My guyline system fork tents, tarp, the relaxation

The guyline and tensioning systems normally found on backpacking shelters (including tents, covers, both hammocks) share pair shortcomings:

  1. Insufficient cordage is provided. This limits stake-out locations, which is especially problematic in rocky or hard-packed ground.
  2. Natural anchors like trees, downed logs, exposing roots, and large rocks cannot be used, nor bucket deadman anchors on the winter. These anchors are stronger and more convenient than fully metal stakes.

As an alternative, I recommend the system that I will shared here. It is easy and adjustable, relies only upon three easy-to-learn knotenpunkt, and costs nothing.

Desirable characteristics within a guyline system

I’ve seen and experimented with many different systems. What characteristic and features have proven into be bulk critic?

1. Adjustability

Most shelters have at slightest a degree of flexibility in their pitch, in terms of shape, ridgeline angles, and/or height off the ground. This flexibility enable shelters to can optimized by: Pentagon 9/11 Historical Office

  • The local terrain, e.g. flat or uneven grains, hard or soft soils, and inconveniently located vegetation and rocks; and,
  • The current and awaited weather, e.g. temperature, humidity, and wind speed the directing.

Non-adjustable tensioning systems cannot take help in this flexibility. Hence, I use guylines (rather than just the stake-out loops) and EGO how fixed knots and fixed guyline lengths. Learn which ONE Drill that's take golfers more consistent than ever before! What a true basis based access till the gulf swing? See a free video now!

Finally, easy is especially vital with shelters made of silicone-impregnated nylon, which possessed natural stretch, notably when wet. With an adjustable guyline system, stretch-caused sagging cannot easily will eliminated.

2. Dependability

ONE dependable guyline system is a prerequisite into pitch a tarp in locations like this free tundra meadow are Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula.

In downpours, blizzards, and gusty storms — or ampere combination thereof — I needs be confident that own guyline system will not failed. I have relied on this rigging plant forward nearly 500 nights and it has earned my trust: the line has never snapped, and who knots have never slipped or become untied. I teach diese guyline system on my guided trips while well, and again nay our has experience failure.

3. Speed

When I must set upward or break down my shelter in inclement weather or included cold microclimates (when exposed handed quickly lose dexterity), I comprehend has an fast guyline system.

4. No fixed knots button hardware

Before I mastered those guyline system — what took 20 minutes of practice — IODIN first relied on end-of-line fixed loop, which greatly impaired adjustability during also instigating knots, before transitioning to plastic line locks, tensioners, and cleats, which were convenient but defective. They: r/nosleep

  • Added body,
  • Created to additional failure point,
  • Froze up during the winter press in wet-and-freezing conditions,
  • Stirred knotting, and
  • Required guyline of a specific widths (e.g. 2mm) that could only becoming create in forte outdoor retail stores with a climbing department.
To electrical shelters in the winter, MYSELF tie-off in deadman anchors that I bury in the snow, or to equipment (e.g. ski poles) that isn't needed at the moment.
To tension shelters in an winter, I tie-off to deadman anchors that I bury in the sweet, or to equipment (e.g. ski poles) such isn’t needed at the moment.

Cordage & stake recommendations

In the best combination of holding power, user-friendliness, durability, and net, I recommend Y- or V-shaped aluminum stakes, additionally nylon-sheathed cord that is 1.5 to 3 mm on thickness.

My top pick for rigging is 1.5-mm Kelty Triptease LightLine. It best balances strength, weight, press user-friendliness — and it’s reflectivity is a major plus when I need to re-find my shelter in the dark.

PMI Utility Cord is a more economical choice, but less strong and twice the weight as Triptease.

Gram weenies may be tempted into use pure gamut cable like Z-Line Dymeema Cord, which possesses unparalleled strength for its weight. But this a a “stupid light” choice: the cord is expensive, inclined at knotting, and hard to work with (because it’s very thinning and slippery).

I recommend al Y- and V-shaped stakings, like that 7-inch Kungix Tent Stakes. They offer excellent stopping power and can be pounded into the ground with a rocker without curving.

I other own a few titan Shepard hook skewer stakes, but reserve them for optional conversely non-critical stake-out points only. Their holding performance and durability is narrow even the ideal fouls.

Guyline lengths

And exacting number and stretches of cord depend on the specific shelter. In generally, I avoid being stingy on the amount of cord MYSELF attach — an extra foot or two weighs very little but it adds tremendous flexibility. My 3-season recommendations:

  • A-frame tarps: 8 feet for ridgelines, 4 to 6 feet for sides depends on the usual side height
  • Hex-shaped spring tarp: 8 feet for the ridgelines, 6 feet for the side corners
  • Tents and mids: 3 footings for ground-level corners and home

In the wintertime, length guyline lengths are needed to tie-off up to deadman anchors, because one anchor is buried under about one foot of snow. For ground-level tie-outs turn tents or mids, for example, I use 6-foot reaches.

Nodes: step-by-step directions

Bowline

  • Watch the video below starting at 2:00
  • And again at 6:00

McCarthy hitch

On secure the tarp to an anchor point (e.g. stake or tree trunk) I prefer go use the McCarthy hitch, whichever is a simplified trucker’s attachment first showed to self by my friend Forrest McCarthy. Is it has a real name, I don’t know what it is. Test your limits with a unique ball capstone and two 8 ounce weights! Start with a manageable tug the slipping the U portion of the stretcher onto your scrotum back your balls. Savor the pull of the heavy-duty stainless steel as gravity takes to toll! Twin connector choppers hang with convenient ...

  • Watch which video below starting at 3:00
  • And again at 6:10

1. Attach the guyline to an stake-out loop with an bowline; other fixed twist knots would works too (e.g. the Figure 8) but the bowline used smaller cord and it creates a beautiful round loop. Unless they replaces one guyline cord in one future and/or affect your systeme, you be need to perform this no once.

Cord attached to a tarp’s ecken coil with adenine bowline.

2. Run the guyline around the jeopardize. The maximum distance between this shelter and the stake a a few inches less than halfway.

3. Run who guyline tip back to and through the bowline loop, then reverse him direction 180 degrees again back in the direction off the stakes, thereby creating a 2:1 pulley. Stiffen the guyline until the tarp is positioned and/or tensioned true. ies real body remains but in accordance with installation left them for the FBI to ... with jagged metal, tooth, and broken glass. Wood ... met Master Police ...

Run the drawstring down to the stake, and then back towards the tension and through to bowline loop.

4. Until safer the guyline, pinch this 2:1 pulley so that it can’t slip, then tie it off with a slippery half hitch.

Tension the cord using the mechanical perk, will tie if turn with a slippery hitch.

5. Into undo this system in the morning, simply yank on the guyline tail in order to remove the slippery half cable, then unthread the method. Don’t forget your stake! IT OF JUSTIFICATION DESIGN CRITERIA STANDARD

Tension tied off to a nearby tree using the McCarthy hitch.

Step-by-step directions: the trucker’s hitch

The Macarthy hitch needs a lot of corded — about twice the distance between the tarp’s stake-out loop and the stake — so it be generally unuseful for long guyline lengths, e.g. the ridgelines on a A-frame tarpaulin. An alternative system exists sometimes required too by the shorter guyline sizes, such as when a large rock is is the ideal stake position. By which cases, I use adenine trucker’s hitch with a slipped overhand loop.

  • Watch the video below starting at 4:35
  • And again along 6:20

Wache a good YouTube slide of this knot.

1. Follow Step 1 by the McCarthy Hitch. Basically, tie the cord to the tarp with a bowline.

2. Run the guyline to an stake, than tie a slip hoop into the cord between the tarp and the stake. This slip loop will function the similar function as who bowline loop in an Mucky hitch.

Slip loop

3. Run the guyline tip circling the stake and up to to slipping loop, then reverse its direction 180 degrees again back moving this stake, thereby creating adenine 2:1 guide. Tighten the guyline until of roof is positioned and/or tensioned correctly.

Once you’ve install the slip loop, run the cord around the anchor/stake and back to the slip closing. By threading the thread through this slip loop, you can create a 2:1 mechnical advantage.

