|
Boundary Waters Quetico Forum Gear Forum need a tarp: ccs 10x10 or kelty noah's tarp 12x12? |
Author
Text
02/12/2013 11:20AM
Hi everyone,
Long story short: Is the smaller 10x10 CCS tarp worth paying $30 more than the Kelty 12x12 and why?
Long story long: I’m torn between getting a Kelty Noah’s Tarp (12x12) or a CCS 10x10 (1.9). My biggest hang up: the Kelty is $30 cheaper and bigger to boot. We never brought a tarp on past trips. However, I’m just fearful that we’re tempting fate. If we get stuck with multiple days of nonstop rain, we’re going to want a place of refuge for at least part of the day. We’ll have a crew of 8 guys this time around so I’m doubtful either will be able to cover all of us (maybe I can convince another guy to spring for one so we have 2?). I’m curious which one is best for my needs.
I’m partial to the “buy the best you can afford now because you’ll be happier later” style of gear buying. I’ve taken that approach with almost all of the gear I have and the higher quality stuff I’ve purchased has always left me in the long run feeling more satisfied than when I went cheaper. The big difference this time around: now I’m married (this point cannot be overstated). Adds a whole new wrinkle to the equation. I’m already going to be buying a barrel pack from CCS at Canoecopia so was thinking it would be great to pick up a tarp from the same place. However, a $30 difference for a smaller tent is making me think a bit more than I would have in the past. I know I also need to keep ease of set-up in mind along with future use. I won’t always be tripping with 8 people so having flexibility for group sizes anywhere from 3 – 8 would be key. Is one easier to set up and adjust as necessary than the other? Weight isn’t a concern and both seem to be of solid build quality from what I’ve read. Any insight would be great.
Thanks!
Long story short: Is the smaller 10x10 CCS tarp worth paying $30 more than the Kelty 12x12 and why?
Long story long: I’m torn between getting a Kelty Noah’s Tarp (12x12) or a CCS 10x10 (1.9). My biggest hang up: the Kelty is $30 cheaper and bigger to boot. We never brought a tarp on past trips. However, I’m just fearful that we’re tempting fate. If we get stuck with multiple days of nonstop rain, we’re going to want a place of refuge for at least part of the day. We’ll have a crew of 8 guys this time around so I’m doubtful either will be able to cover all of us (maybe I can convince another guy to spring for one so we have 2?). I’m curious which one is best for my needs.
I’m partial to the “buy the best you can afford now because you’ll be happier later” style of gear buying. I’ve taken that approach with almost all of the gear I have and the higher quality stuff I’ve purchased has always left me in the long run feeling more satisfied than when I went cheaper. The big difference this time around: now I’m married (this point cannot be overstated). Adds a whole new wrinkle to the equation. I’m already going to be buying a barrel pack from CCS at Canoecopia so was thinking it would be great to pick up a tarp from the same place. However, a $30 difference for a smaller tent is making me think a bit more than I would have in the past. I know I also need to keep ease of set-up in mind along with future use. I won’t always be tripping with 8 people so having flexibility for group sizes anywhere from 3 – 8 would be key. Is one easier to set up and adjust as necessary than the other? Weight isn’t a concern and both seem to be of solid build quality from what I’ve read. Any insight would be great.
Thanks!
02/12/2013 11:36AM
Buy the CCS and rent a second from an outfitter. Eight guys would be real tight under a 12x12 i think. I like CCS tarps for the center pole patch, and that the guy who sews them is a member of this board who answers any questions you have. Plus they are very well made.
I've never really heard anything negative about the noah tarps, I just lean towards the ccs.
I've never really heard anything negative about the noah tarps, I just lean towards the ccs.
There's always money in the banana stand.
02/12/2013 01:06PM
I have tripped with both the Kelty and CCS tarps. We found the Kelty shape difficult to set up because it is not square. I like the square shape. I tend to trip with larger groups. Renting a second tarp is a good idea. However, we just usually pack a cheap hardware store tarp to use with the CCS tarp. We use the cheap one to extend to size of the covered area or use as a wall to block the wind.
