to re-install. <br />
<br />
I'll get there in the end.Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-84456604027274302772011-06-20T22:28:00.008+01:002011-06-22T13:17:56.630+01:00Mountain Hardwear Micro Chill Fleece Jacket<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBEKpyD1-C9NIW9g4URv164QZut9tsW9hiVLMA4UksNuyY7jbx01jI1stuQCypFitTQViT_ppdnxR9efxEkm1UdQ0zP79ZpChUCBj4ii06K_hOdPQcMHtt7dFdjguyg2p-vXDKcmc1NYQ/s1600/P1010921+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBEKpyD1-C9NIW9g4URv164QZut9tsW9hiVLMA4UksNuyY7jbx01jI1stuQCypFitTQViT_ppdnxR9efxEkm1UdQ0zP79ZpChUCBj4ii06K_hOdPQcMHtt7dFdjguyg2p-vXDKcmc1NYQ/s400/P1010921+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621016275375019186" /></a><br /><br />I had the opportunity to try a <a href="http://maceachain.blogspot.com/2011/02/mountain-hardwear-micro-chill-100wt.html">Mountain Hardwear Micro Chill 1/2 zip </a> fleece top a while back thanks to Webtogs. Although it was a nice enough top I felt that it was a bit expensive given that it was a fairly basic design. I also mentioned the full zip version which had a few other features that I felt made it worth the small increase in price.<br /><br />The features missing on the 1/2 zip version that I'd have liked were a waist draw cord and some kind of cuff on the sleeves. The <a href="http://www.webtogs.co.uk/Mountain_Hardwear_Micro_Chill_Fleece_101496.html">Micro Chill Full Zip fleece</a> has both and in addition has a small zipped chest pocket and 2 zipped hand warmer pockets. I mentioned at the time that I didn't own a 100 wt fleece but I found that the more I wore the 1/2 zip version the more often I found myself looking at the jacket, in the end I decided to purchase one.<br /><br />I choose size medium the same as the 1/2 zip as although it's a little looser than perhaps a 100 wt fleece should be I wanted the extra arm length, I also choose the same colour. Delivery was quick as usual, I ordered on Friday afternoon and the jacket arrived on Monday. The fit is pretty much the same as the 1/2 zip as you'd expect and I'm very pleased with it. I much prefer to have a waist draw cord generally but as I up sized slightly in this case it's almost a necessity. The shock cord is slightly stiff and I may replace it with a softer cord in time.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdEc9bn1_tY0xEKiPntNYq6n5dhu2gtkRlUvOYclGUDo2nb3dg_cBZvLVsYc1RdhVLsRySU-_3LOhkG1iK5QyuhrSXUaqCOYoRigDeeq8hUO13e0acTNB7owN1tVKVOyAsyxQLHUYKIf0/s1600/P1010918+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdEc9bn1_tY0xEKiPntNYq6n5dhu2gtkRlUvOYclGUDo2nb3dg_cBZvLVsYc1RdhVLsRySU-_3LOhkG1iK5QyuhrSXUaqCOYoRigDeeq8hUO13e0acTNB7owN1tVKVOyAsyxQLHUYKIf0/s400/P1010918+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621016256891252050" /></a><br /><br />The shock cord adjusts at both side by way of a captive cord lock although it's slightly over engineered. Rather than attach the cord lock directly by way of a webbing loop the webbing loop has a plastic ring which in turn prevents the cord lock from moving. <br /><br />The main zip is quite chunky and allows the jacket to be zipped into a compatible shell while the pocket zip are less chunky. The cuffs appear to be loose like the ones on the 1/2 zip version but actually have inner cuffs which seem to be made from a lycra type fabric. This works quite well, the cuffs aren't bulky yet the fleece protects the lycra and as the inner cuffs are wide they aren't uncomfortable or restrictive.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKLG6EcXUEzUaBR79ShzoPsTyYQ15lrXJc8xVSjAQErC00X0V2dNdU8GmAGM5ZCTj0p8E-xUhH8Iy6rAxRumt2hzsI2lepVjGYMamy3acx0PgHsAuzmkXiWEOFFu7kA8_oNrC2oaeAAM/s1600/P1010919+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKLG6EcXUEzUaBR79ShzoPsTyYQ15lrXJc8xVSjAQErC00X0V2dNdU8GmAGM5ZCTj0p8E-xUhH8Iy6rAxRumt2hzsI2lepVjGYMamy3acx0PgHsAuzmkXiWEOFFu7kA8_oNrC2oaeAAM/s400/P1010919+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621016273077718210" /></a><br /><br /> One thing that did strike me as a bit strange though is the shoulder/sleeve design. I mentioned when I reviewed the 1/2 zip version that the sleeves were raglan style rather than regular set in style and that the seams were flat stitched to reduce bulk or rubbing from rucksac shoulder straps, the full zip version in spite of sharing the same name (Micro Chill) has set in regular seam shoulders. This isn't something that concerns me personally but it's worth noting if you suffer from sensitive shoulders.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL3qIYrNtq3gkrdD_4SFr7AXGvzzmi473uXROQ615ChDzB9Ip4OcZgu5Wg1vVrSOzM58QB50pjIUa8t2KLHmjwjXPy7mLOWfridj6lfA0vEj4SwXDbJrJoYiaZJz-dYOEGLBJuxkQUmmQ/s1600/P1010920+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL3qIYrNtq3gkrdD_4SFr7AXGvzzmi473uXROQ615ChDzB9Ip4OcZgu5Wg1vVrSOzM58QB50pjIUa8t2KLHmjwjXPy7mLOWfridj6lfA0vEj4SwXDbJrJoYiaZJz-dYOEGLBJuxkQUmmQ/s400/P1010920+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621016267608052370" /></a><br /><br />Although the full zip version is more expensive at £49.50, the 1/2 zip version being £40.49 I personally feel that if you're spending £40 or so it's worth spending the extra £10 for the increased versatility.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV1iATEJMHoOsbo71cMK0nuXfU64pWVmjCE0x3XROmmvF9-oSeOqwMjgh7XjJnVrJPQq5dM7V-HoqkqgLpnk9_hdXsrXisSXnuzMfg89fFHOdrHrINdlT5dcGOXhNsMlaR0D2UpESU_rQ/s1600/P1010917+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV1iATEJMHoOsbo71cMK0nuXfU64pWVmjCE0x3XROmmvF9-oSeOqwMjgh7XjJnVrJPQq5dM7V-HoqkqgLpnk9_hdXsrXisSXnuzMfg89fFHOdrHrINdlT5dcGOXhNsMlaR0D2UpESU_rQ/s400/P1010917+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621016255703485426" /></a>Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-81655087743194257582011-06-18T11:18:00.010+01:002011-06-18T15:03:29.503+01:00TNF Resolve Over Trousers, Review<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHv5gRiLeSbGslbkRAohIMTkf_QLqnoqaU2vm-JCfuw0VwpapMlE1IDLNbD14Cz181wjxVa5alISKdDatrbNXpYC1I9XRJMCr91J_d9OjpKMnUt3amswnDMdG5zowpDIRCto9ssrnyLQ/s1600/P1010897+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619516174342935426" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHv5gRiLeSbGslbkRAohIMTkf_QLqnoqaU2vm-JCfuw0VwpapMlE1IDLNbD14Cz181wjxVa5alISKdDatrbNXpYC1I9XRJMCr91J_d9OjpKMnUt3amswnDMdG5zowpDIRCto9ssrnyLQ/s400/P1010897+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I've just received a pair of <a href="http://www.webtogs.co.uk/The_North_Face_Mens_Resolve_Pant_101675.html">TNF Resolve</a> over trousers from Webtogs for review. Given the weather conditions recently over trousers could well be a summer essential so it shouldn't take long to find out just how waterproof they are.<br /><br />The TNF Resolve are made from TNF's own waterproof breathable fabric, HyVent. TNF refer to it as a 3 layer fabric, (the very similar TNF Venture over trousers are referred to as 2.5 layer but are heavier or perhaps lighter* at 220g) the Ripstop outer shell, the mid layer being a PU coating and micro pores and an unspecified inner layer, unspecified unless the mesh lining is classed as an inner layer. I'm fairly certain that waterproof clothing that uses a mesh drop liner is generally considered as being 2 layer, that of course may only be the case when a breathable membrane is used rather than a breathable PU coating.<br /><br />The over trousers are a fairly slim fit, the waist is elasticated and also has a drawcord, there are 2 zipped mesh pockets but the zips are standard non waterproof type and although they have storm flaps they look quite small. The legs have zipped openings which open to just below knee level, again zips are regular type and like the pockets have quite narrow storm flaps. The ankles can be tightened by way of velcro which is useful. Finally the trousers are fully lined with a fairly open mesh fabric. The advertised weight is 200g.<br /><br />Design aside it's how well they perform that will be the real issue, I haven't had the opportunity to try them yet so the best I can do is give an initial opinion based on the design.<br /><br />Firstly and perhaps of most concern is the weight, the suggested weight is 200g, mine in 'Small' weigh 296g. I expect most kit to weigh a little more than advertised but in this case the difference is too much especially as with this kind of lighter weight kit the weight is probably second only to actual performance in importance and it may be the deciding factor when choosing between 2 similar products.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRic-c6BrGhCeFyBpDuuIlkJi2_wHn-HYxJYWUW8BnzyRhzbqnsPP7a-GXi782Hfg96CqJJODm-xIs6qwkqo-5By7De41C1gssprr07LKTc-DIKAtZn34evVagaJVsnMVPAuU3pGQxAbQ/s1600/P1010901+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619516197771291298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRic-c6BrGhCeFyBpDuuIlkJi2_wHn-HYxJYWUW8BnzyRhzbqnsPP7a-GXi782Hfg96CqJJODm-xIs6qwkqo-5By7De41C1gssprr07LKTc-DIKAtZn34evVagaJVsnMVPAuU3pGQxAbQ/s400/P1010901+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I'm undecided about the pockets, on the one hand I do tend to carry stuff in my pockets but they do have the potential to leak given that the storm flaps are minimal.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlZXnC8oS1gilcIG10pCfaA7mN7WvGQZxM3hL2zgex50e5L-F2fkygsUssPPPP2LP6Gby5f4eXKoH90j10_6DKZEd1cYo8xDKUNeHzUZHIt7hU3e1eZNt200mdF3WfvWKrM3duywItOo/s1600/P1010898+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619516182233312786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlZXnC8oS1gilcIG10pCfaA7mN7WvGQZxM3hL2zgex50e5L-F2fkygsUssPPPP2LP6Gby5f4eXKoH90j10_6DKZEd1cYo8xDKUNeHzUZHIt7hU3e1eZNt200mdF3WfvWKrM3duywItOo/s400/P1010898+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The zips on the lower leg do make it easier to pull them on over a pair of trainers but unfortnately the mesh lining tends to get caught up which makes them more difficult to pull on than they could/should be, addditionaly the mesh lining also tends to bunch up and get caught when removing them. I guess the mesh is to make them feel more comfortable when wearing shorts but as I don't wear shorts I find the mesh pointless, serving only to add weight and making them more troublesome to put on/take off.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYAU27tJGLh8AJ9tzBXqyamnwwM2u6uJk1bNcQgDDST94ufVK2_dpc7yFHH7R8cBMyNFL_KT5GfZAYOdLBvHhu9_LSIlsMHnG-Hs-H2-hxvku0j-RpyJPZaOQjROjMWVpxJsjLHDRb28E/s1600/P1010900+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619516188432097730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYAU27tJGLh8AJ9tzBXqyamnwwM2u6uJk1bNcQgDDST94ufVK2_dpc7yFHH7R8cBMyNFL_KT5GfZAYOdLBvHhu9_LSIlsMHnG-Hs-H2-hxvku0j-RpyJPZaOQjROjMWVpxJsjLHDRb28E/s400/P1010900+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />On initial inspection it looks like the knees are articulated to ease movement, on closer inspection this isn't the case. There are seams running just below the knee but that's simply as the legs are made from 4 pieces of fabric rather than a 2 full length pieces (front/back). This results in having a seam running around the leg but I suspect that's simply to make better use of the fabric at the cutting stage during manufacture. The seams are taped but less seams is usually better unless they're required to create a particular shape.<br /><br />As I mentioned previously the actual performance will be the critical issue, in the meantime the Pro's and Con's are as follows.<br /><br />Pro's<br />Reasonably Inexpensive<br />Appear well made<br /><br />Con's<br />Weigh Significantly More than Advertised (296g Actual/200g Advertised)<br />Poorly Protected (Pocket) Zips<br />Mesh Lining (Adds Weight, Catches on Shoes when Putting on/removing)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6xL0BVJtyVMGFwbxeaVE-pXF8rJKJ-7Jg8hy1wNtiZHe_U2rg4Qm1UZtITRRxmmvwLDc022RoLbvCtwHWnTg53TkC1wOuKbPAkZQfcsF8ZhLBBtq5dhBW6UmRJXxLsNo_gkCvxywoqHQ/s1600/P1010899+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619516186664645842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6xL0BVJtyVMGFwbxeaVE-pXF8rJKJ-7Jg8hy1wNtiZHe_U2rg4Qm1UZtITRRxmmvwLDc022RoLbvCtwHWnTg53TkC1wOuKbPAkZQfcsF8ZhLBBtq5dhBW6UmRJXxLsNo_gkCvxywoqHQ/s400/P1010899+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Clearly the weight is an issue, at nearly 300g it's possible to get something like the <a href="http://www.webtogs.co.uk/Rab_Drillium_Pants_102073.html">RAB Drillium eVent </a>over trousers although it should be pointed out that the RAB's are 2 x times the price.<br /><br />Interestingly I had a quick look on the <a href="http://uk.thenorthface.com/tnf-uk-en/men/trousers-shorts/men-s-resolve-pant.html?colour=593">TNF.uk website</a>, the Resolve 'Pant' is listed as having an average weight of 360g it does however also mention a "comfortable brushed collar lining" and mentions that, "The adjustable hood stows in the collar"<br /><br />That's certainly a 1st in my experience.<br /><br />I also looked at the <a href="http://uk.thenorthface.com/tnf-uk-en/men/trousers-shorts/men-s-strider-side-zip-pant.html?colour=592">TNF Strider pant</a>, the Strider appears to be a full zip version of the Resolve but the suggested weight is 270gMac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-45782453379684108792011-06-10T11:07:00.005+01:002011-06-10T12:36:11.352+01:00MYOG, Hammock Under Quilt, #2<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL0RnSV2-J2t6Cq7mwHPakCfbleeisqcjTqG518Lj_R0aLCtllycy7ozYuGL9aVNbzMXOIbNeUr3kZl-JkuZOXQ5KYRYkezP0_6Ip_xG5Q_1F1j6h0vlR2C-Z6a0b_UEbt1UEkxmW5zGQ/s1600/P1010892+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616549611304815570" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL0RnSV2-J2t6Cq7mwHPakCfbleeisqcjTqG518Lj_R0aLCtllycy7ozYuGL9aVNbzMXOIbNeUr3kZl-JkuZOXQ5KYRYkezP0_6Ip_xG5Q_1F1j6h0vlR2C-Z6a0b_UEbt1UEkxmW5zGQ/s400/P1010892+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I mentioned recently about trying to make an Under Quilt for my hammock, my 1st attempt was simply converting a small regular shaped sleeping bag which worked ok. The 2nd attempt was making one from scratch using the Kick Ass Quilts Potomac plans but that was designed for a Hennessey hammock which is assymetric while my hammock is a regular gathered end type. The Quilt wasn't too difficult to make although I made a few mistakes, the main one being that I managed to mirror the layout so what was intended as the inside (next to the hammock) became the outside. I didn't realise that until I'd given it to Ralph who'd tried it on his Hennessey hammock.<br /><br />I still had sufficient fabric left for another try as the intention was always to make 2 quilts. I couldn't find plans for a synthetic quilt for a gathered end hammock so had to come up with a design myself.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_KAufVJWnxpq2gduYRLt5tyLDM7n7vHfynaY_w0jXIkxpC42kain7i3EcNwpH_vNdwRZcJZUA1Y7DMQzLyAQrElBwO6C3Lt3r28DvAjNKIdSwwtfjpneBResiIMRhDU7rE39mWY1w4qk/s1600/P1010824+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616540852978951410" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_KAufVJWnxpq2gduYRLt5tyLDM7n7vHfynaY_w0jXIkxpC42kain7i3EcNwpH_vNdwRZcJZUA1Y7DMQzLyAQrElBwO6C3Lt3r28DvAjNKIdSwwtfjpneBResiIMRhDU7rE39mWY1w4qk/s400/P1010824+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Pattern Pinned to Shell Fabric</strong><br /><br />My hammock when opened out is basically rectangular so the easiest option would have been to make the quilt rectangular, in fact that's how the sleeping bag conversion worked out but I wanted to keep the weight as low as possible so figured there was no point in having a load of quilt gathered up at each end. In the end what I came up with was a tapered shape. As quilt tapered towards the ends I needed to place a dart along each long side so that when attached to the hammock the edge would be horizontal.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjst9kVgpOlo-5KupLwSo3-ct7dcp5YVogot7M8VwI7Z3kWt7Frw_WffpIvghb_0H3JV7WYQjBwLcQRapiCu5c49DBluGxwy4-BWoLt6LxsgrwFQo3r33kRNj767XUzhUNZIZCGto96ua8/s1600/P1010891+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616549608001334898" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjst9kVgpOlo-5KupLwSo3-ct7dcp5YVogot7M8VwI7Z3kWt7Frw_WffpIvghb_0H3JV7WYQjBwLcQRapiCu5c49DBluGxwy4-BWoLt6LxsgrwFQo3r33kRNj767XUzhUNZIZCGto96ua8/s400/P1010891+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>The Darts when Sewn Up Create a 'Bucket' Shape and Make the Top Edge Horizontal</strong><br /><br />Another weight saver was to make it shorter, the KAQ Potomac was about 2.4m while the sleeping bag quilt ended up about 1.8m so I settled on 2m. Another weight saver was more by accident than design, I didn't have enough 4oz insulation so had to use 2oz instead.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0l_SIqCw6u3e0n8gpWRANt6aXCG_aSMyX9Wlp1z2DKJBv5A7QwGHn7JFutICaOvG4sIsnXMUTnbKRx-CSCBT8w4k3297K3FPc3QH-gaswdgXRl384IhOveVNHjFpPzWaUqdMdunRLTKg/s1600/P1010825+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616540860604839330" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0l_SIqCw6u3e0n8gpWRANt6aXCG_aSMyX9Wlp1z2DKJBv5A7QwGHn7JFutICaOvG4sIsnXMUTnbKRx-CSCBT8w4k3297K3FPc3QH-gaswdgXRl384IhOveVNHjFpPzWaUqdMdunRLTKg/s400/P1010825+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Patterns for Reinforing Patches and Draw Cord Tunnels</strong><br /><br />With the design sorted I made a pattern and cut the 2 pieces of fabric that made the shell together with 4 reinforcment patches for the corners and 4 drawcord tunnels. With all the pieces cut I weighed them and as it looked a bit close to my target weight of 500g I decided to have drawcords only at each and forget about the ones down the side as I found that the KAQ Potomac even though it has shockcords along each side tended to curl over the hammock anyway.<br /><br />With the pieces cut I started to sew it together, again most of the work is done on the inner shell to which I added the corner reinforcements, draw cord tunnels, cord locks on webbing and webbing loops to suspend the quilt. With that done I sewed up the darts but decided to add 2 webbing loops along each side. The reason for the loops was that in the event that there's insufficient insulation I can make a 3/4 length quilt to attach underneath the main quilt.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAfbjvvBs_nWbMUKrvfPY7Pu9JSBySc3jOTIcMTEJn1Wn4AiaUzudlqMp9OHYDEaNucAzNWG_yIRreaCitJyaDaQUTqbDHxe-SolTkOBa_NOgzmruWf14aHZdKxOGJNXhpBs18RZX5Uo/s1600/P1010884+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616540868619282850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAfbjvvBs_nWbMUKrvfPY7Pu9JSBySc3jOTIcMTEJn1Wn4AiaUzudlqMp9OHYDEaNucAzNWG_yIRreaCitJyaDaQUTqbDHxe-SolTkOBa_NOgzmruWf14aHZdKxOGJNXhpBs18RZX5Uo/s400/P1010884+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Fitting Suspension Loops and Captive Cord Locks</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06jyXmwuIzK84fjcoUhOHRWZrAKPMFUaRKofULXpwoMMnfCYxIKZ9MLBRYYgLksqYPnCZ2WgmLXCRLr18rYmpFm5SnykA0h_woc3yfWYMFPgcoKv2xVzidMMoiEUW1ekoSDtwgLVuigs/s1600/P1010887+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616540876031154306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06jyXmwuIzK84fjcoUhOHRWZrAKPMFUaRKofULXpwoMMnfCYxIKZ9MLBRYYgLksqYPnCZ2WgmLXCRLr18rYmpFm5SnykA0h_woc3yfWYMFPgcoKv2xVzidMMoiEUW1ekoSDtwgLVuigs/s400/P1010887+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Shell and Insulation Laid up Prior to Being Pinned for Sewing</strong><br /><br />The last big job was to pin insulation and shell together and sew them up, the head end is left open so that the quilt can be turned right side out and then the seam can be sewn up. To finish it off I simply added shock cord to the ends to gather the quilt in a little at the ends, added suspension shock cords and made up a stuff sack.