[at-l] light weight tarp ?

[trailtrash@hotmail.com (Jerry)]

----- Original Message -----
From: Jeff Beaumont <jeff@rixco.com>
To: AT L <at-l@backcountry.net>
Sent: Tuesday, February 13, 2001 1:02 PM
Subject: [at-l] light weight tarp ?


>
> mtn0613@mail.newnanutilities.org wrote:
>
> > Hi Gang, I have a request, I need a light weight tarp. I use a bivy, but
> > carry a small tarp to use as a wind break or something to cook under in
bad
> > weather. I bought it in a hurry at REI, so did not really shop around
for a
> > good one. It weighs about pound, way too heavy! Anyone have any
suggestions
> > along with some links to view them and or order one?
>
> A pound is WAY too heavy?
> I think you have approached the point of diminishing returns. At
> significantly under a pound, a tarp would either have to be very small and
> therefore of questionable usefulness, or very thin, which compromises
> durability.

Hardly the point of diminishing returns. Silnylon is very tough stuff...they
make parachutes out of it. Long term durability is a major issue if you plan
on willing your tarp to your children as a family heirloom. If you plan on
carrying it on your back then weight is the prime consideration. REI carries
Integral Designs tarps. Their 5x8 silnylon tarp weighs 7 oz. with the 8x10
coming in at 14 oz. Campmor sells slightly heavier and noticeably less
expensive versions.  The biggest enemy of light weight is the idea that the
piece of gear has to last 10 years. If you had to buy a tarp every year,
which you won't by any means, it would still be money well spent. I use
silnylon tarps in winter and a Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker hammock the
rest of the year. It weighs 1.5 pounds with fly. I live in Utah and the
winters aren't exactly mild. Tarps do just fine and lightness it the whole
idea behind tarps. If you're interested in light weight tarps and how to use
them you might want to check out the archives at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BackpackingLight
Jerry