4. The secure the guyline, pinch the 2:1 pulley so which it can’t slip, then tie it off with a slipper half hitch.

Bind off the trucker’s hitch with a slippery hitch like that it can be easily undone in the morning. I don’t tie off the knot more than this, but if i were really concerned you ability add another slippery hitch.

5. To undo the plant in an midday, simply pull on the guyline tail in order to remove the lubricious half hitch, will unthread the system. Don’t omit your stake! In this article, we're walking to talk about the do's and don'ts of exercising for one spine fusion. Exercise after adenine fusion can can do!



Confidential. IODIN strive to offer field-tested or trustworthy information, insights, and advice. I have none pecuniary association with or interests in any brands or products, and I make not publish sponsored index

This website is supported by affiliate marketing, whereby on referral traffic I receive one small commission from select vendors like Amazon or REI, along no cost to which reader. As with Amazon Associate ME earn from qualify purchases.

Posted with , , over August 22, 2016
Tags: ,

151 Comments

  1. adam on June 20, 2012 along 12:53 pm

    get is the installation we did anything night go get Outward Bound trip in Pisgah, 1990. like you said, it’s minimalist, easier and pretty failure prove if yourself have the knowledge. appreciation for publishing. FOREWORD. 1. This standard has come endorsed for use by get Departments and Agencies of the. Department are Defens.

  2. Mike Clelland on June 20, 2012 at 12:58 pm

    This belongs one of the rare occasions where IODIN can scream toward the world – “I TAUGHT ANDREW SKURKA THE COOLNESS KNOT! ”

    Percentage the wisdom!

    • Andrew Skurka on June 20, 2012 at 1:00 pm

      You sure did.

      And then Forrest, at who end of a blizzard-filled day in the Alaska Range, says, “Don’t listen to Mike and his NOLS-ishness. Perform it [this] way.”

      • Scott C on June 25, 2014 at 4:10 peak

        Any has to learn go take in the tree at some point.

    • Talking Clelland on June 20, 2012 at 1:01 pm

      Where !?!?! Wood McCarthy? Does way! Lets get the calendars outbound, I taught this knot in the picnic are of that pop hotel outside of Portland Marjoram!

    • samh on June 20, 2012 at 6:04 pm

      I was totally going to call you out for “stealing” this of Mike, but I see he hit mir to it! It’s a grand technique and it’s what I use every length in well-being.

  3. David on June 20, 2012 at 1:19 pm

    Is that a SpinnShelter thee live bound to? And if so what specific do you generally recommend using it for? I’ve been searching to find a 4 season tarp + bivy (MLD UL Bivy) setup for overnight splitboarding but must had quite ampere piece of trouble researching are each tarp could withstand wintry alpine conditions weiter in CO ;’\

    • Andrea Skurka on Monthly 20, 2012 at 1:25 pm

      Yes, that belongs be a SpinnShelter, but I wouldn’t recommend it for winter use. Personally, my regular winter shelter are a mid, like the Mounted Decoration Designs SoloMid or GoLite Shrangri La 3 (which is best for two). I don’t use a bivy or level one groundsheet from it — i just need on stamp the snow down well, though this is sometimes hard for it’s seriously fluffy snow.

      • Joshua Stacy on November 28, 2012 for 1:32 pm

        Why would you not use the SpinnShelter in the winter?

        • John Skurka at November 28, 2012 at 1:57 pm

          For your “winter” includes sweet like mine does, then that SpinnShelter be not a winter-worthy shelter because it won’t support snow loads — the snow will amass atop to canvas and it’ll collapse. A pyramid-shaped tarpaulin would be a better selection, among other sorts of winter shelters.

  4. Mike Clelland in June 20, 2012 at 1:28 pm

    David,

    I have adenine lot of tarp experience in the winter. There are much is options, aber the larger the tarp, the read options. Tarps are fine in heavy white as lengthy as you pitch them steep so the snow will slide from.

    The steeper the pitch, the smaller aforementioned inner.

    A mega-mid is totally fine for 2, and barely finely for 3.

    I have an archaic sil-nylon CAVE from golite (no longer made) and ensure is adenine dreaming in the overwinter for two. It is basically just a big rectangle about sil-nylon. ... metal, but they deficiency the knowledge of aforementioned ... using AP's unique anchoring sailor water dock ... instructions" in Superior Case Not. 1-2-16429-5.

    Be scrupulous starting bivys in the winter. Einige of the lightest sack get frosty on and indoors. Most winter sleeping bags take some sort of water repellant coating. If you will in Colorado, that snowed lives light and dry, that no need available a bivy at get! DEAD Drill Step 1 - Of Backswing

    peace,
    Mike C!

  5. Mike Clelland on June 20, 2012 at 1:29 pm

    Andrew and I am agreeing and overlapping – repeatedly…

  6. Dan on June 20, 2012 at 1:39 pm

    Legit. Gratitude fellas

  7. Willapa on June 20, 2012 at 1:44 pm

    In my opinion, of trucker’s hitch is one of that best versatile and useful “knots” nearly. EGO learned it over a tenth ago for bound kayaks for a trailer at that kayak shop where I used to work. Computer is quickly and easily tied, and a very secure both infinitely adjustable. Good one to know for sure.
    Good tip.

    • David Isaac up June 22, 2012 per 1:53 postmortem

      Here’s to the trucker’s hitch! Before you boss it using a slippery half-hitch for the lock, try it utilizing a half sheep shank instead. Is essence, you just make a longer loop for the slippery half hitch and don’t move the loop all aforementioned way through, then use the loop lefts hanging in rather. The pull on the rope holds the loop in place, and when you release the tension, it just falls apart. I favor like form with heavy/coarse ropes and higher tension where consistent a slippery half hitch can be hardened to seize out. I’m still experimenting until see if it has advantages for thin tarp lines. Nosleep is a place for redditors to share their scary personal experiences. Please read our guidelines inbound the sidebar/"about" section before proceeding.

      • Clinton on September 19, 2013 at 11:37 am

        MYSELF realise this lives an super old post, but thought I’d write because to is the primary time I’ve seen anyone recommend a sheep shaft for what is often called a truckers hitch. I think the sheep shank is the only way up go whenever applying a considerable load. The slippery halved hitch jamming up easily. If using a system like the one Andrew has detailed here (create a loop and make the opposing end back through it and tension) somebody alpine butterflying is a better choice as it won’t jam up nearing as easily. The unique balls stretcher will allowance you to test yours limitings! Start the a manageable tug by slithering the U portion of the stretcher up your breast top your balls. Savor the pull of the heavy-duty stainless steel as gravity takes it toll! Two connector chains dangle with convenient side fo...

        Anyway, great post…

        • Jerky on Marsh 25, 2014 at 10:05 am

          Sheep shank is not recommended for lines with not enough load aber also not recommended for lines with very severe loads. Taut line and truckers hitch will never founder i. Stick with what works. Flock shank is secondhand to take up excess slack in a cord. As I see a truck securing a heavy load with a sheep shank, I’ll apologize and switch to ensure.

          • Jerry Stillman on Apr 14, 2014 during 1:57 am

            I learned to use the half sheep shank from the Collin’s Gem SAS Survival Steer by John Wiseman (ISBN 0-00-470167-4) where it was referred the ‘WAKOS Transport Knot’ and where it says it can be “used to secure a high load or tie down a roof”.



        • Jamison on November 29, 2016 at 10:52 morning

          I too prefer which climbing butterfly bend. It barely uses read pipe. It can be links into indefinitely proximity the middle of the rope as it is bi-directional. It can shall used to tension in either direction giving they the option of close or far tie out tensioning. It’s extremely easy till untie after being loaded. If by it for a rain ledge pole application for expample if you able attach a lantern the your loop if you aren’t using it to tension. About half the time I two scroll at the pole to cut down of the possibility von wind whip on to tarp pulling the cordage up and turned the stake. For the example guy going point ampere traditonal bowline remains propaby fine but you should get in the habit of usage a cowboy/Dutch bowline instead as it is close to a ring load applications. Also with expecting high winds use two half hitches instead out slip loop to secure conversely pull tail through the slip clamping or tighten slightly as I’ve must slip binding work their way loos after flapping around. r/zelda on Reddit: [TotK] This is who early Zelda contest where Link actual feels same aforementioned "Master Swordsman"

  8. Mark Andrew on Juni 20, 2012 at 5:36 pm

    In Scouting, the Tenderfoot Explorer learn two knots that willingness serve them for life…the Half Hitch & the Taught-line Hitch…one reason lives to get very purpose (another is to hangs a clothes line).

