is theer a rule of thmb for stakes?

[Double]

My guylines are what i tenision. I try to hang the tarp a bit higher then i want the final height to be. Then use guy lines to put tension on ridgeline and that brings it down to where i want it set at. My whole tarp suspension uses mini ucr's which are easy to adjust. To add tensison loop tag end through d ring to give 2-1 leverage.

[warbonnetguy]

I've found it is often best to stake out one corner, and then stake out the opposite corner (on the opposite side of the RL)... if you stake out both corners on the same side of the RL first it is much more likely that you will pull the Ridgeseam off center in relation to the hammock (the latter is a good option if you want the RL seam to be off center however, like extra wind protection on one side for instance) Staking out corners on the opposite side of the RL also tells you within 2 stakes what the final tarp height is at that end. So for instance you might tighten those 2 corners and then it's obvious your tarp needs to go up or down on the tree slightly

For doors a micro biner is great, especially if using one line for both doors, attach the guyline to the micro biner and clip the biner to both doors... then you can easily unclip one door to enter/exit without messing with the actual guyline.

[boatstall]

I've found it is often best to stake out one corner, and then stake out the opposite corner (on the opposite side of the RL)... if you stake out both corners on the same side of the RL first it is much more likely that you will pull the Ridgeseam off center in relation to the hammock (the latter is a good option if you want the RL seam to be off center however, like extra wind protection on one side for instance) Staking out corners on the opposite side of the RL also tells you within 2 stakes what the final tarp height is at that end. So for instance you might tighten those 2 corners and then it's obvious your tarp needs to go up or down on the tree slightly

For doors a micro biner is great, especially if using one line for both doors, attach the guyline to the micro biner and clip the biner to both doors... then you can easily unclip one door to enter/exit without messing with the actual guyline.

The opposite corner technique works great. But the tip about using a micro biner to enable unclipping of just one door for egress is outstanding. Thanks Brandon

[curlymaple42]

I'll have to make sure my wife and daughter each have a couple micro biners!

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[OlTrailDog]

Rule of thumb for stakes: Do not hit your thumb while driving in the stake.

[cougarmeat]

Rule of thumb for stakes: Do not hit your thumb while driving in the stake.

My friends all laughed at me when I brought out my Coghlan's plastic hammer: https://www.rei.com/product/729798/c...-mallet-puller

Then they all wanted to borrow it.

[XJ35S]

20170213_135818.jpg

I found a very similar hammer at Ollies Surplus Warehouse for $1.79. I bought both in case I end up breaking one, Haven't yet though!! Pretty sure I won't lose it either.

Thank you for the micro biner idea. I'll try that.

[Slack Packhiker]

I'm going to remember this very useful advice for my next AT section hike.

"Things I use my spare cord for...preventing me from slipping on a muddy slope after a rain as I ascend/descend to my hillside camp site."

Thanks WalksIn2Trees for an outstanding post.