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7-w_sxFa3R2TLpSxUvYDw9j8FQ4DEGhuDue9Z3A0qdkzOdNI02cBehEhkHleQVfpTo1p9bqIJRVPUBTMCYLHTGUm7clg0K3RFJErBegchpHieNRLpkFCeErB70-49e2rpYVIrNsmAY7E/s1600/P1010893+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616549616766897170" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7-w_sxFa3R2TLpSxUvYDw9j8FQ4DEGhuDue9Z3A0qdkzOdNI02cBehEhkHleQVfpTo1p9bqIJRVPUBTMCYLHTGUm7clg0K3RFJErBegchpHieNRLpkFCeErB70-49e2rpYVIrNsmAY7E/s400/P1010893+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>End Draw Cords and Suspension Shock Cord</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihwmdlKQdwqAuNmgU2VVcqqSu5MGe9-Zm8VLGK8cQTD0qma41EmZCk4UHy5t2y1iDnRGA7qh0HfvhXUdZpllWpXtylul4kQvL8zqLOqoHrw_903hOvN2aF2qmj3o7790AAIwvGxGPwGOg/s1600/P1010888+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616540884066072034" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihwmdlKQdwqAuNmgU2VVcqqSu5MGe9-Zm8VLGK8cQTD0qma41EmZCk4UHy5t2y1iDnRGA7qh0HfvhXUdZpllWpXtylul4kQvL8zqLOqoHrw_903hOvN2aF2qmj3o7790AAIwvGxGPwGOg/s400/P1010888+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Packed, 508g</strong><br /><br />Trying the quilt on the hammock the fit is thankfully fine and although I didn't quite manage to meet the 500g target it's very close at 508g in the stuff sack.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilgb4s_Qm8KS3b3CYkn5HdSpWLTGSvOCKsOrl4_AuxCddg443ejUvDmyUQKUkTtIFpiaXDBFdvQYf2NqkNytdVnwhysQJrtvZlk2q1GvDAof8Fdx-jJHWbefhGGg4pk4m3VFWY2BDJe3Y/s1600/P1010889+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616549600806234082" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilgb4s_Qm8KS3b3CYkn5HdSpWLTGSvOCKsOrl4_AuxCddg443ejUvDmyUQKUkTtIFpiaXDBFdvQYf2NqkNytdVnwhysQJrtvZlk2q1GvDAof8Fdx-jJHWbefhGGg4pk4m3VFWY2BDJe3Y/s400/P1010889+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Of course there are a few things that could be improved, mainly weight/insulation. The quilt is extends up the sides of the hammock quite a bit and I could easily make it a bit narrower and the draw cord tunnels are too wide so I'd cut them narrower too. Finally the fabric and insulation, I could make the biggest performance difference here, I used shop bought polyester lining for the shell and cheap off the roll insulation. Obviously as it was all a bit experimental I didn't want to spend too much but I'm getting close to a design that I would be 90% satisfied with and that being the case I wouldn't mind spending more. That said the hammock is a bit of a fun thing for fine weather only so the cheap option is more than likely good enough. I probably will get some more of the same fabric/insulation just to make up the 3/4 length add on quilt that I'd though about just to see how it would work out.<br /><br />I still need to try the hammock though, it will happen but not until the weather improves.Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-11968148289506047752011-06-09T18:47:00.010+01:002011-06-09T21:20:19.279+01:00Slieveanorra Forest and Altnahinch Reservoir<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE0nk6CQrVcZYa275Zt4W0Bfd8TGcFo6FCCwoDzErw2QpJndS6X67d4G0G5oq682W9YaPEGLVRbFgpAYfMAk8UTCfIV9qOpWKG2ET8RhyphenhyphenlPcghh-MnjCuCcMbI2knhcSt2Od9-sDURHes/s1600/P1010854+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616280309827133874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE0nk6CQrVcZYa275Zt4W0Bfd8TGcFo6FCCwoDzErw2QpJndS6X67d4G0G5oq682W9YaPEGLVRbFgpAYfMAk8UTCfIV9qOpWKG2ET8RhyphenhyphenlPcghh-MnjCuCcMbI2knhcSt2Od9-sDURHes/s400/P1010854+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I was out for another short walk with Les on Tuesday, this time we decided on a walk in Slieveanorra forest starting near Altnahinch reservoir. The River Bush has its source just above the reservoir and flows into and out of the dam on its way to the sea at Port Ballintrae. The Bush is famous as a Salmon River and also as the water source for the world famous Bushmills Whiskey distillery which is situated in the North Antrim village of Bushmills.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOptALOu9SZvon0VSCeDR-c3fcaVE8lQ89Bx4IZbdf4Rcx3LjCVJpTXmVk34ToEpfn7e8Q2mUbii1ILVzosFysMGDFuslbueY-G_4pDaG4yOCDg9aioh4VdhJz9a_0WWJuTlkh7nijPj4/s1600/P1010829+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616279620513134130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOptALOu9SZvon0VSCeDR-c3fcaVE8lQ89Bx4IZbdf4Rcx3LjCVJpTXmVk34ToEpfn7e8Q2mUbii1ILVzosFysMGDFuslbueY-G_4pDaG4yOCDg9aioh4VdhJz9a_0WWJuTlkh7nijPj4/s400/P1010829+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The weather wasn’t promising with rain forecast for most of the day and when we started off on the forest track it was raining heavily although there was no wind. We both had some new gear which was getting a 1st outing, in my case a pair of Keen Gorge neoprene canoeing/water sports boots while Les had picked up a Berghaus waterproof jacket and a Lowe Alpine day sack.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuR9Rdl8N1g2qbqGR7AGJrewrqX-Sv1nKAxalxVlxwqifHy7D4qkE287TTm6ZFDnl8k5xfpij9Spszf0Z80fZlcrluU1O3_u8_7YNhuQ3AG50MuxP4YOJ0IhhKyJpw0dhmz7ILb4AWi3w/s1600/P1010828+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616279610298585346" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuR9Rdl8N1g2qbqGR7AGJrewrqX-Sv1nKAxalxVlxwqifHy7D4qkE287TTm6ZFDnl8k5xfpij9Spszf0Z80fZlcrluU1O3_u8_7YNhuQ3AG50MuxP4YOJ0IhhKyJpw0dhmz7ILb4AWi3w/s400/P1010828+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The rain was relentless and visibility poor as we made our way through the forest so when we reached the point where we had to decide on going to the summit of Slieveanorra or doubling back towards the reservoir we decided on the reservoir. All the small streams running through the forest were in full flow and in a few other places where they’d exceeded the capacity of their normal route they’d taken the path of least resistance on their way down towards the reservoir.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPJQniHtKky6EySaSkZ4mu3AKR1N4H9ggKOH-T9fglpyVC4U20kffBavCUI_79tryjSnAE6bbOjSRK7agyREAnNDtC7iNdiIhjx0xkgoXvfrlYf6cR1tCrDl6yjhuchgA6dnahW5MLzc/s1600/P1010841+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616280298468413346" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPJQniHtKky6EySaSkZ4mu3AKR1N4H9ggKOH-T9fglpyVC4U20kffBavCUI_79tryjSnAE6bbOjSRK7agyREAnNDtC7iNdiIhjx0xkgoXvfrlYf6cR1tCrDl6yjhuchgA6dnahW5MLzc/s400/P1010841+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xMqbL52Gjgqh6g48fC86UtJKpQImkQHWjrx5gvTDQbvIA7yqFCJB2uhVUkxOKCL1DyZ74SwwQdA_bY1hyAzaOgrhDQdtxdmExZUFrHKrFELtzYgdF4CCzhu81WNuEAXXo9ozIxVUlxE/s1600/P1010837+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616280291137062130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xMqbL52Gjgqh6g48fC86UtJKpQImkQHWjrx5gvTDQbvIA7yqFCJB2uhVUkxOKCL1DyZ74SwwQdA_bY1hyAzaOgrhDQdtxdmExZUFrHKrFELtzYgdF4CCzhu81WNuEAXXo9ozIxVUlxE/s400/P1010837+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Not having taken a map I discovered one of the limitations of relying on a hand held GPS even though it has maps installed. Although the Lowrance Safari is waterproof the screen is barely readable when wet so when we reached a junction that led off in the direction we wanted to go we took it. Unfortunately it led to a dead end and while we may have been able to bushwhack our way through, the trees were quite young and consequently close and we couldn’t discern sufficient detail on the GPS to be sure exactly what direction to take or how far we’d have to go to break out of the densely wooded area, as it was still raining heavily the prospect of forcing a way through thick wet undergrowth wasn’t particularly appealing. The correct choice was obviously to back track and take the other path which we did.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsH03tHDWusGVJwPTiunlC4RJPHhaOFhHb_srDeCMeoHriGO-MPPOLuGkawXqqiVsFtnvwQElEOBk8xrS2bBHUPIdlVdauNdLbvjJm2bJB1JX4Br38eBmkBej9zyP5egTHBuWdIWn8gFs/s1600/P1010853+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616280300474335106" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsH03tHDWusGVJwPTiunlC4RJPHhaOFhHb_srDeCMeoHriGO-MPPOLuGkawXqqiVsFtnvwQElEOBk8xrS2bBHUPIdlVdauNdLbvjJm2bJB1JX4Br38eBmkBej9zyP5egTHBuWdIWn8gFs/s400/P1010853+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We continued along the track before taking to the forest for a bit and when we emerged the cloud had lifted sufficiently to be able to see the Wind Turbines on Slievenahanagan on the other side of the glen. As the cloud lifted the rain eased off and by the time we’d left the forest and reached the road it had stopped completely.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4cfmQOJllWRGjG3J-sQwIdwgiH2jkb3icM9K2JEhyphenhyphenj264vP9hJtTmcF0AXvPg-tDkRi2m_GtJd6zOIeme5WtWaawd9bO6PQNsOfy0LQmqCHh5pgiFNHipk_41oLArh4plW8Xu1VIGRlg/s1600/P1010864+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616280313749184050" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4cfmQOJllWRGjG3J-sQwIdwgiH2jkb3icM9K2JEhyphenhyphenj264vP9hJtTmcF0AXvPg-tDkRi2m_GtJd6zOIeme5WtWaawd9bO6PQNsOfy0LQmqCHh5pgiFNHipk_41oLArh4plW8Xu1VIGRlg/s400/P1010864+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We only has to walk the road for about 1.5km to reach the entrance to the reservoir but there was enough to see in the way of wild flowers, another unexpected find was an old railway carriage. I’ve seen old railway carriages before in places were there aren’t any railways, disused or otherwise so I assume that they were sold off and bought for use as sheds, this one looked like it might have been used as a potting shed but who knows.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSv3vQBF-kN3ywqVIkcgh8EOhfvNtinWbJUrW-sfAg9TDYL9SWDXocGJAaX7_zGMrViQbfY5574dZbCX7pdPgLc-y54ZPtZUa4MihxxBJw64Hu8ScxtYET5cc-q3zGM5nUs2ZTTqnUAPM/s1600/P1010875+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616280982119073458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSv3vQBF-kN3ywqVIkcgh8EOhfvNtinWbJUrW-sfAg9TDYL9SWDXocGJAaX7_zGMrViQbfY5574dZbCX7pdPgLc-y54ZPtZUa4MihxxBJw64Hu8ScxtYET5cc-q3zGM5nUs2ZTTqnUAPM/s400/P1010875+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyqFa5rlo6cA64Dxd8A_y-OLeK44ADSHW9LKkzccUU0zUbW05n9_ai-pmLFKz-b3ONIZj1YsTbLciBiF9WVmf6x_ueb4eWLBE_LcjCNaWDO5RJ1xJp4bEIysmjK5d8wOvK9oL60N909dQ/s1600/P1010869+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616280979162590226" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyqFa5rlo6cA64Dxd8A_y-OLeK44ADSHW9LKkzccUU0zUbW05n9_ai-pmLFKz-b3ONIZj1YsTbLciBiF9WVmf6x_ueb4eWLBE_LcjCNaWDO5RJ1xJp4bEIysmjK5d8wOvK9oL60N909dQ/s400/P1010869+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5HJqz-g-EcW43_xJyJ4z1xMTL6j1kc6xezAUIvAQrRPBFPhsVVNZ2CRY3kSlLioRjGPgYa0l_-MD03VXJDsjTgTSmnoTDf5YyeQv3OMSeLPU5T8ljRxXNWfhKCmL1xut8RY6FwJvh_64/s1600/P1010868+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616280977257862498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5HJqz-g-EcW43_xJyJ4z1xMTL6j1kc6xezAUIvAQrRPBFPhsVVNZ2CRY3kSlLioRjGPgYa0l_-MD03VXJDsjTgTSmnoTDf5YyeQv3OMSeLPU5T8ljRxXNWfhKCmL1xut8RY6FwJvh_64/s400/P1010868+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRaeVmvB4HMIyCQtK8i6LCIB1GRH1q13kvnBEK_qSkpKDbZPEvxZGuK-EEwDLnotoRerVUa3V3y2r9TpvrrYyljox5WV3renjo-_GkvTw3JM3M1XnfjUid8fjTc1ntHe-rH8q8kowmGxQ/s1600/P1010865+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616280973361501954" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRaeVmvB4HMIyCQtK8i6LCIB1GRH1q13kvnBEK_qSkpKDbZPEvxZGuK-EEwDLnotoRerVUa3V3y2r9TpvrrYyljox5WV3renjo-_GkvTw3JM3M1XnfjUid8fjTc1ntHe-rH8q8kowmGxQ/s400/P1010865+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />As soon as we reached the reservoir, one of the last to be built in Northern Ireland and completed sometime in the late 1960’s we took to the path and walked down to the foot of the headwall, it’s a small reservoir but interesting nonetheless. In spite of living close to the reservoir I can’t remember being down at the outflow before so it was an unexpected bonus and one that I wouldn’t have had if the weather had been better. From the foot of the headwall there’s a steep grassy slope up to the reservoir itself, about halfway up a wall runs to the top, on one side the wall is only about a metre high but on the other side there’s an ever increasing drop, it was along the top of the wall that I decided to test the grip of the Keen Gorge boots but as the drop to my left increased I decided that discretion was the better part of valour and jumped off (to my right), in any case they felt secure enough.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOPb-WbkSLOJ06Cvw14rh8gPiN8VAqduHeoCqUGCHhVg8UT_gKKuTClS1NOYxI3e7IT8BO5OGA0MSAA7VUKjlEx1qay7QRc8KhTGaRIpqrMqHeKJYe3ZTLrMVuf287ksOvz_cunsjeR3E/s1600/P1010877+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616280997809455186" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOPb-WbkSLOJ06Cvw14rh8gPiN8VAqduHeoCqUGCHhVg8UT_gKKuTClS1NOYxI3e7IT8BO5OGA0MSAA7VUKjlEx1qay7QRc8KhTGaRIpqrMqHeKJYe3ZTLrMVuf287ksOvz_cunsjeR3E/s400/P1010877+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlaMKv9gB_H8eSsQ8qGS5SqJStSiQhn-O2_g35zRexRfJskdTTXVOAW_cfvQm9MbiOxP9LOmmOOt_RwJiu1ooWQxdtMqHlpe26uxvtycCzqB2CsDfD7lkQKkG5EfMiRRWSWntrHzn_Ig/s1600/P1010878+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616294586922679938" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlaMKv9gB_H8eSsQ8qGS5SqJStSiQhn-O2_g35zRexRfJskdTTXVOAW_cfvQm9MbiOxP9LOmmOOt_RwJiu1ooWQxdtMqHlpe26uxvtycCzqB2CsDfD7lkQKkG5EfMiRRWSWntrHzn_Ig/s400/P1010878+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Once up at the reservoir we discovered a few guys fishing, the reservoir holds native Brown Trout but is also stocked with Rainbow Trout from the Movanagher Fish farm situated on the River Bann, in fact we passed the fish farm while at the lock gates at Movanagher on our Easter canoe trip. From there it was only a short walk along the road again to the car.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjat2WMFllsGoC7yL8e-gZ0H_sNJLgviJdZ2g3RiK6vqG_fZLsk6bZ29MG_ClXl8Xvi6sRrINf2AQvZ2yojHqXz4smzRmy-yW2NeX2FDDLrTyhOqDHyyAYIL-Go72LLv7_JN19FFp33Z1I/s1600/P1010881+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616294593141315634" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjat2WMFllsGoC7yL8e-gZ0H_sNJLgviJdZ2g3RiK6vqG_fZLsk6bZ29MG_ClXl8Xvi6sRrINf2AQvZ2yojHqXz4smzRmy-yW2NeX2FDDLrTyhOqDHyyAYIL-Go72LLv7_JN19FFp33Z1I/s400/P1010881+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Again another interesting walk, something different and as I’d just picked up a copy of Irelands Wild Flowers I was happy to get some photographs for identification later.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh6fiN5pL7HBmo7cncJA0vMwSxs_iAF6djWzTDBG3tiTTY64yhwncyJJHx7tSpnjouMgB7Vs28l4nhjUlIh8yTSOUvYo0J4QWWnKaBcY2bxnDyG4OVNGxfGEgy6aSiP7T8PwpU1-mwBlE/s1600/P1010882+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616294597377936370" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh6fiN5pL7HBmo7cncJA0vMwSxs_iAF6djWzTDBG3tiTTY64yhwncyJJHx7tSpnjouMgB7Vs28l4nhjUlIh8yTSOUvYo0J4QWWnKaBcY2bxnDyG4OVNGxfGEgy6aSiP7T8PwpU1-mwBlE/s400/P1010882+copy.jpg" /></a>Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-27803810784455733362011-06-07T15:57:00.008+01:002011-06-07T17:33:29.655+01:00Keen Gorge Boots, Review<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUt0-JirsSbRj29pBqOaLFlRYx3AUhn2L91-fWB6bVyL_od6WmNEE_M6zsq1zX_C5F-wXANj4iqIqZyobUzbt6K0uRoyV-rgJrhHw29LMFezXwqMwnaMjzciD9Dw82tDMXNN_jsjW8jfM/s1600/P5286040+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUt0-JirsSbRj29pBqOaLFlRYx3AUhn2L91-fWB6bVyL_od6WmNEE_M6zsq1zX_C5F-wXANj4iqIqZyobUzbt6K0uRoyV-rgJrhHw29LMFezXwqMwnaMjzciD9Dw82tDMXNN_jsjW8jfM/s400/P5286040+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615509013839166930" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.webtogs.co.uk">Webtogs</a> contacted me recently to see if I'd be interested in a pair of <a href="http://www.webtogs.co.uk/Keen_Mens_Gorge_Boots_102854.html">Keen Gorge </a>boots for review. The Keen Gorge are a neoprene boot not unlike the type I would wear surfing but with a much stiffer sole. They're aimed mainly at watersport activities such as canoeing but the sole design suggested that they were intended for use where a bit of portaging or river walking would be required. Looking at the description on the Webtogs site they mention the high traction sole. The sole has a fairly low profile tread pattern and doesn't have a heel step but the wedge shaped 'fishscales' on the sole are opposing so I felt they'd be grippier than they looked.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjRYcnUw2a1ahzgmqB1CSgmh1ixYSM_DX6qJoC5TntyywqCDWsdPkWJ0HAT7KBLCPjYwTUnztqVDDqhsPpSatXqxqjXc6oAb0uTTiHzG1ieu1FoKnXycwjs1UNOgt4PldQLe2H15g-RY/s1600/P5286042+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjRYcnUw2a1ahzgmqB1CSgmh1ixYSM_DX6qJoC5TntyywqCDWsdPkWJ0HAT7KBLCPjYwTUnztqVDDqhsPpSatXqxqjXc6oAb0uTTiHzG1ieu1FoKnXycwjs1UNOgt4PldQLe2H15g-RY/s400/P5286042+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615509037990940242" /></a><br /><br />I'd intended to wear them without socks which is how I wear my wetsuit boots but in the case of the wetsuit boots it's nescessity as they're a split toe design. With that in mind I requested size 9 in the Keen Gorge but when they arrived they were too small so had to be exchanged for size 10. As it turned out size 10 can stretch enough to allow me to wear socks if I wish.<br /><br />The boots are promarily neoprene which obviously isn't waterproof, the idea is that they retain water which eventually heats up. My wetsuit boots, <a href="http://www.aldersportswear.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=66">Alder Plasma 7mm </a>are winter boots and as such are blindstitched, glued and liquid sealed to reduce flushing (cold water flushing through and displacing the water already warmed) and have kept my feet toasty winter/spring on the North Antrim coast which is essentially the Atlantic. The Keen Gorge however are 3mm and appear to have a basic stitch patter however given that I wouldn't expect my feet to be submerged for anything like the time they would surfing I'd no reservations about warmth.<br /><br />The sole unit is quite substantial with the trademark Keen toecap which extends up over the toe, there's a decent heel cup and the outside of the toe area is heavily reinforced to prevent wear against the sides of a kayak. Fastening is by a wide velcro strap across the forefoot, in addition the cuff is secured by a velcro patch and for additional security there's a 2nd thinner strap that passes around the back of the ankle above the heel cup and secures at the front which holds your heel in place. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIzZnv4uA1Ai5YmgG4XUd-5jkseArxeHj0cvY7L5p3kPBBML1YNco0B5yJExANssJemc6dZpvWI08GqEI_8G86x5tDyBZ1gFhb-210maKESlwY2xiVAjubCwTbHMKuZgffTixfpNCaIho/s1600/P5286044+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIzZnv4uA1Ai5YmgG4XUd-5jkseArxeHj0cvY7L5p3kPBBML1YNco0B5yJExANssJemc6dZpvWI08GqEI_8G86x5tDyBZ1gFhb-210maKESlwY2xiVAjubCwTbHMKuZgffTixfpNCaIho/s400/P5286044+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615515212930375970" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4jDBzJC0PR2rsbxALwCVRAN1DwS1VHzvwguQ7nGg_pr5R7XmwyukMTi4dWWE3O0TjMlq20BBSjBH3Av3Q9nd6D5TrMGB1mFsBwbSJdTp2EEAFgNmSIpMBNaBbnGVbBaytn4Yt4hifS8/s1600/P5286041+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4jDBzJC0PR2rsbxALwCVRAN1DwS1VHzvwguQ7nGg_pr5R7XmwyukMTi4dWWE3O0TjMlq20BBSjBH3Av3Q9nd6D5TrMGB1mFsBwbSJdTp2EEAFgNmSIpMBNaBbnGVbBaytn4Yt4hifS8/s400/P5286041+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615509036944817954" /></a><br /><br />One other thing worth mentioning is the packaging, using recycled materials is a step in the right direction, more information on Keen's 'Corporate Responsibility can be found <a href="http://www.keenfootwear.com/beingresponsible.aspx">Here</a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr8EjJTLuxc8tkOWs4s_eUAMHToJ0ijnPeqAaMUHXn5sDdWidqfSuEBHZwgKDF_JG6vk9PA2rfU5Fz1SS3QnzH46YwZb9-27A-9vXxEiXPmBQn_hKalmTRkbUQRD1IYCj6IInR9ksfxYk/s1600/P5286048+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr8EjJTLuxc8tkOWs4s_eUAMHToJ0ijnPeqAaMUHXn5sDdWidqfSuEBHZwgKDF_JG6vk9PA2rfU5Fz1SS3QnzH46YwZb9-27A-9vXxEiXPmBQn_hKalmTRkbUQRD1IYCj6IInR9ksfxYk/s400/P5286048+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615509046644640242" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDPBsovvBsN8xMIck_YgaBThpxyfuFtMqtG4SxbMkxJ3SCOsyN9SlksYIxDQ9SbMdOaiphmYReYL68z0gX73IZ4Skkr24BEEzcnDxA0Cp2-vAIz998Fm28r-5X15hIwmRnc-cG7VCtRlA/s1600/P5286047+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDPBsovvBsN8xMIck_YgaBThpxyfuFtMqtG4SxbMkxJ3SCOsyN9SlksYIxDQ9SbMdOaiphmYReYL68z0gX73IZ4Skkr24BEEzcnDxA0Cp2-vAIz998Fm28r-5X15hIwmRnc-cG7VCtRlA/s400/P5286047+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615509044935017090" /></a><br /><br />Having worn basic trainers in my canoe and having had to wade through shallow parts of the river in them and having had experience of neoprene boots I didn't have any reservations about how they'd fare when used as intended. What I wanted to try though was wearing them as walking footwear. I don't like cold wet feet which is why I tend to use wool/wool mix socks or if I expect the going to be really wet I'll use gore tex socks however I had a short walk planned for today which I knew would primarily be on forest tracks or through the forest off trail so decided to try the Keens.<br /><br />As it turned out I could hardly have picked a worse (or better?) day to try them out. It was raining when Les arrived and continued for most of the time we were out with only a brief dry spell towards the end.<br /><br />Although we were mostly on a track at the beginning and I could feel my feet getting wet they never felt as cold as they would have just wearing trainers, I put this down to the slow rate at which the water penetrates the neoprene. With water running off my over trousers my feet were soon saturated but at no time did they feel cold.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjH9L4BeKeHw_hVBMVJEut7rjp0mhRWJyO_L0HyzxVxrNP-szoPmk00cy5msXoqRCsOUYrmM03KZ0QAB0cI_MDaotnMqOHnBr08VnYcniwHWMysxVM8RauZhL1PEzScY8Pb5x9slHpSvM/s1600/P1010842+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjH9L4BeKeHw_hVBMVJEut7rjp0mhRWJyO_L0HyzxVxrNP-szoPmk00cy5msXoqRCsOUYrmM03KZ0QAB0cI_MDaotnMqOHnBr08VnYcniwHWMysxVM8RauZhL1PEzScY8Pb5x9slHpSvM/s400/P1010842+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615514018258690802" /></a> <br /><br />The boots were comfortable while on the move although the toe bumper is quite noticable when stopped as it seems to down on my big toe. I found it slightly annoying but as I say I didn't notice it on the move, it may well be that it's something that is more/less noticable depending on foot shape. <br /><br />The sole unit provided plenty of grip on the tracks and off trail through the forest although I suspect that steep slopes with short wet grass may prove to be a problem. As I hadn't had the opportunity to test that I tried walking up a steeply angled wall which was covered in moss and again I didn't have a problem with lack of grip.<br /><br />I wouldn't expect them to dry quickly so once they're wet you can expect them to stay wet for the duration unless the weather is really warm/sunny. That's just a charcteristic of neoprene, my wetsuit/boots/gloves are just the same so if surfing on consecutive days you just have to put on wet kit but it does warm up quickly. The Keen boots being 3mm should of course dry quicker than my other kit which is 7mm.<br /><br />Used as intended they look like a good product, for canoeing or packrafting which requires a bit of walking they should be a good option as walking in them is no problem at all. Used as I did as a walking shoe/boot if you're aware of the way neoprene works they work just fine although in warmer weather they're likely to feel a bit hot/sweaty, the solution to that is to step into the 1st stream you find. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFBWBUmiTkuRhB0ZnqQJskNnVNGixjGfmXVgv3-YPfR5XFTU7GDhs9SN8zpOZr7yrnSUJm8A_MiVqoAMm34WKSCbAAWkT92SAU-b2FGK-1dYc-U6EqN-WstedQkqtpe1w_o4TzkHLLXhQ/s1600/P1010848+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFBWBUmiTkuRhB0ZnqQJskNnVNGixjGfmXVgv3-YPfR5XFTU7GDhs9SN8zpOZr7yrnSUJm8A_MiVqoAMm34WKSCbAAWkT92SAU-b2FGK-1dYc-U6EqN-WstedQkqtpe1w_o4TzkHLLXhQ/s400/P1010848+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615514030122909090" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCEuryizA6RVoTEoFVH-e1U-muYx39wXw0rnNlid-LXaERCLRrkqqz0upp72h1rh3-89a2q6r2HrUyqaFu6QKOUV_aU14keH6nH1fyjqoJ13U3S_CKg9YvU5UPxaZF8pLnRcfRi5rVHmY/s1600/P1010845+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCEuryizA6RVoTEoFVH-e1U-muYx39wXw0rnNlid-LXaERCLRrkqqz0upp72h1rh3-89a2q6r2HrUyqaFu6QKOUV_aU14keH6nH1fyjqoJ13U3S_CKg9YvU5UPxaZF8pLnRcfRi5rVHmY/s400/P1010845+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615514021433745954" /></a>Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-2668878314517752462011-06-06T21:12:00.004+01:002011-06-06T21:48:22.235+01:00Trion-Z Magnetic Therapy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhblWrJILVUnS3cA73ju6dB61S2Ygxa7yBK-_AKhSams3-wtSbukDU_jlh6VVXxLSpOD3-keYyXsxOOXwoqo9m0s6N-weljNBjvKOgvQRmDSL7PrXPXq9LRmfW2rIrtUQi4wkEoqwm6gLY/s1600/P5145875+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhblWrJILVUnS3cA73ju6dB61S2Ygxa7yBK-_AKhSams3-wtSbukDU_jlh6VVXxLSpOD3-keYyXsxOOXwoqo9m0s6N-weljNBjvKOgvQRmDSL7PrXPXq9LRmfW2rIrtUQi4wkEoqwm6gLY/s400/P5145875+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615210458720386610" /></a><br /><br />I was asked if I'd like to review the <a href="http://www.trionz.co.uk/">Trion-Z</a> Dual Loop magnetic therapy bracelet recently and decided to take up the offer. I'm normally a bit sceptical about these kind of things although having said that I'd be reluctant to dismiss them out of hand but probably the main reason why I agreed to give it a try was that for the past year or do I've been having trouble with my right shoulder. I suffered a fairly serious motorbike accident 10 years ago resulting in among other things 6 broken ribs, a punctured lung and a broken shoulder blade. One of the effects of that was that my right shoulder is about 2" lower than my left and while I hadn't initially suffered any after effects my shoulde has been starting to play up a bit. It tends to come and go for no obvious reason but it so happened that it was giving me some trouble when I received the offer of the <a href="http://www.trionz.co.uk/Category/1-dual-loop-bracelet.aspx">Trion-Z Dual Loop</a>.<br /><br />When I received the offer I had a look at the website and to be honest it doesn't exactly promise anything at all, in fact they state <br /><br />"Colantotte International dba. Trion:Z, nor its distributors, make any claim that any of its products are intended to prevent, cure, mitigate, treat or diagnose illness. <br /><br />If you believe you have a health problem, you should consult a doctor or health professional."<br /><br />The obvious question then is just how do you review a product that doesn't promise anything? Well I started wearing it 2 maybe 3 weeks ago and the truth is I haven't had any shoulder pain since, it has to be remembered though that the pain has come and gone of it's own accord for the past year so it's reasonable to assume that it's coincidence that my shoulder is fine just now even though I'm wearing the Trion-Z. <br /><br />I'll keep wearing it but if the pain comes back I'll post an update.<br /><br />As for the actual product well it's comfortable enough, I choose the suggested size according to the size chart and it isn't too tight or too loose. Durability is questionable though, not that it looks like breaking but it does get shabby/dirty looking quite soon. Would I have gone out and bought one? no, would I replace it if I lost it, probably not.<br /><br />Bottom line, if you're interested in <a href="http://www.trionz.co.uk/Topic/14-a-brief-background-to-magnetic-therapy.aspx">magnetic therapy </a>check out the website.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6lxhA4VrRh7RioNwl48UAf8Tu-Eyd4FTEJumVKo0nLlHiiIWnJlPlOxqT-G3FXN8s18DIpA90NrWdh7LlYtUHA-s6nAggwqJUlBqVJSoFblCXsldAbH1hi-rYXB78wzoqmCLbAMbiIt0/s1600/P5145872+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6lxhA4VrRh7RioNwl48UAf8Tu-Eyd4FTEJumVKo0nLlHiiIWnJlPlOxqT-G3FXN8s18DIpA90NrWdh7LlYtUHA-s6nAggwqJUlBqVJSoFblCXsldAbH1hi-rYXB78wzoqmCLbAMbiIt0/s400/P5145872+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615210455004300578" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCX9TJ33sJFss1ooSO3Gnd5BEmSfZ4NhLpFi04vFLwqO6fG2Di-ALg2LWyTuNTbydf3-zSarzSZNg14fEz54uPm04NdzfrOCkaTy1HA2BcG9QZzgtFHVCiBZS13YN80WVhNWEzyorE5Gs/s1600/P5145869+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCX9TJ33sJFss1ooSO3Gnd5BEmSfZ4NhLpFi04vFLwqO6fG2Di-ALg2LWyTuNTbydf3-zSarzSZNg14fEz54uPm04NdzfrOCkaTy1HA2BcG9QZzgtFHVCiBZS13YN80WVhNWEzyorE5Gs/s400/P5145869+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615210448736378626" /></a>Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-53979929800747476942011-05-31T20:32:00.006+01:002011-05-31T21:41:24.143+01:00Just a Walk in the Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuacYHmeMfk1rILHEmT7jnM-yoOh6zvCHut6kuB8NLmalVaFaPCoWdwoo8DnqczelKZEJXFHJMZZrKX2HIZ1hutCuXJ5Fqzawgz3nx6jaD7jv_vb6caFJEUOQzw7Nt3Zwmf2FqOkfj_Yk/s1600/P1010747+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuacYHmeMfk1rILHEmT7jnM-yoOh6zvCHut6kuB8NLmalVaFaPCoWdwoo8DnqczelKZEJXFHJMZZrKX2HIZ1hutCuXJ5Fqzawgz3nx6jaD7jv_vb6caFJEUOQzw7Nt3Zwmf2FqOkfj_Yk/s400/P1010747+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612979355756292738" /></a><br /><br />I went out with Les for a quick walk around Glenariff today, no route planned this time we arranged to meet at the lower car park with the intention of leaving a car there and driving to a different start point.<br /><br />It was an earlier than usual start but we both had other stuff to attend to so an earlyish start and a shorter than normal walk meant we'd be finished around lunch time. The weather has improved over the past few days and although there were a few clouds around it was warm when the sun did break through. At 1st we stuck to the forest trails just outside the actual park boundry but left the trail and took to the fire breaks to reach a small lough Les had been to recently. It's one I've passed close to often but I'd never actually taken the time to check it out but approaching from the North looks like the best option as the trees open out to reveal it before closing again behind so it looks like a hidden oasis.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHjPg1JI1OiF9_zi1HpXRRZfgD3kaz_DOQs2VfAXSu-rIoZh3huKJ1QgzLwQPPyofBmMc2h_Sa12yvs_m6cvInhDsY4M5wvLkbk-9qSHGWnkGga0XBaMHwSJzPceUmc5WOD8qf9LEysa8/s1600/P1010752+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHjPg1JI1OiF9_zi1HpXRRZfgD3kaz_DOQs2VfAXSu-rIoZh3huKJ1QgzLwQPPyofBmMc2h_Sa12yvs_m6cvInhDsY4M5wvLkbk-9qSHGWnkGga0XBaMHwSJzPceUmc5WOD8qf9LEysa8/s400/P1010752+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612979351821984626" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6uYEssqDkz_Cx536gsFoNdJVLxudTPiqDbMhyphenhyphendYrdpglZnTiLCZD7n3LaOj5x3IepyhcnkgeIBpqwN4QncfU92GW7IoQozLkktqqDmXF8TlUxR7H9gBbJh6rdj3qOUCiGvDHnJ7WwONA/s1600/P1010756+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6uYEssqDkz_Cx536gsFoNdJVLxudTPiqDbMhyphenhyphendYrdpglZnTiLCZD7n3LaOj5x3IepyhcnkgeIBpqwN4QncfU92GW7IoQozLkktqqDmXF8TlUxR7H9gBbJh6rdj3qOUCiGvDHnJ7WwONA/s400/P1010756+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612979051173193746" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxh7RmsioMVD3tSPNDugc5TrJU0U4n-CGgjDSE6wxIZJMv9OhSt_hM7CCRfFWrlQuSLhv0WW-554iVOHvB6P68qhe9ncdK5mxJUTXfjtZFNv3u_29_FEgDPDR00U4jtmnJ8C0b6_Th4us/s1600/P1010758+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxh7RmsioMVD3tSPNDugc5TrJU0U4n-CGgjDSE6wxIZJMv9OhSt_hM7CCRfFWrlQuSLhv0WW-554iVOHvB6P68qhe9ncdK5mxJUTXfjtZFNv3u_29_FEgDPDR00U4jtmnJ8C0b6_Th4us/s400/P1010758+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612979047216274258" /></a><br /><br />Rather than aiming for the higher ground after leaving the lough we headed for a forest track that led us out on to the open hill from where we headed towards one of the waterfalls in the park. Rather than stop by the side of the trail or take to the forest for a lunch break we boulder hopped down the stream until we reached a steep waterfall were we stopped for a cuppa. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5dQIO3xS8x7mbwrMRyzWts50qep5ABYPorfs4abncAU8M9bIlqKkswv-_eSc0U7OuWqrqCtdMptQ3pxbH_CoccPD09tu3WCumizak4vA4ePuTZtTSxuKVr9QOBIFLzV1aBCP4zZwGRgQ/s1600/P1010768+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5dQIO3xS8x7mbwrMRyzWts50qep5ABYPorfs4abncAU8M9bIlqKkswv-_eSc0U7OuWqrqCtdMptQ3pxbH_CoccPD09tu3WCumizak4vA4ePuTZtTSxuKVr9QOBIFLzV1aBCP4zZwGRgQ/s400/P1010768+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612979042558294514" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLK3IFtPr1cCXraoaAsAL9xoUeY6bNjRFkpKEdUU0d5932TdsD3_Z78S_z27QdeVcE-qEuTTgj3PEGtyNEptIWWulpExwk_0jCGMqyCHhrayuyE00GrHf4dp-Qex9IrYo9x0OAWFXaxaw/s1600/P1010770+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLK3IFtPr1cCXraoaAsAL9xoUeY6bNjRFkpKEdUU0d5932TdsD3_Z78S_z27QdeVcE-qEuTTgj3PEGtyNEptIWWulpExwk_0jCGMqyCHhrayuyE00GrHf4dp-Qex9IrYo9x0OAWFXaxaw/s400/P1010770+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612979038877902722" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ZbakVjlSAfWzMF4-lx8ZJ7LOMCoZDQsU3f2DwbsKfZ3WoS8vxmbm6bFADaEHhda9dBkdXM8HPmbTjJywGYs1NSHsF_iEWlfaSk-bCCCXPEwczP8uPangeLLPXH5EYMC3gnyVQUo5qOg/s1600/P1010773+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ZbakVjlSAfWzMF4-lx8ZJ7LOMCoZDQsU3f2DwbsKfZ3WoS8vxmbm6bFADaEHhda9dBkdXM8HPmbTjJywGYs1NSHsF_iEWlfaSk-bCCCXPEwczP8uPangeLLPXH5EYMC3gnyVQUo5qOg/s400/P1010773+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612979033435730098" /></a><br /><br />I'd gone back to a plastic mug some time ago in preference to a (heavier) titanium mug but had recently considered a Kupilka Kuksa. Heavier than a plastic mug the composite Kupilka does look nice with a traditional feel. In the end I didn't go for the Kupilka as although it's traditional in Scandanavia it isn't in the UK, what I decided to go for was an old type enamel mug, white with a blue rim. I know some people say the enamel can crack and so on but as I've used a beercan pot in the past I'm sure I'll be able to take care of a tin mug. I hadn't used it until today but I think it's nicer to drink from than a ti or plastic mug and in Les's case an improvement on using the lid off the cooking pot but at 125g or thereabouts it's outrageously heavy ;-) <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_GjmgKfrgWCPrO_tlNzrGRIJc1VBhgqxCilieS9-WnpbipUwz258ryfihj3CfZ9KhwpK-9DlSwtkupJO03T5xdRa30zKIChEH2EqjUo32-QyIj_yBJYdyT6ZBtea48SaJS3MX9K8Ku0/s1600/P1010783+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_GjmgKfrgWCPrO_tlNzrGRIJc1VBhgqxCilieS9-WnpbipUwz258ryfihj3CfZ9KhwpK-9DlSwtkupJO03T5xdRa30zKIChEH2EqjUo32-QyIj_yBJYdyT6ZBtea48SaJS3MX9K8Ku0/s400/P1010783+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612978465087452130" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGRXX4OzfsdV3vEWqKcF7PV00RJmACHkcj4OdRpd8kSKT_73sjJxe__Ve_UP-zrkLh42v2fCDT-1zPU4X97UWYWVNPvT3fJ5gqOxh1yY5-6ersEJ0QnyidjPDN5_F1TLfLKgYnKEAf5E/s1600/P1010778+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGRXX4OzfsdV3vEWqKcF7PV00RJmACHkcj4OdRpd8kSKT_73sjJxe__Ve_UP-zrkLh42v2fCDT-1zPU4X97UWYWVNPvT3fJ5gqOxh1yY5-6ersEJ0QnyidjPDN5_F1TLfLKgYnKEAf5E/s400/P1010778+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612978470981423922" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEMYl0cnGp-uCoheLcZtubG6AU3-FYA3-HvXhN9slX-nEAy_udbT8QEOL4ed5OattMpEOD9tLQ_aMeaMyuetZw-ujYS7o72M6ESdmc4N8uOLvXxhHzOanF4jdaMIY3Vm25emP_KApSmHc/s1600/P1010781+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEMYl0cnGp-uCoheLcZtubG6AU3-FYA3-HvXhN9slX-nEAy_udbT8QEOL4ed5OattMpEOD9tLQ_aMeaMyuetZw-ujYS7o72M6ESdmc4N8uOLvXxhHzOanF4jdaMIY3Vm25emP_KApSmHc/s400/P1010781+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612978467126806130" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUA6BqhE4lz2u-3P784VVdgfMlIUzl2N84tS9rGmMt72HMRc5lqOZme7ocgHImcOrDGOZICQLx61-2YaOzKhxQkgnTssST11IGAsu6bnTonn1O_aXTIXSQKBgMdH28-eUOv1IFv85xlAw/s1600/P1010788+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUA6BqhE4lz2u-3P784VVdgfMlIUzl2N84tS9rGmMt72HMRc5lqOZme7ocgHImcOrDGOZICQLx61-2YaOzKhxQkgnTssST11IGAsu6bnTonn1O_aXTIXSQKBgMdH28-eUOv1IFv85xlAw/s400/P1010788+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612978461463714562" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOuYz1N0IafyT5W7BOd4-l_g8grsb0GFsxFeSaPr4ZMxHvKsN2bAeoHqRba1ocYLfeuw3ZzdCBbH3_TX356khKWK8RyJ2INi8d7c17z2wT1xuXFI8Ezo8v_bK5cZsAkhXGxNEusq9BxVs/s1600/P1010790+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOuYz1N0IafyT5W7BOd4-l_g8grsb0GFsxFeSaPr4ZMxHvKsN2bAeoHqRba1ocYLfeuw3ZzdCBbH3_TX356khKWK8RyJ2INi8d7c17z2wT1xuXFI8Ezo8v_bK5cZsAkhXGxNEusq9BxVs/s400/P1010790+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612975514036015714" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcdyJ5rMjL4qh8NpIa0lV3qunT_m-4pcAB3FD5uyrqZS5cmnh_9QGOKFE07XzUZuUt0Lh50ttK6njdGS1fHAcSG6tDKZMO86dfBz4x4-k-r42IZNFfRpcFV0wkk5M5eYhQjnxyv-Vqyc/s1600/P1010776+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcdyJ5rMjL4qh8NpIa0lV3qunT_m-4pcAB3FD5uyrqZS5cmnh_9QGOKFE07XzUZuUt0Lh50ttK6njdGS1fHAcSG6tDKZMO86dfBz4x4-k-r42IZNFfRpcFV0wkk5M5eYhQjnxyv-Vqyc/s400/P1010776+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612978482588152322" /></a><br /><br />We ended up going back to the trail for a couple of reason's, one we couldn't easily circumvent the waterfall but more importantly there are areas of the forest closed. Some of the Larch, Japanese hybrids IIRC have become infected by <a href="http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pramorum">Phytophthora Ramorum </a>and in an attempt to stop it spreading they're being felled and soit's better to stick to the trail where the warning notices have been posted.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwReazCtF60q1Y-a4AW8XUCGC5EN5kaKfAHrEXz3ZzRU5O95EetJFAWm6zTawPcVAMsa-60X6VE_CjV7gFBwMGL8Jo-K11bordu68b2p2DSAsR7bClvfONPgMfejibiyuWq80T2i7MYpI/s1600/P1010795+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwReazCtF60q1Y-a4AW8XUCGC5EN5kaKfAHrEXz3ZzRU5O95EetJFAWm6zTawPcVAMsa-60X6VE_CjV7gFBwMGL8Jo-K11bordu68b2p2DSAsR7bClvfONPgMfejibiyuWq80T2i7MYpI/s400/P1010795+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612975510022642530" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil274k1xE_h2m4c23rX_cpRi3s6PwNhCz8rn_UJ6CMabubLl71YBUBVvwzdzr9EGE1jKfTBQn9l63E4O_Xt5UhxOs8iPS0xDjq_ZlQhpxAz0quhoMI7M9xfcBVmK6iIdS-6TvxPramusY/s1600/P1010800+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil274k1xE_h2m4c23rX_cpRi3s6PwNhCz8rn_UJ6CMabubLl71YBUBVvwzdzr9EGE1jKfTBQn9l63E4O_Xt5UhxOs8iPS0xDjq_ZlQhpxAz0quhoMI7M9xfcBVmK6iIdS-6TvxPramusY/s400/P1010800+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612975498968696466" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVCjnZA0948w3jHf-GHUEwNKnHCdqMCAS6ZmGq_u6seJuSHvVsU3cPIBfPdPOBRHY5SfGUOOuNjtsgEA-pntD1gSHC6ep12_Ap7jpwik3Le92GZdSutjFsuZKaQwbuGFIPaY_vyXFz8Fg/s1600/P1010808+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVCjnZA0948w3jHf-GHUEwNKnHCdqMCAS6ZmGq_u6seJuSHvVsU3cPIBfPdPOBRHY5SfGUOOuNjtsgEA-pntD1gSHC6ep12_Ap7jpwik3Le92GZdSutjFsuZKaQwbuGFIPaY_vyXFz8Fg/s400/P1010808+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612975492038251730" /></a><br /><br />As we made our way along the top trail the areas where trees were being felled could be seen on the other side of the glen although there were no signs that the disease had spread to the side we were on. While on the top path we could see Troatan being hit with a few rain showers and within minutes we too were hit with a short but quite heavy shower although that was the only rain we'd had all day.