We'll set up the CCS first and then add the second tarp as a wall depending on the wind. Work good for us.
When budget allows we plan to purchase a second CCS.
We'll set up the CCS first and then add the second tarp as a wall depending on the wind. Work good for us.
When budget allows we plan to purchase a second CCS.
02/12/2013 01:41PM
Apples to oranges, totally. The CCS tarp is square, the Kelty is caternary cut. They are pitched completely differently. Both are high quality products. Cat cut tarps are pitched on the diagonal, which I personally find MUCH easier and quicker to set up, but some people prefer the square or rectangular tarps because they offer a bit more variety of setup, although it takes a bit longer and uses more ropes and tie-outs to get a solid pitch. I have both types, but we now only use the cat cut (Kelty) type tarps. I would try both if you can. If you get the Kelty, don't try to pitch it like a square tarp!
02/12/2013 02:07PM
Eight guys? You must all smell alike! That is a tight fit for a 12x12. I agree that the cat cut is not as versatile and I have a liking for Dans tarps.
But I think you might be happier with two 10x10's for eight guys. You might look at the Chinook tarps. They aren't the heftiest but short of a windstorm are pretty useful. chinook tarp
But I think you might be happier with two 10x10's for eight guys. You might look at the Chinook tarps. They aren't the heftiest but short of a windstorm are pretty useful. chinook tarp
02/12/2013 02:37PM
Like "CanoeKev", I also have the 12 x 12 "Noach's Tarp" and it has served me well. The center pole pad of the CCS Tarp is a nice feature though, but I can't say I've missed the absence of it too much when using my Kelty "cat-cut" Tarp. A small piece of closed cell foam does nicely, but because it's not fastened to the Tarp, it can sometimes be a problem when the wind starts knocking it around.
If my Tarp needs center support, I usually prop up the center with a canoe paddle, or in the case of the picture below, a kayak paddle. To get more center height with the canoe paddle, I pile a few packs in the center, and then position the paddle on top of the packs with the paddle grip against the Tarp.
As the other members have mentioned though, neither Tarp will adequately provide cover for a group of eight campers. So, buying one or the other, and then renting a second Tarp sounds like good advice.
Personally, I don't think the difference of $30.00, and the slightly smaller dimensions of the CCS Tarp should factor in to your decision all that much. It probably comes down to your preference for the square-cut or catenary-cut.
I tend to agree with "CanoeKev" though. The "cat-cut" seems easier and quicker to pitch, and requires less guy lines for a proper rigging. Looking over some of my pictures from an earlier trip, (when I used a square-cut Tarp), the green tarp in the picture below does seem to have required more ropes to set-up.
You've stated; “buy the best you can afford now because you’ll be happier later”, which is a good rule of thumb. Hopefully our varied opinions has helped in your buying decision.
Hans Solo
Water reflects not only clouds and trees and cliffs, but all the infinite variations of mind and spirit we bring to it. – Sigurd Olson
02/12/2013 03:00PM
CCS also comes with a stuff sack and cordage, I believe.
I would go with CCS...
Another vialble alternative, which you have not mentioned would be the Equinox Tarps by Campmor.
See attachment: I have used on a trip with Boppa and worked well.
Not as many tie downs as the CCS, but still a good value.
I think the lower priced ones are 1.9 oz and the lighter ones are 1.1 oz.
SunCatcher Campmor Equinox Tarps
I would go with CCS...
Another vialble alternative, which you have not mentioned would be the Equinox Tarps by Campmor.
See attachment: I have used on a trip with Boppa and worked well.
Not as many tie downs as the CCS, but still a good value.
I think the lower priced ones are 1.9 oz and the lighter ones are 1.1 oz.