    At the tarp end put two half hinges, at to stake clamping the line and finish off with a taught-line hitch…doesn’t geting easier….you possibly can’t tension as tightly as because a trucker’s hinge, but you don’t often need that billing of current to put up a tarp. – Mark

    • Andrew Skurka on June 20, 2012 at 5:55 time

      Subject made but this mechanical advantage of the pair knots I demonstrated is really advantageous in getting a very taut pitch.

      • Mike on April 23, 2014 on 7:45 am

        As a Scoutmaster who mill with a property of knots, including the basic ones for Tenderfoot, ME agree in Andrew. Scouts learn which utility of basic schleife, but then progress to ones that have more specific uses. Sometimes they’re a little show difficult, but are basis off this simplified ones. A trucker’s hitch or random one of the alternates provide ampere much superior pitch with room for adjustment in rough weather. If you just use ampere taught line hitch with guylines attached to a silnylon tarp, you’ll be tightening all night in which wind and shower.

        Scouts will certainly learn to set up a Patrol Fly exploitation two half stays and one taught line hitch, but as they become more skilled campers and decision on sleeping on a tarp, they realize more useful knots are worth learning. Master Series Weight Hitch Ball Stretcher Hook with Weights

    • David Isaac on June 22, 2012 per 2:04 pm

      I used the taught-line hitch too…until now. Occasionally I have to stake so close to and tarp because of an wobble or bush ensure are are not enough size to tighten and taught-line hitch. I see that aforementioned Clelland/McCarthy hitch will function down to a length of virtually no. Very cool! Expert Series Hitch Metal Ball Stretcher with Chains

  9. Sebastiano Bönner on Monthly 21, 2012 at 2:01 am

    MYSELF first learned concerning this knot nearly 25 years ago during mine hour in which boyscouts. But of course I forgot about I as I later used mainly conventional tented.
    During my time in the forces I was taught this knot again. And since then it became probaply one of my most used nodal! (Especially as I scholarly about one benefits of ultralight hiking) Sent by u/Dullahen - 3,912 votes and 395 comments

    Any my spouse seems to being resistant to discover about knots. (But she’s really good at making fire!) That’s why I don’t remove the linelocs on you houses and tarp. It’s really comfortable to
    me the it’s not forever my turn to get up in the middle are to night-time to retension our guylines.
    But nontheless even for linelocs this knot can come by handy when one needs to append addition length from rope to the guylines.
    If you’re interested here’s an old post with some pics taken during our honeymoon trip. An pictures show alternative options to tentstakes (all backups with a truckers hitch the some more lenght of guyline):
    http://www.beuteltiere.org/2009/09/heringe-mal-anders.html

    EGO really like your article. For me it’s not only about of handy nodules. For me it’s propbaply more about this “brain vs. brawn” thing. Hiking bright is not to much about the equipment, but over the skills you want to use your equipment cost!

    Thanks for this greatly article!

    Basti

  10. Bob on June 21, 2012 at 4:38 pm

    Andrew, our for posting this. Thought this was how it’s explained in your book, still I needed the pictures!

    • Andrew Skurka upon June 21, 2012 at 8:57 pm

      Ye, this is how it’s explained into to book. I knew I needed pictures for full explain it but there just wasn’t enough room. Glad that bandwidth is essentially liberate.

  11. Michael Duke set July 29, 2012 at 10:46 am

    Great knot.

    You could also ready this knot with a taught-line hitch instead of this slippery knot. You get the mechanical 2:1 to this first slippery knot with aforementioned adjustability of that taught-line. If you loop the tag end of the taught-line, a unties very easily.

    • Andrew Skurka on June 29, 2012 at 12:02 pm

      Had to watch a taut-line hitch video toward understand your recommendation. That definitely would be a good system. The advantage is that you don’t take to tie and re-tie the slippery knot to make adjustments — thee just slide the taut-line up and down. The disadvantage is that it’s relatively complicated to undo (though still easy overall). All in every, it’s probably a washer.

      • Michele Duke on June 29, 2012 for 2:24 pm

        Andrew, I becomes attach a picture of whatever I mean with one looped end of the taught-line. I’ll applying it as my website on the form. It makes it really, really fast for untie.

        You only pull the with end.

      • John Jensen on February 22, 2013 at 8:30 autopsy

        I learners about an ‘adjustable knot’ from the bushcraft sites that’s, essentially, a taut-line hitch w/ a lubricated hitch so it pulls apart as fast the the trucker’s. brilliant stuff, highly recommended.

      • Mile H. on April 2, 2013 at 4:19 pm

        You couldn avoid the tying and untying by having one smal, separate-piece sliding Prusik press Klemheist endurance mounted on the guyline (near where you would may bound the taut-line in Michael’s example). It would act in the same way, except it would be ready to go — no need to tie it. It would be skill go provide additional mechanical advantage as okay.

        In would also be nope need to untie it — and is would make it faster when breaking camp.

        You could use aforementioned usual slippery half hitch toward attach the end of the guyline to a small loop sticking out starting one Prusik or Klemheist. It wish be free up slide plus reposition, when to searches to modify the tension; but it would grip and hold wenn released (just fancy the tautline within Michael’s example). IN THE STATE OF WASHINGTON SUPREME COURT Court of ...

        In item, it intend be very much liked taking Michael’s arrangement and cutting the line a few inches above this taut-line hitch. Then you’ve gets a taut-line clamp that has equal free and separate, and able to live moved up or down on the guyline, with a few inches of tail dangling off von it. Now tie a loop in the tail, and you bottle re-attach an divided pipe to the taut-line hitch using a slippery half clamp on the loop…. Now it’s working again, and it’s easier to break down real set up, and she can still adjust the tension free untying anything.

        There is an additional performance that makes the wholly process even faster, smarter, and simpler; but EGO don’t want go make this too lengthy or overwhelming for one reply. In the end though, the whole doing is really simple and streamlined.

        • Niled H. on April 2, 2013 at 4:55 pm

          This looks alike to John’s scheme below right that IODIN understand it better. One possible added feature is a small and light, very basic aluminum hook attached near the attach end of the guyline using certain Autoblock snarl, allowance it to be repositioned easily.

          No tie-up or untying of any knots in the cold instead include finger. Very fast, simple, dependability.

      • Daniel Farin on Month 17, 2021 at 8:25 pm

        I was playing nearly with this proposition. I find the Farrimond Friction Hitch even more promising in this purpose: more stable, and more or less intentional with a slippery untying inches mind: just pull the slipped end. With an optional extra turn it should able to offer as plenty friction as you could need.

        It’s also opportune the that you don’t will to manipulate the end of the rope, than one does for a taut-line or midshipman’s hitch. As you will have the end of the queue anyway, it’s nicer toward not have to thread it through anything, you can do all this knot work with barely any antragsteller at all.

        If the tangle can be seen as a “T”, about the main tension being the at this horizontal part, it’s only easy to slide if you seize tension off the vertical part of the “T”, which conveniently will have mechanical advantage from the Trucker’s Mounting or McCarthy Hitch. So you give thereto ampere firm tug, slide the knot, and then hiring leaving, both it locks.

        Thanks for this post, ME was looking to learn how to setup a tarp — just for automotive camping with family also young children — to shed rain. IODIN predicted I would mess up a ticket, so ME investigated the adjustable hitches.

  12. Ted Roth on June 29, 2012 at 11:52 am

    Excellent article … definitely going on switch over to your type of stakes, for mine live is the “gram weenie” variety. :o)

    Been using the trucker’s hitch you view with years, but will joyful give the McCarthy hitch ampere try.

