I Could Use Some Guidance

**PureSpirit** · 07-11-2021, 21:20

Hello. I just got all my stuff. I'm new at the hammock thing. I'll be going away in a few weeks and using my new set up, all excited about it, you can imagine. I've never done this before. I've watched some videos a few months back and I'll be watching again now that everything is in. Is there anyone who would be willing to meet up with me at a park to help me get myself going right? I'm in the Harrisburg Pa area. I'll figure it out if I have no other way, but to have someone there, I would consider it a great privilege. I'd be happy to throw you a box o' beer or such for your time. Thank you

**Shug** · 07-11-2021, 21:43

Yes...there is some learning to do. Worth it to get a good hang that leads to good snooze~~~
Shug

**PureSpirit** · 07-12-2021, 08:03

Thanks I appreciate it. I’m hoping someone will be willing to spend a little in person time. Guess I’m weird buddy I learn easier that way and I don’t have to worry about internet access or constantly stopping to check a video. It’s to answer any questions during or after set up, laying in it, whatnot.

**Shug** · 07-12-2021, 08:11

Originally Posted by PureSpirit

Thanks I appreciate it. I’m hoping someone will be willing to spend a little in person time. Guess I’m weird buddy I learn easier that way and I don’t have to worry about internet access or constantly stopping to check a video. It’s to answer any questions during or after set up, laying in it, whatnot.

Another option is this....https://theultimatehang.com

**jb_outdoors** · 07-12-2021, 08:16

There was a thread in the trip planning subforum about a hang in PA that unfortunately already happened a week or so ago, but you might still post in that thread to find some hangers local to you who'd be willing to show you the ropes (pun intended).

https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...-9-7-11-(2021)

Wouldn't hurt to ask about regularly scheduled hangs in your area too. Seems like most areas have one every 3-6 months.

**PopcornFool** · 07-12-2021, 11:49

Originally Posted by jb_outdoors

There was a thread in the trip planning subforum about a hang in PA that unfortunately already happened a week or so ago, but you might still post in that thread to find some hangers local to you who'd be willing to show you the ropes (pun intended).

https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...-9-7-11-(2021)

Wouldn't hurt to ask about regularly scheduled hangs in your area too. Seems like most areas have one every 3-6 months.

I agree that attending a hammock hang is probably one of the best ways to get one-on-one advice, see all kinds of options, and meet a bunch of fun, experienced hangers. There are several hangs in PA each year. As Josh mentions, you just missed MidHHA (happened this past weekend). But MAHHA is coming up this fall and would be closer to you anyway. MAHHA is also one of the largest hangs on the east coast. Here's the placeholder link for the next event coming up in early October:
https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...-SAVE-the-DATE

There may be other hangs happening sooner if you are willing to travel. Folks will generally post their upcoming events in the regional subforums:
https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...-Trip-Planning

**PureSpirit** · 07-12-2021, 16:19

Thank you Gentlemen

**Twistytee** · 07-12-2021, 21:29

FWIW - Shug’s videos are super helpful as are many of the posts on this forum concerning general rules like hang angles and suspension choices. I am new to this too and learned a lot by experimenting in my back yard. Also had local forum members offer me great advice via PMs and invitations to hangs. While it’s always easier to see things first hand from those more experienced, don’t be afraid to just get out there and experiment. Nothing like spending a couple of nights on the trail tweaking gear and finding out what works for you or needs improvement.

**PopcornFool** · 07-12-2021, 22:34

Originally Posted by Twistytee

... don’t be afraid to just get out there and experiment. Nothing like spending a couple of nights on the trail tweaking gear and finding out what works for you or needs improvement.

Yes! Go! Do! Try! Fail! Enjoy! I've been hanging for years and pretty much have my preferences dialed in. But there's no lack of creativity freely shared here on the forums and at the group hangs. I regularly discover some new technique or piece of equipment to try and either discard or incorporate into my bag of tricks. For me, the "figuring things out" is half the fun!

**SilvrSurfr** · 07-13-2021, 01:54

Unfortunately, it's hot as heck right now - not a lot of people going out during this kind of weather. I keep trying to get motivated to go out, but I'm probably waiting till late September.