SunCatcher Campmor Equinox Tarps
"WWJD"
02/12/2013 06:40PM
Well, I got that Noah 12 x 12 from REI and spent just about a day out in the yard with it, I do that with all my new stuff to get used to setting it up. I'd read a report about how neat the "cat" cut worked and how versatile it was. Ha! and double Ha!! I fiddled and diddled with that thing, trying to get the "droop" out. Had just about all my extra tent pegs used and all my line and it still looked like a goat rope. Now it may be just me and maybe there's a way to make it work, but I didn't find it all day working at it. Actually it was so awful it got to be funny. All things considered; if it is such a great tarp design how come the manufacture doesn't include some drawings to show how to pitch it? If you look on the net you can find all kinds of ways to pitch a regular tarp but not the cat cut ones.
Late in the afternoon I realized that this thing ought not to be a rubik's cube puzzle but something that I could put up quickly in case of rain. I sent it back to REI and ordered my present tarp from CCS.
I could go on and on about how great the CCS tarp is but simply it's the best and will allow you to pitch it just about anyway under the sun. Honestly 9th, if I needed a tarp and someone was going to GIVE me that Noah tarp, I'd happily lay my money down for one of Cooks tarps.
I might make stuff bags from the Noah, naw, not worth the thread.
Best Wishes, Rob
Late in the afternoon I realized that this thing ought not to be a rubik's cube puzzle but something that I could put up quickly in case of rain. I sent it back to REI and ordered my present tarp from CCS.
I could go on and on about how great the CCS tarp is but simply it's the best and will allow you to pitch it just about anyway under the sun. Honestly 9th, if I needed a tarp and someone was going to GIVE me that Noah tarp, I'd happily lay my money down for one of Cooks tarps.
I might make stuff bags from the Noah, naw, not worth the thread.
Best Wishes, Rob
02/12/2013 07:52PM
I cannot speak to the kelty, but I do have the CCS. The workmanship, as you know, is unparalleled but the 10 x 10 for a group of 8 would be a joke; think Spinal Tap and the mini Stone Henge stage set.
I use the 10 x 10 when with 1, maybe 2 others. I also have a 12 x 12, and I use that when I am with a group of 4. I have never been with a group larger than 4, but if I ever venture into that realm, I will bring both tarps.
If you really want the flexibility of being able to cover a group ranging in size from 3-8, IMHO you need two tarps. And, if I had to do it all over again, I would not have bothered with the 10 x 10 as the 12 x 12 does not take up really any more room, especially if you go with the 1.1 ounce fabric.
Finally, like OldieMoldy said, you can pitch the CCS 423 ways from Sunday. Not sure what that means, but is something my grandpa would have said.
I use the 10 x 10 when with 1, maybe 2 others. I also have a 12 x 12, and I use that when I am with a group of 4. I have never been with a group larger than 4, but if I ever venture into that realm, I will bring both tarps.
If you really want the flexibility of being able to cover a group ranging in size from 3-8, IMHO you need two tarps. And, if I had to do it all over again, I would not have bothered with the 10 x 10 as the 12 x 12 does not take up really any more room, especially if you go with the 1.1 ounce fabric.
Finally, like OldieMoldy said, you can pitch the CCS 423 ways from Sunday. Not sure what that means, but is something my grandpa would have said.
"The future ain't what it used to be" Yogi Berra
02/12/2013 08:53PM
Hi Yellow Canoe, a "goat rope" is something a working cowboy does. To practice roping from a horse a outfit often will acquire a goat and use it to practice with. No rancher likes the idea of running any of his cattle just so some cowboy can develop a little skill. Now, no goat thinks much of the idea and given that they are much smarter and smaller than cattle by the time you can rope a goat your pretty darn good. But the learning process is bags of fun to watch. Sort of kissing cousin to a Chinese fire drill. Everyone not actively doing something at the time gathers around the corral and offers hilarious advice, commentary and opinions on how the rider is doing. Little humor is experienced on horse back but everyone else around the corral has a great time.