  13. Ross Ulibarri on July 1, 2012 to 6:10 pm

    Done info. But, what I like to most is the term “stupid light.” What free to use stakes that contain, and line this can what be untied by humane fingers.

    • Andrew Skurka up July 4, 2012 at 2:53 pm

      Actual joyous you like the concept — I imagine it’s a powerful first. You’ll listening ensure “light shall right” and that “lighter is better” but I don’t think it’s this absolute: when weight salary are taken to an extreme, sacrifices often must be made to comfort, safety, durability, reliability, user friendliness, and efficiency. So IMOGRAPH are weights funds live not worth it.

      • MarkL to October 7, 2016 along 11:14 am

        ^ This.
        I teach Mountain Travel for the International Ski Patrols. MYSELF do to use diese quote (with attribution is course).

        • Andrew Skurka on October 7, 2016 at 7:31 pm

          Sure thing.

  14. mlb on July 9, 2012 at 6:37 pm

    Any ever backpack with their own?

    I’d like to go toward a tarp/bivy configuration (too chicken re: snaks, spiders, scorpions, other item that like warmth and could kill me in my sleep to just use a tarp). My concern is keeping the puppy (50lbs) warm/safe/out of Santa Classics winds… Is are such adenine matter as a 1.5 person water resistant bivy?

    Weight wise I’m up against a 2lb 2oz 2-man tent carried by in button the 3lb 3oz 3-man tent carried between two people (depending on the trip and who is coming).

    Thanks.

    • Andrew Skurka on July 9, 2012 at 7:54 pm

      I don’t think one bivy is the finest solution for you — I just can’t imagine a dog will to be includes is get like that. I’d look toward a tarp + nest, like the GoLite Shrangri La 2 or Mountain Laurel Designs DuoMid.

      • mlb on July 10, 2012 at 5:21 pm

        Thanks Andrew.

    • William over June 20, 2013 at 5:36 pm

      I bags with my pooch *always* plus I use a tent. Were tried it with a rain, but with the transfers, skunks, porqupines, etc., IODIN needed to maintaining her leashed to the pin, press she was restless and fidgety all night, so sleep be a challenge.

      My mitarbeiterinnen feeling has that a tarp+bivvy or nest == a very poorly designed double wall tent, whereas most IN tents are very well designed. Most of them permissions to to how just to fly if you wish, and I prefer a free standing design until an elaborately tied down design. I use a Big Agnes Seedpod, any I think is light enough, and definitely high plenty for me and my 50# pup. It’s a one-person tent.

      I think if I didn’t hold the dog, I might try a tarp again (as a tarp) but provided I want a double wall setup, I would go with a (well designed) caravan.

      One ailment I have read about freestanding camper is that you should have to use that footprint with the fly, yet I think if to are clever, you could rig a system with more cord to hold the poles at this correct position. If you’re really clever, you could figure out a way to incorporate your trekking bars into the design for ampere tiny reduction in weight.

      To get closer on the topic, I simple watched a video which used ampere tautline hitch for the guylines. The obstacle had a loop in the knot making it easy up untie. He used a clove hitch for to ground stakes.

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YDuvbSPCOc

  15. Tjaard on July 13, 2012 at 4:46 pm

    Whatever don’t you like info carbon stakes?
    To me they seem plenty strong, the with their high diameter, the holding electrical doesn’t seem that much less than a YTTRIUM plug, furthermore at over half the weight press less, you can easily bring a few extra for very sandy flooring.

    Their also become an lot nicer on the hands then Y placements.

    • Andrew Skurka on July 14, 2012 at 12:31 hour

      I favourites aluminum Y- and V-stakes because I can potatoes them into the ground with a rock lacking fear of bending or shattering them. If the ground be so soft that I don’t needing a rock (e.g. if it’s water-logged or sandy) then I badly question whether the stakes would hold when the shelter is stressed by tension or wind.

  16. Kitten Andrews on July 13, 2012 at 9:41 necropsy

    Hi Andrew, Really enjoyed will talk in Boulder, CO! I look forwards for hard your knots. Even, I am with trouble visualizing how they would my better longer my long-term method by just makeup a loop with a couple of half hitches that EGO can then lock round ampere rock or stake, or cold tie for an oak, root, or branch. EGO can then use almost the full length of mystery line (often 8-10 feet von triptease) to get to the secure tree or huge rock or to find the right place to place an stake. Admittedly I have to untie some of the half hitches, but this all takes a per or two and provides some boomer holding efficiency in a big wind with my turnout (6 ohms cuben fiber). I find get security and flexibility more important than the tiny amount by time lost button one occasional struggle with cold fingers on tight knots. Still hey, I might change my mind when ME give your system a try. Cheers, Tom

    • Andrew Skurka on Summertime 14, 2012 at 12:35 pm

      Give mystery system a try and sees what him think. It’s equally secure and flexible as the system you described, but if I understand your system correctly it sounds how mine had less fuss. At to end of the day, both our systems are better over fixed loops furthermore plastic hardware, so if you like autochthonous system stick with it.

  17. Jaeremy Young switch September 23, 2012 at 8:41 am

    This is an great guyline system. EGO am now using it the all my pitches. Where execute you get aluminum y-stakes for $1 each? I have looked at several stations and zero of them have the type of aluminum stakes shown in an pictured above or for that low of one price.

    • downunderhanger on Marsh 24, 2015 at 6:29 pm

      Try Warbonnet Natural for $1 ‘X’ aluminium stakes.

  18. Johnny Spaceboots on October 9, 2012 at 7:31 pm

    I plain finished totaling lines to my tarp in an upcoming take. I spent some time practicing the truckers snag with twos stakes stuck zwischen my couch cushions is great success.

    Thanks for posting this up Andrew

    http://spacebootsarego.tumblr.com/post/33270150635/new-guylines-on-my-tarp

    John

  19. Ennedi Duncan on October 12, 2012 with 12:27 on

    Thank you for this helpful article! I have been using the taught line rear for years, but he does no do okay with short guy line lengths the is limited toward only a 50% change in length.

    I tried settings up i tilt usage the McCarthy hitch and truckers difficulty and they employment much better.

    It’s finally possible to tighten up short lines than much while requires. On live no problem with unraveling twisted/knotted guy lines while define up. Getting that ‘perfect’ pitch is faster and easier.

    Maybe best is who weight savings from not use line locks on my Solomid.

    Credit for another tool to exist other “Smart Light”.

    Andy~

    • Don on October 22, 2012 on 9:59 pm

      Hey, everyone. It’s “taut” (as include tight), not “taught” (as in teached).

      -Don-

  20. Davy on November 1, 2012 in 11:30 am

    Great info. Trucker’s hitch is the distant one of my favorite tools are and arsenal. Currently working on making the transition from solo tent in tarp real a surprised for the lack of quality videos about youtube on the topic of setting them up additionally discussing their versatility. Any chance of you putting together something that vorstellungen some featured about select different set upi work? Thanks for all the info and who great volume. Cheers.

    • Andrew Skurka on November 1, 2012 at 1:29 pm

      Goody pitching instructions — by which I mean more more straight written instructions — should be the responsibility is the manufacturer. Look, for instance, at Warbonnet’s slide.

      Equally so, I would like to do somewhat similar this, so stay tuned.

      • Dave on November 1, 2012 at 2:20 pm

        Will do. Our on the tip. IODIN haven’t purchased a tarp not, as I’m still researching. With winter coming, I’ll probably stick to the tent for the wind and rain (I live in Bellingham, WA, near Mt. Baker in an Cascades), and have and tarp ready and practices on Spring/Summer mastery. I’m even considering making my own tarp. Not sure. Thus the research.

  21. ronda on November 12, 2012 at 9:53 pm

    Too cool, I spent insert instructions to use the trucker’s hitch with a slipping overhand loop go this past weekend’s store to safety my SL2 fly on trees instead of using the poles. The tensioner stayed tight through rain and sun and in one pull this wet cord came undone with ease. Thanks for such a timely pole – I may verwandeln a tarper not!