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKLKCfQT8sZDOM_0TRruZy_z3-Q_pkj-or4DTW1dr3Z4gmKLZCglh0nl3bfCmm9tsGxKUh4lpLAeEOa4X2mivHft1TynZq6oIH3HGA-MtnB-fRGrM-kb3mHNzVpfndqS0NAMbmkuhlBE/s1600/P1010805+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKLKCfQT8sZDOM_0TRruZy_z3-Q_pkj-or4DTW1dr3Z4gmKLZCglh0nl3bfCmm9tsGxKUh4lpLAeEOa4X2mivHft1TynZq6oIH3HGA-MtnB-fRGrM-kb3mHNzVpfndqS0NAMbmkuhlBE/s400/P1010805+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612975494398949682" /></a><br /><br />All in all it was a pleasant day even if the route was only around 10k but although I'm back at work tomorrow I'm already looking forward to finishing my shift and getting out again. Hopefully the weather will improve now coming into June as I'd like to give the hammock a try out.Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-4913050010682220582011-05-29T21:55:00.007+01:002011-05-31T19:21:14.279+01:00MYOG, Kick Ass Quilts Potomac, Synthetic Hammock Under Quilt<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgclr9I-v6pyEc6G7hWBWfWwIWMj0kqZIg0ymVLnAdX6JUU9iQQjL_e1uaj42DQcM9aWkFILrA7NrP2CvOmiFZn_0ZH5hkoKQaH75FZDF8U0jfALjgNFJmPzqH21PcjjeVCBlvxv5vf0HI/s1600/P1010815+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612944007955708194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgclr9I-v6pyEc6G7hWBWfWwIWMj0kqZIg0ymVLnAdX6JUU9iQQjL_e1uaj42DQcM9aWkFILrA7NrP2CvOmiFZn_0ZH5hkoKQaH75FZDF8U0jfALjgNFJmPzqH21PcjjeVCBlvxv5vf0HI/s400/P1010815+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I mentioned <a href="http://maceachain.blogspot.com/2011/05/myog-cheap-hammock-under-quilt.html">previously</a> that having tried to make a hammock Under Quilt by converting a regular sleeping bag that I wanted to try to make one from scratch. I’d decided that I’d use easily available materials and go synthetic rather than down for simplicity and low cost but the only <a href="http://www.hammockforums.net/index.php?page=kaq">plans</a> I could come up with were ones to make an asymmetric quilt designed for a Hennessey hammock. The plans were made available by the guy who originally made the <a href="http://arrowheadequipment.webs.com/apps/webstore/products/show/945127">Kick Ass Quilts Potomac </a>but as my hammock is a regular gathered end hammock I was doubtful that it would fit. In the end I decided to go ahead anyway as Ralph has a Hennessey hammock so it would fit his and if it did work with mine I could make another.<br /><br />The only fabric that I could get locally was regular polyester (used for dress lining etc) and cheap unbranded synthetic insulation. I bought 4 meters each of black and grey polyester and 4 meters of insulation in 2 different weights together with some Grosgrain ribbon, shock cord and cord locks. I could only get 2mm shock cord which is a bit thin and the cord locks which had to have tape loops came from an ebay seller in Hong Kong, all in it came to just under £50 and I hoped to make 2 quilts.<br /><br />I had to make a pattern which was drawn out on stuff I’d picked up last year to make a tent footprint. The quilt is asymmetric and tapers at each end with the foot end being slightly narrower than the head end, in addition there were 2 darts, one near the foot on one side and one at the head on the other.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifwZVxMIvPI-nBrBiFbTcUIXwRW0jBN9Rp_AO7cZXyQ8mxlpPYewPIom2Qm3J5hzpEmCzaYaFnbb0_FXZslnSnrO7QgdPUjDJv50XVUUaNRnAid79lz09pcJ9kVBwKXjapMjE8GGqc6c4/s1600/P1010728.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612245740924368354" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifwZVxMIvPI-nBrBiFbTcUIXwRW0jBN9Rp_AO7cZXyQ8mxlpPYewPIom2Qm3J5hzpEmCzaYaFnbb0_FXZslnSnrO7QgdPUjDJv50XVUUaNRnAid79lz09pcJ9kVBwKXjapMjE8GGqc6c4/s400/P1010728.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Pattern Laid out Ready to Pin to the fabric</strong><br /><br />The 1st thing was to lay up the fabric, (black for the inner, towards the hammock, grey for the outer) pin on the pattern and cut the 2 pieces out. With the inner and outer cut I made up the 6 drawcord tunnels, one for each end and 2 for each side (one long, one short). The corners of the inner were reinforced by stitching on pieces of fabric which extended along the sides/ends by about 4 inches.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzF1kPW8Toan9b8FKp1UhI4jAO1re_ricuTPEd8fK8oUHX_tybuqvRHjd5XCkQVMuBEZIGu55SehPkwJlVd4m_PrNbQzSzL4MBxyIQ1QJzrMAL7v_q8ptnVjklg5w8ZDEUToJDWn0aj3s/s1600/P1010730.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612245752178528562" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzF1kPW8Toan9b8FKp1UhI4jAO1re_ricuTPEd8fK8oUHX_tybuqvRHjd5XCkQVMuBEZIGu55SehPkwJlVd4m_PrNbQzSzL4MBxyIQ1QJzrMAL7v_q8ptnVjklg5w8ZDEUToJDWn0aj3s/s400/P1010730.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Reinforcing Patches Pinned to the inside of the Inner Shell</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3a8IqzhtYKZmY0o3VILG2o3Y6rJXnw3hFhTYJArL_vbJDB86G7BexzQg27W4Cl4h3nAGOW77gF0arhtsy5hMQRsulChmh3Ee2t0Sw2cJE3CKavaC9O3YILY9UYxbCER8PmjJ7BGbS6_s/s1600/P1010729.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612245745174737762" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3a8IqzhtYKZmY0o3VILG2o3Y6rJXnw3hFhTYJArL_vbJDB86G7BexzQg27W4Cl4h3nAGOW77gF0arhtsy5hMQRsulChmh3Ee2t0Sw2cJE3CKavaC9O3YILY9UYxbCER8PmjJ7BGbS6_s/s400/P1010729.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The next step was to sew the reinforcing patches to the inside of the inner part, with that done I sewed the drawcord tunnels to the outside of the inner part.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fvkr_VCzkbB4AUa-o0CQsSSRBGDgWsCAwqNVa-do0AlpNKuIOrRiSLlfQds2SGMKa0T7gd-EeI_wFXceWwq1UhMLrCZTTBLmSJ9zE_Qdm9ddFL5WymaXAANkiIJ-MK_NJvsf9ePY3EA/s1600/P1010734.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612245758925173698" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fvkr_VCzkbB4AUa-o0CQsSSRBGDgWsCAwqNVa-do0AlpNKuIOrRiSLlfQds2SGMKa0T7gd-EeI_wFXceWwq1UhMLrCZTTBLmSJ9zE_Qdm9ddFL5WymaXAANkiIJ-MK_NJvsf9ePY3EA/s400/P1010734.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Attaching the Drawcord Tunnels</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdyZ5ytdscRYUQFwIrtwvzIuS4vZk1zC1xnrUYVPHcQlaXXh2Qoer72xHiuQZFet3q6QwlQmMYu6YVvSeQ-r4fhHLL0oeC1cy3srbt-RqNHZTDyKjFhUMsNJrBOPXcw-pbtwgusAw0lvk/s1600/P1010732.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612245750180217730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdyZ5ytdscRYUQFwIrtwvzIuS4vZk1zC1xnrUYVPHcQlaXXh2Qoer72xHiuQZFet3q6QwlQmMYu6YVvSeQ-r4fhHLL0oeC1cy3srbt-RqNHZTDyKjFhUMsNJrBOPXcw-pbtwgusAw0lvk/s400/P1010732.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I made a bit of a mistake here as I made the drawcord tunnels too long which left me with very little room to attach the Grosgrain loops. It was just possible to sew on the loops but at the corners opposite the plain loops I needed to sew on 2 cord locks attached to Grosgrain, I simply didn’t have enough working space here so decided to leave them until the end and simply sew them on to the outside once everything else was sewn up. To finish the inner I simply sewed up the darts on each side which helps form the quilt aroud the hammock.<br /><br />Most of the work is done on the inner shell of the quilt and with it finished I used the outer shell as a pattern to cut the insulation. I cut the insulation a few centimetres bigger than the fabric as the plans suggested that it would stop the insulation curling up around the foot of the sewing machine when the inner, outer and insulation were sewn together. Once the insulation was cut to size I looslely hand sewed the darts on the insulation and machine sewed the darts on the outer shell.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_nFGIbAyA6WkpT2SGzAQ_mbjlK5rdqNP9wfVmc4xoK3ehjqF77QuG69YO1HQSi97dDB2KSn6zRu3VrrbXaGXFd3fmllbNmOQSWUusVWQNnOgR3yMj9rsJe-D0YtVY57_BCsSQ_23V2BM/s1600/P1010738.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612247259475433602" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_nFGIbAyA6WkpT2SGzAQ_mbjlK5rdqNP9wfVmc4xoK3ehjqF77QuG69YO1HQSi97dDB2KSn6zRu3VrrbXaGXFd3fmllbNmOQSWUusVWQNnOgR3yMj9rsJe-D0YtVY57_BCsSQ_23V2BM/s400/P1010738.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Cutting the Insulation using the Outer Shell as a Pattern</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_mLpyXySp3oh7qfDLwi1fSmCdP1tHMwTxbnQthvKQcLoxZ4_tCLaE6ThXafLKa4zyxMhdkMivX9XTmhhoPkketjYOjBW4lVVKyyNnPq9gONSraWnhW7vX2LxEzTZ-QibScZIq_PBvKRU/s1600/P1010736.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612247253233404018" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_mLpyXySp3oh7qfDLwi1fSmCdP1tHMwTxbnQthvKQcLoxZ4_tCLaE6ThXafLKa4zyxMhdkMivX9XTmhhoPkketjYOjBW4lVVKyyNnPq9gONSraWnhW7vX2LxEzTZ-QibScZIq_PBvKRU/s400/P1010736.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Assistant Checking Comfort Rating</strong><br /><br />With all the parts finished I was ready to attempt the step I was least looking forward to, sewing the 3 layers together. The bit that looked like causing the biggest problem was getting the seam in the right place to ensure the drawcord tunnels didn’t end up too narrow yet to ensure that once turned inside out (actually right side out as it’s sewn together with the right side facing in) that the stitching attaching the drawcord tunnels to the inner shell weren’t showing.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTaY2UOJHMytTg8E9KCiFMXgEKD7fJ3ieBq-bSPKXvHX_U4gcfLU_RW8_stgyNY9BIol1RBaVb9SxQj5EG9mk-ui5vOI0b2CGQRec9CMOeK-tovufcHPtX7SuCYKQbXBXzqo5MKxthHw/s1600/P1010739.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612247262195080450" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTaY2UOJHMytTg8E9KCiFMXgEKD7fJ3ieBq-bSPKXvHX_U4gcfLU_RW8_stgyNY9BIol1RBaVb9SxQj5EG9mk-ui5vOI0b2CGQRec9CMOeK-tovufcHPtX7SuCYKQbXBXzqo5MKxthHw/s400/P1010739.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Insulation, Inner Shell and Outer Shell Pinned for Sewing</strong><br /><br />I spent quite a bit of time pining everything together, constantly checking that the parts that I couldn’t actually see once pinned were all in the correct position. In the end sewing it all together wasn’t too bad although unfortunately I did manage to let some of the inside drawcord tunnels stitching show along one side, it doesn’t affect the performance of the quilt but it doesn’t look very nice.<br /><br />I’d left part of the foot end open so that I could turn everything right way out and I have to admit I was pretty happy with it all things considered once I’d laid it out right way out. With that done the final stitching was to fold in the opening at the foot, sew it up and sew on the double captive cord locks at opposite corners.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQuV3h2LRv630fr5ZcoL36-igXFEFYYZsdtWyW0g-Sse4zK92yDgcdkzZFvjR-D8a7wDk5LyjLwhnE_gTwBA35IdNPCFUvDOwmbd_ZRc49ARFB1ymb2GwZjuQOs0cQICNj9OGRQ0-w4R8/s1600/P1010742.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612247266664003842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQuV3h2LRv630fr5ZcoL36-igXFEFYYZsdtWyW0g-Sse4zK92yDgcdkzZFvjR-D8a7wDk5LyjLwhnE_gTwBA35IdNPCFUvDOwmbd_ZRc49ARFB1ymb2GwZjuQOs0cQICNj9OGRQ0-w4R8/s400/P1010742.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>All Sewn Up Ready for the Shockcords and Attachment Cords</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLThQBA6MJiY_7leCLJnlEQx-ZamfWSTf9oQStwkc9hOJG0ewWas4KEVpa1h3xYHqUayfqAI4wdRyeibNxfnLTOHmJrwFfkWfE4CadjNy6HGXYCKq8zScdIZhlhT5Qn6jb6YKATWLS_hI/s1600/P1010744.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612247272362679298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLThQBA6MJiY_7leCLJnlEQx-ZamfWSTf9oQStwkc9hOJG0ewWas4KEVpa1h3xYHqUayfqAI4wdRyeibNxfnLTOHmJrwFfkWfE4CadjNy6HGXYCKq8zScdIZhlhT5Qn6jb6YKATWLS_hI/s400/P1010744.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>625g, Just Needs A Stuff Sack.</strong><br /><br />Once that was done I added the shock cord which gathers the quilt around the hammock and fitted the heavier shock cords that attach the quilt to the hammock. I’ve tried it on my hammock and while it would work it isn’t ideal but I’m curious to see how it looks on a Hennessey, for what it‘s worth it ended up weighing 625g. The only thing left to do is sew up a stuff sack and pass it on to Ralph.<br /><br />It wasn’t too difficult in the end and while I made a few mistakes I’ve learned a bit so I’d change a few things from a construction point of view. What I need to do now is come up with a design that suits my hammock better, a rectangular quilt would work ok, the one I made from the sleeping bag is rectangular, but it seems to me that there’s a lot of excess weight at the ends where everything is gathered up so I’ll probably come up with some kind of tapered shape, slightly narrower at the foot and slightly shorter than the KAQ Potomac. The shorter and narrower I can manage with the lighter it’ll end up and I’d like to get it down to a max of 500g.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpBzEkVyHOTw_s96-cAJnCGBeotx7E5u1n5AgyF5kTh3BbVjO-xFTBgU1ExhY4epGEaJcAbqUh1SfyNGP-yhWEoCAYEX-sBLIX7CYYnFFgOJWzIV7-7UuLTQUgNgvu-ZLNK2kJyes08k8/s1600/P1010816+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612944013030276130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpBzEkVyHOTw_s96-cAJnCGBeotx7E5u1n5AgyF5kTh3BbVjO-xFTBgU1ExhY4epGEaJcAbqUh1SfyNGP-yhWEoCAYEX-sBLIX7CYYnFFgOJWzIV7-7UuLTQUgNgvu-ZLNK2kJyes08k8/s400/P1010816+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Darts Allowing Quilt to Form around Hammock</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbToBN718tWycmGFguqEKOk5p7uscFv0JzCU1Zyr2EdeliXCa2MyRTN3krSibUSjkMJ0S-1RWg0ELn2EVTKbL2GdEz_I-DvzBSCRQmmC1aciq5WSjHLWm5A9q5Jm-IbO6uGqGtQUqL5Y/s1600/P1010814+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612944018407712562" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbToBN718tWycmGFguqEKOk5p7uscFv0JzCU1Zyr2EdeliXCa2MyRTN3krSibUSjkMJ0S-1RWg0ELn2EVTKbL2GdEz_I-DvzBSCRQmmC1aciq5WSjHLWm5A9q5Jm-IbO6uGqGtQUqL5Y/s400/P1010814+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Packed, PU Coated Ripstop Stuff Sack, A Compression Strap Would reduce the Packed length by about 1/3rd </strong>Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-25165378889802316022011-05-26T23:01:00.007+01:002011-05-27T21:34:48.254+01:00In and Around Ballypatrick Forest<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3moeCjqS7ao_2UaMRdF6GkSIvDCN2GYHHopPDDye063qjOmsQFxsm0lP_kahNaa1_LwnC1ny1M6h5INkMQZOFRxMXxbr83TiPdWppK5BFYUhWrkC8hzGhUZioYA9OGAT0LhGi4CDGcYY/s1600/P5245985+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611150306399206978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3moeCjqS7ao_2UaMRdF6GkSIvDCN2GYHHopPDDye063qjOmsQFxsm0lP_kahNaa1_LwnC1ny1M6h5INkMQZOFRxMXxbr83TiPdWppK5BFYUhWrkC8hzGhUZioYA9OGAT0LhGi4CDGcYY/s400/P5245985+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I managed to get out again this week, it took until Tuesday though as like most of the UK the weather was pretty grim, continual heavy rain on Saturday and high winds on Monday that took a few tiles of our roof meant I didn't do much but I'd arranged with Les to go out on Tuesday.<br /><br />I’ve been using Mapyx Quo mapping software for a while now and had upgraded my Garmin Gecko 301 to a Lowrance Safari with Quo Mobil XT mapping software installed but to be honest I hadn’t used it much as I really can’t be bothered to spend a lot of time on hi tech kit, especially when it comes to mapping as I know my way around the local hills anyway. Les however had purchased Quo and was using it with a Garmin mapping handheld (not sure what the model is) We wanted to try them back to back and try e-mailing routes to each other so I decided on the route, Les having done last weeks walk and planned a walk in one of the local forest parks with a bit of off trail (in the forest) and open hill work thrown in for good measure.<br /><br />I was a bit more organised this week and had everything prepared the night before as I wanted to replace the missing roof tiles before setting off. The weather was slightly better than it had been but I wanted to try something different clothing wise so this time opted for my Montane Extreme smock, Uniqlo windproof easy trousers and this time wore a pair of Gore Bike Wear gore-tex socks with the Adidas Terrex Seamless.<br /><br />Although it was bright when we set off for Ballypatrick forest there were a few heavy showers on the way which didn’t provide much of a clue as to what lay in store. By the time we were parked up the sun was shining and with the shelter of the trees I was regretting choosing Pertex/Pile and wishing I’d opted for the lighter Paramo VAL. The intention was to follow the trails for a bit before aiming for the highest point in the forest, the unpronounceable (to me anyway) Carneighaneigh from which it seemed there would be good views towards Ballycastle across the sound to Rathlin and possibly even the Mull of Kintyre to the N East and Donegal to the N West, in addition there was an cairn of some description marked on the map. From the high point the plan was to descend back into the forest using rough tracks and avoiding the actual forest drive where possible to visit a Mesolithic cairn and then on through the forest and on to the open hill for a bit before hopefully navigating to a fire break which would lead us back onto the trails and from there to the car park. Like last week we were accompanied by Fly, a one year old this week Cocker owned by Les. Fly is a cracking wee dog, full of life and character and with an endless reserve of energy.<br /><br />We Hadn’t gone to far before Les was ditching his jacket while I had to make do with opening every zip on the Extreme smock but as we started up the trail towards the high point the clouds rolled in and the wind picked up so I didn’t over heat too much.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXSWNqDPH1SHdGg244Z1IYPIfpf0w16rz6viO-ZhjJlOUovcNTxlbbuPyHxCTT4B4U6dPLMWJ87NlgaelFNhgfr6HfkT-KPPh3JK6efMILMnVw8hD0rrEVUClTQfC67CucjByhPqb3kKA/s1600/P5245946+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611149684467848626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXSWNqDPH1SHdGg244Z1IYPIfpf0w16rz6viO-ZhjJlOUovcNTxlbbuPyHxCTT4B4U6dPLMWJ87NlgaelFNhgfr6HfkT-KPPh3JK6efMILMnVw8hD0rrEVUClTQfC67CucjByhPqb3kKA/s400/P5245946+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />At the high point the views were much as I’d expected although visibility wasn’t the best, one thing that really stood out was the reef just off the coast near Ballycastle, I’m not sure what it’s called but looking at the map it may well be Carrickmannon, it was a seething mass of white water clearly visible even in the less than perfect light. The cairn was a bit of an anti climax looking more like a croft had been knocked down and bulldozed into a heap but we went for a closer look anyway. We had just about reached it when the shower that had been heading our direction finally arrived so we simply dropped down a firebreak for a bit of shelter. There were a few hailstones but it lasted less than 5 minutes in the end.