Best Wishes, Rob
Best Wishes, Rob
02/12/2013 10:07PM
quote OldieMoldy: "Well, I got that Noah 12 x 12 from REI and spent just about a day out in the yard with it, I do that with all my new stuff to get used to setting it up. I'd read a report about how neat the "cat" cut worked and how versatile it was. Ha! and double Ha!! I fiddled and diddled with that thing, trying to get the "droop" out. Had just about all my extra tent pegs used and all my line and it still looked like a goat rope. Now it may be just me and maybe there's a way to make it work, but I didn't find it all day working at it. Actually it was so awful it got to be funny. All things considered; if it is such a great tarp design how come the manufacture doesn't include some drawings to show how to pitch it? If you look on the net you can find all kinds of ways to pitch a regular tarp but not the cat cut ones.
Late in the afternoon I realized that this thing ought not to be a rubik's cube puzzle but something that I could put up quickly in case of rain. I sent it back to REI and ordered my present tarp from CCS.
I could go on and on about how great the CCS tarp is but simply it's the best and will allow you to pitch it just about anyway under the sun. Honestly 9th, if I needed a tarp and someone was going to GIVE me that Noah tarp, I'd happily lay my money down for one of Cooks tarps.
I might make stuff bags from the Noah, naw, not worth the thread.
Best Wishes, Rob"
Wow! I'm not sure what you were doing wrong, It is very simple and fast to set up a caternary tarp, and basically requires 4 lines. The main seam of the tarp is on the diagonal, and the lines on each end of this diagonal are strung between two trees (or you can stake one end in the ground if you want to use it like a lean-to). We put different colored lines on these two ends so we can identify them quickly when we are pitching it in a hurry. This leaves two "wings" on each side which can be strung up to any height that you require, each with it's own line. The "droop" that you refer to is actually built into the tarp. The edges are not straight like a square tarp, and you can't pitch it so they are straight, nor should you try. The "droop" of the cat cut allows it to withstand winds better without the need for a very tight pitch. Two people can set one up in just a couple of minutes. I guess someone should post a youtube video of the ways to pitch them. And yes, Kelty should give some directions!
02/12/2013 10:59PM
quote
if I needed a tarp and someone was going to GIVE me that Noah tarp, I'd happily lay my money down for one of Cooks tarps.
I might make stuff bags from the Noah, naw, not worth the thread.
Best Wishes, Rob"
Wow "OldieMoldy", I wish you wouldn't sugar coat it and tell us what you REALLY think of Kelty's Noah's Tarp! LOL
I guess that's a NO for the Kelty. :-)
Hans Solo
Water reflects not only clouds and trees and cliffs, but all the infinite variations of mind and spirit we bring to it. – Sigurd Olson
02/12/2013 11:11PM
I have a 12x12 Noah never used and a couple used over the hammocks. The photo shows set up on the north end of Insula watching the Pagami Creek fire come our way. I plan on being at Canoecopia with intent to pick up one of Dan's CCS tarps. I like the idea of the center post option and shape; the kelty shape is okay over the hammock, but not my wish for the kitchen tarp. Anyone want a kelty?
02/13/2013 05:45AM
Sorry guys, I didn't mean to attack a piece of gear your fond of, shoot, if it works for you that's all that matters.
For me though, I put up my tarp if I think there's a chance of rain; and when it rains often the winds blows. I like the ability to snug down one edge tight to the ground to stop wind driven rain and breeze. Don't know if that's possible with that built in droop.
Watching my tarp from the underside while it's fending off a storm, I'm impressed how much of the stress is born by the ridge line that the tarp is rigged from. Of course all the rest of the tarp is pitched taunt so no "cups" develop to allow the wind a surface to blow against. I want the wind to slide off my tarp and not find any area that flaps and works back and forth. If it did, that would cause noise and wear and also work at the tent stakes.
One point that hasn't been addressed is color; elsewhere it was discussed that a yellow tarp was so much more cheerful during a bout of prolonged rainy days. I can sure see that and of course if something went bad wrong it would be easier to spot from the air.
Best Wishes and hope we all stay dry!!
Rob
For me though, I put up my tarp if I think there's a chance of rain; and when it rains often the winds blows. I like the ability to snug down one edge tight to the ground to stop wind driven rain and breeze. Don't know if that's possible with that built in droop.