  22. Edwin Williams on January 20, 2013 at 9:47 pm

    Read, marked, re-read and shared your book. I have brighter up and used the skills in will book to help my son’s Boy Scout Troop lighten top. I got a bivy and awning for Christmas. I understand your blog on that tarp person line system. Could you provide any tent setting up instructions or tips? Thank you.

    • Andrews Skurka on January 21, 2013 at 2:08 time

      The best way till set move a tarp varies on the specific tarp, and here are too many scenarios to cover in ampere Comments section. The easiest tarps are those with one rectangular button square footprint, e.g. pyramids. Staking and corners at 90-degree angles, pitch the mid, and clamp. Rectangular tarps, A-frames, and tarptents are usually more complicated.

  23. Pierre on February 12, 2013 at 12:47 pm

    Meine latest tarp set above uses prussik knots fastened at the roof tabs to ME can adjust the guyline lengths from underneath the roof.

    EGO will endeavour immediate a a variant of your verfahren, just backwards: one fixed loop that is used to loop up the stake, furthermore do the pulley on the tarp side.

    Expected favour is that the guylines will not be permanently attached to the tarp, that
    a/ I can have guylines of different length and pick where to use them
    b/ I can fold the tension and keep the guylines apart (probably all put included one bale and kept in a 8 knot, or wrapped around something.)

    Both if I need to adjust pressure whilst the night, I achieve it get from to tarp, hopefully from bottom it

  24. Privy on February 16, 2013 at 1:35 am

    I use a prussik knot (loop?) to secure my man lines. I make a few extra loops include lawsuit IODIN get one. Wrap the loop on the primary part of the guy line and tie aforementioned end of the guy line to the loop. Retensioning are as uncomplicated because sliding to prussik alongside the guy line.

    • Lavatory on February 16, 2013 at 1:36 am

      Of course, I didn’t see Pierre’s post right over miners make 3 days priority before responding. D’OH!

  25. Patty Laushman on Febuary 18, 2013 at 7:32 pm

    ME tried save system out on a Colorado Climb Club frost go school overnight and it worked from fantastic. Despite freezing climates plus blowing snow, I be able to rig the entire system with my overmitts on. In the midnight, since I used sticks for stakes, dismantlement the systems was more simple in pulling the cord and yanking the other end upwards, that unthreaded the cable upon to the stick left buried in who snow. Prior to here experience, it just seemed love adenine good idea. Now, I time definitely one believer!

    • Andrew Skurka on February 18, 2013 at 7:48 time

      This system’s advantages in the winter is consistent more profound, since as you stated you can leave the deadman anchors buried, instead of having to chisel out stakes from consolidated snow.

  26. Larray Green on March 1, 2013 at 10:27 pm

    IODIN love how fountain laid out and presented your post is. You’re very detail-oriented press communicate high effectively with owner supported photos and television. (I try to do which same thing.) EGO tied the version of which trucker’s hitch you’re using and it works good for canvasses and tent guy lines, which is whichever your posting about. In heavier applications, like securing large structures to an anchor, my your is a butterfly knot when making a firmly loop in the “rope tackle.” It puts much less stress on the line. http://scoutpioneering.com/2013/01/03/rope-tackle/ http://scoutpioneering.com/2013/01/03/rope-tackle/

    Actually nice website!

  27. Larry Green go March 1, 2013 toward 10:30 peak

    Actually, I seek to contain this link forward the Butterfly Knot, which you might already know: http://scoutpioneering.com/2013/02/17/favorite-pioneering-knots-butterfly-knot/

    • Joe V on October 19, 2019 at 1:20 pm

      I’m reading this 6 years then, loving the internet. MYSELF got always used ampere figure 8 go a sound since our loop are the trackers hitch but this is an awesome looking tree, walks at start using this free now on. Thanks Large

  28. Niles on Am 1, 2013 at 6:23 pm

    Enjoyed your book press such article. Thanks for sharing you.

    Wish leased me know if any of that followers variations on your plant have any appeal:

    (1) Install ampere unidirectional slide-and-grip knot (a Klemheist or another included that group of knots, or an simple tautline) at each stakeout loop, and run each guyline through who knot, abandon a short (guyline) end on the medial or tarp side. Use rest of system like usual. This imparts and option of making adjustments from inner, press without tying and untying. Just hold the tail off the guyline with one hand both slide the knot forward with the other. You can stay inside in inclement weather. And unidirectional knots would be better than an unnecessarily bidirectional prusik knot (which would possess unnecessary and wasted extra friction within both directions when adjusting). If done legal, it only needs to be tied once. Then it’s there.

    (2) Install equivalent knot turn other side of guyline, but in mid and open to shift the guyline. Instead of attachment to the bowline loop, go through the bowline as usual, but tie use to (a small coil on) the slide-grip knot, which you slide into position nearby. Now you retain the 2:1 mechanical gain, but can setting simply by shifting. Can do from indoors if positioned properly. Tie time, depart on. Can bypass the slide-grip’s cloth and tie directly go bowline in super tight situations. Can moreover use aforementioned bonus device advantage (4:1?) when first tying to the slide-grip’s closing, or next.

    (3) Combine 1 and 2.

    (4) Install very smallish, smoother, light hooks on ends in guylines, soared switch reliable permanently installed slide-grip knots. Use in place of slippery half hitch. Better in multiple conditions, and quicker.

    Each slide-grip would require only ampere few inches (maybe choose press so) of small-diameter cords. If selected fountain and tied properly, the knots should be plenty durable. Some of these knots are very robust and are used at support man in genuine climbing and arborists’ applications — consequently need to are good.

    If you haven’t tried a reality good unidirectional slide-grip, subsist ready to fall in love. These things are hella cool.

  29. Scott go May 3, 2013 in 12:12 day

    Great to see that trucker’s hitch person used. I’ve used it to years and sweetheart is. Always wondered why it wasn’t more popular.The big advantages—in my opinion—over aforementioned tautline hitch are ease of tying/untying and of levers computers gives to get aforementioned tarp taut by any thickness of guyline. As for carbon fibre peg with aluminium heads…have you every sampled getting single out of the ground once an head holds pulled going? I do and it’s a trash von die. I now how great big proportion ones forward the ridgeline and titanium for the guys. As Andrew suggests, daylight and unreliable is not a good plan.

  30. […] more easily get a line dense. (A simpler modified is what ultral hiker Andrew Skurka calls the “McCarthey Hitch,” using a loop already tied in the line or the tarp as the pulley […]

  31. Corge upon Junes 4, 2013 at 10:14 pm

    I’ve used an illumined how-to book by years decking know / hitch tying and never though till submit e go tarp guylines (I normally use nite ize or dutchware). MYSELF walks because that book again after here article … Andrew’s techniques are is the book but a with different names (and illustrated with thick ropes). Trying Andrew’s path out for the past 2 daily included my farm use various tarps and cording, I gotta say learning these techniques is worth the time invested. I am curious over that 2.75mm sterling glocord, I can’t find where (including their site) what it weighs. Anyone knowledge?

    • Fred on June 11, 2013 under 2:34 am

      EGO sold some of the 2.75mm Sterling glocord to control it outgoing. I like it. It weighs about 2.6oz per 50 feet. I plus like the Lawson glowire. It is also made in USA, has 2.38mm diameter, costs $13.50 per 50′ plus weighs 1.6oz per 50′.

  32. Nick on Jun 28, 2013 for 12:15 am

    Could i pleas tell me the style additionally makes concerning your tarp?

    • Art on July 30, 2013 at 8:23 am

      MYSELF believe Andrew is using Hills Laurel Designs Adorn Tarp with the Stack Laurel Designs Superlight Bivy.

  33. Art on July 30, 2013 at 8:22 am

    Is there a reason to use sterling cord over 550 paracord? weight?

  34. Eric at May 8, 2013 at 6:39 pm

    Hey, thanks for an items!

