Is the Eldorado really the same as the XLC without the shelf? If so, the shelf must be pretty special to justify the $55 price difference.
Is the Eldorado really the same as the XLC without the shelf? If so, the shelf must be pretty special to justify the $55 price difference.
How much stuff you keep in the hammock with you? I have a ridgeline organizer and a peak loft (for the Chameleon). Between those two, I can't imagine needing any more storage. The shelf is handy as well, especially getting a top quilt out of the way, but a lot of the small stuff would fall to the bottom. That's why I like the peak loft/ridgeline organizer combo, and I cram the quilt into the peak loft or wedge it in the foot end between the hammock body and bugnet.
It adds a fair amount of complexity to the construction of the blackbird over the more straight forward build of the eldorado. Is it worth $55 for that added complexity? Well its hard to say but it's an odd choice to look at it as a financial consideration rather than utility or weight. Given that camping is a purely recreational activity, the price difference is going to be last on my list of priorities. For myself, I can't live without the shelf, I like having that space for my clothing etc. I would love to cut the weight but it is just way too useful for the way I backpack.
Once you're lost in twilight's blue, you don't find your way, the way finds you.
It's all personal opinion really. For me, though, the XLC is my "go to" 99% of the time. I love the shelf.
Add me to the list of people who really like the shelf.
I don't like things in my hammock with me. I prefer them to hang on their own. I tried both and like the El Dorado.
IF you like to keep more than your phone, a book, and some small things in your hammock you might like the shelf. XLC for the win.
If you really don't like things bumping you then go el dorado.
Can always get the El Dorado and add a Ridgeline Organizer if you want in the future. I find a simple gathered end with more modular pieces works best for me anyway. That way I can take exactly what I need and nothing I don’t for each trip/hang.
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Also an option would be to get the eldorado then later add the xlc winter top cover for colder weather when you may want to keep an extra jacket or such near by.
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