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVNNoZzTthpE2ZV1JgMeXuumuZAw6DGzm6dhbUH3o31UJDISm10cw_CcZ3TB1xXHTUEONx5MVKvOAZwD_Qz-iDh9JOKjvBgETv_e4AjSIpRCzIDJSDNDwMxgeKMfVKwdx1bFxEPegAics/s1600/P5245952+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611149688999478866" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVNNoZzTthpE2ZV1JgMeXuumuZAw6DGzm6dhbUH3o31UJDISm10cw_CcZ3TB1xXHTUEONx5MVKvOAZwD_Qz-iDh9JOKjvBgETv_e4AjSIpRCzIDJSDNDwMxgeKMfVKwdx1bFxEPegAics/s400/P5245952+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />With the clouds speeding away we set off again descending down a rough track back into the forest where once again due to the shelter of the trees I needed to open all the vents on the smock to stay reasonably comfortable. Quite a few trees looked like they’d come down in the previous 24 hours but I spent a bit of time looking for potential hammock camping spots.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS9eeOpA7ZvJKc0FokrAqZFpp6M3bC7U6r3ADioP3a34xOG0O26MnUV8w4boSx18KqyInZVpz1S0DFWVZHmuy7ZkA34yO3WbxEn97Ple_L2J3M_kn2H-l5orQAhIH8QguQXfjiSvX8vUs/s1600/P5245968+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611151797663801426" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS9eeOpA7ZvJKc0FokrAqZFpp6M3bC7U6r3ADioP3a34xOG0O26MnUV8w4boSx18KqyInZVpz1S0DFWVZHmuy7ZkA34yO3WbxEn97Ple_L2J3M_kn2H-l5orQAhIH8QguQXfjiSvX8vUs/s400/P5245968+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />It seems though that no matter where you go fly tippers will have been there before, I can imagine Amundsun arriving at the South Pole to discover a rusty washing machine and a kid’s trike. To be truthful though the bits and pieces that were lying around were slowly but surely returning to their natural sate or being gradually buried under a blanket of pine needles.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhixoAcGWEZzJreM49abfMjuSw4F_Uw5UDv8AFypEe74MHUkLp3Va2jqXD_sNGWao7KoZkLZOf68079PlLAOae2JI3gAXPzpHZV_dHFUputGqbPnKsWT1rsc-8lWO5ldURU_a6tMXkR4pY/s1600/P5245971+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611149692581423250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhixoAcGWEZzJreM49abfMjuSw4F_Uw5UDv8AFypEe74MHUkLp3Va2jqXD_sNGWao7KoZkLZOf68079PlLAOae2JI3gAXPzpHZV_dHFUputGqbPnKsWT1rsc-8lWO5ldURU_a6tMXkR4pY/s400/P5245971+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />It didn’t take too long before we reached the Mesolithic 2 Horned Cairn, hmmm looks like a pile of rocks to me but I’ll take their word for it. Ironically while the sun had been shining when we were in the forest the moment we reached an area where tree felling had been in progress and shelter was scarce the skies darkened and the rain looked to be on it’s way again.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9dZB391ptiCriK_DV4aEGL2EwXY8LpB86yyFQIrOaIdlS4yymrgtEkoD5PZEXFOqzst2qEd6306AIH1zYac1kjJUr3NtOaU5MJF6dPWrHWStS5Frj2Ci40WohVtafmiQR76vSsLaSus/s1600/P5245974+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611149695357322130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9dZB391ptiCriK_DV4aEGL2EwXY8LpB86yyFQIrOaIdlS4yymrgtEkoD5PZEXFOqzst2qEd6306AIH1zYac1kjJUr3NtOaU5MJF6dPWrHWStS5Frj2Ci40WohVtafmiQR76vSsLaSus/s400/P5245974+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIKUXmI1-BXh9nIlfhvuu-lwlUYZQUgDbloHhDRiSOHQl06HH5Dm0J2CeWoM3Z76jY4xZmg4kgI2Ja4HazsmHANYmWFW2S39Fi4lUjVoJaAKcBm1ficG3x5Ma9UCXHe9dckPjH8oAj0no/s1600/P5245977+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611149699104202642" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIKUXmI1-BXh9nIlfhvuu-lwlUYZQUgDbloHhDRiSOHQl06HH5Dm0J2CeWoM3Z76jY4xZmg4kgI2Ja4HazsmHANYmWFW2S39Fi4lUjVoJaAKcBm1ficG3x5Ma9UCXHe9dckPjH8oAj0no/s400/P5245977+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />As happened on the top of Carneighaneigh by the time we’d taken shelter and Les had swapped soft-shell for hard-shell the rain had stopped. With much of the forest part behind us and the open hill getting closer we decided to look for a suitable spot to take a lunch break. Les had a new stove (Gelert Blaze) to try out so while we waited for the water to boil and with it the prospect of a Starbucks Via we polished off a couple of Ginster’s Cornish Pasties.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyl3vqPvBg_CnM86z5h26kEYOlLs-cXR508OKUzI5DAxZ4EwsyLnDQrHj3hFCtGiX7q-5ZF8kV_2lfv4PtgRQ7rLQkk_GcUW3ywXscBeER4-oaltd7Nuk-sgJU3qmGoDQnBw5qxmFkKm4/s1600/P5245983+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611150300867197506" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyl3vqPvBg_CnM86z5h26kEYOlLs-cXR508OKUzI5DAxZ4EwsyLnDQrHj3hFCtGiX7q-5ZF8kV_2lfv4PtgRQ7rLQkk_GcUW3ywXscBeER4-oaltd7Nuk-sgJU3qmGoDQnBw5qxmFkKm4/s400/P5245983+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Setting off again the open hill provided us with the terrain I like least although one I‘m well used to, peat banks, knee deep ankle twisting heather and knee deep peat bogs. In terrain like this it’s every man for himself but it seems that regardless of the route you choose you lose. We’d just reached the top of Crockaneel or as close to the top as it’s possible to define on what is essentially an elevated bog when Fly rose a couple of grouse, 1st a brown then a smaller black.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoCK5rsXsJVJId3bctkStBB_qXlnW96VgUBJF8S61AmZUp11ekR1nQo5bDVleIq0415cax0TGpfBMFi9ahXoY9WX2RyXsuWmT6wGnOUcTRYyk0yRvtCBiilUZaS2L0HML4R4Q-Rrp1GSY/s1600/P5246020+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611150322689702722" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoCK5rsXsJVJId3bctkStBB_qXlnW96VgUBJF8S61AmZUp11ekR1nQo5bDVleIq0415cax0TGpfBMFi9ahXoY9WX2RyXsuWmT6wGnOUcTRYyk0yRvtCBiilUZaS2L0HML4R4Q-Rrp1GSY/s400/P5246020+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECN80WgDVHwfjIylkU5vX-hWCuqOjnlaPC0wI_nVTTkIST3GAt4p2LSJ8wMQcaIe2n-2AL6oJazvEw78mLgWetSCu_L3-Jc6VeBhQu0gshIVlf9wvuyLvnLwJ4F_hFwGne580CuAGWKM/s1600/P5245993+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611150316265724370" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECN80WgDVHwfjIylkU5vX-hWCuqOjnlaPC0wI_nVTTkIST3GAt4p2LSJ8wMQcaIe2n-2AL6oJazvEw78mLgWetSCu_L3-Jc6VeBhQu0gshIVlf9wvuyLvnLwJ4F_hFwGne580CuAGWKM/s400/P5245993+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />From there we aimed to miss the edge of the forest closest to us heading on towards a fire break that would lead us back into the forest and from there back to the track. In the end we missed it by a few hundred meters but a quick look at the map suggested that if we followed a drainage trench between the trees we intersect the fire break and it worked out just fine.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQqowptHSlZDxgCAjzW_94knDpUlUTtSEYxCmcZEepQDlErG3cIc4fOmKA2hR0tBS4vSOpQ0IN7J7U1HNstXO-nGZCOaEwC_d8Axg0DWZBVsztxEV3707XJLXO9Z9q0EMFm3LCS9P5BY/s1600/P5246026+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611150323965092754" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQqowptHSlZDxgCAjzW_94knDpUlUTtSEYxCmcZEepQDlErG3cIc4fOmKA2hR0tBS4vSOpQ0IN7J7U1HNstXO-nGZCOaEwC_d8Axg0DWZBVsztxEV3707XJLXO9Z9q0EMFm3LCS9P5BY/s400/P5246026+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Although it can be a bit boring on the forest tracks they’re kind of welcome after stumbling about on heather so there were no complaints even though our route had us following a short section that we’d walked at the start. The rain stayed away for the final few Kilometres and the sun mostly shone until we were back at the car park.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgymvYo0DF8V_6c1qsu7x4wF0Z6DU-IEivQkotF_pAVkN4YheOXxQHykTzQOl1Y5x2drrzskW3HUsPSQxJBDEkhs3UXd5OTj9vNDFpy0eQzmmWSGkpCMP27BorsZOa9IS_lzBG_KmVtdr4/s1600/P5246035+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611496830574134178" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgymvYo0DF8V_6c1qsu7x4wF0Z6DU-IEivQkotF_pAVkN4YheOXxQHykTzQOl1Y5x2drrzskW3HUsPSQxJBDEkhs3UXd5OTj9vNDFpy0eQzmmWSGkpCMP27BorsZOa9IS_lzBG_KmVtdr4/s400/P5246035+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />With regard to the kit the Montane Extreme Smock was much too warm but I suspected that would be the case, the Gore Bike wear Gore-tex socks are a bit of a mixed bag, there’s no doubt that they kept my feet dry although they don’t breathe particularly well once the trail shoes are saturated, that said on balance I still prefer unlined trail shoes/gore tex socks over gore tex lined shoes as they provide more protection, lined shoes only work if you can avoid water that’s more than ankle deep and avoid wet grass unless you’re wearing gaiters which in my experience don’t really work with shoes.<br /><br />What about the Lowrance Safari and Garmin GPS units and the Quo mapping software? They work, I don’t really have anything else to say to be honest, while I could happily research a tent or stove from now until Christmas, studying the various pro’s and con’s, GPS hand helds or similar techy stuff doesn’t do it for me, it’s works and really that’s all I need to know, after that it’s about as fascinating to me as an electric kettle.<br /><br /><strong>On a more Sombre Note</strong><br /><br />While Ballypatrick Forest Park like most other forest parks in Northern Ireland was a popular destination for family outings during the summer and on Bank Holidays in the late 1970’s to mid 1980’s it not unreasonably became much less popular after the murder of German backpacker Inga Maria Hauser who’s body was found buried in a shallow grave within the forest. Although it happened in 1988 no one has ever been charged with the murder.</div>Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-83664028600394343672011-05-18T21:00:00.006+01:002011-05-20T23:01:05.894+01:00Primus Express Spider, Review<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiqggO_roCWHi-74N-GcqiA62tDzlpvb4QVS4sn4uSqVx6qsmxHABC0lfoTvi0wXikS3Zfp-9-PWhMb73Y1W7Df_LU0w3LLUx0Uk0Hb9egTJtRUnEj4d71IRqe3HlezZzKlLq6oeWX8y8/s1600/P5045745+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608149826334147186" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiqggO_roCWHi-74N-GcqiA62tDzlpvb4QVS4sn4uSqVx6qsmxHABC0lfoTvi0wXikS3Zfp-9-PWhMb73Y1W7Df_LU0w3LLUx0Uk0Hb9egTJtRUnEj4d71IRqe3HlezZzKlLq6oeWX8y8/s400/P5045745+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The <a href="http://www.millets.co.uk/camping/cooking/product/096445/primus-express-spider-stove.html?attribute=4246987">Primus Express Spider </a>has been available for some time now and while I’d read the reviews I’d never actually tried one. I was offered one for review by <a href="http://www.millets.co.uk/">Millets</a> so I was looking forward to seeing how it performed.<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.primus.eu/Templates/Pages/ProductSheet.aspx?ItemId=90402">Express Spider </a>has a few features that set it apart from basic canister mounted stoves, the 1st and most obvious is that the burner isn’t directly attached to the gas canister but is instead connected via a flexible fuel line, the 2nd useful feature is the pre-heat facility which helps maintain performance or in some cases allows the stove to actually work in temperatures below freezing when a canister mounted stove could fail completely.<br /><br />I guess most people considering the Express Spider do so for its cold weather ability but it has something to offer even if you only use it in mild conditions. As it’s a remote canister stove it sits much lower than a canister mounted stove which not only improves stability but also makes it easier to use in a small porch such as those in some solo tents simply as the burner being lower is further from the flysheet. The pre-heat feature while it’s designed mainly for colder weather is also beneficial when it comes to using the last few grams in the canister.<br /><br />I’ve found in the past with canister mounted stoves that when you get down to the last 10g or so of gas the reduction in pressure in the canister means that there’s insufficient fuel flow to keep the stove burning, it’s not unusual to remove a seemingly empty canister yet when you shake it you can hear that there’s still fuel remaining. What the pre heat function does is allow you to invert the canister, the fuel then flows along the fuel line as a liquid until it reaches the pre-heat tube where it vaporises (becomes gas again) and can burn as normal.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YaEbDAgWcwds6qLhW1STl9I9JQcS69Y7ypyy7ymtnTV9wChBnorgLAS5vpaKdeo-bUErJwXmGi0O42etnrMnSUwOUb5RCAaHqaHcPbvgeOrn9YEcEB7wScOKVgwNFybAciDaV-tmRQU/s1600/P5045747+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608149837934532914" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YaEbDAgWcwds6qLhW1STl9I9JQcS69Y7ypyy7ymtnTV9wChBnorgLAS5vpaKdeo-bUErJwXmGi0O42etnrMnSUwOUb5RCAaHqaHcPbvgeOrn9YEcEB7wScOKVgwNFybAciDaV-tmRQU/s400/P5045747+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />When it comes to low temperatures what can happen is that as the canister itself cools the pressure in the canister drops to the extent that there’s insufficient fuel being delivered to the burner head, this results at best in a slower boil time but the side effect of that is that the longer it takes the colder the canister becomes and thus the pressure continues to drop, eventually the stove will stop even though there’s plenty of fuel remaining. In this situation you can simply invert the canister as you would if it was almost empty, the fuel is delivered as liquid until it reaches the pre-heat tube where again it vaporises and is once again burned as gas. Without a pre-heat tube inverting the canister simply results in liquid gas arriving at the burner head and the result is that the stove flares up which definitely isn’t something you want happening when you’re trying to cook in the porch of a small solo tent.<br /><br /><br /><br />The Primus Express Spider comes supplied with a small stuff sack that from the outside looks like mesh but on the inside it’s actually plain fabric, I’m not sure why its mesh on the outside but plain fabric on the inside means that the stove is easy to remove and pack as it doesn’t get caught up in the mesh.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwHiwCmt__gWHAOEtpjBc0BOkJDexEi33W5Dhzf-KPOUCTGmQNTKXimf0aWeEsbOv22vrsTS7LOrYmCYYIJ_m5BNHKk_DFbwwmw-W1wwmgT5mgCb-rDTP-vq8J6mdK0V7V87oi8oPz8OM/s1600/P5045746+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608149828704483842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwHiwCmt__gWHAOEtpjBc0BOkJDexEi33W5Dhzf-KPOUCTGmQNTKXimf0aWeEsbOv22vrsTS7LOrYmCYYIJ_m5BNHKk_DFbwwmw-W1wwmgT5mgCb-rDTP-vq8J6mdK0V7V87oi8oPz8OM/s400/P5045746+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />The stove itself is really well made and is devoid of any unnecessary features, someone said that a product had reached the peak of development not when there was nothing left to add but when there was nothing left to remove, if that’s the case the Express Spider must be almost as close to the peak of development as it’s possible to get, minimalist but with no useful feature missing.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTaARXd0bXzpNFAiToMWvNsc2FZjIh01Hwe1mraR6KyPaj_aYfW3np42sLuBvjRy3HvwjVQWi5Eg3lgvP68umXmnu_UqeuUwrOGG9TCT4S8aJq7Csc_WuDTg84mTDOCx553O8_ZMWSbOA/s1600/P5145879+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608149848579775202" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTaARXd0bXzpNFAiToMWvNsc2FZjIh01Hwe1mraR6KyPaj_aYfW3np42sLuBvjRy3HvwjVQWi5Eg3lgvP68umXmnu_UqeuUwrOGG9TCT4S8aJq7Csc_WuDTg84mTDOCx553O8_ZMWSbOA/s400/P5145879+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />The legs all fold together for packing but when unfolded each have a stop position to ensure that they’re as stable as possible, being a tripod design means that it’s stable even on a rough surface. The burner head is quite small, smaller than I’d probably prefer as this is a stove I’d use with a wide shallow pot rather than a tall narrow one, 2 reasons for that, 1. A wide shallow pot is more stable and 2. A wide shallow pot is better if you want to melt snow (this is a stove aimed at use in lower temperatures after all) That said in use it seems to work just fine although I’d be inclined to run it at less than full power. One final design feature that I like is that both burner and the fuel valve/regulator can rotate on the fuel line with the result that once set up there’s nothing trying to tip the stove over. Perhaps the only thing I’d like to see changes is the position of the fuel valve, rather than a vertical valve I’d prefer a horizontal valve as it’s easier to operate with the canister inverted, that said it’s not a deal breaker by any means.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHpYcQomrm6jdWDAc-A13oUK95Eo-wHZSf9qki6p10Ftf-wleeAwQbcVQjlXLbPD7wrRHEUXocKsYjIi4mixbQe5waSJWXZ9R0X9csYsZeiWESS14VMCAj9vU3ipqMWNzbq7MLJLbGAjQ/s1600/P5145876+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608149842855273394" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHpYcQomrm6jdWDAc-A13oUK95Eo-wHZSf9qki6p10Ftf-wleeAwQbcVQjlXLbPD7wrRHEUXocKsYjIi4mixbQe5waSJWXZ9R0X9csYsZeiWESS14VMCAj9vU3ipqMWNzbq7MLJLbGAjQ/s400/P5145876+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />With all the potential advantages why wouldn’t anyone want to use a remote canister stove? Well it comes down to bulk/weight over a canister mounted stove. On the issue of bulk the Express Spider fold up so well that it’s hardly an issue, in fact I have a canister mounted stove that while being smaller is more difficult to store due to the larger diameter burner head. If bulk/packed size isn’t an issue them what about the weight? As far as I’m aware the lightest canister mounted stove at present weighs about 48g, most however will come in at between 60-100g, the Express Spider weighs in at 191g with the stuff sack adding another 10g if you choose to use it. If not the lightest it’s certainly one of the lightest.<br /><br />I’ve tested the Express Spider in what I would consider a real world situation and in breezy condition with an almost full 100g canister with the valve about 2/3rds open it boiled 500ml of water (13.5°c) in 3mins 44secs, obviously that isn’t super quick but by running it with the valve less than fully open it achieved the boil on 8g of fuel and that’s pretty impressive. Of course I nay have achieved a faster boil with the valve fully opened but I’d prefer fuel efficiency for the sake of waiting an extra 30 seconds.<br /><br />Having tried it with an almost full canister I wanted to see how it performed on an almost empty canister with the canister inverted. The result really impressed me, starting with a canister that had 24g of gas remaining the Express Spider managed a boil in 3mins 47secs and used 9g of gas.<br /><br />All things considered the Express Spider is definitely a stove I’d have no hesitation in using or recommending, I haven’t read negative reports on any of the blogs I follow and having tried it myself I can see why.<br /><br />The video below shows the stove in operation with the canister inverted and about 20g of gas remaining. I forgot to weight the canister until I'd switched the camera off but for what it's worth it weighed 104g.