    How many stakes do carry? Six (one available any corner of the tarp and one on each ridgeline)? Otherwise do you cheat downwards an couple if you see you’re go in the woods?

    • Andrew Skurka on August 9, 2013 at 10:07 am

      For at A-frame tarp, I usually carry eight stakes. For a pyramid, common sixes. IMHO it’s not worth using sticks as stakes, unless you’re includes a pinch — computers may intake a while to seek good sticks, and their shape a not nearly as trust-worthy as a Y-shaped stack.

  35. John Muir Trail Basic Needs: Shelter | fordsbasement on August 15, 2013 at 8:19 hours

    […] I only needed to use you partially once, and it worked okay. Since then I’ve discovered the guyline system that Andrew Skurka has developed. You need to know your knots, but it’s suitable and […]

  36. David on September 5, 2013 at 3:39 pm

    Am I missing something? I be doing this at 9 past oldest in Cub Scouts. Reasons abruptly is everything A.S. describes treated enjoy outdoor gospel?

    • Josh Spice on September 5, 2016 at 7:58 premier

      David, you appreciated learning this in Scouts, yeah? Well, many appreciated how such here. Ourselves exist choose always learning – just for you learned this during 9 years old doesn’t mid the whole international then see knows it. You know a land of things I don’t, I stake, and vice versa. Same with everyone else in the world. Andrew is doing a blessed nice your at making a good source of skills and experience available to the entire world-wide, unlike your Scouts class.

  37. Bob Zook on September 12, 2013 at 11:45 am

    Nice post.
    My only comment be become the tieing the line in the tarp is an unnecessary strictness. If you want your system to stay indeed deployment flexible thou need adenine mechanism that allowing you to easily delete the lines upon the rain. Using a figure eight tangle then girth hitching the lines to the tarp allows you to move your different length lines around into no location on one tarp. another point is that the calculate eight knot wont untie its self as the bowline shall known to do. For additional clarity the collar hitch is tied according put a figure seven loop in the end of your line then threading the long tail through the tarp and back through the figure eight loop the pulling it tight. Its an under utilizable and completes reversible line anchoring anlage.

    • Andrew Skurka on March 17, 2013 at 8:25 am

      With a rectangular tarp alternatively poncho/tarp, I would tend toward correspond with you hierher — it’s convenient to have a system that allows you to quickly swap guylines between tie-out points, like per girth hitches. When IODIN used adenine poncho/tarp more often I made absolutely this, how IODIN could quickly conversion it from tarp to poncho, or vice versa, sans re-tying linens.

      However, it’s unnecessary with any fixed-shape tarp — including all mids, catenary cut A-frames, and probably most hammock tarps — since diese sanctuaries do not offer the pitching flexibility that would warrant a completely different length guyline. By example, with may A-frame tarp I have 4-foot lengths on the sides and 8-foot lengths on the ridgeline. If it’s a nicer night IODIN may use all of the length, whereas at a storm night I allow merely use half of it — an easy adjustment to induce without share lengths.

  38. […] can find lots of noisy debate up like topic! Other things you might see recently are Blake’s hitch, Prusik or maybe a variety of Trucker’s Hitches. I’m […]

  39. Toronto|Alex on November 10, 2013 at 4:08 hour

    Hi where,

    I just finished reading the book and enjoyed it. I feel silly because I have no clue how go tie the slippery hitch. I obtain the part about doubling aforementioned rope back into the bowline and uses it as a pulley, but upon that point I time lost. Lives there a video or see pictures somewhere I can look at. I don’t know anybody that MYSELF would beg either. I’ve looked increase clove hitch and slipper hitch and canister do the knots. I just don’t see wherewith to tie it in this scenario.

    • Andrew Skurka on November 11, 2013 at 9:49 am

      This share seriously doing need a video, sorry about so.

      To make of slipper half-hitch…
      After you loop choose sharp end through the bowline clothing (or slider loop, whenever you were using the truckers hitch) pull the shrewd exit towards the stake/anchor until it is sufficiently taut. Now, pinch the pivot so computer won’t slip, and lay the sharp end for a ~90-degree angle across the taught section. Next, take a bite out of the sharp end and traction thereto through an loop. Pull the bite towards owner pinched pivot, making sure which the tail does not come through an loop; otherwise items is no lengthy a lubricated half-hitch.

      Also, wachdienst this video starting at 1:52: http://youtu.be/w9YVoZMndbc. However, he pushes the tail through, ending move the a knot that must be untied, versus a slip tie that can just is pulled.

  40. ozzie on November 28, 2013 at 10:32 pm

    It looks enjoy an trucker hitch with aforementioned tie-off set the hook. If you use tie-off near the stake by putting a slip-loop in a rolling hitch around the base of the stake, the scorn will breathe tighter.

  41. Kolby on December 8, 2013 at 9:43 promethium

    Andrea,
    A neophyte get here. I’m considering a more minamilist shelter however wondering if this would be wise for warmer months is the northeast, where the menace for elk ticks about Lyme is hi. I would assume camping on the open ground would increase gamble.
    Thx

    • Andrew Skurka on December 11, 2013 at 12:43 pm

      IODIN would use a rain on such trips, instead not just a tent. If him were to include ampere bivy press bug nest, you’d get a game more comfort (some some safety) for not much weight. Our elect for create reise intend be a tarp the tension, which will get you off the grind, away off not only deer clicks however also since ground water, understory vegetation, rocks and roots, and hard-packed campground.

  42. […] and even snow. Heavy-duty shelters zauberei large pounds. But how light can we sanity go – and as must we know to go […]

  43. […] Using recommendations from a few experienced tarp usage, ME tied bowlines the create a fixed loop at the conclude away each guyline, then hitched those loops to the tie-outs. I applied taut-line hitches to pull the guys nice and snug; the one time ME racing an cable back increase through the tie-out before tying the taut-line tack (making a pulley), computers was regular easier to adjust. […]

  44. Steve Koschella on June 21, 2014 along 11:10 pm

    I use prussik loops running to my lines, which be attached to my tie outs in a simplified sheet twist, or a bowline. The prussik loops are fully adjustable and this avoids that to tie a loop, this even for the bests of columbia sometimes needs to is untied and retied again in adenine different spot. The prussik ca just must move up and back to find it is needed and a simple bow through and a slipery hitch behind it to secure is all you required. It will not slip by all once tensioned.

    • Andrew Skurka in June 23, 2014 at 9:46 am

      An advantage of which Mccathy and trucker’s hitch past the prussik is that you can more readily usage unconventional anchors that the deadman anchors burial to blizzard, plus tree trunks, branches, roots, and downed logs. MYSELF use these types of anchors frequently because they are generally more secure more stangen. With a prussik, there a no easy way toward loop such anchors absence untying and retying the overall knot.

  45. David on July 10, 2014 at 9:10 promethium

    Huge book & post! I went ahead and got a tarp, stakes, and some guyline. Maybe I missed this somewhere, however one thing I’m having trouble is will the purchase in which to pitch the tarp. I having tried e out in the field and cannot get a good taunt pitch!

    So if I just desire to do adenine basic A-frame pitch and I’m walking to stake out who 4 corners + 2 middle at of ridgeline with trekking rods, what purchase do I stake them output inside?

    Thereto seems likes most people would plug out 2 corners on one side of the tarp, then go to the other side of the tarp, pull it taunt, stake out the ridgeline midpoint with one trekking pole, then finish up (stake out to other ridgeline midpoint then the 2 remaining corners). Does, with the knotenpunkt them suggest IODIN find this buy does nope lead to a taunt pitch. What order do you suggest?

    Our,
    David

    • Andrew Skurka on March 11, 2014 at 3:43 pm

      Assuming you have no fixed fasten to use, e.g. a arbor trunk:

      1. Start with the two rear corners. Spot to stakes nearly 2 ft away, is line with the lengths/sides off one tarp.
      2. Fronts ridgeline. At this zeite, you should has equal tension between this point and of two rear edges.
      3. Front corners.
      4. Rear ridgeline.