Watching my tarp from the underside while it's fending off a storm, I'm impressed how much of the stress is born by the ridge line that the tarp is rigged from. Of course all the rest of the tarp is pitched taunt so no "cups" develop to allow the wind a surface to blow against. I want the wind to slide off my tarp and not find any area that flaps and works back and forth. If it did, that would cause noise and wear and also work at the tent stakes.
One point that hasn't been addressed is color; elsewhere it was discussed that a yellow tarp was so much more cheerful during a bout of prolonged rainy days. I can sure see that and of course if something went bad wrong it would be easier to spot from the air.
Best Wishes and hope we all stay dry!!
Rob
02/13/2013 06:01AM
Decisions, decisions, decisions. Thanks for all the great feedback. Now I'm leaning toward the 12.5x12 CCS (1.9oz because $150 is plenty for a tarp and the extra weight isn't going to kill me). Still have a ton of time so going to think things through before I make any snap decisions. Going to be at Canoecopia to look around at various wares so might pull the trigger then since I'm definitely picking up a 60 liter barrel and a CCS barrel pack there. Heard nothing but great things about them and their company. It's a big reason I'm leaning toward CCS for my tarp. Now it's mostly just a matter of what size...and color, I suppose :).
Like I said, we've never had one in the past and been fine, but those sound like famous last words. I'm pretty excited to get one as I think the tinkering at camp will be fun. Nice little group project. "What do you think?" "What about...?" "Dude, check this out." Having never set up one before aside from a crappy blue one at a music festival years ago, it should be fun setting up and learning from our mistakes along the way. Always fun, and useful, to learn new things.
Like I said, we've never had one in the past and been fine, but those sound like famous last words. I'm pretty excited to get one as I think the tinkering at camp will be fun. Nice little group project. "What do you think?" "What about...?" "Dude, check this out." Having never set up one before aside from a crappy blue one at a music festival years ago, it should be fun setting up and learning from our mistakes along the way. Always fun, and useful, to learn new things.
02/13/2013 06:30AM
9th, back before the solotripping got junked, there was a discussion about how to quickly deploy a tarp. Hoops' system was to rig it with the ridge line running down the center line of the tarp. Prusik knots on each end of the tarp to secure it to the ridge line snugly. Pack it up just that way and then when it came time to put it up, pull it out of the bag and suspend the ridge line. The tarp would hang down something like a shower curtain. Secure the corners and your done.
Of course the CSS tarp can be rigged many more ways but that ridge line down the center works most times.
Have fun!
Rob
Of course the CSS tarp can be rigged many more ways but that ridge line down the center works most times.
Have fun!
Rob
02/13/2013 09:41AM
quote Ragged: "quote Drab: "FWIW I had the big version of both. I sold the CCS, "
Might help if you said why"
Probably mostly has to do with what I was familiar with. It has nothing to do with quality, The CCS oozes quality. It has to do with the different cuts.
I found I could much more easily get a tight smooth lay with the cut of the Kelty than the rectangle of the CCS. For most situations with the kelty I can just hang the diagonal, then pull down the opposite corners, the wrinkles go away and I am done and happy. I felt like I had to fiddle and fiddle with the CCS until I was happy, and never was quite as happy. I bet with enough fiddling I could learn to do things with the CCS. But I didn't want another project in camp, I just wanted a quick smooth tarp...
02/13/2013 11:41AM
quote 9th Bearded Infantry: "quote yellowcanoe: "here is a bit of Tarpology from HOOP. Lots of material here; good reading before you shop. Tarps 101 "
Fantastic info. Thanks!"
+1
Water reflects not only clouds and trees and cliffs, but all the infinite variations of mind and spirit we bring to it. – Sigurd Olson
02/13/2013 12:43PM
quote butthead: " About the only way to set a Noah's Tarp tight, pulling at the diagonals.
10x10 CCS set for shade.
10x10 CCS and 10x12 Kondos.
2 Campmor, and a CCS (10x10's), set for rain and wind.
butthead"
Butthead! You're a damn dirty tarp horder!
He leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. Psalm 23:2/3
02/13/2013 02:09PM
quote yellowcanoe: "here is a bit of Tarpology from HOOP. Lots of material here; good reading before you shop. Tarps 101 "
This illustrates that pitching a square or rectangular tarp is both an art and a science. It can be a blast for those who enjoy doing it and the end result is very satisfying.
02/13/2013 03:39PM
quote 9th Bearded Infantry: "Butthead, did you climb a tree to tie that middle line in the 10x10 ccs pic? Looks like the line goes through the tab with both ends going up into the trees."
A lacrosse ball (PJ's invention), and some para cord tossed over nearby branches to pull up the center.
butthead
"never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups" George Carlin
02/13/2013 04:20PM
Thanks Butthead, Your series of tarp photos are great! That first one; that's the Noah I love to hate! Maybe it started out as a piece of modern art titled "A Pterodactyl flies through camp!" The only real use I can think of would be to pitch it low, pile all the gear between the two lowest corners and position a feuding man and wife under it back to back each on their own side! Of course a really determined couple could argue who had the best view.
It's been rainy and blowing for a week or more here; you'd think it was February! Thanks Noak et al for a little comic relief.
Best Wishes, Rob
It's been rainy and blowing for a week or more here; you'd think it was February! Thanks Noak et al for a little comic relief.
Best Wishes, Rob
02/13/2013 06:48PM
9x9 cut of tyvek and a handful of pebbles would save you hundreds. I've also used 2 4x8 cuts of ripstop nylon and some shoe goo to throw together an 8x8. That one costed around $20 and thirty minutes of time, lasted over two years. The whole "tarp" niche is making the manufacturers waaaaay too much money. Easily the most overpriced gear on the market. Sorry, just felt the need to be a voice of reason. If you do buy one, buy the CCS. I'm sure Dan needs the money more than Kelty does...
02/13/2013 09:57PM
quote butthead: "quote 9th Bearded Infantry: "Butthead, did you climb a tree to tie that middle line in the 10x10 ccs pic? Looks like the line goes through the tab with both ends going up into the trees."
A lacrosse ball (PJ's invention), and some para cord tossed over nearby branches to pull up the center.
butthead"
How much cord do you bring along?
02/13/2013 10:00PM
quote 9th Bearded Infantry: "quote butthead: "quote 9th Bearded Infantry: "Butthead, did you climb a tree to tie that middle line in the 10x10 ccs pic? Looks like the line goes through the tab with both ends going up into the trees."
A lacrosse ball (PJ's invention), and some para cord tossed over nearby branches to pull up the center.
butthead"
How much cord do you bring along?"
i take well over 180 feet. sometimes those ridgeline trees are far apart.
02/13/2013 10:26PM
quote yellowcanoe: "quote boonie: "
Another way to set up a Kelty Noah for more protection."
I can't envision eight under that..One..maybe a cuddly two. :)"
Yeah, it's pretty cozy even for a solo :), but I never feel like those tarps have as much coverage as the size would seem to indicate nor much protection from wind-driven rain otherwise.
02/14/2013 05:39AM
"How much cord do you bring along?"
Several hanks of various length, from 50 ft. to a ft. or 2.
butthead
PS: The little thing in the yellow bag are gripclips and work great to add 2 tarps together. bh
Several hanks of various length, from 50 ft. to a ft. or 2.
butthead
PS: The little thing in the yellow bag are gripclips and work great to add 2 tarps together. bh
"never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups" George Carlin
02/14/2013 05:56AM
Nice. Came across that pic in an old thread yesterday. Gonna need to get me a tarp kit to keep everything together. Maybe just a stuff sack or a simple cut of cloth that can be rolled up.
With your setup, I assume if a storm rolls in you simply lower the ends facing the wind? What about when you're away from camp for hours on end? Do you take measures in case something comes while away?
With your setup, I assume if a storm rolls in you simply lower the ends facing the wind? What about when you're away from camp for hours on end? Do you take measures in case something comes while away?
