So as not to hijack the thread No hardware, hybrid, micro-adjustable, UL suspension started by cmoulder, I am starting a new thread simply to answer the question about how I have simplified my setup...
I can't take credit for anything more than consolidating ideas from others into something that works for me. Modular diamond knots and locked whipping sliders from Griz; Grappler Hitch and secondary handles from Phantom Grappler; Evo Loops and unique use of the Beckett Hitch from MyersTech...
I am using twelve foot Dutch 2.2 Kevlar tree straps. An Evo Loop is tied through the sewn loop in the tree strap. Initially I use the Grapplers Hitch at the tree end, but after playing with Evo Loops I find I can attach them one handed so have mated them to all of my straps.
Traveling down the strap towards the hammock, you'll encounter what is essentially another slightly smaller Evo Loop that is girth hitched to the strap. Using a girth hitch rather than a prussik allows the button knotted loop to slide easily. It needs only enough friction to hold an unweighted hammock while setting up. There is a small secondary loop captured in the girth hitch, which acts as a handle to slide the button up and down the strap and is also useful in releasing the setup when breaking down.
I use diamond knots and buttons throughout my kit and all of my previous suspensions made use of diamond knots where the legs exit the top of knot. I would typically do a locked brummel and the bury one leg in the other, to makes things clean but also to prevent the legs from pulling back inside the diamond. The button knot above has the legs of the cordage exiting the bottom of the knot and buried in each of the legs of the loop. When you hang on it, you're hanging on four strands of Amsteel rather than two as when using a diamond knot.
The continuous loops on all of my hammocks have a small locked whipping knot as a slider.
The CL is dropped over the button knot. and the slider is cinched up to the bottom of the button. I have tried the 'Balls between the Legs' method Myerstech uses and while it works, the slider method seems easier and more brainless. to set up.
With the hammock strap attached to the tree, and the hammock attached to the strap, the secondary handle can be used to slide the button knots' girth hitch up and down the strap for fine tuning the height. The girth hitch is strong enough to hold an unloaded hammock, even in a stiff breeze.
Once the hammock is positioned properly, a simple beckett hitch is tied around the body of the button knot, just below the girth hitch. Obviously, the one below hasn't been weighted yet. It doesn't settle the way a Marlin Spike Hitch will so where you slide the button knot on the strap is where it stays once you tie the beckett. After it's been weighted, break down (and in the rare instance an adjustment is needed) is super simple... Loop your thumb on one hand through the secondary handle and pull the tail of the strap with the other.. this will simultaneously release the beckett and loosen the girth hitch so the button will slide for re-positioning.
I just used this system in a heavy rain storm and it came apart easily.
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