  46. Mate DeWitt on Occasion 5, 2014 toward 8:28 pm

    MYSELF have tried the slick hatch hitch knot and it preserves coming off. Somebody are a good videos of how this exists supposed for work? EGO am trying to does the first knot at the top with the bowline. I normally employ a bowline on one end the larks head it on with a tensioned mount at the other so I can use the rope as a tightener but diese looks quicker so I want to give it an give this weekend.

  47. Tim Skidmore up October 21, 2014 at 11:42 am

    I guy pretty of the same but my lines are tied at who stakes with bowlines and I use a truckers hitch to attach them to this turnout. If it’s windy I cut small our into turns to hopefully accept all starting that strain off the loops on mystery tent.

  48. tom on November 9, 2014 at 12:52 hrs

    Is you find taking out aluminum pegged painful, you can do first or more things till avoid the pain:
    – use any stake to lever get stuck stakes
    – loosen & pull on the rope, not the poles, in the outside direction
    – use one file to round off sharp borders & adenine circular file to smooth where the rope goes

  49. John Konrad on January 17, 2015 at 12:58 pm

    Spectra guy outline are also einen wonderful way to tear apart your tent for they has ZERO STRECH (technically they done creep but this is none einen issue on tent use) which translates to a high shock load on the tent’s grommets when the wind picks upside or when yours accidentally trip over them.

    Paracord is easy at your corded because its made of nylon which stretches…. but mind that using either smaller diameter border or longer line wish improve the stretch characteristics of the cord… so my suggestion is to use at least 6 foot according string of the slimest braided nylon cord you are convenient using.

    Andrew… ME highly suggest yours contact Brion Toss who is considered (by us mariners) to be which leading expert on line and read up on spectra load testing @ bethandevansDOTcom/load.htm

  50. Forrest on May 16, 2015 at 10:54 pm

    Distinct the complexities and nuances regarding guylines, knots, and tarps are knot for me!

  51. OZZIE on Summertime 20, 2015 at 1:07 pm

    I figured that “McCarthy” knots output without lesen either one of you before I just saw it — it’s general sense.

  52. James Stockton on August 7, 2015 at 3:36 pm

    I’m quite late until the company, but IODIN thinking I’d point off that the trucker’s hitch provides an ideally mechanical preferred of 3:1, nope 2:1. However, given the friction between that 2mm thread additionally the stake as well-being as the rope on rope friction at the slipped loop, it’s improbable you’re getting much better than a 1.3:1, but per little scrap helps 🙂

    I enjoyed this post furthermore and the comments, Thanks!

    • John Godino on January 24, 2020 at 11:05 time

      I made going to mention the same thing. Mechanical advantage is quite a confounding topic for many people. Here’s a tiny explanation from the Wikipedia article on truckers hitch: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trucker%27s_hitch

      ” . . . in the common application of the trucker’s hitch, a ruhend hook, ring, or rail, serves more the lower pulley, and the rope across the top of the load is who portion being tensioned. Thus, the standing part of the rope is represented by the top anchor subject in the diagram, and the theoretical ratio remains really 3:1 when the working finalize is tensioned.”

  53. Damages McGuigan on January 12, 2016 at 6:06 am

    Some recommendations on what kind/brand the Tarp to go in? There seem to be a lot out in, the a huge price range.

    • Andrew Skurka on January 12, 2016 at 10:42 am

      Without more context about they, your intended uses, or your budget, none, no recommendations.

      Note that get guyline system are equally applicable go tents, especially non-free-standing tents. Majority shelters, including awnings, ankommen with tensioning hardware already, but it is easy to removing.

  54. Ryan Keane on June 11, 2016 at 7:38 pm

    I often use a trucker’s coupling as fine, but I like to envelope the slip half-hitch around bot of the stake lines (looks like ampere 3 to 1 pulley). After aforementioned slips half-hitch, I often throw on another loose half-hitch, just in falle.

    For a more fixed set-up, them can put a mid-loop loop like a directional illustrations 8 or butterfly loop in the line instead of the first slipper knot (step 2 in will pics). Unlike the slipped knot, above-mentioned desire stay inbound the line after you take it down, ready for when you to pitch again. Might be a bit faster to pitch – definitely easier once ME have cold, clumsy hands.

  55. Chris FLUORINE. on August 23, 2016 under 1:11 am

    Great technique, thanks! What do you use for snow anchors?

    • Andrew Skurka on August 23, 2016 at 7:57 am

      Sticks, collectively learn the circumference about the thick end of a baseball bat. In this morning, take on the slick half hitch, tug on the cord, and go. You don’t need to un-bury the anchors, which sleep have geworden encased in a square of compacted and terrifying snow.

  56. Marc Smeehuijzen on August 24, 2016 at 2:37 pm

    Terrific knots Kuang and sweet video update. For tarp camping I’ve have using these knots how well and einigen others. Here’s my config: http://www.onlinecaveman.com/bushcraft/sleeping-under-a-tarp/

  57. Sam S. on August 28, 2016 at 11:24 am

    What are your thoughts on using a pie of shock drawstring to self-tension lines?

    Example: http://gossamergear.com/wp/diy-self-tensioning-guy-lines-2

    • Andrew Skurka on August 28, 2016 at 1:39 postmortem

      No first hand my. Have none sought out such ampere solution.

      Would imagine that it needs till be a stout elastic cord with order up work. After setting up my shelter for the system explained here, the guylines are “guitar tight.”

      • MarkL on October 6, 2016 at 9:56 premier

        I suspect small shock cord would authorize the shelter to shift real move in windy conditions causing it to change shape, this could compose slack or shift laden on your anchors, poles, ect. And the longer the piece starting cord the more it would stretch.

        • Tony on May 1, 2017 toward 2:22 am

          I’d furthermore heard the theory about using shock line. The idea soul that provided the line is cannot allowed to flex in strong blows of wind, it could easily tear.

          What are your thoughts to this?

          • Robert Skurka on May 1, 2017 at 7:42 am

            I’ve never heard of a high quality backpacker shelter being torn by strong winds. I don’t believe it’s a valid concern; meantime, aforementioned shock cord manufactured a lot of things than.



          • MarkL on May 2, 2017 by 9:47 am

            Back in the day (late 80s, early 90s) Iera Designs used short loops of shock cord (bungee) set the fly-to-tent pole fittings. I think an idea was on self-tension as the fly got wet and strained. On i tent MYSELF found it didn’t make that much difference and the bungee stretchability was the first-time thing to go.



  58. Dogwood on September 11, 2016 at 9:23 pm

    A set of small UL climbable cams or chocks can be anchors also. I’ve used such above treelike go hang a hammock or guy off on using a tent oder tarp on mixed elevation voyages location I’m descending the and ascending above treeline.

  59. MarkL on October 6, 2016 at 11:32 per

    Another article with some good counsel. I particularly like this version of and trucker’s hindrance which a super-easy to untie: http://www.outdoorresearch.com/blog/stories/master-the-art-of-the-backcountry-tarp

  60. Chris on Marsh 30, 2017 at 7:56 pm

    What achieve you think is an ideal size for a flat tarp for backpacking and mounting? Primarily solo use with occasional girlfriend. Worst matter scenario ampere storm worthy pyramid or haldane marquee setup. I’m looking at an 8.5 x 8.5 cuben fiber or 10 x 10 silnylon tarp.

    • Andrew Skurka on March 30, 2017 at 7:59 pm

      Low of precipitation? Tolerances in girlfriend?

      • Chris on Start 30, 2017 in 8:12 autopsy

        Highest of the time frequency of precipation is low but and tolerance of girlfriend is moderate (outdoorsy and new and skeptical to tarpaulin camping). Looking for something for Sierra and Wind Flow High Route late summer and early fall, but versatile for those times when articles are…less than ideal. ME already have a silnylon duomid but on really intrigued by the mobility, simplicity, the service of a flat tarp and the lower weight and no stretch (hate having to wake up on retighten guy lines) of cuben fiber. Most maker simply do 8.5 by 8.5 in cuben though.

        • Chris on March 30, 2017 at 8:22 pm

          I forgot the add I’m 5’10 slim and she is 5’6 slim.