<br /><br /><iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/CaxDBLWgKEc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-22950194602887198592011-05-17T22:22:00.006+01:002011-05-17T23:31:24.391+01:00A Short Walk in the Nick of Time<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4yNNqvTLO_hbd-JlRdmmIhVa31VYqUQMNv5g9UmwkNScxphkdUFnu3oA0wB7-qhGYcWJuADGsHi86AkCNpwV1lA1O7PdlQyBSz1yULaTjJykNMix1vk2OuEXlOlh750UMpbp_YjoklSI/s1600/P5175890+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4yNNqvTLO_hbd-JlRdmmIhVa31VYqUQMNv5g9UmwkNScxphkdUFnu3oA0wB7-qhGYcWJuADGsHi86AkCNpwV1lA1O7PdlQyBSz1yULaTjJykNMix1vk2OuEXlOlh750UMpbp_YjoklSI/s400/P5175890+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607809435178960610" /></a><br /><br />Although I'd planned to do a 2 day walk and over night camp using the hammock the weather put me off, stormy with heavy rain wasn't really what I was looking for considering the area I'd intended going too and certainly not what I wanted for a 1st attempt at hammock camping.<br /><br />In the end I kept myself busy with other stuff, not least trying to sort an Under Quilt for my hammock. Having made one from a kids sleeping bag I was keen to tackle a made from scratch quilt and had found a guide on the hammock forum for a synthetic quilt. Obviously using proper outdoors type fabrics and insulation would result in the best performance or at least the best warmth/weight ratio but specialist fabrics are expensive so I decided to lower my sights a little and try to get the best I could locally. I managed to get some fabric and insulation that should work and should result in something a bit better than the converted sleeping bag, if i can put it together.<br /><br />In the end it looked like I wasn't going to get near the hills at all but a last minute call from my mate Les provided an opportunity. Les had a GPS handheld with mapping software that he wanted to try out so he arranged to call at my house this morning and take it from there. It was a bit last minute for me so when he arrived I gathered a few bits and pieces, threw them in a day sack and we set off. <br /><br />Most of the route Les had planned was in the forest with a fair amount on forest roads but there were a few stretches off road through the forest and a bit of open hill. The weather was pretty much as it has been for the past week with low cloud, light rain and scattered heavier showers and quite breezy.<br /><br />I'd pulled on my Paramo VAL over a L/S baselayer, my Peter Storm Active trousers and against Les's advice decided on the Terrex trainers but no Gore-Tex socks or gaiters.<br /><br />It wasn't actually raining when the 3 of us, Les, myself and Fly, Les's dog set off but the cloud base was very low and at times it was difficult to tell whether it was raining or not although it was reasonably mild. After following a forest road for a bit we emerged onto the open hill only to discover that the area had been on fire recently. The result was that while it was easier to see what you were stepping on, normally it's covered in heather and walking through it is less than pleasant, what remained of the heather was charred stumps which didn't do much for the appearance of my trousers which are a light grey/stone colour. Although it's only been a little over a week since the area was on fire the new shoots are already well established and fortunately the fire didn't spread to the forest nearby.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSw08s_IUPps5_WSjJfcBtvx-qMJjTkjMzhI8Es8O3ugXeyD9kYcFk0JYxFNHrvJ1AJs3lbkf1_JjfmzFBh815yaDwLn5P7NqoieqtYRzOmiqUokPVcZ2GrNkMMQuVq75NCDTJvOp6bMQ/s1600/P5175881+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSw08s_IUPps5_WSjJfcBtvx-qMJjTkjMzhI8Es8O3ugXeyD9kYcFk0JYxFNHrvJ1AJs3lbkf1_JjfmzFBh815yaDwLn5P7NqoieqtYRzOmiqUokPVcZ2GrNkMMQuVq75NCDTJvOp6bMQ/s400/P5175881+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607809419692834466" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQ1BU2q6aWeyqNb6NXQ-CKZKCtKgArkEnPbWqcRf3xjoYUbyT3riDICnAdH7q6J8qyVbeoa9jBw2qF9xcys6NR8nJIrt0N5YIZzXp4Ibj1Z1P5VZRA95LQuFoncLYs1YmGWKX0VUbFwg/s1600/P5175883+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQ1BU2q6aWeyqNb6NXQ-CKZKCtKgArkEnPbWqcRf3xjoYUbyT3riDICnAdH7q6J8qyVbeoa9jBw2qF9xcys6NR8nJIrt0N5YIZzXp4Ibj1Z1P5VZRA95LQuFoncLYs1YmGWKX0VUbFwg/s400/P5175883+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607809423093803330" /></a><br /><br />Once on the open hill the wind picked up and the rain increased in intensity and although I had a pair of waterproof trousers in my daysack i didn't bother to stop to put them on as I knew that once the rain stopped or we re-entered the forest my trousers would dry out quickly. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvSUNKftP4jAl_wKFVoNzEuWTJfq6jqDE9vPTWE_rSIk7yx_zGkHO5hjdL6RGwIzM_FQpR7WzO_JeAEhr7MF_j1Ct1a2_1Nyeogmmz7jo_vGCq5g-c5EgBhiM2GIUDTGlnNpQE53mT4Y/s1600/P5175887+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvSUNKftP4jAl_wKFVoNzEuWTJfq6jqDE9vPTWE_rSIk7yx_zGkHO5hjdL6RGwIzM_FQpR7WzO_JeAEhr7MF_j1Ct1a2_1Nyeogmmz7jo_vGCq5g-c5EgBhiM2GIUDTGlnNpQE53mT4Y/s400/P5175887+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607809429173388994" /></a><br /><br />Visibility was poor to begin with but as we neared the final slopes of the only small hill on our route the cloud lifted a little but detail visibility was still less than 500m. Normally we'd have stopped on the top but with no shelter and nothing to see we continued over the summit and down the other side aiming to enter the forest again.<br /><br />Most of the ground on the Antrim hills is peaty and as such holds a lot of water, that results in everything in the forest being a vibrant greens which I always find amazing, the downside is that the ground is often wet at best and muddy if it's a route that gets walked frequently.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdlfEiicI4F_jQXRfSrCJtgjz5fR4AVY7wMAxBm6oXxQK_tqRa89dfAJcxRik0BBIxTzK9R8B2lPh1x8zguMfRhxxBah5aVac8180sgurxkZ8geMvw_kRjTX-n6pDLcu2JzNzgoaeIldQ/s1600/P5175907+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdlfEiicI4F_jQXRfSrCJtgjz5fR4AVY7wMAxBm6oXxQK_tqRa89dfAJcxRik0BBIxTzK9R8B2lPh1x8zguMfRhxxBah5aVac8180sgurxkZ8geMvw_kRjTX-n6pDLcu2JzNzgoaeIldQ/s400/P5175907+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607811733993067026" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdhSoHv8wdImcICyxtWXpy-BOcpQLKuR2qBYdQ4xqGLtchp8p6Ecjsl5NJRLxLo5b0VQ3iCyRhuo3UkfNbEfTPhqYi1aOc9WkDWXd4jyktiSxZVt8cfbfY9EsjchzylHKjUCZAb6I1ppg/s1600/P5175899+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdhSoHv8wdImcICyxtWXpy-BOcpQLKuR2qBYdQ4xqGLtchp8p6Ecjsl5NJRLxLo5b0VQ3iCyRhuo3UkfNbEfTPhqYi1aOc9WkDWXd4jyktiSxZVt8cfbfY9EsjchzylHKjUCZAb6I1ppg/s400/P5175899+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607811727798096194" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSdsbFs5q53mWSJ0MFEvuru-JsWo2Pm_P_oHUc5ua8bScauWOwXCaqdvCKxOGvkShytID1vkYPUQpkh34AMIlcELe6vqfNKYrOvM-fIvgbwv0ByEcfsVsm69b55ZQAOtGX3hEIuNGlYEM/s1600/P5175897+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSdsbFs5q53mWSJ0MFEvuru-JsWo2Pm_P_oHUc5ua8bScauWOwXCaqdvCKxOGvkShytID1vkYPUQpkh34AMIlcELe6vqfNKYrOvM-fIvgbwv0ByEcfsVsm69b55ZQAOtGX3hEIuNGlYEM/s400/P5175897+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607809440502114530" /></a><br /><br />Fly was in his element of course and must have covered 10x times the distance that Les and myself had. It didn't take long before we were back on a forest road but we continued for a bit looking for a decent spot to stop for lunch. Ideally it would provide some shelter in case we were hit with a heavy shower but not too sheltered as already the midges are making their presence felt.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpg6RlDqbpsdXJU8xXT0kKeJ1iqStDnDvOwIGdIGnvJzLFV7PUeTrHRWlBuNeq7yY27DIjdnvcdd7meJ2730z6SvqOX6-xViZWv0UZyzDv31jre2qgD0Nl803fWX8sIeddrsuPI-IAqcQ/s1600/P5175920+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpg6RlDqbpsdXJU8xXT0kKeJ1iqStDnDvOwIGdIGnvJzLFV7PUeTrHRWlBuNeq7yY27DIjdnvcdd7meJ2730z6SvqOX6-xViZWv0UZyzDv31jre2qgD0Nl803fWX8sIeddrsuPI-IAqcQ/s400/P5175920+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607812301192200450" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwe_4YGCZr503V2droONYMK-HOtvxcrd33_RLddWAC1vF3ZSmZFafy_NSMmY-VwWpSE7tM8Isg_xrUnpuPyioNn0twmJFpSbNLVskXlZQjl_ivXWMU2SSaxYGTB9ObqElGEVgqaqibBTU/s1600/P5175917+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwe_4YGCZr503V2droONYMK-HOtvxcrd33_RLddWAC1vF3ZSmZFafy_NSMmY-VwWpSE7tM8Isg_xrUnpuPyioNn0twmJFpSbNLVskXlZQjl_ivXWMU2SSaxYGTB9ObqElGEVgqaqibBTU/s400/P5175917+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607811750724468274" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MLRjDQHvQSmcVydAlNLv3Rg7P9SHnXWu4VdUIpXIGGC6TX9eOq_ETBMNI-Fss1Wu-cfM9foAfOLNpeP-MchE_k5bTF-RResiqN50-DTMqDk6HOYD-WFYpBoEB-U6qqUDIEz3q5h5Xo4/s1600/P5175908+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MLRjDQHvQSmcVydAlNLv3Rg7P9SHnXWu4VdUIpXIGGC6TX9eOq_ETBMNI-Fss1Wu-cfM9foAfOLNpeP-MchE_k5bTF-RResiqN50-DTMqDk6HOYD-WFYpBoEB-U6qqUDIEz3q5h5Xo4/s400/P5175908+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607811740417838914" /></a><br /><br />Eventually we stopped at a spot that while it wasn't much better than some we'd passed wasn't any worse so I set up the stove, a GoSystem Fly to boil water for a brew while Les provided filled rolls. True to form the midges did make at half hearted attempt at disruptiing proceedings but they were just about bearable and we managed to have lunch and set off before they got too much of an aggravation, form now on I'll be taking a head net and some insect repellent.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZqFHP5Ln2VC9d3yVOaG-KYOJXM_5nAT_f77-yG2ZTuGZidAN-85jDRIUCVaTKq_HRm2k6njOUeLDXLNaqv_3rPP4Mp1hvSzHxZdP_0OCq_3kVRzGDh4D7h_CS5wrRci1Mz0aI8NO_aW8/s1600/P5175912+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZqFHP5Ln2VC9d3yVOaG-KYOJXM_5nAT_f77-yG2ZTuGZidAN-85jDRIUCVaTKq_HRm2k6njOUeLDXLNaqv_3rPP4Mp1hvSzHxZdP_0OCq_3kVRzGDh4D7h_CS5wrRci1Mz0aI8NO_aW8/s400/P5175912+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607811746711980578" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYL4nh54QPWyKuoJ2hzV4oY0L8iCctR6dssMhDiqtbaLxMMMrL3RsiZRN7iO0RSJbhbWyf-ldC04Nfp5fNTuBkQNhfBnbiJG2V_N1MptPCDW7sVN0NQ8VFq9RZiM2815E32EZvAJoAdQ/s1600/P5175921+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYL4nh54QPWyKuoJ2hzV4oY0L8iCctR6dssMhDiqtbaLxMMMrL3RsiZRN7iO0RSJbhbWyf-ldC04Nfp5fNTuBkQNhfBnbiJG2V_N1MptPCDW7sVN0NQ8VFq9RZiM2815E32EZvAJoAdQ/s400/P5175921+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607812292575660514" /></a><br /><br />After following the forest road for a bit we re-entered the forest where the ground was reasonably firm but it didn't last and we were soon making our way down a fire break between the trees where the heather and long grass had me soaked to the knees again.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_FQT-rYeiICTUuzhT3GBNHpnms8KkUIQCVLMbfMuXMNgval634UrTaE87AHnKgGeZ-lWyIbZ16_hyphenhyphen6xXmrbFmi6trk6T2WMR_azViqB9t1Rs95Xa6F75WwjcDeV1MIu4ShqkumozLL4/s1600/P5175923+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_FQT-rYeiICTUuzhT3GBNHpnms8KkUIQCVLMbfMuXMNgval634UrTaE87AHnKgGeZ-lWyIbZ16_hyphenhyphen6xXmrbFmi6trk6T2WMR_azViqB9t1Rs95Xa6F75WwjcDeV1MIu4ShqkumozLL4/s400/P5175923+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607812306540662898" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQSIdML2RXdx-s3mLejj8_fCKm0FH5PpXmtAvDU4V4KCacItJ5bGxXMZ42pjFaLMwVtdF6dMkvvONGkYnmtt836mTcW7PpMe92UNLK5GyvL1HKzZY2nSd9nDbOROPfpfR_kN1RR0zHIrE/s1600/P5175926+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQSIdML2RXdx-s3mLejj8_fCKm0FH5PpXmtAvDU4V4KCacItJ5bGxXMZ42pjFaLMwVtdF6dMkvvONGkYnmtt836mTcW7PpMe92UNLK5GyvL1HKzZY2nSd9nDbOROPfpfR_kN1RR0zHIrE/s400/P5175926+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607812295457382930" /></a><br /><br />Les had been checking that the route we were taking corresponded to the one he'd loaded into the GPS while I was generally just tagging along but we eventually reached the forest road that would lead us back to the car. Again the rain had virtually stopped and I started to dry out again and by the time we'd reached the car only the bottoms of my trousers were still wet and although my feet were saturated they weren't cold, the benefit I guess of socks with at least some wool content.<br /><br />It was a short walk but one I hadn't done before so that was a bonus and I also made a mental note of a few potential hammock camping spots although I dread to think what the midge situation would be like amongst the trees having experienced them while camping on the open hill. Having failed to make the most of my days off and leaving getting out until the last moment I finally did get out thanks to Les but now it's back on shift again fo a few days but hopefully the weather will pick up again in time for the end of my shift.Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-23566008421653217352011-05-14T13:11:00.012+01:002011-05-14T22:41:09.174+01:00Eurohike Double Jet Storm Lighter, Review<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY93BOsnQMEe0DmwT8fQCu5pbDYu0I-g7Yfw2dtnrrvMA3YB3Uq8trY_pyL1eLpOfMKkMTPpmHDDlMCUfaMb5mZVFfpP7nrOwCDXCSwFXRSyY1q-6fJBSE7R35hbajZIQtTo_9xDOgNnw/s1600/P5045740+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY93BOsnQMEe0DmwT8fQCu5pbDYu0I-g7Yfw2dtnrrvMA3YB3Uq8trY_pyL1eLpOfMKkMTPpmHDDlMCUfaMb5mZVFfpP7nrOwCDXCSwFXRSyY1q-6fJBSE7R35hbajZIQtTo_9xDOgNnw/s400/P5045740+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606582281100487138" /></a><br /><br />I got a few bit's and pieces recently from Millets for review including the Primus Express Spider which really needs no introduction but hopefully I can add something useful to the reviews already out there. First though I'm going to look at the Eurohike branded Double Jet butane storm lighter. <br /><br />I've tried a few butane storm lighters in the past but was left unimpressed with the result that I went back to using cheap disposable lighters. The 1st one I tried was a Turboflame, it worked for a while but it was extremely temperamental and surprisingly didn't like the cold. I found that in temperatures around freezing that it wouldn't light even if I'd had it in my trouser pocket. Refilling was a pain too, the instructions for refilling ran to 10 steps, <a href="http://www.turboflame.co.uk/maintenance.php">See Here </a>the 10th step advising repeating steps 1-9 if it didn't work (since I posted this I've managed to locate the instructions that came with mine, mine had a 9 step filling procedure, step 9 advising repeating steps 1-8. In addition just below the refilling instructions it warns that "Turboflame works best at room temperature, in cold conditions warm up in hands before ignition"). The other things I disliked were that there was no way of telling how much gas there was remaining and the flame adjustment was difficult to use in the kind of conditions you'd actually need a specialist lighter. In the end the piezo ignitor button return mechanism broke probably due to repeated attempts to get the lighter to actually work.<br /><br />Next up I tried an unbranded storm lighter bought from <a href="http://www.asmc.de/en/Gear/Lights/Fire/Lighters/Lighter-Outdoor-p.html">ASMC</a> in Germany, it was much more fragile looking than the Turboflame but only cost about €5. It worked well, much less temperamental than the Turboflame but eventually it too stopped working. What I discovered when I took it apart was that it was really nothing more than a small generic storm lighter in a tougher looking plastic and rubber shell although I didn't realise the significance until after buying my 3rd Storm Lighter.<br /><br />The 3rd Storm lighter was an impulse buy, I'd been in Cotswold in Belfast and as they didn't have what I was looking for I bought the Silva Helios. It really looked the part in the packaging with a tough looking body that appeared to be alloy with rubber grips, it also came in a nice presentation tin and was supplied with a lanyard. I was pretty disappointed when I got it home and opened it to find that the 'alloy' body was in fact plastic, things went from bad to worse when it stopped working later the same evening and as if that weren't enough under the tough looking shell the actual lighter looked identical to the cheap unbranded version from ASMC. Although I probably had one that was faulty and I don't believe that they're all as unreliable as mine yet the Helios cost £17 and given that the lighter part was the same as the unbranded/£5 one I'd effectively paid £12 for the presentation tin!! I'm not sure if there's any significance in the fact that I can't find the Helios on the <a href="http://www.silva.se/all-gear">Silva website</a>, maybe I've missed it or maybe they no longer stock it.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUC6qNF0dvohk7yB73mQd8ecKWJQF5jPAuAIU7s-Aw-k62ah7cUh9bRnpQ4mPguUjVrkqCn48-dvaaoVSuxQ36qqPwTQ8_OuISs0iWi8Cn3fSviiWmQasIZ5V1ye0dLJMTq5hVN4fk6s/s1600/P1000284.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUC6qNF0dvohk7yB73mQd8ecKWJQF5jPAuAIU7s-Aw-k62ah7cUh9bRnpQ4mPguUjVrkqCn48-dvaaoVSuxQ36qqPwTQ8_OuISs0iWi8Cn3fSviiWmQasIZ5V1ye0dLJMTq5hVN4fk6s/s400/P1000284.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606585790240358114" /></a><br /><br />Having given up on 'Outdoors' lighters I simply went back to disposables, normally ones with a clear reservoir that let you see how much gas remains. It was only after being asked by Millets to choose a few items for review that I even considered using a 'Storm' type lighter.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQPOUBUB-13uwstZVAOSCajJv9X5fzOigQBV3E39kP39S-bgH8WctaDLmRrK0D4zHizs0RyxXhE5AInyLi7YJ5kyggG-orfeA0NlEqgB-fJ9J2qZ4xdVdy5JHDzjke0cH9vYJ0JxPlVak/s1600/P5045741+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQPOUBUB-13uwstZVAOSCajJv9X5fzOigQBV3E39kP39S-bgH8WctaDLmRrK0D4zHizs0RyxXhE5AInyLi7YJ5kyggG-orfeA0NlEqgB-fJ9J2qZ4xdVdy5JHDzjke0cH9vYJ0JxPlVak/s400/P5045741+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606582282036738066" /></a><br /><br />When the <a href="http://www.millets.co.uk/walking/walking-essentials/product/111725/double-jet-windproof-lighter.html?attribute=163049">Eurohike Double Jet </a>windproof lighter arrived the 1st I did was fill it, no instructions required. Once filled I adjusted the flame using the large knob on the base and it fired up straight away.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP_8944vs5sTXlmnRDjiwQHm9hf0O09vqMi-nZsBSVst_-OXy0_XyVYY_Ps4nUrGsFBhojVvAdtzxVm5yzgKcZbG3L7pc1ixATML2phf7snJXal_yWQbRmg9Jy28b9fIr2qkPUhQGK9jc/s1600/P5045743+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP_8944vs5sTXlmnRDjiwQHm9hf0O09vqMi-nZsBSVst_-OXy0_XyVYY_Ps4nUrGsFBhojVvAdtzxVm5yzgKcZbG3L7pc1ixATML2phf7snJXal_yWQbRmg9Jy28b9fIr2qkPUhQGK9jc/s400/P5045743+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606589499295455458" /></a><br /><br />The lighter isn't metal bodied but it does feel quite robust weighing in at around 85g, it's symmetrical with the raised section that holds the latch button being replicated on the opposite side where a lanyard can be attached.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62EpbxJbwXnWqf4agdE4U1NFFU2BmklrQ2KN4XPGCUbz83ggN8bxVEfMFfHq7r4S0xlt5Ua8vJlygwI8HbaiOViHSMVTCJsS2ssgEobduiJt0zsrZvldXaBDK-x_lWpmT9smPpFUnncY/s1600/P5045742+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62EpbxJbwXnWqf4agdE4U1NFFU2BmklrQ2KN4XPGCUbz83ggN8bxVEfMFfHq7r4S0xlt5Ua8vJlygwI8HbaiOViHSMVTCJsS2ssgEobduiJt0zsrZvldXaBDK-x_lWpmT9smPpFUnncY/s400/P5045742+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606582287816861634" /></a><br /><br />The body has a flip up lid to protect the actual burner head and that looks to be the only weak point as the hinge is quite small. The body is quite tall yet tapers nicely so it's easy to get it out of a trouser pocket, that said the absence of any rubberised grips makes it a bit slippery. Where I find it better than my regular disposable lighters is that it'll work even if my hands are wet and as the flame is directional it's easier to light stoves light a Trangia where you need to point the lighter down to reach the fuel. <br /><br />There are a couple of gimmicky features though, 1st and immediately obvious is the small compass set into the lighter body. I suspect it's more of a styling exercise than of any real use but if I was really upset about it I could just break it off, to be honest I think they should just omit it as in my opinion it cheapens the appearance of the lighter. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7HLTqK1GSpeLNG-o2C89p2wPWVMmrUXlvzUQ4ko9vYTtSU-4bCChsrTkKn6BgcdZTBrg3xVLxuaqoGSmkVNSYpLQmkvTY0RwP2lKoBFckvhvbf5E37JPNlLxwKXhWqZCN3q7vQHN5O7k/s1600/P5045744+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7HLTqK1GSpeLNG-o2C89p2wPWVMmrUXlvzUQ4ko9vYTtSU-4bCChsrTkKn6BgcdZTBrg3xVLxuaqoGSmkVNSYpLQmkvTY0RwP2lKoBFckvhvbf5E37JPNlLxwKXhWqZCN3q7vQHN5O7k/s400/P5045744+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606582288756076818" /></a><br /><br />The 2nd gimmick in my opinion is the double flame, I don't see it as serving any purpose and I suppose it must mean that the lighter uses 2x times as much gas, that said I've been using it for over a week and it hasn't been refilled since I got it. The one other thing I'm not keen on is that it doesn't have a 'window' to let you see how much gas remains but that is a fairly common feature with lighters generally. <br /><br />Obviously I can't comment on long term durability but so far it's lasted longer than my Silva Helios which failed within hours. As far as performance is concerned it's vastly more reliable than my Turboflame, easier to fill easier to adjust wearing gloves, it also feels more durable than the £5 from ASMC. It's a good product in my view and works as a lighter should without any unnecessary faffing around, at £7.99 if you need a 'Storm' lighter it's worth considering, definitely don't be put off by the compass or the double flame feature.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSnowwQt8FOPkt2Y4U9N4AjTnAhlN-9rYdA4lCokV6MWLOVZpN13kpG40m1_AFI-vUh5q7LUdnbKY9OtOLlDYzL73XIreRjYkuWNFgkCNvrsoCaSsKtHPkaCxXgkZoDjw7_7_JpVzRd0/s1600/P5045755+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSnowwQt8FOPkt2Y4U9N4AjTnAhlN-9rYdA4lCokV6MWLOVZpN13kpG40m1_AFI-vUh5q7LUdnbKY9OtOLlDYzL73XIreRjYkuWNFgkCNvrsoCaSsKtHPkaCxXgkZoDjw7_7_JpVzRd0/s400/P5045755+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606582287775995042" /></a>Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-53270410849583481672011-05-13T23:15:00.009+01:002011-05-14T18:04:06.767+01:00MYOG, Cheap Hammock Under Quilt Experiment<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYL41bEZfsjk6c2dQ54V0VGstZSV8jbE3UV5NnSWAQzr7VO0CIcLRWOhqzzb2-BhMs5Jn4BDP1Q-17EliIAFgjObtXJ6AW_fZ1CEdr11d3ZWIgMGMZCcujI6ybVd7bmG7odeoQl0hAtBk/s1600/P5135862+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606338146577730018" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYL41bEZfsjk6c2dQ54V0VGstZSV8jbE3UV5NnSWAQzr7VO0CIcLRWOhqzzb2-BhMs5Jn4BDP1Q-17EliIAFgjObtXJ6AW_fZ1CEdr11d3ZWIgMGMZCcujI6ybVd7bmG7odeoQl0hAtBk/s400/P5135862+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>MYOG Under Quilt</strong><br /><br />You don’t have to spend long on hammock related websites to realise that regular sleeping pads aren’t the preferred choice when it comes to insulation, likewise you don’t have to spend too long in a hammock trying to use a regular sleeping mat to understand why.<br /><br />It seems that under quilts (UQ’s) are the preferred choice and as it didn’t seem as if it would be too difficult to cobble up something together I fitted a couple of expansion bolts in my garage so that I could hang the hammock to try a few ideas. I couldn’t resist trying the hammock to see how comfortable it would be over a longer (more than a few minutes) period of time so decided to sleep in it in the garage. Having tried a full length CCF mat briefly when I got the hammock and decided against it I decided to try an Alpkit Wee Airic ¾ length self inflate which was better and to provide some insulation for my feet I just pinned my Montane Flux to the edges on the hammock letting it hang underneath like a UQ (The Ever Versatile Montane Flux ;-)).<br /><br />What I discovered was that a hammock is very comfortable in spite of the Wee Airic slipping around, lying diagonally in the hammock you lie really flat, not curled up like you’d expect. The Montane Flux seemed to work just fine so I decided the easiest way to make a cheap and cheerful UQ was to convert a rectangular sleeping bag.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkSaHiKu3vyREpuitPBGgTHxIHUJE7gqlPN9oTaBSENN4q0piwahSkSFnNYHHGdk5po0C0zPpuWcwftE2Y08dsP95mcJOboMOA5471k8h6v59ipvRlAra5IiQfEiHGwNjMl6CW28nYHM/s1600/P5125827+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606334922024229826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkSaHiKu3vyREpuitPBGgTHxIHUJE7gqlPN9oTaBSENN4q0piwahSkSFnNYHHGdk5po0C0zPpuWcwftE2Y08dsP95mcJOboMOA5471k8h6v59ipvRlAra5IiQfEiHGwNjMl6CW28nYHM/s400/P5125827+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Coleman Pacific Kid's Sleeping Bag</strong><br /><br />In the end the only one I could get locally that was even remotely light was a kid’s Coleman Pacific. At 150cm wide when opened out and 190cm long it looked like it would just about fit. I picked one up in Argos for £14.99 but when I got it home I realised that even if I could convert it into a UQ it wouldn’t really be suitable outdoors thanks to a brushed/flock type lining. Still it was better than nothing so I set about converting it.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHE1fnsX2Sh0XBmj3-GDqFesfB7uItqcITdW7ruKB2jS9QnpSoJaLdLrnVsS2gQKa9KsHthyIBFYRN2pa1cnhpoRoYmyDnMi3GuoeFrF2Nsp4LteU-qI51r_0ePHjktKqDDpVUca8KXTc/s1600/P5135854+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606334925093755474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHE1fnsX2Sh0XBmj3-GDqFesfB7uItqcITdW7ruKB2jS9QnpSoJaLdLrnVsS2gQKa9KsHthyIBFYRN2pa1cnhpoRoYmyDnMi3GuoeFrF2Nsp4LteU-qI51r_0ePHjktKqDDpVUca8KXTc/s400/P5135854+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Brushed/Flock liner</strong><br /><br />I reasoned that as the hammock itself is rectangular until it’s cinched at the ends then the UQ could also be a rectangle so the 1st thing was to remove the zip. Fortunately the zip was sewn onto the side and end seams rather than sewn into them so it was only a matter of unstitching it. I needed 2 drawcord tunnels 1 at each end and while the bottom was easy only needing the fabric folded over and sewn the top end need a little work. The inner brushed fabric extended out of the sleeping bag and down the outside for about 10cm so I simply cut 10cm off the sleeping bag to remove it. With that done I trimmed back the fibre filling by about 10cm and then formed the drawcord tunnel by making a hem on the raw edge before rolling it and sewing it down. I made the drawcord tunnels much wider than I normally would as I thought the brushed inner might stop the shock cords from running smoothly which turned out to be the case.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRJb1JNAz3EyaVUnLJYiYKfnM7iKIdZreagP7VWlQqOaZhF8CEzmzVeq3CZm2-WlH5EIuRmqgKsbdT5xE-Hl4hATI6wmFfLLQU0D0szJ4hPQ3a1CLxuNLpT5JLjwcF7S8c2CnTKhkIZQ/s1600/P5135849+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606334923434859042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRJb1JNAz3EyaVUnLJYiYKfnM7iKIdZreagP7VWlQqOaZhF8CEzmzVeq3CZm2-WlH5EIuRmqgKsbdT5xE-Hl4hATI6wmFfLLQU0D0szJ4hPQ3a1CLxuNLpT5JLjwcF7S8c2CnTKhkIZQ/s400/P5135849+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Conversion Complete</strong><br /><br />I wasn’t sure how to go about attaching it to the hammock and tried a few things before settling on a heavy shock cord on each end running through the tunnels I’d sewn. At first I had cord locks fitted to allow me to loosen/tighten the ends to seal against the hammock but I discovered that if I cut the shock cord to the required length and then knotted the ends I didn’t need the adjustability. What I ended up with was about a 35cm shockcord that could stretch out to 70cm at the foot end and 50cm stretching out to 100cm or so at the shoulders. To attach it to the hammock I ended up sewing on webbing loops at all four corners to attach shock cords.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQT-TP2yQHa4jSNGDl3-ZB5vN0NrBqUYj210EUoGywqWD_zL2FYmP61Pyk1dy2ofb7ZqBOr2i5j1B40G0ypHo1YUj6Y1RVArBZgZqvXJjc1GmbL5iRJ1o6F_4DxaQ5PEwdU4Axq5vYIs/s1600/P5135851+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606334924013873682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQT-TP2yQHa4jSNGDl3-ZB5vN0NrBqUYj210EUoGywqWD_zL2FYmP61Pyk1dy2ofb7ZqBOr2i5j1B40G0ypHo1YUj6Y1RVArBZgZqvXJjc1GmbL5iRJ1o6F_4DxaQ5PEwdU4Axq5vYIs/s400/P5135851+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Foot End Attachment</strong><br /><br />At the foot I simply took a length of shock cord and tied one end to the bottom left webbing loop and the other to the bottom right webbing loop, I then put the doubled up shock cord through a glove hook and then through a cord lock before tying a loop in the end to keep it from pulling back out of the cord lock. To attach the UQ to the foot of the hammock I hook the glove hook over the suspension rope (whoopie sling) and to tension it I simply pull the shock cord through the cord lock.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7IFymJnCnu7PL_laufr37FILvtxvdXVaAdKEjwCNXzpNgxKKLyg8gFYBnTVl5JOrcNaXdoH1FdxGnyORv3bs4Qm65wA5Me3ct_PwHEwg4rJJOj1WySqTtKsFGsFxTs-ybjaCbdrscP8/s1600/P5135855+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606334926674735234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7IFymJnCnu7PL_laufr37FILvtxvdXVaAdKEjwCNXzpNgxKKLyg8gFYBnTVl5JOrcNaXdoH1FdxGnyORv3bs4Qm65wA5Me3ct_PwHEwg4rJJOj1WySqTtKsFGsFxTs-ybjaCbdrscP8/s400/P5135855+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Head End Attachment</strong><br /><br />At the head/shoulder end I fitted cord locks to the webbing tapes, placed a glove hook on the shock cord allowing it to run freely and then put the shock cord through the cord locks. I tied the running ends of the shock cord together so that when I’m lying in the hammock I can get hold of the opposite side shock cord (I only have zipped access on one side of the hammock) by 1st reaching out and grabbing the nearside cord. I suspect that as the shock cord runs freely through the glove hook that the UQ will be self centering anyway even if I make all the adjustment on one side.<br /><br />With the suspension sorted it’s really easy to attach the UQ, I just place it in the hammock to start with, then attach the UQ to the foot end of the hammock and tension it a little. I then take the head/shoulder cords and again attach the glove hook to the hammock suspension whoopie sling at the head end. Once the UQ is attached I lift it out of the hammock, open it out and place the hammock inside it. With that done it’s a simple matter to adjust the tension to get the UQ where I want.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu0R-fa2QQPLs9-epbWQNqp8SIltt_7ASkdgQbfsHVa73DCQAN3dN1WKxLWyh_o1wt08QG0HYGbkxOmoGCgB2Ts5fwnZSBp-Fr3-H2qQRZtNjsDXLHo6dejbhyphenhyphenpTfhsjCXGHweWHJ__OA/s1600/P5135856+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606337459822960354" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu0R-fa2QQPLs9-epbWQNqp8SIltt_7ASkdgQbfsHVa73DCQAN3dN1WKxLWyh_o1wt08QG0HYGbkxOmoGCgB2Ts5fwnZSBp-Fr3-H2qQRZtNjsDXLHo6dejbhyphenhyphenpTfhsjCXGHweWHJ__OA/s400/P5135856+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Under Quilt Laid In Hammock Prior to Being Attached</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuvSw_kKEUtSXXZExGk_A6Kl-9tK96lwrOL2ADXhAbBg1SvTCnz3h0MNiSAsNhrTlpqU7VGzqAsmzYRuU-FS3SKhF8voyfh7vU3DHdv9-uFQUETQ-TZvtfjW-VDxzOoauUL8yd06drLQ/s1600/P5135861+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606337463208230050" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuvSw_kKEUtSXXZExGk_A6Kl-9tK96lwrOL2ADXhAbBg1SvTCnz3h0MNiSAsNhrTlpqU7VGzqAsmzYRuU-FS3SKhF8voyfh7vU3DHdv9-uFQUETQ-TZvtfjW-VDxzOoauUL8yd06drLQ/s400/P5135861+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Foot End, Glove Hook Attached to Whoopie Sling Suspension</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitytKbYymnaT6QuMJuS7-ny4hAhfTa_5X42WHCAJIqJ2PIhi8qg92KxV9Q3Sm7VVKsTFpf40M2B8h_fy56tyFkNq693zAL0CGxRYjMd9GFowXG0f__eB8RSGyWVoGZse3u3lf1zgnSQRM/s1600/P5135859+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606337469849200722" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitytKbYymnaT6QuMJuS7-ny4hAhfTa_5X42WHCAJIqJ2PIhi8qg92KxV9Q3Sm7VVKsTFpf40M2B8h_fy56tyFkNq693zAL0CGxRYjMd9GFowXG0f__eB8RSGyWVoGZse3u3lf1zgnSQRM/s400/P5135859+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Head End, Glove Hook again Attached to Whoopie Sling Suspension</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLsR35MjakBYnLJKeZF09ygxxQP3nKYwcBPVDiic4vuEQafaQg5UQQwuCdEspCUnzPiqNGMgp0jrBWoai7ZdPy5Xv14ugao1j3iZVroqdKIIPP_rmapGonJz7nM3eI-TR8jcWa1TRywY/s1600/P5135860+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606337458926336386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLsR35MjakBYnLJKeZF09ygxxQP3nKYwcBPVDiic4vuEQafaQg5UQQwuCdEspCUnzPiqNGMgp0jrBWoai7ZdPy5Xv14ugao1j3iZVroqdKIIPP_rmapGonJz7nM3eI-TR8jcWa1TRywY/s400/P5135860+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Under Quilt Attached Prior to Tensioning</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhot-vxlu9t4ssIDLp_x_1HyrPtkFnOhLkOPQlwPgHd034_QAzFWEHmHdNWH_LDUvP_LkU_htttP88r5AZK8OlEh12ZOJUCROWg5iljx3JJS05DJaU5I4AuIykLA3VcVNxPLgTuKqMNwlw/s1600/P5135862+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606354134811374434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhot-vxlu9t4ssIDLp_x_1HyrPtkFnOhLkOPQlwPgHd034_QAzFWEHmHdNWH_LDUvP_LkU_htttP88r5AZK8OlEh12ZOJUCROWg5iljx3JJS05DJaU5I4AuIykLA3VcVNxPLgTuKqMNwlw/s400/P5135862+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Under Quilt Fitted and Tensioned.</strong><br /><br />I have to say the difference is amazing considering it’s only a cheap kids sleeping bag, it feels warmer immediately and the hammock is even more comfortable thanks to not having a sleeping mat slipping around. I can move around in the hammock, lie on my back or switch to my side which is how I sleep without constantly trying to rearrange the sleeping mat. As for insulation well I taped a thermometer to the bottom of the hammock with the UQ in place, with my wife laying in the hammock I waited until the temperature stabilised before removing the UQ, within 5 minutes the temperature had dropped by 5°c and according to my wife the difference was noticeable as soon as I removed the UQ, swapping around I found the same. I tried it using my summer weight synthetic bag as a top quilt by just zipping it closed at the foot end and again it’s much easier to use than a sleeping bag and when combined with a UQ it’s like levitating in a sleeping bag as the insulation on the bottom is lofted just like the insulation on the top.<br /><br />Unfortunately although it works in principal the fabric used for the inner makes it unsuitable for use in the field and of course it’s heavy at almost 1kg considering how little insulation there actually is. What I’d like to do now is make one from scratch using better fabrics and insulation, I’d like to go for something like <a href="http://www.extremtextil.de/catalog/Insulation/Primaloft-Sport-60g::874.html">Primaloft Sport 60g </a>which should be enough for summer use but I’m having difficulty finding out exactly what type of fabric to use as according to the information on <a href="http://www.extremtextil.de/catalog/index.php">Extreme Textile</a>, Primaloft Sport requires you to use a down proof fabric. In the meantime maybe I could replace the brushed cotton type fabric with plain nylon or something. Although that would mean pulling the quilt apart and starting again I wouldn’t really mind as it would give me a bit more sewing experience before I start working with more expensive fabrics.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbcQ0ex4Jpg3-Qn74xI3NAhEDXbRiLUuJbl9uQIBl1YJRziYJA8iNNZX7IAprv_RH_E_dtcVaptVhK8RmASQ2KJ5t_RBurVPaWuTpPBHIl0uIydcQY-gOfWaD9VwiJGdEtR_pwcFMS7N0/s1600/P5135867+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606338147853977890" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbcQ0ex4Jpg3-Qn74xI3NAhEDXbRiLUuJbl9uQIBl1YJRziYJA8iNNZX7IAprv_RH_E_dtcVaptVhK8RmASQ2KJ5t_RBurVPaWuTpPBHIl0uIydcQY-gOfWaD9VwiJGdEtR_pwcFMS7N0/s400/P5135867+copy.jpg" /></a> <br /><strong>Under Quilt Pulled Up Around the 'Footbox'</strong><br /><br />Lying diagonally with feet to the right and head to the left or vice versa results in a flatter lay. The 'Footbox' is created by the looseness of the hammock fabric once it's been cinched at the ends, the fabric under tension from the suspension lines causes a ridge to form (creased section just left of my knee) at both ends, pockets of looser fabric are formed at both ends left and right of the ridge.Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-86335578806786261952011-05-10T22:35:00.006+01:002011-05-11T00:12:37.627+01:00ModYOG, 10th Wonder Hammock<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG5yckZVWYw6jajha5JJs7nEq0_q_7z7RPLvZlRT3ecAsZhZqavQppJ9YEXMy-vglictK6y8_rJsJ1Rqo0EYPm4d4WeDqEoPZgOfuruoVWDPfOyQxs06tK7fCZnLxqlfznC3j-hR8w5js/s1600/P5075811+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG5yckZVWYw6jajha5JJs7nEq0_q_7z7RPLvZlRT3ecAsZhZqavQppJ9YEXMy-vglictK6y8_rJsJ1Rqo0EYPm4d4WeDqEoPZgOfuruoVWDPfOyQxs06tK7fCZnLxqlfznC3j-hR8w5js/s400/P5075811+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605219656629783234" /></a><br /><br />It seems that when it comes to kit there's always room for modification. I'd only had the hammock up a few times and knew there were a few little things I wanted to add or change. In spite of my initial thought that tying directly to a couple of trees was a perfectly satisfactory way of going about it I discoverd that it was easier to set it up correctly without having to resort to untying/re-tying if I adopted one of the alternative methods.<br /><br />In the end I decided on tree straps and whoopie slings, the slings attached to the webbing straps using a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y8Yvvt39Luk">Marlin Spike Hitch</a>. As I already had the webbing that came fitted to the hammock I used it to make tree straps that would be compatible with carabiners although it isn't the lightest way to do it. I simply removed the webbing from the hammock and formed a loop at each end by bartacking. At present I'm not using carabiners but simply wrap the webbing around the tree feeding the free end through the stitched loop.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPJjEAAAx2E3cldnLBGCb9t8PxaibdYE7E_Y5C9wwxxQXdZJu3N8-epCBuEl6XhuV-oRZ2KFOg0EphP7BqDt_PKHeio8By5wG4MZdiutIco540ZJFctyfW_4aILAQyPgvPDQ-u4Dag5co/s1600/P5065787+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPJjEAAAx2E3cldnLBGCb9t8PxaibdYE7E_Y5C9wwxxQXdZJu3N8-epCBuEl6XhuV-oRZ2KFOg0EphP7BqDt_PKHeio8By5wG4MZdiutIco540ZJFctyfW_4aILAQyPgvPDQ-u4Dag5co/s400/P5065787+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605216182316678002" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMcbaMPxEXuxj78U4DQ6XA6obFaFyc0u9AiRCE6WTsN0mpR0mONLRbbsJn6qZWiQxA2gTNqacVgvGavCnH5Upu59R3G4xEVB9oF7wvr-xBLWQL2qdrKmOXTdX09u1G_a84M7jPxLhg-c/s1600/P5065786+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMcbaMPxEXuxj78U4DQ6XA6obFaFyc0u9AiRCE6WTsN0mpR0mONLRbbsJn6qZWiQxA2gTNqacVgvGavCnH5Upu59R3G4xEVB9oF7wvr-xBLWQL2qdrKmOXTdX09u1G_a84M7jPxLhg-c/s400/P5065786+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605216178225921666" /></a><br /><br />The whoopie slings are generally made using a lightweight high strength marine braided cord. This is pretty much the hammock equvilent of using Marine Dyneema control line cord such as <a href="http://www.ropelocker.