Packed size of Blackbird

**phughes** · 07-21-2011, 13:42

I am debating a Blackbird vs a Ultralite Backpacker Asym Zip. Hennessy lists the packed size but Warbonnet does not. I am considering the Blackbird 1.1 double layer with the webbing suspension, and the Mamajamba tarp, probably the one with panel pulls. It looks as if the Warbonnet as described will be around 2.5 pounds total which is only a half pound more than the Ultralite. I will be using this primarily for bicycle touring so size is very important in this case and weight as well. A half pound won't necessarily break me but I don't want the packed size to get out of hand.

can anyone tell me the packed size of the Blackbird and tarp as described?

Thanks

**Lonely Raven** · 07-21-2011, 13:47

Do a search, it's come up here a few times and I'm sure you could even find some photos. The Blackbird is just a little larger than a 32oz Nalgene bottle.

**phughes** · 07-21-2011, 14:03

Originally Posted by Lonely Raven

Do a search, it's come up here a few times and I'm sure you could even find some photos. The Blackbird is just a little larger than a 32oz Nalgene bottle.

I have been searching for a week. Thanks for the help. I found a photo but it wasn't really clear, I would like actual dimensions. I would also like the dimensions to be with the tarp included as I asked in my OP.

**raiffnuke** · 07-21-2011, 13:48

I have both of the hammocks you describe, although I have a Superfly, not the MJ tarp. I would say that using the stock stuff sacks that come with both, that the WBBB packs just about the same size by itself as the HH w/stock tarp does. That being said, you have to cram the HH w/tarp in the bag, and the WB is pretty soft in the bag. IMHO, if that little difference in size doesn't matter, you are better off with the WB w/ MJ tarp. Much more coverage with the tarp, and I find that the BB is a more versatile hammock and the stock suspenion is easier to use & adjust that the stock suspension on the HH. Now if you are interested in modifying your setups...well that is up to you and them my comments won't help much. HYOH!

**phughes** · 07-21-2011, 14:20

Originally Posted by raiffnuke

I have both of the hammocks you describe, although I have a Superfly, not the MJ tarp. I would say that using the stock stuff sacks that come with both, that the WBBB packs just about the same size by itself as the HH w/stock tarp does. That being said, you have to cram the HH w/tarp in the bag, and the WB is pretty soft in the bag. IMHO, if that little difference in size doesn't matter, you are better off with the WB w/ MJ tarp. Much more coverage with the tarp, and I find that the BB is a more versatile hammock and the stock suspenion is easier to use & adjust that the stock suspension on the HH. Now if you are interested in modifying your setups...well that is up to you and them my comments won't help much. HYOH!

Thanks. I like the features of the WB although space is at a premium so any little difference makes, well, a difference.

**raiffnuke** · 07-21-2011, 14:22

FWIW, I think that you can package the WBBB & MJ into the WBBB's stuff sack without to much of a problem. I haven't tried, but I know how much I can compress both my hammock and tarp in their sacks...so, if you look at the size of the WBBB w/$20 bill above, I bet you can have the whole thing that size. just my 2 cents.

**UncleMJM** · 07-21-2011, 14:27

Originally Posted by raiffnuke

FWIW, I think that you can package the WBBB & MJ into the WBBB's stuff sack without to much of a problem. I haven't tried, but I know how much I can compress both my hammock and tarp in their sacks...so, if you look at the size of the WBBB w/$20 bill above, I bet you can have the whole thing that size. just my 2 cents.

Agreed.

I've had the HHBUL and find the WBBB much more comfortable. I also find the HH ExplUL more comfortable that the HHBUL. I know your question is not about comfort but about pack size.

I am convinced that I could pack my WBBB and tarp in the same space I pack my HHBUL. (And if I couldn't, the difference in comfort would be worth making some adjustments in the load.)

**phughes** · 07-21-2011, 14:43

Originally Posted by raiffnuke

FWIW, I think that you can package the WBBB & MJ into the WBBB's stuff sack without to much of a problem. I haven't tried, but I know how much I can compress both my hammock and tarp in their sacks...so, if you look at the size of the WBBB w/$20 bill above, I bet you can have the whole thing that size. just my 2 cents.

Thanks, I appreciate that. I still need dimensions so I can measure something specific on my bike and packs.

I am also aware of the differences between the two hammocks and the resulting comfort factor for most people. I have been over and over these forums and have read all of that. All I need is the packed dimensions of the Blackbird 1.1 double layer with the Mamajamba tarp packed together. Even if you could stuff the Warbonnet rig into the same stuff sack that comes with the Hennessey Ultralite Backpacker, it doesn't mean the dimensions would be the same. I need the dimensions.

Thanks for all who have posted so far, I appreciate the help.

**Dutch** · 07-21-2011, 18:14

You are really doing a great job of comparing.

**phughes** · 07-21-2011, 23:34

Originally Posted by Dutch

You are really doing a great job of comparing.

Thanks Dutch. I just ordered the Blackbird 1.1 double layer with the webbing suspension along with the Mamajamba with side pulls in camo. I really liked the idea of shaving all the weight off I could and even thought of going with the Hyperlite but in the end I figure what I ordered will only be about 2.5 pounds and the Ultralite would be almost that. The Hyperlite would be lighter but I wasn't sure I wanted that. I figured the Hyperlite would be great to carry and I'm sure it would work very well, I just figure I might want the bigger tarp and a little more room since I'm 5'11".

Now I just get to wait. I wanted to use it next week but I doubt it will be here by then.

Thanks again for all the help everyone.