02/14/2013 05:14PM
quote 9th Bearded Infantry: "Hi everyone,
Long story short: Is the smaller 10x10 CCS tarp worth paying $30 more than the Kelty 12x12 and why?
Long story long: I’m torn between getting a Kelty Noah’s Tarp (12x12) or a CCS 10x10 (1.9). My biggest hang up: the Kelty is $30 cheaper and bigger to boot. We never brought a tarp on past trips. However, I’m just fearful that we’re tempting fate. If we get stuck with multiple days of nonstop rain, we’re going to want a place of refuge for at least part of the day. We’ll have a crew of 8 guys this time around so I’m doubtful either will be able to cover all of us (maybe I can convince another guy to spring for one so we have 2?). I’m curious which one is best for my needs.
I’m partial to the “buy the best you can afford now because you’ll be happier later” style of gear buying. I’ve taken that approach with almost all of the gear I have and the higher quality stuff I’ve purchased has always left me in the long run feeling more satisfied than when I went cheaper. The big difference this time around: now I’m married (this point cannot be overstated). Adds a whole new wrinkle to the equation. I’m already going to be buying a barrel pack from CCS at Canoecopia so was thinking it would be great to pick up a tarp from the same place. However, a $30 difference for a smaller tent is making me think a bit more than I would have in the past. I know I also need to keep ease of set-up in mind along with future use. I won’t always be tripping with 8 people so having flexibility for group sizes anywhere from 3 – 8 would be key. Is one easier to set up and adjust as necessary than the other? Weight isn’t a concern and both seem to be of solid build quality from what I’ve read. Any insight would be great.
Thanks!
"
Happy with my Kelty tarp. I tie off a ridge line between 2 trees, spread the tarp on top of the ridge line in a "diamond" configuration. Prussik knot the corners to the ridge line. Then stake off the "loose" 2 corners. It works really, really well.
02/14/2013 09:11PM
quote 9th Bearded Infantry: "And speaking of CCS tarps, how do you store them at home? Stuffed/folded in the sack or do you take it out and store like a sleeping bag/pad?"
Stuffed.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." -- Yogi Berra
02/14/2013 11:12PM
quote 9th Bearded Infantry: "And speaking of CCS tarps, how do you store them at home? Stuffed/folded in the sack or do you take it out and store like a sleeping bag/pad?"
I store my tarps loose with my tents in large plastic storage containers, same for my sleeping bags.
02/15/2013 09:03AM
quote Jeffrey651: "Yep, I keep mine stuffed loosely in a 20L dry sack hanging from my basement rafters. I highly recommend the CCS tarp as well. Have you considered the 10x14 for your group of 8?"
What's the benefit of the 10x14 vs. the 12.5x12, aside from the cost? Is it easier to set up? Offers more configurations?
02/16/2013 08:28AM
Ok, all this talk of tarping has made me want to upgrade. Does Dan Cooke bring a full selection of sizes/colors to Copia? I'll be there Friday so I can get get an early pick. Then I can see if I can set it up in my motel room for the weekend! If that doesn't work I can sit on the bed like Linus with his blanket. Should I get a "loud" color or just go green--BW ethics question.
02/16/2013 08:33AM
Regarding differences between 10 x 14 vs 12 1/2 x 12. The biggest difference is the 10 x 14 is made from 4 panels of cloth verse 6 panels on the 12 1/2 x 12; that gives the 12 1/2 a 12 an additional seam with 6 additional loops on the top surface, that can be used in set up variations or in extreme weather events. The 12 1/2 x 12 has 10 more square feet of coverage area.
Dan Cooke
02/16/2013 06:58PM
I often trip with a larger group, 7 to 9. It's no fun being the person th tarp doesn't cover. Long ago I bought a 12 x 16 tarp from Campmor, the nylon type, 1.9 oz per sq yd. Use a center pole with a larger thing on top so it doesn't pierce the tarp...works best with a reinforced patch and a tieoff at the patch, so the wind won't lift the tarp and the pole falls.
Campmor winter catalog shows this tarp at $ 99.99.
I used my last one for about 100 trips, so they will last.