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=13_16&products_id=15">Marlow Racing Excel </a>for tent guylines. The woopie slings are made by splicing a fixed eye (Locked Brummel I think) in one end before feeding the running end through the middle of the braid for about 8" and back out again to create a slip knot that self locks when the cord is under tension (I think the locking part is called a constrictor). It's much harder to describe how to make them than to actually do it, the video linked to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dgCy2qyIGY">Here</a> shows how it's done. <br /><br />While for minimum weight I'd choose something like Dyneema SK75, 2mm diameter with a breaking strain of 900kg (and costing a cool £2/meter) or Marlow Excel D12. Rather than order the lightweight high strength stuff I bought some general use 6mm braided line from B&Q.<br /><br />The whoopie sling is attached to the hammock by feeding the end with the fixed eye through the sewn in tunnel at each end of the hammock before passing the working end through the spliced eye. <br /><br />To attach the hammock to the tree I simply attach the tree straps, form the marlin spike hitches by using 2 x 100mm lengths of aluminium tent pole and then loop the slipk not over the marlin spike hitch. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0HFX6HdCPxYwSvh-P7yeQ_JMVcuZv7BPrWZ4Zxtc7EDZz_3UnpIEMmL2u_amyRAU8r7DZWcWoum-dFtkY8ryDGBsTK4-JBonGWUxNODbEAiNE2uxMGzNlo5K1EQ9jAFCmMOnNwwN9tY/s1600/P5075805+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0HFX6HdCPxYwSvh-P7yeQ_JMVcuZv7BPrWZ4Zxtc7EDZz_3UnpIEMmL2u_amyRAU8r7DZWcWoum-dFtkY8ryDGBsTK4-JBonGWUxNODbEAiNE2uxMGzNlo5K1EQ9jAFCmMOnNwwN9tY/s400/P5075805+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605219650017381602" /></a><br /><br />This obviously sounds overly complicated but it makes setting the hammock with the right amount of sag much easier as it can be adjusted without any un-tying.<br /><br />With the 'Suspension' sorted I added a tying made from dressmaking ribbon/webbing to the midge netting, to prevent it being pulled through the netting I sewed on a 25mm x 25mm piece of webbing inside and outside the net to attach the tyings to. I also added 3 ribbon ties to the edge of the hammock fabric just benerath the zip to allow me to roll and tie the hammock when not actually in use.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsUSKg455QBTSpqw29a-8Ajks-CTIdZsmuvmzBC5UhMwj8WiQ7SzsnI-ywkRadEP_3e-whyRQxvbiP9cFVshAJ8kEtjsnrtC-IfQAt0tf8OyAZxwhpPZx607fZfFJkFQj3Q4X05DP_JDY/s1600/P5075810+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsUSKg455QBTSpqw29a-8Ajks-CTIdZsmuvmzBC5UhMwj8WiQ7SzsnI-ywkRadEP_3e-whyRQxvbiP9cFVshAJ8kEtjsnrtC-IfQAt0tf8OyAZxwhpPZx607fZfFJkFQj3Q4X05DP_JDY/s400/P5075810+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605219650673785074" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizCED-c1sXEmvuq7yJPnMitbJ-_m2V9Gf_2NB5_ihet6Vwy7LvpI_K7CgWHSEbwxDIsXQZNdBz9PueL_axi19BLGs3Dknkc4jQiAWYHdAWAjm-hIx4RvvT6ya1DF0787oFhuCAV0OLTUk/s1600/P5075809+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizCED-c1sXEmvuq7yJPnMitbJ-_m2V9Gf_2NB5_ihet6Vwy7LvpI_K7CgWHSEbwxDIsXQZNdBz9PueL_axi19BLGs3Dknkc4jQiAWYHdAWAjm-hIx4RvvT6ya1DF0787oFhuCAV0OLTUk/s400/P5075809+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605217981689529746" /></a> <br /><br />With the easiest parts done I made a mesh pocket/pouch to hang from the inner ridge line to hold bits and pieces. I made the pocket double sided but rather than drive to town to buy some edging tape I made my own by cutting 45mm strips from a piece of ripstop nylon and passing it through a folder before pressing with a smoothing iron to help it keep it's shape. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWwk2nK4SFl3So5o5b2EmLoYfzkoFMJfKgi95hhxeNkFpP5_oWcRSfEeJjEG0MGFouirZVG7-otppbo-YJSnrvlPST5-s4gXGlRk5UclEx_NGSjasz1z3tnWwel4ccprakQQKvNymgtwY/s1600/P5075792+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWwk2nK4SFl3So5o5b2EmLoYfzkoFMJfKgi95hhxeNkFpP5_oWcRSfEeJjEG0MGFouirZVG7-otppbo-YJSnrvlPST5-s4gXGlRk5UclEx_NGSjasz1z3tnWwel4ccprakQQKvNymgtwY/s400/P5075792+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605216192184516002" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvO0FJDSNqFKe89XiYTOfAuAmeNlCyL5a6uysQZHvHY6hK9LvkUzBDiJlPWkNgvB4pfeb60DQ9BiqTCjQHIEx8yJ1D4Loyvkx811ep-vvH-y-SsTK9YB5_YT6WvK91WSeUtSXiJ51D8L4/s1600/P5075796+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvO0FJDSNqFKe89XiYTOfAuAmeNlCyL5a6uysQZHvHY6hK9LvkUzBDiJlPWkNgvB4pfeb60DQ9BiqTCjQHIEx8yJ1D4Loyvkx811ep-vvH-y-SsTK9YB5_YT6WvK91WSeUtSXiJ51D8L4/s400/P5075796+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605216195408643778" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVj7_ocToeTgq4opkuwfj-_7rxv_j3HnJnwWylF-pvt9J8PzQmeZbHWx8Bon8p6kDoQbebFCC_t3ZpKIImlQDbRCrtu8hve1X8y5WHsQ_81RAjoNK_CNJZxKOT3bJwn5PKf6LnU7qjOZQ/s1600/P5075800+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVj7_ocToeTgq4opkuwfj-_7rxv_j3HnJnwWylF-pvt9J8PzQmeZbHWx8Bon8p6kDoQbebFCC_t3ZpKIImlQDbRCrtu8hve1X8y5WHsQ_81RAjoNK_CNJZxKOT3bJwn5PKf6LnU7qjOZQ/s400/P5075800+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605217976849033298" /></a><br /><br />This was a little time consuming but worked nicely in the end and I'm pleased with the finished pocket. <br /><br />Finally I removed the fine but tangle prone cord from the midge net suspension shockcord, the thin cord meant that the net could be tied to the trees used to suspend the hammock but I found the shockcord work jus as well looped over the tarp ridge line and fixed with a kind of prusik loop.<br /><br />I'll more than likely switch to lighter stronger cord/whoopie slings and lighter weebing tree straps at some point if I find I sleep ok in the hammock.<br /><br />The next project is to make an Under Quilt, I mentioned being cold the hammock I'd borrowed from Ralph as I hadn't any insulation underneath me. While I could just about manage with a CCF mat ofr even a Self Inflate the recommended method of providing insulation underneath is to use a quilt which attaches to and hangs underneath the hammock where it can't be compressed. Again I'll take the cheap and easy option, at least for the time being by converting a cheap sleeping bag. I'm hopefully going to get the cheap sleeping bag tomorrow and can't wait to get started but 1st I'll neeed to clear a space in the garage and fit a coiple of eye bolts so that I can test the fit of the UQuilt before finalising the design.Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-4139744805570995592011-05-08T22:51:00.003+01:002011-05-08T23:23:07.222+01:00Hammocks<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2UKApIRw6n_tAZzMPdudvjriFr-xwFY-vqskxVsYBQ4u8B-BS9K8_6LqGQjuBFePULbiRUZu6WQzWef8paT6wKenTgb8nqoT5BQlJRbfmO-ayW0Uuo-MIpV-usHZZ8NJHIZkO5As_LE/s1600/P5055780+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604468013290956226" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2UKApIRw6n_tAZzMPdudvjriFr-xwFY-vqskxVsYBQ4u8B-BS9K8_6LqGQjuBFePULbiRUZu6WQzWef8paT6wKenTgb8nqoT5BQlJRbfmO-ayW0Uuo-MIpV-usHZZ8NJHIZkO5As_LE/s400/P5055780+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Although my 1st attempt at using a hammock wasn’t a success I was still interested in giving it another go. I’d looked at hammocks in the past, in particular the <a href="http://www.ddhammocks.com/">DD Hammocks</a> so decided to have another look at what they had to offer. I’d decided that I wanted a hammock with side entry as I felt it would be easier to use with a sleeping mat and could if circumstances required it be used on the ground as a bug net under a tarp. The 1st one I considered was the <a href="http://www.ddhammocks.com/products/hammocks/travel-hammock">DD Hammocks Travel Hammock</a>, a single side entry with a sewn in midge net, double layer base , the outer being waterproof and with a zip opening to allow a sleeping mat to be inserted between the layers. The 2nd was the <a href="http://www.ddhammocks.com/products/hammocks/frontline-hammock">DD Hammocks Frontline</a>, similar to the Travel Hammock but with zipped access on both sides and a non-waterproof base. As there was no difference I price at £49.99 I tried to make up my mind but while I liked the idea of zips on both sides on the Frontline I wondered if the waterproof base on the Travel Hammock would be the best option if I intended using it on the ground.<br /><br />Still undecided I had a look on ebay and apart from sellers in the Far East I found <a href="http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Tenth-Wonder-Hammocks?_trksid=p4340.l2563">10th Wonder Hammocks </a>in the UK. They had a variety of styles all based on the double layer, single side entry style similar to the DD Travel Hammock. Again there was almost too much choice and the price was similar to the DD Hammocks. There was one cheaper option though, the 10th Wonder Jungle 1 at £29.99 which had a non waterproof base, single side entry and no means of inserting a sleeping mat between the base layers.<br /><br />In the end I reasoned that a waterproof base wasn’t an essential, I’d primarily use the hammock off the ground as intended and in any case the groundsheet of my tent is no longer waterproof, I simply use a footprint and it hasn’t caused me any problems. With regard to placing a sleeping mat between the base layers and only having a single side zip I felt that if I was saving £20 by opting for the cheaper 10th Wonder Jungle 1 I could live with it, I wasn’t even sure that I’d actually like a hammock anyway. I had a quick look around the various Hammock and Bushcraft type forums for reviews of 10th Wonder hammocks and all seeming well and having managed to convince myself I went for the cheaper option and ordered the 10th Wonder Jungle 1. The seller sent an e-mail with hanging instructions and the hammock arrived next day so that was a good start.<br /><br />While I’d been trying to decide on a hammock I’d been reading up on hammock stuff on <a href="http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/index.php">Hammock Forums </a>and Ralph who’d let me try the Hennessey Hammock had sent me a link to some <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/shugemery#p/u/58/d7NZVqpBUV0">Youtube videos </a>but to be honest most of it didn’t mean much, in fact with talk of things like Dutch Clips, Marlin Spike Hitches, Whoopie Slings and so on just to get the hammock hung I was starting to think that an awful lot of folks were making the seemingly simple task of tying a hammock up between 2 trees way more complicated than it needed to be. Undeterred I watched the videos again and it started to at least make sense even if it did still seem like a very complicated way of hanging a hammock.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvD7GvERh7dHuz6i8xPvikAxhzSkhihJn6Qr1r4k1YTgnMNMlp6QHL3zQYb3EmI7lkng0UiY3zIfY9waKNAlhDd4mdTUxpPTxiazvqxuyrSwgDkPHihdUNtzq4G02HbtwEaQ_j-XcuZ_4/s1600/P5055758+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604467318334708242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvD7GvERh7dHuz6i8xPvikAxhzSkhihJn6Qr1r4k1YTgnMNMlp6QHL3zQYb3EmI7lkng0UiY3zIfY9waKNAlhDd4mdTUxpPTxiazvqxuyrSwgDkPHihdUNtzq4G02HbtwEaQ_j-XcuZ_4/s400/P5055758+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Having received the hammock I checked it over and it seemed fine so at the 1st opportunity I took it out to try it. The hammock comes with 2 lengths of 20mm webbing which run through a tunnel on each end of the hammock to tie directly to the trees. The midge netting has 2 short lengths of alloy tubing to hold the net out to provide a bit of space.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfNKOJ4ojKxDVnpuibNyZxbw2hRNMujAgUPseP3v8S1AgaZts54WK9QyJTChQIxT34wSlNIkePGbOaMhub9YJprzXZZYisJKVsMC-CM61TPN-EcqxV0cFTALMcxdgcwqbBhd4yaBr_opw/s1600/P5045749+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604467326096320930" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfNKOJ4ojKxDVnpuibNyZxbw2hRNMujAgUPseP3v8S1AgaZts54WK9QyJTChQIxT34wSlNIkePGbOaMhub9YJprzXZZYisJKVsMC-CM61TPN-EcqxV0cFTALMcxdgcwqbBhd4yaBr_opw/s400/P5045749+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />To lift the midge net 2 lengths of shock cord are attached to webbing loops where the alloy tubing is fitted and attached to each shock cord is a length of fine cord. The side zip has a double puller and I was surprised to find that it did in fact have a double layer base although there’s no zip or opening to allow a sleeping mat to be placed between the layers. Finally on the inside a length of cord is attached to loops at each end for hanging small items such as a light although there isn’t an inner pocket.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7P0tFgGsBiJm8F3APMsRjh3FknzQbpnoSKF0H2KL6xfJJPIJpjaeW5A6gLwMU57pJKebJ_0SbnxoQo2g9CFsVk7ztjGfPzC0bFSnxdpVat_mHEPrGKZlz2HkVxRGn2LtKRiwJQ3Dp3A/s1600/P5045752+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604467335057130146" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7P0tFgGsBiJm8F3APMsRjh3FknzQbpnoSKF0H2KL6xfJJPIJpjaeW5A6gLwMU57pJKebJ_0SbnxoQo2g9CFsVk7ztjGfPzC0bFSnxdpVat_mHEPrGKZlz2HkVxRGn2LtKRiwJQ3Dp3A/s400/P5045752+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0E3cs7WbxwQBgwNCpdOt9lDabhOKqgAx1872-GVVDO0Cz4ogFGb7odtkkAaDGfd7i3dHTfWJe7bZYFfiZYB2ROme1q34-8aqBosldiLZvTtm9uDZlWEbzCNLOogaJPNxOOjjl00EL-g/s1600/P5045750+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604467326698340098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0E3cs7WbxwQBgwNCpdOt9lDabhOKqgAx1872-GVVDO0Cz4ogFGb7odtkkAaDGfd7i3dHTfWJe7bZYFfiZYB2ROme1q34-8aqBosldiLZvTtm9uDZlWEbzCNLOogaJPNxOOjjl00EL-g/s400/P5045750+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6iByMbEmI6wHkFsnuDUmd6qc8qVoinjpSKGo5x_v9risLu6ln1Bst1UMHjeA8VEs3eMBlIk-vme1RltnILk1rPhOALUn6VESQ_J6BLQyq1E4NE2puFJFRNUBD06bhQh2bUpbLI6p4dyI/s1600/P5045751+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604467327019245506" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6iByMbEmI6wHkFsnuDUmd6qc8qVoinjpSKGo5x_v9risLu6ln1Bst1UMHjeA8VEs3eMBlIk-vme1RltnILk1rPhOALUn6VESQ_J6BLQyq1E4NE2puFJFRNUBD06bhQh2bUpbLI6p4dyI/s400/P5045751+copy.jpg" /></a> <br /><br />Having hung the hammock a few times I picked up on some thing that I wanted to modify and some of the stuff I’d read on the hammock forums regarding hammock suspension started to make sense. Although I can easily place a CCF mat in the hammock it doesn't fit very well, a 3/4 lenght mat or a lightly inflated Self Inflate may work better but failing that there's always an underquilt. <br /> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTseEx7wBA5tR9_G4ED5Sv5NZBA6ZhTPRMs3FBTEw31yKbA-eXmj_QO9zJgS_utj1KAvUG7mwR8H_P8YzD50dv9Vb9Ej2wsoe05EJbILftRUZBtEd4DHdpoGVfYKPwTqycOa9-2F_DWic/s1600/P5055764+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604468001035422834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTseEx7wBA5tR9_G4ED5Sv5NZBA6ZhTPRMs3FBTEw31yKbA-eXmj_QO9zJgS_utj1KAvUG7mwR8H_P8YzD50dv9Vb9Ej2wsoe05EJbILftRUZBtEd4DHdpoGVfYKPwTqycOa9-2F_DWic/s400/P5055764+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLcF8kyDe5f-tWKkub9kHsjmmLW9L8XXL21ApILYpPnA2JEAR491KvqLHJ7A8APdM6RETKyxAZi_ayNTmNbFZMhXy7mu-5FNOnPn_p1oF8pw2tT12ULSJFqIVljFtnz9mJqP57lMUa6zg/s1600/P5055765+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604468019094550018" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLcF8kyDe5f-tWKkub9kHsjmmLW9L8XXL21ApILYpPnA2JEAR491KvqLHJ7A8APdM6RETKyxAZi_ayNTmNbFZMhXy7mu-5FNOnPn_p1oF8pw2tT12ULSJFqIVljFtnz9mJqP57lMUa6zg/s400/P5055765+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhVA7qHeut-gRNQeADjFhq8BhfW-nfCJi8GH9Gkrf148Z9e8ux240lOaSIhiaAA-z2nimoNihJoYvz7mRXIkTIu1Ve87WWZcifXmkhydNbxlatZ2rxjdV-zYbJwZ86BzkPyJYLATi6YQk/s1600/P5055762+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604468004448031042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhVA7qHeut-gRNQeADjFhq8BhfW-nfCJi8GH9Gkrf148Z9e8ux240lOaSIhiaAA-z2nimoNihJoYvz7mRXIkTIu1Ve87WWZcifXmkhydNbxlatZ2rxjdV-zYbJwZ86BzkPyJYLATi6YQk/s400/P5055762+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ntY4kGKyWgRXsvO80Cj3bKBmzJudLV5RY7OQvrl3PWT6leXNzxf3cpPxu2gBF47Q0n8Mc2A3HbAmT0-oNC79YCqf1e1SXr9ljqWMXuCn2nosMYOw0VulmOsNBXSVmy135jp-mIxIxLo/s1600/P5055759+copy.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604468013583602962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ntY4kGKyWgRXsvO80Cj3bKBmzJudLV5RY7OQvrl3PWT6leXNzxf3cpPxu2gBF47Q0n8Mc2A3HbAmT0-oNC79YCqf1e1SXr9ljqWMXuCn2nosMYOw0VulmOsNBXSVmy135jp-mIxIxLo/s400/P5055759+copy.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Of the modifications I’d like a mesh pouch to hang from the inner ridge line, I’d also like some way of securing the midge net out of the way if it isn’t needed. When it comes to suspension tying the webbing directly to the tree is the most minimal approach but it means untying and retying to get the hammock hanging just right so I’ve decided to adopt some of the techniques I’ve read about and seen on Youtube although I haven‘t quite decided what method I‘ll adopt. I haven’t yet tried sleeping in it although once it hanging and properly tensioned it’s comfortable even for a side sleeper. I have a few days off work coming up though so I’ll try to get out for an overnight.<br /><br />As far as I can see it looks like a perfectly useable hammock and for anyone curious about hammocks it’s a relatively low cost way for trying it.Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910485704176747208.post-55684772809850904402011-05-07T22:46:00.005+01:002011-05-07T23:00:50.675+01:00Bollé Spider Flash Sunglasses<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju4e18BsFXY70SMLgT-_9TFImICkMG9sYNFRfk28jiosyHRRx5hsteB5kWLmBXRJncCzMkm-q6dn3uICHHswMj4IzE4NKPyGrpaG09Wq338TamGfNAMj_nnjg86CuhkRV8nChwIoO5BnE/s1600/P4215512+copy.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju4e18BsFXY70SMLgT-_9TFImICkMG9sYNFRfk28jiosyHRRx5hsteB5kWLmBXRJncCzMkm-q6dn3uICHHswMj4IzE4NKPyGrpaG09Wq338TamGfNAMj_nnjg86CuhkRV8nChwIoO5BnE/s400/P4215512+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604095519455013138" /></a><br /><br />It was thanks to a post by <a href="http://alanrayneroutdoors.blogspot.com/2011/03/sunglasses.html">Alan Rayner </a>that I ended up buying a pair of Bollé sunglasses. I’ve used Bollé safety glasses before and remembered that they make ones with tinted lenses so a quick search on ebay turned up a few different styles. I commented on Alans post (above) and Alan suggested the 'Spider Flash' so I checked them out and ordered a pair.<br /><br />The Spider glasses have flexible frames, 'Flash' refers to the ‘flash gold’ anti-scratch polycarbonate lenses. They conform to the following EN standards;<br /><br />EN166 1F (impact)<br />EN170 (UV) <br />EN172 (Solar Protection) Filter 100% UVB/UVA <br /><br />They’re light for the weight conscious at 26g and come with a micro fibre pouch but the best part is the price, under £10 including shipping.<br /><br />I’ve worn them on the hill and when out in the canoe and they seem up to the task and I haven’t noticed any problems with misting. You could pay much more for sunglasses but considering these come from a respected company and meet EU standards they're worth a look.Mac Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11212410938991488721noreply@blogger.com1