[at-l] Rope length (was Knotty Bunch of Questions)

[m_factor at hotmail.com (Mara Factor)]

For primarily bear bagging, you'll want about 50 feet of line (think of 
branches about 20' up).  You may want some extra for emergency shoe lacing, 
pack tying, or tent staking.  Or just be prepared to use your bear bag line 
and hope you never need all of your bear bagging rope and extra emergency 
line at the same time.

It's very tempting to find some strong thin stuff but please think about the 
trees...

If you're going to be hauling up a bunch of food, a thin line will cut into 
tree bark rather quickly.  It may be a bit bulkier, but I recommend 
something like parachute cord.  Also, when camping with friends along the 
way, it's not unusual to share the bear bagging line so even if you think 
your bag will weight a maximum of 10 pounds or so, you might decide to use 
your line to hang a bunch of peoples' food and the weight can add up 
quickly.

Oh, and no matter what line you use, try to push your bag up as high as 
possible so you don't have to haul the full weight by the line (your hiking 
poles can help).  Besides, it's easier this way and may save you rope burns 
on your hands.  :-}

Mara
Stitches, AT99

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>From: Bror8588@aol.com
>Date: Fri, 10 Feb 2006 09:44:17 EST
...
>Another question:  How much rope or line should one bring in the  backpack?
>
>Another:  What size line is best used on the trail?