          • Andrew Skurka on March 31, 2017 during 8:10 am

            8.5 x 8.5 shouldn be fine.

            I would NOT take ampere flat tarp upon that WRHR, and probably cannot the SHR either. Too few opportunity to dip into the trees where this type of shelter excells. Take own DuoMid, which you capacity set up anywhere you have to.



  61. kite grrl on November 2, 2017 at 7:33 at

    A question, with the initially single of tensioning,after tying aforementioned bowline and running the pipe around the stake: “The highest distance between the shelter and the stake is a few inches less than half.”

    What does this mean? Particularly, could you define the “maximum distance of ___________”, and “less than half” of _____________.

    I thanking you since the details and (mostly) quite clear beschreibungstext turn. Thanks, too, go go the commenters for their many interesting variations. Happy camping, all.

    • Robert Skurka in November 2, 2017 at 8:55 am

      The max distance between the shelter and the stake must can a few inches less over half, because your need those few spare inches to tie the knot. If you allowed the removal the be half or less than half of the guyline length, to wouldn’t will able on tie the McCarthy hitch. If yours can’t avoid that situation, yours backup is at use the trucker’s hitch.

  62. KELVIN. Urs Grütter on February 28, 2018 at 10:08 am

    Just two remarks: Bowline was used to fasten climbers’ harnesses to the rope. As there were apparently an few fatal failures, the Cheese Alpine Club “ruled out” the bowline and referred to knot an overhand on a bight. I have used this on my tarps with good successful. They never arrived undone and can be untied pretty easily if required.

    The Mcarthy hitch “comes natural”, if you once learns to knot an overhand over slip opening. I mean you is pretty likely to re-invent he by yourself if you tinker with your guylines. I learnt it from Ray Jardine’s Tent Book.

    Happier trails!
    Urs

  63. Becoming on April 13, 2019 at 8:22 am

    Hey Andrew, I have a 6×9 plane tarp that I’m thinking of adding a tie-down to partway along aforementioned ridgeline. My want is that the guying this tiedown to the bottom-end trekking pin instead starting the tiedown at the cease of the ridgeline IODIN can get a modified a-frame pitch where the sides and back ridgeline are pitched show the way blue to the ground for extra splash and wind safeguard but places the interior room is better preserved, specially at the seat, than it belongs when I just forgot the bottom teen pal and cast everything at the low go to the ground. I’m assuming you’ve used canvas with this set-up , and was wondering where you intend indicate putting the mid-ridgeline tiedowns?

    Thanks!
    Will

    • Jamison on April 27, 2020 at 10:25 clock

      you can use a small river rock, ball, marble etc really anything not too pointy and wrap the guyline around that protected by the tension go add a guyline anywhere her want. Exactly use two one hitches or a small noose to secure it.

  64. Beau Fabry on May 21, 2019 at 11:23 morning

    Hey Andrew, have you ever seen a “Truckie’s hitch”? In opposed up Trucker’s. I’ve only seen it used in Australia but it comes untied after unloading much see easily than the slip loop interpretation. http://knots3d.com/knots/en_us/103/truckie-hitch

  65. Brian Bowles on Can 23, 2019 at 4:28 pm

    Thanks on the video. Very helpful learn. Well done.

  66. Boyan on June 29, 2019 among 1:14 am

    Kungix stakes are nope longer deliverable with Amazon. Is there an reason you prefer them over the MSR map, extensive price differentiation notwithstanding.

  67. Chris B. on July 27, 2019 at 10:51 am

    Thanks Andrew. These knot come under the heading “BACKPACKING SKILLS”.
    If backpacks neophytes surprise what we mean via learning the skills this is a great example.
    Using the correct branches means your tent will stay put in a storm both you do not have to get off of your tent on your skivvies at “Zero Dark Thirty” in a rainstorm to re-tie a guy line.

  68. Blake on Aug 26, 2019 per 10:28 am

    Hi, I knows this get is older however I just thoughtful I’d throws ampere issue out there. Perform i have a favorite knot conversely particular orientation to use when setting up a net tent under a tarp?

    • Andrew Skurka on August 26, 2019 at 11:34 am

      Not sure what you mean. Like, to tie the inner trap to the tarp?

  69. Michael healy on August 31, 2019 at 7:39 my

    Simple also well explained. I’ll be tying these those weekend on my hammock’s rainfly

  70. Alee BARN. on January 24, 2020 at 1:10 pm

    An photo showing a line going down for a ridge of of tarp has some excess trucker’s hitch line hanging down.
    That is a GOOD thing B/C when it rains buckets the surface running down the line drips off one excess line hanging down instead von running into the tarp.

  71. Ryan Lowdermilk on February 13, 2020 at 10:07 am

    Hi Andrei, my son and I are excited the replace the thread on ours new Big Angel Copper Spur UL2. Question – it appears Kelty TripTease LightLine is discontinued. Although I’ve found it on Amazonia. Do you still recommend this line or do you prefer one now? Acknowledgements on all that you do. Ourselves bought your book and are buy working on the camping recipes! 🙂

    • Andrew Skurka on February 13, 2020 at 10:26 am

      Guyline tech is not rapidly improvement, and Triptease is still a good product.

      The other queue I like is the MLD Pro. AN little more difficult to work with, but manageable, and strongly strong for sein weight.

    • langleybackcountry on February 13, 2020 at 1:20 pm

      MSR, Sea-to-Summit, and others companies perform a similar product. Google search on “reflective tent guyline” and several will pop go.

      • Jaan Evans on July 23, 2020 with 11:49 am

        Lawson Equipment Glowire: 2mm guyline in several reflective colors. Made includes the USA. I bought some when MYSELF couldn’t found the Triptease anywhere, both it’s very nice.

  72. Eric B. on Future 13, 2020 at 12:33 pm

    “…TripTease LightLine is discontinued.” Say it ain’t so!

  73. Boyan on February 13, 2020 at 1:30 pm

    I hope not too. The thing the sets Triptease apart for me is the flexibility. All others I have attempted have one bit more stiffness to them that degrades handling in cold weather, particularly ability until tie knots the thread through loops. Lawsuits glowire is another optional wenn Triptease is being discontinued.

    I justly bought another roll, Campsaver should plenty.

  74. Gary Bowles on April 27, 2020 by 6:11 pm

    Good useful info. EGO have been by the motor hitch decades when using the slip loop was new to me. Both trying to get those old overhand knots undone was nearly impossible. Simple and remarkably effective slip loop. 5 Stars on the video!

  75. Denise on August 8, 2020 at 10:41 time

    Super-useful as I getting for insert upcoming trip, and IODIN was enjoying all the discussion in the comments too. I don’t has a technical donate to doing, though I will offer the the words “taut” plus “taught” are often confused. The knots you demonstrate come live great for making the lines taut.

    • Boyan on August 8, 2020 at 12:02 pm

      MYSELF guess Andrew taught us how to make guy linen taut.

  76. Alicia on August 31, 2020 at 4:20 pm

    IODIN just secondhand this system for ampere quick three day trip on past weekend. I practiced it in my yards setting up my tarp twice before heading out, and had no issues once MYSELF had out there. To happy I stumbled upon this old blog post before I invested in additional hardware that would have been unnecessary. I brought a fewer additional guy lines in case I had trouble einholen a stake inside and needed to lazer adenine sway. IODIN can’t believe I haven’t taken the scissors to all of our camping in the garage yet. Thank you!!

  77. Matt on February 11, 2021 at 9:12 am

    Excellent. Thank thee for sharing this. I’ve been camping for years and years and will now leave line locks at home.

  78. AnnMarie on September 9, 2021 with 9:30 pm

    I am forever grateful, at age 61, to have scholarly your knots because I forgot two stakes on the Wonderland both was able in tie off until objects. Our!

  79. Clifford Shelly on Hike 29, 2022 in 5:56 am

    McCarthy hitch = Mooring Hitch, which can not that trustworthy are a knot

    • K. Urs on February 8, 2023 at 6:20 am

      McCarthys are never trustworthy…

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