Campmor winter catalog shows this tarp at $ 99.99.
I used my last one for about 100 trips, so they will last.
02/16/2013 08:56PM
quote sunnybear09: "Ok, all this talk of tarping has made me want to upgrade. Does Dan Cooke bring a full selection of sizes/colors to Copia? I'll be there Friday so I can get get an early pick. Then I can see if I can set it up in my motel room for the weekend! If that doesn't work I can sit on the bed like Linus with his blanket. Should I get a "loud" color or just go green--BW ethics question."
I got a yellow one so it would be lighter hanging out underneath it on gloomy days, but it's a personal choice. I don't use it much for shade.
02/17/2013 08:11AM
Sunnybear09 We will have all sizes of tarps at Canoecopia. The color combinations / selection will be best early. It would be impossible to bring all possible combinations in each size. You all are welcome to come by and say hi.
Dan Cooke
02/17/2013 10:29AM
quote boonie: "quote sunnybear09: "Ok, all this talk of tarping has made me want to upgrade. Does Dan Cooke bring a full selection of sizes/colors to Copia? I'll be there Friday so I can get get an early pick. Then I can see if I can set it up in my motel room for the weekend! If that doesn't work I can sit on the bed like Linus with his blanket. Should I get a "loud" color or just go green--BW ethics question."
I got a yellow one so it would be lighter hanging out underneath it on gloomy days, but it's a personal choice. I don't use it much for shade."
Good thought, Boonie. I am an olive drab kind of guy, like to blend into the woods, but a spash of color, like the lovely autumn colors you got in Sept. and I missed, would be nice. Also adds some excitement to my photos inwhich my equipment tends to border on the unnoticeable. And a modest beacon to finding my camp. I will think it over and send Dan an email to bring/hold one for me on Friday.
02/17/2013 10:28PM
quote Drab: "quote sunnybear09: "... I am an olive drab kind of guy, ..."
With a handle like sunnybear09 I would have guessed you were a bright and cheery kind of guy.
;)
"
The original "Sunnybear" is my Chessie, who never has a bad day and is always upbeat. If only I had his perfect outlook! But I can shine on command!
02/20/2013 03:15PM
quote 9th Bearded Infantry: "Is this a solid rope to use for stringing up a tarp? Looks similar to what CCS sells but it's less expensive.
Reflective Polypropylene Rope "
Sorry to bump this but I'm curious if anyone with decent knowledge about rope/cord for a tarp can help. I bought 4 lengths of this the other day from Amazon and it arrives today. Didn't look as closely as I should have and noticed the weight load is just 50 lbs according to one of the pictures. Seems awfully weak to me but I'm not really sure.
What I'm looking to do is get a 12.5 x 12 CCS tarp then have 50 ft lengths for each corner (knowing i won't need that much but too much is better than not enough) then the 80 footer to lift the middle for drainage. If this rope is junk and I'm just asking for trouble with the first hint of strong wind/rain, I'll just send it back and get something proper. Just wondering if anyone here had an opinion. If it's fine, then great. No harm no foul.
Thanks!
02/20/2013 03:26PM
Hey relax man- didn't you see the pictures on the listing? That stuff can keep kids from falling into holes, cars off of freshly poured driveways, and large things wrapped in tarp on the roof of your car at highway speeds! It's super cord!
Seriously though, I use 2mm NiteIze cordage around camp and it works fine. What you have appears to be 4mm, give it a go!
Seriously though, I use 2mm NiteIze cordage around camp and it works fine. What you have appears to be 4mm, give it a go!
02/20/2013 06:18PM
quote kanoes: "quote sunnybear09: "quote kanoes: "i have a yellow ccs too. bright and cheery underneath it, even on a dark day."
Two expert opinions sway the day. Sold! Thanks! Yellow it is."
no expert here, i just like the yellow glow."
Labels aside, it seems like a solid reason! (And if you can't say something nice about someone....)
Subscribe to Thread
Become a member of the bwca.com community to subscribe to thread and get email updates when new posts are added. Sign up Here