Dutch Halfwit

**mabrown730** · 01-01-2016, 18:46

Hello, I'm looking at possibly purchasing one of Dutch hammocks. Can someone educate me on the purpose of the half bug net? Is it effective during the summer time?

**Vino** · 01-01-2016, 19:20

If you are unsure about the half bug net you could get a Dutch net less hammock and get the add on net he sales. That way you could go with or without. We got big mosquitos here in NC. With the add on net they couldnt get you through the bottom either.

**Mtn hanger** · 01-01-2016, 19:39

The half wit's bug net is effective and won't add much weight to the hammock the only thing is your legs are not protected by the netting.

**12trysomething** · 01-01-2016, 19:49

I will offer this. https://youtu.be/hDkeIOWv0WI

**Hangandy** · 01-01-2016, 19:51

I agree with Khnum.

It really is a matter of preference though. The halfwit is a great hammock for bug season especially when weight is your main focus. For me, I like the versatility of no net in winter (I use a sock then), a full net in summer (just cause I really hate bugs) and even going with neither in the early spring or late fall when the bite is off.

Nice thing is, Dutch's gear is so inexpensive you can try either way and not worry about cost if you change your mind later. Most of us here have a number of hammocks. I started with a $100 Hennessey, then went to a $170 Warbonnet, then a $100 Snipe, and now my preference is my Dutch Argons (1 a DIY).

And if you do evolve to a different hammock you can always share your Dutch hammock with a friend. Dutch products are always a great investment that hold their value. We'll, maybe not Peebags, but everything else on his site.

**mabrown730** · 01-01-2016, 20:55

Hummmm, I'm very interested to try this out. This is a very addicting hobbie. Thank you all for the input. Now it's time to sleep on it and think.

**Zoomie** · 01-02-2016, 05:34

I originally bought a Halfwit for an upcoming section hike in May. Mainly because I don't like spiders crawling on my face at 3AM.

That said, I love the feel and lay of the hammock so much, I bought a matching netless. This time of year, there is obviously no need for net, at least in my region.

Soo, being the enabler that I am, I say BUY BOTH !

**biggcarl** · 01-02-2016, 08:35

IMO, the halfwit is designed for hikers not campers if that makes sense. It's a very light weight, very comfortable sleeping hammock, not lounging camp hammock. For hikers who do a lot of miles a day, get to camp, do what they need to, sleep, and repeat.

Not saying it won't work for anyone not following this type of routine. But as mentioned above maybe a netless with a bugnet is a better option. It depends on how you like to camp/hike.

Personally I tried many of the other brands of hammocks and now an 11 foot hexon with knotty mods is my go to hammock. With a bug net.

**mudsocks** · 01-02-2016, 10:18

Originally Posted by Mtn hanger

The half wit's bug net is effective and won't add much weight to the hammock the only thing is your legs are not protected by the netting.

The idea is your legs will be covered by your quilt. It is an effective design for backpacking. I spent ~140 nights in mine on my AT thru this summer.

**mabrown730** · 01-02-2016, 10:50

Very interesting idea. I have the WB XLC and I like it. like one of the posters thay posted earlier, I started with the ENO, then HH. I like the WB just looking to open my options. The Dutch is a very versatile hammock.